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The 20 Most Comfortable Heels to Wear for Hours and Hours

You won’t even consider taking them off

By and Lauren Tappan

When it comes to the best comfortable heels, the "comfort" part is subjective. Some consider a sky-high platform worthy of all-day wear, while others can barely manage a few hours in a kitten heel or block-heel pump, desperate for a quick change into their favorite sneakers or comfy flats. And let’s face it: We’ve all purchased a seemingly harmless silhouette—be it one with a lower heel, wider toe box, or cushioned footbed—only to feel a pinch here or rub there that has you ready to part with it after a wear or two.

One wearer’s choice heel could be another’s prime pain point, yet we feel strongly that the 20 styles ahead are as close to universally comfortable as possible. Sure, classic ballet flats and sweet Mary Janes are peak chic of late. But certain outfits and moments truly call for a heel. While we’ll never advocate sacrificing a painless fit in the name style, there are plenty of mules, slingbacks, and strappy sandals that won’t lead to unnecessary aches and suffering.

The right pair of comfortable heels will slot directly into your wardrobe, resulting in a legitimate spring in your step. Discover the 20 currently topping our list, each designed for feel-good, all-day wear.

The Most Comfortable Heels for 2024

Most Comfortable Ballerina Heel

Everlane The Day Heel

The Day Heel
Now 25% Off
Credit: everlane.com

A round toe and stretchy back make this shoe expertly designed for days at the office or running errands, when you’re on the move and need to be comfortable and dressy all at once.

Heel height: 2.25"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 5–11

What reviewers are saying: “I’m absolutely thrilled with the Leather Day Heel 2.0. These shoes are incredibly comfortable and stylish, perfect for dressing up or down. The quality of the leather is top-notch, and the design is both sleek and sophisticated. I’ve worn them all day without any discomfort or pain, which is a rarity for me in heels. I’ve received countless compliments and can’t recommend them enough. A definite wardrobe staple!”

Most Comfortable Block Heel

Stuart Weitzman Nudistcurve 75 Block-Heel Sandal

Nudistcurve 75 Block-Heel Sandal
Credit: nordstrom.com

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: 2.75"

Materials: Leather upper, lining, and sole

Sizes: 4–12

What reviewers are saying: “I hesitated to buy these, but took the dive. These shoes are gorgeous on. The kicker is that you could walk miles in them, they are that well made. The heel position, front band and ankle strap fit perfectly. The craftsmanship is unsurpassed. You won’t find glue or a poorly wrapped heel in these babies. I think of them as an investment. They will last forever if well cared for. No more buying cheaper shoes every year. They go with everything. I suggest going down half a size for the perfect fit. These do not disappoint.”

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Most Comfortable Platform Heel

Larroudé Dolly Broderie Sandal

Dolly Broderie Sandal
Credit: larroude.com

If you live for sky-height but aren’t able to sacrifice comfort, it’s time to add Larroudé’s Dolly platform to your wardrobe. The sturdy silhouette is whimsical yet versatile, with a memory-foam footbed and a broader toe box. Style yours for summer with everything from a miniskirt and blazer to a flowing maxi dress and gleaming jewelry.

Heel height: 4.5"

Materials: Beach raffia fabric

Sizes: 5–11

What reviewers are saying: “These Dolly sandals are beyond beautiful. I am a sucker for a block heel and platform sandal. This is probably the 6th pair of Dolly’s I have purchased over the last year. For the heel hight they are so easy to walk in and beyond comfortable. Extremely well made and the raffia is beautiful and beyond.”

Most Comfortable Kitten Heel

Emme Parsons Hugo Heel

Hugo Heel

Leave it to Emme Parsons to design the minimal everyday heeled sandals you need in your rotation. The khaki satin is a refreshing neutral option instead of beige or tan, while the low tapered heel offers just enough lift for an easy feel. These pair beautifully with summery dresses and jeans, and come in many other colors and textures, from smooth chestnut Nappa to black embossed lizard.

