27 Pairs of Boots with Heels That Even a Podiatrist Would Approve Of
By Marissa Wu,
4 hours ago
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I’m a bit obsessed with finding the best, most comfortable heel . Whether they’re slingbacks, ballet pumps or wedding guest shoes , I am always looking for the perfect intersection of fashion and function. They need to be walkable with a super plush insole—but also, not look orthopedic. With fall just around the corner, I consulted a podiatrist and asked them to share the qualities they’d look for in boots with heels that’ll look great without killing my feet. From my best overall pick, the Margaux The Edie Boot ($595) to the podiatrist-approved Vionic Nella Boots ($190; $119) and celeb-approved Larroudé Kate Boots ($485; $283), here are 27 pairs of boots with heels that’ll keep you on your feet all day.
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The Best Boots with Heels at a Glance
Meet the Expert
Joan Oloff is a podiatrist and founder of her eponymous shoe brand. Footwear is a family business, starting with her grandfather’s shoe store in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, which dates back to 1920. Eventually, Oloff followed her father and uncles into the business, working in their stores before becoming a podiatrist and launching her own brand. Through her designs, Oloff creates footwear that is both fashionable and functional.
How I Vetted the Best Boots with Heels
When culling this list of the best boots with heels, I asked Oloff to share qualities that she would prioritize when looking for shoes. I also leaned on my own experience shopping for shoes (including boots) for my wide, flat feet. Additionally, I asked PureWow editors for their recommendations and combed through hundreds of customer reviews, selecting pairs that were deemed both stylish and comfortable.
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1. Margaux The Edie Boot
Any fellow PureWow editor will tell you that I’m *obsessed* with Margaux and have been wearing the brand for years. I’ve tried it all, from their ballet flats to these boots, and the brand remains the go-to in my shoe closet. These boots, along with all shoes in Margaux’s line-up, come in sizes 3 to 14 (the most inclusive on this list), three widths and with the brand’s signature 5mm of foam padding— perfect for my wide, flat feet . The block heel is a walkable 2.5 inches, and there are three neutral colors to choose from: taupe, black and chocolate. Yes, the price tag is high, but I’ve worn the same pair for three years and they’re still holding up nicely. That all taken into account, these are, in my opinion, a solid investment.
$595 at Margaux2. Margaux The Boot
Normally, I reach for knee-high boots, especially in the winter. However, I find Margaux’s classic boots the perfect segue into fall. Like the Edie Boots above, the ankle rendition is available in a wide swath of sizes with a 2.5-inch heel and three colors: brandy suede, black calf and black suede. I have the black suede and appreciate that unlike a stiff leather, there’s actually plenty of give so my toes aren’t pinched into numbing oblivion. To wear them with thicker socks when the temps drop, order a half-size up. Personally, I’ve found that I can wear wool socks of medium thickness without a problem.
$425 at Margaux3. Joan Oloff Dakota Bootie
If a podiatrist designed the shoe, then you can bet that it’ll be comfortable. Joan Oloff manages to do something that is rarely achieved: make shoes as beautiful as they are easy on the feet. I had the opportunity to try them and can confirm that the footbed is one-of-a kind. What makes them so comfortable? For one, the shape is anatomic, mimicking that of an actual foot. Oloff also designed a hidden platform under the ball of the foot to help relieve pressure points. She tells me that she then fills this part of the shoe with patented cushioning, and the entire sole with medical grade shock absorbing material. The Dakota is one of the few shoes on this list with a stiletto heel—but given the meticulous construction, I’ve never been more confident that it would be comfortable.
$595 at Joan Oloff4. Larroudé Kate Boots
Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez have both been spotted in Larroudé’s Kate Boots, which have a sky-high, 3.8-inch stiletto. While I’d designate anything creeping on four inches as uncomfortable, I do think that Larroudé makes pretty shoes as comfortable as they possibly can be. I’ve tried their Mary Jane block heels and can attest that the memory foam insole has never given me cause for complaint. Do keep in mind that if you have wide feet, the brand’s shoes may feel snug. In that case, I advise steering away from patent leather, which doesn’t stretch. Seeing as these boots are kid (goat) leather, you may have some leeway.
