Finding the right pair of comfortable wedding shoes is tough. While being able to dance the night away—pain-free—is definitely a priority, nailing down options that are also trendy (and actually go with your dress) require some extra digging. Whether you're looking for high stilettos with a pointed toe like this pair by Sarah Flint ($550) or you want something with a short block heel, like this Badgley Mischka sandal ($69) for that outdoor wedding you have approaching this spring, this comprehensive list will give you the options you need to feel confident in purchasing a cute, comfy pair that is sure to last you year after year.
21 Comfortable Wedding Shoes That You Won’t Have to Kick Off Mid-Reception
Comfy and cute, down to the last dance
Published Oct 27, 2023
PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here.
Dasha Burobina for PureWow
The Top 10 Most Comfortable Wedding Shoes at a Glance
1
Best Overall
Naturalizer Leather Everly Pumps
read more
2
Best for Your Something Blue
Bella Belle Viola Wedding Shoes
read more
3
Best Value
Dream Pairs Ballet Flats
read more
4
Best Ballet Style
Margaux The Heel Suede Pumps
read more
5
Best for Stability
Aerosoles Landon Sandals
read more
Meet the Experts
- LCS: Dr. Bob Baravarian, DPM, FACFAS, is a board-certified podiatric foot and ankle surgeon at the University Foot & Ankle Institute and the CEO of patented arch support sock company ArchTek.
- Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM, is a board certified foot surgeon with the ABFAS who works his NYC podiatry office, Central Park SOLE. He also starred in the TLC series My Feet Are Killing me from 2020 to 2021.
How We Chose the Most Comfortable Wedding Shoes
When curating our list of the most comfortable wedding shoes, we sought insights from board-certified podiatric foot and ankle specialist Dr. Bob Baravarian and board-certified foot surgeon Dr. Brad Schaeffer to find out what makes for a comfortable option. We specifically looked for shoes that boast ample arch support, roomy toe boxes and cushioned padding in the insoles to keep you boogying on the dance floor during the reception. We also considered the flexibility of the outsole, heel height and heel width.
If you’ve looked everywhere and can’t find shoes you love, keep scrolling because we’ve found 21 stunning pairs that may just catch your eye.
Want to save *big* this shopping season? Sign up for our Deal of the Day email to get all the best sales delivered straight to your inbox.
Best Overall
1. Naturalizer Leather Everly Pumps
What We Like
- padded footbed
- leather upper
What We Don't Like
- sizing varies
Naturalizer
This brand's goal is to create comfortable-yet-stylish shoes for women, and these silver ones are made to keep your feet supported through your whole day. They have a padded footbed made to contour the shape of your foot and arch, while the low heel (just above 2 inches) will help your ankles from giving out.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Best for Your Something Blue
2. Bella Belle Viola Wedding Shoes
What We Like
- blue accents
- steel rod heel
What We Don't Like
- thin ankle straps
Bella Belle
Still need your "something blue"? Wear it on your toes. These ultra-feminine, hand-sewn floral heels have just the right touch of blue stitching throughout. They're designed for all day comfort, thanks to the handmade construction and extra padding. The heel height clocks in at three inches, and is formed around a steel rod, so no broken heels for you.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 3 inches
Best Value
What We Like
- flexible sole
- embellished upper
What We Don't Like
- contain latex
Dream Pairs
According to more than 4,600 five-star ratings on Amazon, the rubber outsole of these ballet flats offers great flexibility for walking and dancing all night long. With a shiny rhinestone upper, they also up the glam factor on any outfit—be it your wedding dress or even a pair of Levi’s. Note: Reviewers say to order a half-size up as they run a smidge small. "They have a little bit of a cushioned sole in them, which is comfortable for me, as I’ve had some flats that have nothing at all," says one customer.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 0.15 inches
Best Ballet Style
4. Margaux The Heel Suede Pumps
What We Like
- Italian suede upper
- foam padding
What We Don't Like
- not super dressy
Margaux
Want a sensible, cute option for your big day instead of towering pumps? These balletcore heels are equal parts stylish and comfortable. The heel is only 2.5-inches high and the sole has a structured-yet-moldable design to keep your feet optimally cushioned during wear.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Best for Stability
What We Like
- sturdy block heel
- diamond flex outsole
What We Don't Like
- no non sparkly neutral colors
Aerosoles
If you aren't so great at the whole walking around in heels thing, this style has a short and sturdy block heel to offer stability, no matter how long your ceremony is. They're made with the brand's diamond flex outsole to offer comfort and support to your arch while looking totally chic. Plus, they're available in seven colors.
Fast Facts
Heel Height: n/a
Best for Narrow Feet
What We Like
- vegan leather
- slim strap
What We Don't Like
- midsole may be slim
Birdy Grey
Keeping it simple on your feet is a smart option—especially since the star of the show is obviously the dress. These vegan leather heels are amply padded in the footbed, combined with the low block heel, they're basically a foolproof comfort option (though we can't control if you're a natural klutz).
