16 Pairs of Black Heels That ELLE Editors Say Are Really and Truly Comfortable
We walked (through blisters) so you could run (in stilettos).
Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
Finding the perfect pair of heels can be a daunting task, especially when you consider comfort to be as important as style. It takes trial and error before you can get it right. So, in my exhaustive search for the most comfortable black heels, I polled ELLE editors to see which styles they rely on. I curated their answers here in a list of the top contenders that promise not only to complement any outfit, but also ensure you stay pain-free all day long.
Of course, these shoes are stylish, but they’re also meticulously designed with ergonomic features like cushioned insoles, arch support, and breathable materials to promote airflow. I took that attention to detail into consideration, along with aesthetics, brand reputation, and the aforementioned editor recommendations, to compile this round-up. Below, shop the most comfortable black heels, according to the ELLE team.
This sculptural heel is far from average. I need it!
Size: 5-11
Colors: Black, Silver
Material: Nappa leather
Vince is a great brand to shop for workwear. I’d definitely wear this strappy kitten heel to the office.
Size: 5-11
Colors: 7 options
Material: Leather
No shoe rack is complete without a slingback. ELLE’s senior news and strategy editor Alyssa Bailey names these are her top choice.
Size: 5-14
Colors: 37 options
Material: Leather
Customer review: “This shoe is very comfortable. The height is just right for someone over sixty.”
Tony Bianco knows how to make a wearable heel that goes with just about anything. These are a personal favorite.
Size: 5-10
Colors: Black, Skin, White, Acid Pink
Material: Leather
Our digital deputy editor Madison Feller says she was shocked by how comfortable these are. And for that price? Yes, please.
Size: 5-12
Colors: 26 options
Material: Leather
Customer review: “These sandals are surprisingly comfortable! The straps are soft and very flexible. They don’t rub my feet raw, and the heels are wide enough to create stability. They’re lightweight and versatile. I would most definitely recommend!”
Claire Stern Milch, ELLE’s digital director, swears by this Stuart Weitzman pair, and I couldn’t agree more. They have that classic, sophisticated look with the comfort I expect from modern designs.
Size: 3.5-12
Colors: Black
Material: Suede, leather
Alexandre Birman Clarita Block 90 Black
Another day, another shoe; Claire Stern Milch recommends these, too!
Size: 5-11.5
Colors: 9 options
Material: Suede, leather
Customer review: “These shoes look beautiful on! They are very classy. Best part? They are extremely comfortable. I wore them all night, danced and had a great time, and my feet did not hurt in the least! Can’t wait to wear them again. They will definitely be one of my go-to shoes!”
If you haven’t caught on, our digital director has an extensive shoe collection, so when she endorsed this pair, I knew it counted for something. The textured detailing is exceptional, and the sole is cushioned for extra comfort.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Black, Sage, Beauty
Material: Leather, polyester
Staff culture editor Lauren Puckett-Pope and I agree that ankle straps are a must. She loves this pair in particular.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Bone, White, Black, Champagne
Material: Leather
Everyone needs a classic black slingback—one that you can actually walk in, to be exact. Opt for these from Vagabond, which comes as another recommendation from Lauren Puckett-Pope. The heel height is ideal, and the patent leather makes them a dressier style.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Black, Brown
Material: Leather
Customer review: “These are nice quality leather shoes. The strap fits great, which is such a miss with most slingback heels.”
As a self-proclaimed Vivaia ambassador (I just love the brand), I can say for certain that these are incredibly comfortable. The straps and open-toe silhouette make them the ideal summer heels.
Size: 5-11
Colors: Almond, Vintage Blue, Snake Print, Black, Ruby Red
Material: Knit
Customer review: “Really comfortable! The cushioning is amazing, and heel height is perfect. Additional strap across the bridge keeps them firmly on your feet with no movement. I bought two more colors.”
With a chic pointed toe and a chunky heel that’s both low and stable, these are a great option for those who are hesitant to wear heels. They’re also wallet-friendly.
Size: 5-8.5
Colors: 20 options
Material: Faux leather
Customer review: “I loved how comfortable the shoes were and how in style they are. Perfect for work or dressing up. Easy to walk in and fits true to size.”
Britt Netta is another office favorite, particularly for associate fashion commerce editor Meg Donohue.
Size: 5-10
Colors: Black
Material: Mesh, satin, crystal, leather
These block heels from Aussie brand Frankie4 boast a podiatrist-backed design, offering a cushioned footbed and advanced arch support to keep your feet comfortable in any setting. Lauren Puckett-Pope and Meg Donohue both love these.
Size: 6-13
Colors: Black, Sand
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Perfect for stylish outfits in every season. Easy color to suit all options. Comfortable enough to wear all day. These will be my go-to shoe for all future special events.”
I’m at that age where I suddenly understand the appeal of kitten heels. These are timeless and sweet but still comfortable.
Size: 6-10.5
Colors: Black, Pinot
Material: Suede, leather
I recently bought these and wore them to a wedding. I kept them on the entire night, and at one point I forgot they were even on. I cannot recommend a more comfortable wedge.
Size: 6-11
Colors: Black, Blue
Material: Goatskin
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