The 14 Best Places to Buy the Most Comfortable Heels of 2023
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These retailers offer supportive, stylish pairs plus an intuitive shopping experience
People / Kristin Kempa
Style and comfort are always a winning combo, and of course shoes are no exception. As we see it, slipping into some cozy booties or slides with a little fashionable flare is better than a bite of chocolate. Comfortable heels, however, can be a little more tricky to find. After all, we all know that the higher the heels are, the more uncomfortable they can become, sometimes making you wish you wore flats instead.
You don't have to swear off heels just yet, though. Thanks to the magic of the internet, it’s easier than ever to find cushioning and supportive pairs with all the right stylish details. Nowadays, many shoe brands incorporate comfort technology into their designs, so wearing heels may feel as good as sneakers — okay, maybe not that comfortable, but it's pretty close.
At the same time, there’s a lot of places to find shoes online, each with hundreds of different pairs to choose from. To help take the guesswork out of finding the perfect heels, we rounded up the best places to buy them online.
From Amazon to Target to Frankie4, keep scrolling to see PEOPLE’s picks for the best places to buy comfortable heels, no matter your budget.
Amazon Shoes
Who It’s Good For
People looking to buy comfortable shoes from a retailer with a good size range, quick shipping, and very specific filter options.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you're wanting to purchase pairs that are specifically designed by an orthopedist, it may be harder to find them here.
If you buy pretty much everything else from Amazon already, then you should definitely think about adding shoes to the list. After all, it's no secret that Amazon excels in variety, and here you’ll find thousands of affordable heels from well-known brands as well as fresh styles from brands you may have never heard of (we’re obsessed with Goolita, by the way).
At Amazon, shoes are available in every size, width, color, and material you can think of, so it won’t be hard to find the perfect match. The site’s helpful filters that’ll help you refine your search based on heel height, heel type, special features, and via user reviews.
Sizing at Amazon ranges from 3 to 16, with extra narrow, narrow, medium, and wide width styles available. That being said, comfortable heel styles aren’t in short supply at the online retail giant. The Guayonng Low Kitten Heel Pumps, Aldo Basanti Pumps, and the Joystry Platform Mary Janes are great examples of great heels that work for any occasion on the calendar, whether it's formal or casual.
Size Range: Women’s 3-16 | Shipping Policy: Free one- or two-day shipping with Amazon Prime | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Related: We Found the Best Amazon Swimsuits of 2023 After Hours of Scrolling
Aerosoles
Who It’s Good For
Shoppers after comfortable pairs of heels with unique designs that maximize comfort.
Who It’s Not Good For
There aren’t many styles under $50 (when bought full price), so it's not the best place for those looking for heels that are super budget-friendly.
Aerosoles are guaranteed to have a shoe you’ll fall head over heels for, whether that’s wedges, sultry pumps, platforms, or mules. However, what’s really special about shoes from this brand is their unique design, which works by joining the upper directly to the outsole, then turning the shoe right side out and inserting a cushioned footbed.
While shoes from Aerosoles are available on Amazon, the brand’s website also allows you to find comfortable heels based on size, price, color, material, and heel height. Sizes at Aerosoles range from 5 to 12 and select styles are available in medium and wide widths, which isn't as inclusive as a few other retailers on this list. But don't you worry — if they have your size, we don't expect you'll need to return them based on comfort alone. Besides, the Evvie Sandal and the Entrée Sandal keep things sleek, professional, and, above all else, supremely comfortable.
While they don't offer many styles at full price under $100, the brand does have regular sales and discounted pairs at a very reasonable price point.
Sale at time of publish: Up 50% off select items
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders over $75 | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Target
Who It’s Good For
Shoppers that want to shop from a retailer with a great size range, hundreds of affordable pairs to choose from, and a generous return period.
Who It’s Not Good For
Anyone that prefers to wear designer shoes or needs to buy pairs from an orthopedic-focused brand.
If Target is a place you love to shop (us too!), then don’t forget to pay a visit to the shoe section. After all, you're bound to find sandals, sneakers, slippers, boots, and more here at great prices that are best seen to be believed. Here’s some more good news: Heels are also plentiful at Target, and cone, kitten, platform, roper, and wester-style heels are just a few types of heels available. As a bonus, Target offers sizes 4.5 to 13, and some styles are available in medium widths, so every foot is covered.