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.5 inches
Best for Wide Feet
7. Marc Fisher Ltd Suede Zala Heels
What We Like
- timeless silhouette
- many color options
What We Don't Like
- slippery bottoms
Marc Fisher
Keep things timeless with this closed-toe number, available in multiple nude shades. The low block heel is supportive and won't lead to any strain to your soles. Reviewers say the toe box is great for wide feet, too. "I generally have wide feet, so I was pleasantly surprised that the shoe didn't squeeze my toes too much, even with the pointed toe. The height is comfortable, and the block heel is pretty stable," says one reviewer.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.75 inches
Best Mules
8. Dear Frances Leather Scrunch Mules
What We Like
- scrunchy straps
- wooden heel
What We Don't Like
- can slip off easily
Dear Frances
Mules are for the the bride who prefers the ease of slipping their shoes on and off (hey, it’s a long day). The leather arch straps on this chic pair won't cut into your skin and are super stretchy for lasting comfort.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.1 inches
Best for the Extra Bride
9. Jewel Badgley Mischka Cook Sandals
What We Don't Like
- cushioned footbed
- endless sparkles
What We Don't Like
- sparkles may cause itchiness
Badgley Mischka
If you're a bride who loves some extra sparkle, these shimmery heels are for you. The mid straps ensure your feet don't slide around while you're walking down the aisle and the block heel is great for stability. The footbeds are cushioned to keep your feet supported while the heel strap holds them in place.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 3.75 inches
Best Strappy Heel
What We Like:
- low heels
- strappy midfoot
What We Don't Like:
- toe straps may be a little tight
Lulus
Don't want too much extra height, but still want some lift? We love these low heels, which are just over two inches, to keep your arches closer to the ground (ahem, easier on the ankles). The best part is you'll be able to wear these long after the wedding because they can just as easily be dressed down with jeans.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.25 inches
Best Sneakers
11. Betsey Johnson Sidney Sneakers
What We Like
- bedazzled upper
- soft lining
- comfy
What We Don't Like
- rhinestones may fall off
Betsy Johnson
Commerce editor Olivia Dubyak says these sneakers were a godsend for dancing her reception away. "I didn't pick the comfiest heels for my ceremony, and being able to throw these on while I danced and I didn't get blisters or need a sitting break at all," she says. We love the unexpected glitz and glam of rhinestones on sneakers. And this bedazzled pair has them in abundance—plus, a one-and-a-half-inch platform to give you a bit of height.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 1.5 inches (platform)
Best Low Heel
12. Sarah Flint Parker Sling 50 Heels
What We Like
- vintage look
- extra footbed padding
What We Don't Like
- expensive
Sarah Flint
If you have a more vintage or boho style, these slingback heels with a sweet trail of nappa flowers across the vamp are a great choice. The footbed has an extra six millimeters of padding for an ultra-comfy fit and the heel strap will keep your feet nice and secure. Adorable feature: the “something blue” leather lining on the soles. "I’m a physician, on my feet all day, walking back and forth during clinic, these shoes have been professional but not boring and so comfortable all day long," says one customer.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2 inches
Most Affordable
What We Like
- crystal embellished midstrap
- quilted footbed padding
What We Don't Like
- can slip off easily
Birdies
These embellished slip-ons have a vegan velvet upper that pairs beautifully with the crystal mid strap, while the footbed has quilted padding for maximum comfort. Available in multiple colors (including gold, gold sparkle and snow crystal bracelet), they also have a very slight heel that gives them an understated yet classy look. We honestly want to wear them every day.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 0.6 inches
Best Flats
What We Like
- pointed toe
- rhinestone embellishments
What We Don't Like
- satin may dirty easily
Lulus
These satin baby heels will give some extra bling to your wedding look, thanks to a rhinestone-accented strap and vamp. The short heel (which is less than an inch in height!) is great for walking and the enclosed toe box will keep your feet from slipping forward.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 0.25 inches
Best Designer Shoes
15. Jimmy Choo Suede Ade Mary Janes
What We Like
- flat heel
- rubber sole
What We Don't Like
- not great for high arches
Jimmy Choo
Ballet flats are all the rage in 2023 and these are a gorgeous choice for brides. Sure, they may lack a bit in footbed support, but they make up for it in stability. Plus, the flat heel ensures you won't trip down the aisle and they'll be easier to dance in.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: n/a
Best for Outdoor Weddings
16. Jewel Badgley Mischka Giona Sandals
What We Don't Like
- low block heel
- thin ankle strap
What We Don't Like
- may be too sparkly for some tastes
Badgley Mischka
At 2.25 inches, these heels are a solid option for an outdoor wedding since you won't have to worry about them spiking into the grass and you can avoid rolling your ankle thanks to the low and sturdy construction. We’re big fans of the Art Deco–style embossed plate at the front of the heel and the shimmer effect throughout. "Comfortable and true to size with great stability with respect to the heel. Jewel decoration just enough bling. No wobbling here," one buyer mentions.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.25 inches
Best Rounded Heel
17. Loeffler Randal Camellia Heels