$485 ; $243 at Larroudé5. Sarah Flint Perfect Zip Bootie 30
Sarah Flint is a well-loved celeb brand, and once you try on a pair, it’s easy to understand why the likes of Amal Clooney, Meghan Markle, Karlie Kloss and Cindy Crawford all stash the brand’s shoes in their closets. The footbed is designed with anatomical arch support and padding that one-ups Margaux’s by a millimeter. The inset block heel also aids in more even weight distribution. I’ve tried on a pair and must say that as far as footbeds go, this is probably one of the best—if not the best. The saleswoman told me that you can go a full day walking around in the brand’s 3-inch heels. The Perfect Zip Bootie is much lower, at just under 1.5 inches, but still has the inset block heel. Do note that the design runs small, so you should probably order a half size up.
$695 at Sarah Flint6. Clarks Torhill Rise Nubuck Boots
I wore Clarks flats and boots for years and will happily attest to the brand’s durability, quality and comfort. While the Torhill boots don’t technically have a heel, they do have a 1.5-inch platform—which, in the height department, serves the same purpose. The chunky ribbed platform sole provides a sturdy foundation, while the removable cushioned footbed provides support. (Alternately, swap it for your own arch supports, if desired.) The boots come in dark green nubuck and black leather.
$140 at Clarks $140 ; $84 at Amazon7. Vivaia Regina Pro Boots
As far as I’m concerned, Vivaia makes one of the softest, squishiest, marshmallow-like footbeds around. If I’m wearing boots with heels, the Regina Pro Boots are a winner when it comes to the intersection of price and comfort. The shock-absorbing insole provides pressure relief and will ensure your feet don’t even register that they’re two inches off the ground. A block heel aids in more even weight distribution. The recycled material is water repellent, and the boots come in a plethora of colors, from black to ruby red and brat green .
$149 at Vivaia8. Vionic Nella Boots
According to New York City-based podiatrist Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, DPM , Vionic’s Nella Boots are her pair of choice. “Vionic's Vio-Motion technology is built into every pair: deep seated heel cup, arch support and cushioning. These features provide stability, comfort and flexibility,” she previously told PureWow commerce editor Olivia Dubyak. Indeed, don’t be afraid of the 3.25-inch block heel. Buyers say that the shoes are incredibly walkable and require no break-in period. Plus, they feature a podiatrist-designed orthotic footbed for maximum comfort, along with a roomy almond-shaped toe.
$190 ; $119 at Zappos $190 ; $80 at Nordstrom Rack9. Ariat Leather Heritage Western Boots
If you’ve been wanting to hop on the Cowboy Carter train but still haven’t made a move on the essential footwear, I present to you these Ariat leather cowboy boots. The 1.75-inch heel provides a modest height boost, and there’s a removable cushioned insole that will keep you walking all day, whether you’re pounding the city pavement or out in the Wild West. The biggest praise for these boots, though? They have a wide width option for the shaft—and when the brand says wide, they mean wide . If you’ve struggled with fitting boots over your calves, you can now rejoice.
$160 at Ariat10. Hunter Rain Boots
Every pair of Hunter rain boots I’ve bought have lasted me a good four to five years. I love the height of the boots, which make them ideal for wading through deep puddles and frolicking on the beach without getting sand in my shoes. (Major pet peeve.) They’re also pretty insulated, and I can wear thicker socks and arch supports with them. But whether or not I’m actually facing inclement weather, I love these shoes because they’re so easy to clean. I’ve worn them on farms and hosed off questionable dirt and run through dewy meadows with no issues. I will say that at about the three- to four- year mark, I noticed the rubber beginning to crack, which is unfortunate—though I admit to wearing these shoes aggressively and often.
$175 at Hunter $175 at Nordstrom11. Blundstone #500 Leather Boots
When I lived in Paris , I had a friend who lived in Blundstones. In fact, I rarely saw her wear anything else as we logged miles across the city of light in all types of weather, from crisp autumn afternoons to rainy winter evenings. The water-resistant leather will help keep your feet dry as you scamper between puddles, and the cushioned midsole ensures your feet stay comfortable—though it’s also removable if you wish to add your own insert. The classic Chelsea boots have a 2-inch heel, which is my ideal height to compromise on walkability. You may need to break them in, so keep that in mind before you wear them for five miles straight out of the box.
