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Stepping into a pair of heeled shoes shouldnt come with the possibility of blisters or bunions.
Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Photos: CourtesyGlamourtesters
Our favorite heels are Sam Edelman Bianka Slingback pumps, because theyre podiatrist-recommended and comfortable to wear all day.
But we also found budget-friendly Amazon picks and popularheel trendslike Mary Janes,slingbacks, and platforms.
Were happy to report that all of these passed the test.
Sizes:511 (in M, W) |Material:Leather, fabric, synthetic |Heel height:2.4 in.
Sizes:512 (in W) |Material:Polyurethane|Heel height:1.6 in.
Sizes:511 (in M) |Material:Satin |Heel height:3.75 in.
Sizes:613|Material:Leather|Heel height:2 in.
And these Messa heels from Steve Madden pretty much prove her point.
Sizes:512|Material:Leather, synthetic |Heel height:3.75 in.
Sizes:611 |Material:Rubber, mesh |Heel height:4 in.
Sizes:511 |Material:Linen, jute, cotton |Heel height:3.5 in.
The thick outsoles cushion each step, while the thick Velcro straps ensure youll get the perfect fit.
Sizes:512 |Material:Leather, textile |Heel height:2.5 in.
Our tester has worn them for yearseven going so far as to purchase a second pair.
Soften the overall look by layering the shoes over frilly socks.
Sizes:513 |Material:Faux leather |Heel height:3 in.
Our editor calls them truly iconic.
Their three-inch heel makes the shoe elegant enough for formal attire but is thick enough to stabilize the ankle.
Sizes:511 |Material:Textile, leather |Heel height:3.25 in.
(Over time theyll literally mold to your feet.)
They also come in a huge range of colors, including an impressive selection of nudes and metallics.
Sizes:413 (in N, M, W) |Material:Leather |Heel height:2.5 in.
Choose from a wide range of shades to match your various looks.
Sizes:511 |Material:Polyurethane, rubber |Heel height:4.5 in.
Once spring arrives you’ve got the option to style them withcapri pants.
Sizes:511 |Material:Regenerated leather (black and canvas); suede (blush tan) |Heel height:2.15 in.
Sizes:513 (in W) |Material:Leather, suede|Heel height:2.5 in.
Sizes:513 |Material:Polyurethane|Heel height:2.75 in.
|Colors:20-plus options
Your comfortable heel questions, answered
What jot down of heels are most comfortable?
According toCasey Pidich, DPM, a podiatrist based in NYC and founder ofDr.
Glass Slipper, there are a few styles of heels that are more comfortable than others.
For example, kitten heels are lower, thinner heels that provide more balance and comfort.
Styles that hold onto your foot well will help you walk more naturally, she says.
What should you look for when shopping for a comfortable heel?
She also recommends looking for a shoe with a large toe box thats more rounded.
A round toe or almond toe box shape accommodates our toes without too much pinching.
Support in the midsole should help spread the load, under the foot, rather than provide arch support.
How can you avoid foot pain while wearing heels?
But in the case that youreallywant to wear a pair of uncomfortable stilettos, there is an alternative.
Dr. Pidich also recommends stretching your feet before you put heels on.
Try 5-minute calf stretches and heel raises to relieve any tension in your feet, she says.
Its also key, according to both podiatrists, to check that youre wearing the right shoe size.
Compression is the foots curse and can lead to long-term damage, says McCulloch.