Heel height: 1.97"

Materials: Satin

Sizes: 35–42 IT

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Most Comfortable Work Pump

M.Gemi The Marzia Heel

The Marzia Heel
Now 30% Off
Credit: mgemi.com

M.Gemi’s heels are great if you’re looking for dependability. You can stock up on this pointed-toe silhouette, which is offered in a versatile range of neutral leather and suede colors, and wear the timeless style every day of the week.

Heel height: 1.4"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 35–42 IT

What reviewers are saying: “By far the most comfortable kitten heel shoe I’ve ever worn. Supple leather & comfortable for 12 hours on my feet the first time I put them on!!”

Most Comfortable Thin-Heel Sandal

Inez Isa Heel

Isa Heel
Credit: inez.com

Founded by Hannah Spinelli, Inez is one of my favorite shoe brands, as it prioritizes comfort and discerning style at once. This sandal is crafted from the most buttery leather and features a proprietary plush insole with arch support and a grippy leather sole with rubber inset.

Heel height: 2.8"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 5–11

What reviewers are saying: “All I can tell you is that these sandals are incredibly soft and comfortable. I love the heel height too!”

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Most Comfortable Date-Night Heel

The Row Leather Kitten-Heel Slide Sandals

Leather Kitten-Heel Slide Sandals

Slip into these leather slides for date night. The supple fabric is perfectly offset by the low kitten heel, feeling versatile with looks of all kinds, from casual-cute to fully dialed.

Heel height: 1.5"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 6–12

Most Comfortable Mary Janes

Vivaia Square-Toe Mary Jane Heels

Square-Toe Mary Jane Heels
Credit: vivaia.com

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: “Wore 3x already, very comfortable and pretty on my feet and I have wide feet and bunions. It looks feminine and matches any outfit. I’m gonna look for my second pair. I packed it along for the weekend wedding I’m attending. The almond color is perfect with any out fit. Beautiful!!!”

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Most Comfortable Strappy Sandal

Madewell The Gwenn Block-Heel Sandal

The Gwenn Block-Heel Sandal
Now 16% Off
Credit: madewell.com

These strappy sandals with a low stacked block heel are the ultimate companion to breezy summer dresses. The straps won’t rub or chafe, and the under-two-inch heel is a modest height for walking.

Heel height: 1.75"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 5–11

What reviewers are saying: “I usually range between a size 5 to 5.5 in sandals and heels. I have a wider foot with a high arch so it can be difficult to find options that fit me well so I got both a 5 and a 5H and the 5H was perfect! I’d go up a half size if you have a wider foot.”

Most Comfortable Pump

Margaux The Heel

The Heel
Credit: margauxny.com

Sometimes classic is the way to go. If you want a streamlined everyday pump, this style has your name on it.

Heel height: 2.5"

Materials: Suede

Sizes: 3–14

What reviewers are saying: “I love the simplicity of the design. They are great to walk in. The height is perfect.”

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Most Comfortable Suede Sandal

Neil J. Rodgers Obi Heel

Obi Heel
Credit: neiljrodgers.com

With a wide toe box and wide straps crafted from supple suede, these uniquely knotted sandals are a dream. They’re polished yet perfectly easy for everyday wear. Pair yours with a pencil skirt and billowing blouse for a breezy office look that withstands the heat.

Heel height: 2.3"

Materials: Suede

Sizes: 35–41 IT

Most Comfortable Vintage-Inspired Heel

Manolo Blahnik Maysale Buckled Suede Mules

Maysale Buckled Suede Mules
Credit: manoloblahnik.com

From the playful buckled detail to the soft sueded texture, Manolo Blahnik’s Maysale mules are an easy choice if you’re on the hunt for a vintage-inspired heel. These heels first appeared more than three decades ago, on the Spring ’91 runway, and their sharp silhouette has kept them in style ever since.

Heel height: 1.77"

Materials: Suede

Sizes: 4–12

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Most Comfortable Puffy Heels

Prada Padded Leather Slide Sandal

Padded Leather Slide Sandal

If you prefer a shoe to show off, try these padded heels, designed with the triangular Prada logo prominently placed across the strap. They’ll peek out from underneath your jeans or dress every time you take a step—and get noticed instantly.