$190 at Blundstone $190 at REI12. Clarks Cologne Up Leather Boots
One of my favorite pairs of shoes from Clarks were black riding boots with a one-inch heel. Though they sadly no longer make this style, the Cologne Up boots are a close match. I love that they’re made with recycled materials ( sustainability for the win ) and feature the brand’s molded Contour Comfort footbed. I’m almost certain this is the reason why I could walk miles on Paris’s cobbled streets without any protest from my feet.
$250 at Clarks13. Naturalizer Kalina Booties
Naturalizer is a brand I instantly associate with comfort, and the brand’s Kalina booties deliver just that. For starters, they’re available in three widths, including double wide (!). There’s also the almond shaped toe that doesn’t pinch, and the Contour+Comfort technology in the insole that will support every step. An inconspicuous bronze zipper adds the finishing (and stylish) touch.
$175 at Zappos14. Vionic Sibley Booties
You have the little black dress, but how about a pair of little black booties? Bonus points if they’re comfortable, and you can bet the Sibley boots are. The podiatrist-approved brand created these square-toe boots with a 2.5-inch block heel and signature EVA insole. The material is known for its excellent shock absorption, flexibility and sturdiness, allowing it to offer top-notch support without being susceptible to cracks and compression.
$180 ; $123 at Zappos15. Dr. Martens Spencer Leather Boots
For those who embrace the goth aesthetic , Docs are likely a closet staple. The Spencer boots are a bit more of the soft goth look, without the laces and a 3.75-inch heel. All the hallmarks of the classic work boot are there—high-contrast yellow stitching, napa leather, grooved outsole—but with a sleek, Chelsea boot design. As with all Docs, expect a break-in period (and grab some thick socks). But afterwards, they’ll fit like a glove.
$190 at Dr. Martens $190 at DSW16. Sam Edelman Sylvia Boots
When it comes to knee-high boots with heels, finding a pair that fits your calves can be a challenge. However, according to glowing customer reviews, Sam Edelman’s Syliva boots are the perfect fit if you have narrow calves and struggle with excess material flopping around. You have a bevy of color choices, from ivory to brown and black suede. The design features a square toe and 2.75-inch heel, and the leather is soft and won’t pinch. Do note that some buyers say the toe box runs narrow, so you’ll potentially want to size up or steer clear if your feet are wider.
From $200 at Nordstrom From $200 at Amazon17. Vince Camuto Shela Western Boot
Everyone needs a little fringe, and this is a fun way to nod to the western aesthetic without wearing full-on chaps. The fringe runs the entire shaft of the boot and will swing as you walk, just brushing the ankle. A 3.5-inch block heel gives you a substantial height boost, and you can choose from two colors: bone and black. Yeehaw.
$249 at Nordstrom $249 at Macy’s18. Franco Sarto Martin Boot
I get it: Not everyone wants boots with sky-high heels. Maybe you’re more of a kitten heel person. (Very demure , if you know what I mean.) Enter: these Franco Sarto Martin boots with a dainty, 1.25-inch heel and statement-making shaft. Don’t let the height fool you, though; these boots can totally be dressed up, and you can choose from three neutral colors (brown, black, taupe). Oh, and buyers also say that they work well for petites , so if you’re under 5’4’’, you can wear these, too.
$260 at Nordstrom $260 at Franco Sarto19. Vince Camuto Joanel Boots
Sure, stilettos are fun, but inevitably, they’ll start to hurt, no matter how good the insole is. That’s why I always try to opt for block heels, as they distribute weight more evenly and help relieve painful pressure points. Vince Camuto’s Joanel boots have a 3.5-inch chunky heel that looks no less sleek than Larroudé’s Kate boots, with the addition of some tasteful gold accents. The boots are also available in a warm, caramel whiskey hue. Watch these be on repeat all fall long.
$239 at Nordstrom $239 at DSW20. LifeStride Blake Booties
Comfortable and affordable? Sign me up. LifeStride’s Blake booties have received plenty of praises for being an all-day shoe—even if buyers spend hours standing at their jobs. The shoes have a 1.25-inch block heel and the brand’s ultra-cushioned Soft System footbed. They come in three colors (cognac, black and ash) and are currently on sale—but even at full price, the booties come in at less than $100.
From $90 ; $65 at Nordstrom21. Dr. Scholl’s Brilliance Boots
Quality riding boots can get expensive, but Dr. Scholl’s proves it doesn’t have to be expensive to be good. The brand’s Brilliance riding boots feature its signature anatomical cushioning and arch support with a low, walkable 1.25-inch heel. Other points of praise for these boots: there’s no break-in period, they’re versatile and made from recycled materials.