Target’s online shoe section allows shoppers to find shoes based on shape, brand, color, size, price, and heel height. That being said, there’s plenty of low to medium heeled shoes that are nothing short of stylish. Some amazing styles to keep on your radar include the New Day Jen Pumps, the Universal Thread Kay Western Boots, and the Wild Fable Brooke Mules — these styles are guaranteed to be compliment magnets. Oh, and they're all under $50 — honestly, is there anything more you could want?
Sale at time of publish: 30% off shoes
Size Range: Women’s 4.5-13 | Shipping Policy: Free two-day ground shipping on orders over $35 | Returns: Within 90 days of delivery date
Vionic
Who It’s Good For
Shoppers that want to buy heels from an orthopedic-developed shoe brand.
Who It’s Not Good For
If you're in the market for a heel below 2.5 inches, since Vionic only offers heels at this height and taller.
Vionic receives a lot of reviewer-appreciation for its collection of comfortable sneakers and flats that never put strain on the feet. However, you probably didn’t know that the brand is also home to supportive, well-made heels you can wear pretty much anywhere.
At Vionic, wedges, pumps, block heels, heeled boots, and other heeled styles are available in a range of colors, materials, and wide widths. Though, the real pull of Vionic shoes has to be the Vio-Motion Technology, which corrects pronation and promotes full-body alignment, and heels are no exception.
Vionic has a size range of 5 to 12, with some styles available in wide widths. While the lowest heel height at Vionic is 2.5 inches, there’s plenty of stand-out styles that are anything but boring. After all, you can wear the highly-versatile Angelica Kitten Heel or the sophisticated Ivelle Kitten Heel to work, dates, club nights, weddings, and beyond.
Sale at time of publish: 30% off select styles
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders $100+ | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Nine West
Who It’s Good For
NIne West is home to hundreds of reasonably-priced pairs that utilize special 9x9 comfort technology.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those who want to purchase shoes from a retailer that are podiatrist-approved.
Since 1983, Nine West has been satisfying our shoe lust with thousands of timeless and fashionable pairs. So if you haven’t already, this is another shoe retailer to keep tabs on, as there are hundreds of kitten, block, stiletto, and wedge heels to choose from.
Nine West’s size range is 4 to 13, and select styles are available in medium widths. What’s more, some pairs utilize 9x9 Technology, which provides cushioning, flexibility, breathability, and shock absorption for maximum comfort.
Nine West shoes are available at Amazon, but the brand’s site should not be overlooked. Here, shoppers can find the perfect pairs based on size, color, reviews, toe type, and heel height filters. Another perk? Nine West’s shoe line is reasonably priced and there’s plenty of opportunities to score discounted pairs. Some low-heel styles we can’t stop drooling over are the Arlene Pointy Toe Pumps, Anny Strap Heeled Sandals, and Dipa Heeled Slide Sandal — these are all timeless pairs you’ll get so much use out of this season.
Sale at time of publish: Up to 75% off clearance
Size Range: Women’s 4-13 | Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders $60+ | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Related: The 23 Best Walking Shoes of 2023, According to Experts
Kenneth Cole Gentle Souls
Who It's Good For
Anyone looking for a brand striving to lower its carbon footprint while offering a variety of heels with comfort as the focal point.
Who It's Not Good For
If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly shoe, most of these cost over $100.
Kenneth Cole's Gentle Souls sister brand is focused on more sustainable practices and the most comfort a shoe can offer. Not only are there so many stylish heels available (including some with a contrasting bouncy sole for a seamless stride), but the retailer's shopping experience is also noteworthy.
The site offers a simple yet intuitive design so you can easily filter between the different shoe styles — from boots and heels to sandals and wedges — and features more modern program elements, like an option to pay with Afterpay (a system that allows you to pay in four interest-free installments instead of full price) or donate to The Mental Health Coalition.
If we had to pick, we'd go with the Gisele T-Strap Wedge Sandal, which boasts a short yet chic 2-inch wedge heel, soft and breathable lining, and strappy adjustable design for added security and support. While these aren't necessarily budget-friendly, they're high-quality shoes that are sure to last you several seasons and you'll be able to find occasional sales, too. The brand only offers free shipping on orders $100 and more, but most of the pairs cost above that price point, anyway.
Sale at time of publish: Up to 60% off select styles
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Shipping Policy: Free standard shipping on orders $100+ in contiguous United States | Returns: Within 30 days of shipment date
Frankie4
Who It's Good For
Those searching for podiatrist-backed heels made from high-quality materials — plus educators and healthcare workers can receive a 10% discount.
