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The 18 Most Comfortable Heels to Wear for Hours On End
You won’t even consider taking them off
When shopping for the most comfortable heels, the definition of "comfort" is subjective. For some, sky-high platforms are an all-day affair, while others can barely last in a kitten heel or ballerina pump before reaching for their trusty flats. And let’s be honest: we’ve all purchased what seemed like a harmless, wearable silhouette—be it with a lower heel, wider toe box, or cushioned footbed—only to discover the pinch, rub, or slip that made them unbearable after a wear or two.
The Most Comfortable Heels for 2025
According to Dr. Fernando Peña, orthopedic surgeon and co-founder of Julieta Barcelona, the key to a truly comfortable heel lies in proper construction and support. “The shoe should feel comfortable the minute you put it on. Your foot should feel supported under the arch, and there should be no pinching at the toe. Walk around in the shoe—the heel should stay in place without slipping, and there should be no rubbing.” He emphasizes that while a shoe might feel fine in the store, long-term comfort depends on how the forefoot and arch are supported: “For a shoe to be comfortable, it has to allow the foot to rest in any position so the foot and ankle don’t have to constantly work hard.”
The silhouette of the heel is another key factor. “A stiletto will have higher demands on the body than a block heel because stilettos require greater stability and strength,” explains Julieta co-founder Dr. Julie Thompson. “Ultimately, the comfort comes down to the amount of support for the heel and the construction of the toe box.”
Materials are equally important—supple leather and suede hug the foot with give and mold to your shape over time, while velvet, knitted, and mesh styles offer added flexibility and texture. Dr. Peña highlights the importance of thoughtful design, noting that a balance of flexibility, support, and quality materials can mean the difference between a pair you’ll reach for again and one that’s quickly retired. Avoid overly stiff materials or synthetic fabrics that lack the necessary give, as they can lead to discomfort after only a short period of time.
And while style is always part of the equation, Dr. Thompson encourages shoppers to prioritize quality. “Invest in timeless, high-quality shoes that will get you through the 12-hour workdays, the weddings, or the nights out with friends. Shoes are as integral to your daily comfort and confidence as a good night’s sleep.”
With these expert tips in mind, we’ve rounded up 18 of the most comfortable heels, each delivering on both style and all-day wearability. Whether you’re after sleek slingbacks, timeless block heels, or trending Mary Janes, these options will keep you comfortable and stylish well into 2025.
The Row’s black leather kitten heel redefines understated elegance. Its ruched silhouette and subtle lift offer the perfect blend of modern ease and timeless sophistication.
Heel height: 1.38"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 6–12
Jimmy Choo Amel Slingback Kitten Heel Pump
Supple suede, a low flared heel, and a stable strap make this slingback a favorite for its all-day comfort and polished design.
Heel height: 2.25"
Materials: Leather upper and lining/rubber sole
Sizes: 5-12
What reviewers are saying: "Rich suede and color. Comfortable straight from the box. The heel is perfect."
Miu Miu Bicolor Leather Mary Jane Ballerina Pumps
Miu Miu’s Mary Jane pumps nail preppy polish with a low block heel and rounded toe for effortless comfort. Style them with chic socks to master the modern collegiate look.
Heel height: 1.38"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 5-11
Lean into '90s nostalgia with this velvet leopard-print pump. From the soft, plush fabric to the lower take on a sculptural heel, it’s a comfortable yet statement-making choice for slip dresses, tailored trousers, or vintage denim.
Heel height: 1.96"
Materials: Velvet
Sizes: 5–11
Slip-on mules are the go-to for combining the impact of a heel with slide-on ease. This suede pair from Bottega Veneta brings instant intrigue with sculptural flared heels and a notched upper.
Heel height: 2.5"
Materials: Suede
Sizes: EU36-42
Julieta Barcelona Zoé Nude Pumps
Crafted in Spain from buttery leather, this round-toe pump epitomizes timeless sophistication and all-day comfort. With a reinforced toe and impeccable craftsmanship, it seamlessly transitions from board meetings to events.
Heel height: 2"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 6-10
What reviewers are saying: "Comfortable. The soft suede padding on the footbed is a unique touch."
Leave it to Emme Parsons to craft the perfect pointed-toe pump for day-to-night elegance. The deep blue satin adds a rich, unexpected twist to your rotation, while the low kitten heel offers just the right lift for comfort. Pair it with tailored separates or sleek eveningwear for a modern, polished look.
Heel height: 1.5"
Materials: Satin
Sizes: IT35-42
With Parisian sensibility and a slick patent finish, this micro-heel is equal parts chic and comfortable. The sharp square toe, adjustable strap, and cushioned footbed make it a day-to-night essential.