Heel height: 2.5"

Materials: Leather

Sizes: 5–11½

What reviewers are saying: “I ordered the black purely out of curiosity, almost certain I would return them. I am keeping them as they are so comfortable and cute! They feel like little pillows on your feet. The size is true. I am a US 8.5 and the 39 is perfect. Love them so much I’m getting the caramel color.”

    Most Comfortable Nostalgic Heel

    Reformation Sophie Heeled Sandal

    Sophie Heeled Sandal
    Credit: thereformation.com

    Lean into nostalgia with Reformation’s thong sandals. The sculptural kitten heel is a mere two inches, serving as a sleek accent to summer denim, dresses, matching sets, and more.

    Heel height: 2"

    Materials: Leather

    Sizes: 5–11

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    Most Comfortable Summer Slingback

    Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback Pump

    Bianka Slingback Pump
    Credit: samedelman.com

    Simple, sleek, and elegant, this classic pointy-toed raffia slingback is the perfect summer heel for work and dressy occasions. You can add multiple versions to your wardrobe by shopping the wide range of colors and materials. And even better, these are offered in medium and wide widths.

    Heel height: 2.4"

    Materials: Leather, fabric, synthetic

    Sizes: 5–14

    What reviewers are saying: “I love these shoes so much! The perfect height for wearing for a long time. They are super comfortable and the quality of the leather is unbeatable at this price point. I totally recommend these slingbacks!”

    Most Comfortable Poolside Heel

    Dee Ocleppo Dizzy Terry

    Dizzy Terry
    Now 40% Off
    Credit: deeocleppo.com

    If you’re going to rock a comfortable heel poolside, it better be one crafted of terry fabric, like this wide block-heel slide. The material exudes delightful summer vibes—so cute with a bathing suit and cover-up.

    Heel height: 1.4"

    Materials: Terry

    Sizes: 6–10

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    Most Comfortable Heeled Slide

    Saint Laurent Tribute 85 Leather Sandals

    Tribute 85 Leather Sandals

    Reimagine your woven leather sandals with this heeled iteration from Saint Laurent. The comfortable mule silhouette will hug your feet just right, to avoid rubbing and blisters.

    Heel height: 3.3"

    Materials: Leather

    Sizes: 4–12

      Most Comfortable Everyday Mules

      Bottega Veneta Quilted Leather Mules

      Quilted Leather Mules
      Credit: net-a-porter.com

      A slip-on mule is an easy choice for days when you want the impact of a heel with the ease of a slide. This quilted pair from Bottega adds a sense of texture to any outfit.

      Heel height: 2"

      Materials: Leather

      Sizes: 5–12

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      Most Comfortable Wrap Sandal

      Aeyde Roda Leather Sandals

      Roda Leather Sandals
      Credit: net-a-porter.com

      Plan ahead for the warmer months with an elegant everyday sandal in a neutral hue. This style from Berlin-based Aeyde will become a fast favorite.

      Heel height: 2.5"

      Materials: Leather

      Sizes: 5–12

      Most Comfortable Slingback Heels

      Gucci Horsebit Slingback

      Horsebit Slingback

      Looking for the perfect workday shoe? Gucci’s block-heeled leather slingback is a comfortable option for commanding meetings.

      Heel height: 2.2"

      Materials: Leather

      Sizes: 5–9½

      Headshot of Laura Lajiness Kaupke
      Laura Lajiness Kaupke is a freelance writer and editor covering fashion, accessories, and lifestyle topics, including beauty, home, fitness, and travel. You can see her work across various outlets, including VOGUE, Harper’s BAZAAR, ELLE, Marie Claire, InStyle, Glamour, Esquire, Women’s Health, Brides, The Zoe Report, Popsugar, Refinery 29, Coveteur, Byrdie, Well+Good, The Editorialist, among other titles and brands. Laura has worked in the fashion industry for over 11 years and held senior fashion editor positions at Popsugar and The Zoe Report, with additional experience as a copywriter and fashion publicist.
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