Who It's Not Good For
Anyone not a healthcare professional or educator looking for a more budget-friendly heel options.
We at PEOPLE are big fans of Frankie4, a podiatrist-designed footwear brand whose styles are seriously as comfortable as they claim. The Sole Hero footbed not only provides strategic comfort and support, it also helps to better align the foot and leg through its special contouring in the heel and arch. The best part is that this technology is not only found in the flats and sneakers, but the brand's heels, as well. Senior Commerce Editor Erika Reals recommends the Juliet II Black, a chic slingback heel perfect for the office that can be paired with anything from light denim jeans and white tee to a midi skirt and blouse.
While Frankie4 doesn't currently have a sale running (at time of publish), you can get $20 off your first order when you sign up for the brand's newsletter. Additionally, educators and healthcare professionals can receive a 10 percent discount on their purchase.
Size Range: Women’s 6-13 | Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders $60+ | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Vivaia
Who It's Good For
These shoes feature comfort-first technology and are designed with an easy-to-clean knit upper that's made from upcycled materials.
Who It's Not Good For
There aren't a ton of heel styles available compared to other retailers on this list.
Truth be told, we're obsessed with Vivaia's shoes. If you haven't heard, they're not only comfortable in terms of cushiony pressure-relief insoles, but they are also designed with stretchy and breathable upper knit material, improved arch support, and shock-absorbing heel rebound — so you can rely on these to get you through entire days at the office or long evening events. While some of the brand's shoes are machine washable, the heel styles are not; however, they can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.
The site also allows you to pay with Afterpay, Klarna, and Paypal, as well as other credit and debit card payment options. The brand is fairly new, so there's not a ton of different heel options to choose from as of now, and the styles are more office-friendly than anything. However, there aren't many other shoe brands like it, making it a unique option that provides supreme comfort and convenience.
Sale at time of publish: Up to 50% off with code LOVEV
Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Shipping Policy: Free standard shipping on orders over $99 | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
Sam Edelman
Who It’s Good For
Those looking for comfortable heels in a variety of sizes and widths (narrow, medium, and wide).
Who It’s Not Good For
These heels can run on the expensive side when not on sale.
ICYMI: Sam Edelman is yet another goldmine for finding comfortable heels that your feet will thank you for. There are plenty of kitten heels, mules, loafers, Mary Janes, and sling backs to choose from here, all of them comfortable with all the right stylish details you love — we can’t get enough of the Britt Kitten Heel Mules and the best-selling Wilson Kitten Heels.
Sam Edelman shoes may have popped up in other places you like to shop; Amazon, Zappos, and even Nordstrom Rack. However, the brand’s site also allows shoppers to search for heels based on size, color, heel type, and heel height. Sam Edelman’s size range is from 5 to 12, with some styles available in narrow, medium, and wide widths. And the best part? Heels at Sam Edelman are reasonably priced, and relatively affordable when discounted, so you can have both stylish kicks and a healthy bank account. Speaking of stylish kicks, aren’t the Brit Tour Kitten Heels so adorable?
Sale at time of publish: Up to 40% off select styles
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Shipping Policy: Free ground shipping on all domestic orders within the continental United States | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
DSW
Who It’s Good For
Anyone looking to purchase reasonably priced pairs from a shoe retailer that offers perks and rewards to members.
Who It’s Not Good For
DSW boasts an exceptional shoe selection, but some perks are only available to VIP and Elite members.
You probably think of DSW when you think of shoes. And trust us, the hype behind the retailer is well-deserved, as DSW offers thousands of shoe options from big-name brands you love, all in one place.
Like other retailers in this roundup, it’s easy to find comfortable heels on DSW’s website. Shoppers have the ability to discover pairs here, based on occasion, size, width, color, and height. However, we love that DSW raises the bar with unique filters; shaft height, toe shape, occasion, and feature. These filters allow you to discover amazingly comfortable pairs like the Journee Collection Dyllan Sandal or Easy Street Prim Pump.
For women, sizing at DSW ranges from 3.5 to 13, and there are five widths offered overall. While shoes are frequently on clearance at DSW throughout the year, extra discounts and perks are available to DSW VIP members, and that includes free shipping. The same is true for returns, as while DSW offers a generous return policy, DSW VIP Elite members can make returns within one year. In that case, becoming a VIP might be a good option if you’re a frequent shopper here.