Heel height: 1"
Materials: Patent upper and ankle strap with leather lining
Sizes: 3.5–14
What reviewers are saying: “These beautiful shoes helped me feel polished for a work conference and were comfortable for 12 hrs of meetings. I purchased the 41 Wide and am grateful that Margaux has different widths. I’m glad to have a polished shoe that is comfy and goes with everything!”
Manolo Blahnik Maysale Suede Buckle Mid-Heel 70mm Mules
From the playful buckle to the soft suede texture, Manolo Blahnik’s Maysale mules are the ultimate vintage-inspired heel. Debuted on the Spring ’91 runway over three decades ago, their sharp silhouette remains timeless—while the low heel and plush suede ensure lasting comfort.
Heel height: 1.77"
Materials: Suede
Sizes: 4–12
Larroudé Dolly Sandal
If you love sky-high heels without sacrificing comfort, the black suede Larroudé Dolly platform is a must. Its sturdy silhouette and memory foam footbed make it as practical as it is bold—perfect with everything from tailored minis to flowing maxis.
Heel height: 4.5"
Materials: Suede
Sizes: 5–13
What reviewers are saying: “You could walk a mile in these! Cute and comfortable.”
Everlane’s best-selling Day Heel gets a seasonal update in trending pastel pink. Designed for all-day wear, its ballet-inspired silhouette, elasticized back, and cushioned insole combine comfort with effortless style.
Heel height: 2"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 5-11
What reviewers are saying: “This is my 3rd pair of day heels! They are super comfortable and the height of the heel is perfect! I highly recommend them!"
Tod's Barretta Block Heel Slingback Pump
Looking for the perfect workday shoe? Tod's block-heeled leather slingback is a comfortable option for commanding meetings.
Heel height: 2"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 5-12
Prada reinvents the classic slide with its signature triangular quilting and sleek logo hardware. The padded lambskin design offers a soft, comfortable fit, while the low block heel adds a polished touch to every step.
Heel height: 1.25"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 5–12
Vince Venice Slingback Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
Mesh is here to stay, and these kitten heels offer a polished way to wear the trend into 2025. The pliable mesh adds a touch of comfort, making them as wearable as they are on trend.
Heel height: 1.75"
Materials: Leather upper, lining and sole
Sizes: 5–11
What reviewers are saying: “Love these! They’re very cute and so comfortable. The first time I wore them it was to a wedding/reception and I was on my feet for almost 9 hours. Oh my gosh, they were so comfortable. I also found that strap that goes across the top to be comfortable and because my foot is a “narrow”, it helped to keep the rest of the shoe from feeling loose on my feet."
A silver Mary Jane with a comfortable low block heel that’s made for all-day wear—perfect for festive looks or dialing up your favorite jeans.
Heel height: 1.75"
Materials: Leather
Sizes: 5–12
What reviewers are saying: “Love these so much! Wore the silver pair for my wedding reception, and got another pair in black for day to day wear. They are comfortable enough to walk around all day in!”
M.Gemi’s snake-print slingbacks combine timelessness with directional style and everyday dependability. The pointed-toe silhouette and walkable kitten heel make them a versatile option, perfect for elevating everything from workwear to weekend looks.
Heel height: 1.4"
Materials: Italian python-embossed leather upper
Sizes: 35–42
What reviewers are saying: “Super cute and comfortable. Received compliments day 1 of wearing!"
Vivaia’s Mary Janes include a padded heel patch, which ensures complete comfort by reducing the shoe’s overall break-in time. “[These shoes] have a short wide heel and our AdaptAll strap that fits your instep perfectly,” Vivaia co-founder Marina Chen explains. These retro-inspired shoes are so cozy, you might even forget you’re wearing heels.
Heel height: 1.77”
Materials: Recycled plastic, rubber
Sizes: 5–11
What reviewers are saying: “Love the wide toe fitting. So comfortable to walk around with for hours."
Stuart Weitzman is synonymous with comfort and inclusive sizing. This block-heel take on the brand’s best-selling Nudist sandal is the comfort-seeker’s way to go minimal with a little more support.
Heel height: 3"
Materials: Suede and leather
Sizes: 3.5–12
What qualities should you look for in a pair of comfortable heels?
“The main qualities to look for in a pair of comfortable heels are a good shoe finish, comfortable cushion insoles, and flexible outsoles with a wide toe box,” says Vivaia’s Chen, who adds that these features help reduce friction and pressure on your foot. If possible, you should also try to avoid heels over three inches, as tall heels will inevitably place pressure on the ball of your foot while shoving the front of it into the toe box.
What type of heel is most comfortable?
According to Chen, chunky heels provide the most comfort. “A chunky heel helps to reduce pain by giving more surface area to the pressure applied to your foot,” she says. She mentions that chunky heels also offer more stability.
If you prefer a thin heel, make sure you’re selecting a style that is low to the ground, like a pair of kitten heels or mules.
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