$120 ; $90 at Dr. Scholl’s $130 ; $90 at DSW22. UGG Brooklyn Platform Chelsea Boot
Over the past couple years, I have seen UGG’s chunky platforms everywhere, and I think they’re another great alternative for adding height without bending to a sky-high heel. The heel comes in at 3.25 inches, but is mitigated to just under an inch thanks to the platform. The leather upper is water resistant and features ribbed detailing and UGG logo. Be warned that they may feel heavy when you first start wearing them.
$170 at Nordstrom $170 at Zappos23. Teva Anaya Booties
While a good number of these boots with heels are water resistant, they’re not all water proof. And should you not be keen to go all-out with a classic pair of Wellingtons, I’d suggest these Teva Anaya booties. Made of leather, the brand’s TevaRAPID REPEL keeps your feet dry, while the microfiber lining and cushioned insole ensures warmth and comfort.
$160 at L.L. Bean $160 at Zappos24. Hunter Short Rain Boots
Knee-high rain boots are a big commitment, but you can still keep your feet dry (and stay inconspicuous) with Hunter’s short rain boots. They come in eight fun colors, like red, navy and yellow. As I wrote above, Hunter boots are great multi-purpose shoes no matter the weather, are sturdy, comfortable and accommodate arch supports. And they’re easy to clean with a quick hosing down. Each pair I’ve bought has lasted me years, which is why they remain a go-to.
$150 at Hunter $150 ; $90 at Zappos25. Margaux The Skater Boot
Don’t @ me, but I can’t say “skater” without immediately wanting to belt out Avril Lavigne…and I feel like she’d appreciate these boots. Definitely on the edgier side of Margaux’s offerings, but no less popular. (They are sold out in some sizes.) The heel height (2.25 inches) is incredibly comfortable. I wouldn’t hesitate to commute in them. Buyers also confirm that the Skater Boot is easy to walk in and well-constructed. The boots feature Margaux’s signature 5mm foam padded footbed, plus waterproof German suede.
$425 at Margaux26. Timberland Linden Boots
The ultimate work boots (aside from Doc Martens) are probably Timberland, and they’re popular with those who actually work in construction. Though, I had a college roommate who lived in her “Tims,” and the fact that they withstood windy, rainy, slushy Boston weather is just as much a testament to their durability as if she had been working in a construction yard. The leather boots have a 1-inch platform heel and are available in a wide width. They’re also equipped with an anti-fatigue, removable footbed. However, they require a break-in period, so keep that in mind before you wear them excessively.
$130 ; $100 at DSW27. Born Toni Boots
Born, like Naturalizer, is known for its ultra-comfortable shoes, and the Toni boots are no exception. The highlights are the shoe’s cushioned foam footbed and soft, slouchy leather, which lends the design a relaxed look. The block heel clocks in at 2.75 inches, supported by a grippy, high-traction rubber sole. They’re available in four colors: black, gray, dark brown and tomato.
$180 at Born $180 at NordstromWhat to Consider When Shopping for Boots with Heels
When it comes to shopping for boots with heels, there are tons of options. So, how can you determine what’s going to be supportive?
“One of the first things I recommend women do when searching for supportive shoes is what I call the ‘flex test,’” Oloff tells me. “Simply hold the back of the shoe in one hand and try to flex the front upwards. There should be inherent stability to the structure of the shoe. If you can fold the front all the way to the top of the shoe, it’s lacking the basic stability necessary to support the foot.”
As a podiatrist, Oloff advises modifying your shoes if you need additional support. That could mean swapping out insoles for something with more cushioning, or choosing shoes that will relieve pressure points. And when it comes to knee-high boots, she would prioritize stretch leathers that can accommodate a variety of widths. Oloff adds, “Make sure there is enough room in the toe box area. You should always be able to wiggle your toes inside the boot. At the same time, make sure your foot doesn’t slide too far forward. Ironically, boots that are too big can make the boot feel too tight! Make sure there is enough flexibility in the leather so your foot can still bend at the ankle.” She also suggests choosing a breathable, natural fabric, noting that synthetics can cause more perspiration that leads to blisters, athlete’s foot and allergic reactions.
12 Boots with Arch Support That Prove Style and Comfort Can Go Hand in Hand
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