Sale at time of publish: Extra 30% off online for items in Mega Sale
Size Range: Women’s 3.5-13 | Shipping Policy: If you're a DSW VIP (which is free to join), you can get free shipping on all orders | Returns: Within 90 days
Franco Sarto
Who It’s Good For
If you're looking for quality heels with a longer return period and comfort technology features, you'll love Franco Sarto.
Who It’s Not Good For
While shoes are regularly discounted at Franco Sarto, some pairs start at $100.
While Franco Sarto has plenty of trending styles (block heels, heeled slides, slingbacks, etc.) in its arsenal, the comfort technology at Franco Sarto is the chef's kiss. Shoes with Informa and Flexa technologies boast a unique design that works by relieving pressure points, providing arch support, and cushioning the feet.
You may have seen Franco Sarto shoes at Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Amazon. However, Franco Sarto’s easy-to-use site can put you on the path to finding the comfortable heels you’re looking for. Here, you’ll find shoes based on size, color, price, and heel height filters. Sizes at Franco Sarto range from 5 to 12, and some styles are available in medium and wide widths, so every foot is covered.
If you are looking to spoil your feet with some great pairs, we are here to tell you that the Devin Slingback Pumps and the Franco Linley Slide Sandals (recommended by PEOPLE staff writer Alyssa Brascia) won’t disappoint. After all, these are two timeless styles that pair with any outfit, from office wear, casual looks, date-night styles, and more.
Sale at time of publish: Select styles up to 70% off
Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Shipping Policy: Free standard shipping on overs over $65 | Returns: Within 45 days of delivery date
Related: 13 Best Flip Flops for Women of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Nordstrom Shoes
Who It’s Good For
Nordstrom’s offers sizing from 4 to 18, with up to eight widths available, so they're a great option if you have a hard-to-find shoe size or want to choose from a huge variety of options.
Who It’s Not Good For
Some offerings can get expensive, so if you're looking for budget-friendly options, it's better to shop here during sale events.
Nordstrom’s shoe section has it all, from espadrilles, slip-ons, slippers, and sneakers. Having said that, it's easy to find comfortable heels in a range of sizes, prices, widths, and heel heights and types.
Just like Amazon, Nordstrom has an easy-to-use site, with lots of helpful filters to narrow down your search. Pro tip: Pay extra attention to the features filter — this will lead you to pairs that are orthopedic-friendly, feature cushioned insoles, deliver exceptional arch support, a.k.a. all the comfy features you’d want in a shoe. To streamline your search even more, Nordstrom has a section exclusively dedicated to comfort online, so it’s easy to locate all your dream pairs. Just so you know: There are lots of comfortable styles to choose from in this section, from the Bella Vita Georgette Slide Sandals to the Pikolinos Blane Sandal. It's worth nothing, though, that heels here can lean on the pricier side, so if it's a deal you're seeking, we recommend stopping by on one of the retailer's big sale events, such as the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.
Nordstrom has a great size range. Sizing ranges from 4 to 18, with generally eight width options available. To top things off, Nordstrom offers free standard shipping on all orders and accepts returns within 40 days of the delivery date — and the retailer is known for their lenient return policy.
Sale at time of publish: Up to 60% off select items
Size Range: Women’s 4-18 | Shipping Policy: Free standard shipping on all orders | Returns: Within 40 days of delivery date
Dream Pairs
Who It’s Good For
Anybody who is looking for heels with a padded toe box and cushioned heel design.
Who It’s Not Good For
Shoppers that are looking to shop for shoes with heel height as a filter.
If you’ve never heard of Dream Pairs before, then here’s the scoop. This New York-based brand not only boasts plenty of fashion-forward wedges, boots, and pumps, but also has comfortable pairs (more on that in a minute) with a padded toe box and cushioned heel design.
Dream Pairs has a size range of 5 to 11, and some styles are available in wide widths. While the brand does have a shop on Amazon, its easy-to-use website allows you to discover its heels based on price, size, and color.
While there’s no option to select shoes based on height, rest assured that the Dream Pairs’ Stand All Day Line is full of comfortable options. Aside from a nice heel height, the Stand All Day Pump Edenia Mary Janes are a great transition shoe that can go from day to night with ease. Plus, the Wonder Cloud Hera One-strap Square Toe Rectangular Heel Sandals are equally comfortable with stylish strap detailing.