What We Like
- taffeta bow
- high heel
What We Don't Like
- hard to clean
Loeffler Randal
How cute are the rounded heels on these? The taffeta bow strap on the front gives them a flirty element to complete your wedding look. Happy customers note that the shoe runs small so you may want to order half a size up from your usual size.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 3.75 inches
Most Minimalistic
What We Like
- thin, rectangular heel, double midstraps
What We Don't Like
- heel isn't too sturdy
Alohas
These backless heels have a strap farther up on the foot to ensure they stay secure while you walk. We also love the heel shape and the simple design because, let’s face it, your dress is the star of the show.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 3.15 inches
Most Classic Pump
19. Sarah Flint Wedding Perfect 85 Pumps
What We Like
- wide toe box
- steel rod heel
What We Don't Like
- expensive
- high heel height
Sarah Flint
A pearlescent white pump is a great option for basically any wedding dress style. But it’s worth noting that with a heel of just over three inches, these may not be right for you if you’re not comfortable walking in pumps (although the center steel-rod heel does provide extra stability). The footbed is made with anatomical arch support for your instep and the wider toe box provides more breathing room.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 3.3 inches
Best Sandals
20. Bella Belle Hera Leather Sandals
What We Like
- pearl and rhinestone detailing
- leather upper and outer sole
What We Don't Like
- rhinestones could itch
Bella Belle
From getting ready in the morning to dancing the night away, a pair of sandals can go a long way when it comes to wedding accessories. The brand says the handmade design is engineered to ensure comfortable wear for up to 12 hours, which is a godsend for a day of wedding duties. The pearl and rhinestone details on this pair take them from casual to bridal and the slight heeled bottom give them extra support, making these more comfortable than a completely flat pair.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: n/a
Best Block Heel
21. Nisolo Stella Go-To Block Sandals
What We Like
- waterproof leather
- antimicrobial lining
What We Don't Like
- not available in wide sizes
Nisolo
Made of a super breathable, waterproof leather, these shoes are going to be great if you get some rain on your wedding day. They have a shock-absorbing, cushioned insole to keep your arch supported, and the flared block heel will help you feel stabilized during all the standing and dancing. "I tried these for a long event and my feet felt great even after hours of wear. The straps are the perfect width, and ditto for the heel height," one reviewer notes.
Fast Facts
- Heel Height: 2.5 inches
What to Look for in Comfortable Wedding Shoes
The ideal pair of wedding shoes comes down to a few key things: arch support, height and heel shape. You know your feet best, so if you know you can't withstand pointed, close-toed heels, opt for a pair of heeled sandals instead. "If you're attending an event that requires wearing heels for a long period of time, heels with a platform are a more comfortable option because they relieve the feet from the extreme arch that non-platformed heels have. Heel height and width plays a great part in the comfort of the shoes as well and can make a huge difference in how your feet feel if you opt for a shorter or chunkier heel," says Dr. Brad Schaeffer, DPM.
Another great option? "Open-toed heels avoid toe crowding which can create a lot of discomfort while standing, walking or dancing for long periods of time," advises Dr. Schaeffer.
Have a high instep? Extra arch support will be your best friend. If you have bunions, you'll probably want to avoid a pointed toe. And according to Dr. Bob Baravarian, DPM, FACFAS, there are a few things you can look for. "Good shoes for bunions will have a wide toe box, good arch support, and a cushioned footbed," he mentions on The Bunion Institute.
How Do I Stop My Wedding Shoes from Hurting?
Aside from the obvious (ahem, taking them off), if your heels are especially painful, you may want to chat with your podiatrist about cushioned inserts or a sensible shoe option that will help you make it through your wedding day. For example, if you have bunions, your heels may put you in more extreme pain. "For less severe bunions, over-the-counter inserts can also provide relief from foot pain. You can find inserts with extra arch support, memory foam, and cushioned heels. Some over-the-counter inserts are also labeled with the condition they aim to help with," says Baravarian. Pro tip: Break in your shoes before you walk down the aisle by wearing them around the house a few times.
Why You Should Trust Us
PureWow's editors and writers have spent more than a decade shopping online, digging through sales and putting our home goods, beauty finds, wellness picks and more through the wringer—all to help you determine which are actually worth your hard-earned cash. From our PureWow100 series (where we rank items on a 100-point scale) to our painstakingly curated lists of fashion, beauty, cooking, home and family picks, you can trust that our recommendations have been thoroughly vetted for function, aesthetics and innovation. Whether you're looking for travel-size hair dryers you can take on-the-go or women’s walking shoes that won’t hurt your feet, we’ve got you covered.
More Stories You'll Love
8 Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping That No One Tells You
These Are the 10 Best Honeymoon Destinations of 2024
How to Choose the *Perfect* Engagement Ring, According to an Expert
3 Unique Proposal Ideas Inspired by True Stories
Raise Your Glass: The Champagne Diamond Is 2023’s Sparkliest Engagement Ring Trend
67 Father-Daughter Songs That Just Might Start the Waterworks