Sale at time of publish: Up to 50% off in Summer Sale
Size Range: Women’s 5-11 | Shipping Policy: Free shipping on orders $59.99+ | Returns: Within 30 days of delivery date
LifeStride
Who It’s Good For
LifeStride has plenty of heels with a soft system, velocity 2.0, active arch, or secret cushion comfort technologies.
Who It’s Not Good For
Those looking for heels made with more trendier design elements.
If wearing comfortable shoes more is priority for you, let us introduce you to LifeStride, a shoe brand with a range of chic and comfortable styles, including flats, sneakers, boots, sandals, and heels. But what gives LifeStride edge is the Soft System comfort package in the interior, which gives feet all-day support, flex, and cushioning. What’s more, the traction soles on heels provide stability to your feet, so you won’t slip and your ankles won't wobble.
LifeStride's size range is 5 to 12, and some styles have wide width options. And yes, LifeStride shoes are available to purchase on Amazon. However, shoppers can easily find pairs based on color, price, material, and size, and heel height on the brand’s site. What also makes the LifeStride special is the option to filter shoes based on comfort technology. Doing so, leads you to all the pairs with soft system, velocity 2.0, active arch, or secret cushion benefits.
Look, you may have heard a little rumor that smaller heels aren’t fashionable — seriously, who started this? However, the Joy 2 Slingback Sandals and the London Loafers prove you can still add a stylish touch to any outfit without sacrificing comfort.
Sale at time of publish: New markdowns up to 50% off
Size Range: Women’s 5-12 | Shipping Policy: Free economy shipping with all orders | Returns: Within 45 days of delivery date
How to Pick the Most Comfortable Heels
Size
If you wear heels in the wrong size, chances are you’ll regret it sooner than later. It's for this reason, celebrity stylist Pilar Scratch recommends buying heels in your true size, even if it's tempting to buy the pair on your wishlist that is only available in a half a size up. “Always purchase the correct size shoe,” Scratch tells PEOPLE. “You should avoid wearing heels that are too tight anywhere on your foot to prevent cramping and blisters.” In that same vein, be sure to study each shoe’s size chart to ensure you’re choosing your true size — a size 7 isn’t the exact same across the board.
Heel Height/Type
A heel’s height can vary from low to mid to high. However, comfort is key, Scratch recommends opting for low-heeled pairs like a block or wedge. “Heels should be thicker and shorter if they’re going to be comfortable,” she says. “In spite of height, I find heels with slight width the most comfortable.”
Material
Material and construction matters when it comes to finding comfortable heels, as some can cause your feet pain. Having said that, Scratch recommends choosing leather and suede shoes, as these materials stretch and mold to your feet with little to no discomfort. “These materials also remain in great condition because of their quality,” Scratch adds. “Plastic heels with plastic straps, on the other hand, are extremely painful and provide no arch support."
Frequently Asked Questions
What brand has the most comfortable high heels?
All the brands and retailers on our heels have plenty of comfortable shoes to choose from. However, because Vionic and Frankie4 are developed by an orthopedist and podiatrist, respectively, you're bound to find an ample supply of supportive and cushioning heels there.
What type of heels are easiest to walk in?
“Thicker heels and platforms can help walking in heels easier,” explains Los Angeles-based personal stylist Jasie Style. “Selecting heels with ankle straps will also give you that stability you need.”
What foot shape is best for heels?
Heels can vary in size and widths. That being said, always want to make sure you wear a heel that is true to size with wider options available, should you need the extra room.
Are expensive comfortable heels worth it?
While comfortable heels are available in a range of prices, Jasie Style recommends splurging on well-made pairs that you can wear for more than one season. “Investing in comfortable, expensive shoes will not only make you feel good, but they will last the test of time,” she tells PEOPLE. “Consider it as the ultimate investment in your wardrobe.”
Take Our Word For It
Courtney Leiva is a contributing commerce writer for PEOPLE and has written for publications such as The Daily Beast, Buzzfeed, HuffPost, and more. When researching the best places to buy comfortable shoes, Courtney conducted her own research, looking at various online retailers, analyzing the size range, heel height, and materials of each. She also spoke with fashion stylists Jasie Style and Pilar Scratch for additional shopping and style insight.
PEOPLE's senior commerce editor Erika Reals contributed to this piece with her own recommendations of the best places to buy comfortable heels. She has nearly four years of experience in the fashion commerce and shopping space, previously writing and editing at Byrdie, Brides, and Daily Mail Fashion, and has bought from most of the retailers on this list herself.
Up Next: The 12 Best Work Shoes for Women of 2023, Starting at $19
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