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Are your high heels being a real pain? Try these comfortable dress shoe alternatives.

Shop 11 great alternatives to high heels.

Journee Collection Boot, Natrualizer flats, David-Tate shoes. Credit: Reviewed / Journee Collection / Naturalizer / David Tate

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If you’ve ever been stuck in heels for a few hours, you know just how uncomfortable they can be. Sure, they may look nice, but the effects of this common shoe choice are anything but cute. Those who wear heels often end up barefoot or toting around a second pair of shoes for when the pain becomes unbearable— not to mention a plethora of negative health effects if they wear heels too often.

For those shopping in the women’s shoe section, heels may seem like the only option out there. They get featured in every piece of media and are a staple in most fashion shows. However, there are plenty of shoes offered that are as cute as they are functional. Whether you’re a heel-wearer looking for a change or someone who is already firmly in the anti-heel bus, this list of shoes will give you some new ideas for stylish shoes that your feet will love.

Are All Heels Bad For You?

The short answer is yes and no.

Yes, all high heels (anything above 1.5 to 2 inches) are bad for you. Wearing high heels regularly can cause a whole host of health problems, including painful conditions with lifelong impacts to areas such as your back, knees, hips, legs, calves, and more. They can cause unpleasant foot conditions like bunions and can even fundamentally change how you walk and stand.

On the flip side, this isn’t to say that every heel of every height is bad for you. In fact, some heels help support the foot’s natural shape and can be especially helpful to those with flat feet. If a shoe has some heel to it, it should be below 2 inches (and ideally below 1.5). Ideally any heels should be chunky or platform styled and include other elements ideal for healthy feet like strong cushioning and a toe bed with plenty of room.

One-inch heels are actually better for you than flats according to podiatrists. Flats can lack arch support and create problems of their own. However, low heels let you walk at your most natural shape and posture, and put less pressure on your Achilles tendon. Overall, one of the healthiest things you can do for your feet is changing up the style occasionally so that you put pressure on different places rather than constantly putting stress on a few spots.

Journee Collection Comfort Foam Marlee Flat

A striped black and white flat shoe.
Credit: Reviewed / Journee Collection

These flats from Journee Collection are just dressy enough to elevate any look.

The Comfort Foam Marlee Flat from Journee Collection looks good while feeling good. Their mostly flat design offers a thin heel to provide a more natural shape, and the soft straps and foam elements make them a comfortable choice. Plus, the straps around the ankles are both stylish and helpful for those who have issues with flat feet or rolling ankles, as they can help your ankle and foot stay in alignment.

Perfect for any special occasion, these shoes are available in five colors and are reasonably priced for just about everyone. Shop the style in women’s shoe sizes 6 to 12.

$55 at Zappos

David Tate Wylie Sandal

Black sandals with straps and a low block heel.
Credit: Reviewed / David Tate

For a little lift without sacrificing comfort, opt for the Wylie Sandal from David Tate.

If you’re looking for the elegance and elongating effect of a heel without the accompanying pain, the David Tate Wylie Sandal might be just the ticket. Its thin straps and three neutral colorways help showcase your feet in a 1.5-inch heel that looks much taller than it actually is. Its asymmetrical design adds visual interest and is sure to dress up any outfit.

For those who love heels but need to take a break—or give them up entirely—this shoe is an excellent summertime pick, and is available in women’s shoe sizes 4 to 13 in narrow to extra wide options. Just be aware that there is a small buckle on the side that may prove tricky for those with physical disabilities that affect their hands.

$100 at DSW (Save $20)

Journee Collection Cadee Booties

Gray suede boots that hit mid-calf.
Credit: Reviewed / Journee Collection

As the weather cools down, you’ll need a comfortable pair of boots.

Though boots are an especially popular choice in the winter, a pair of vegan leather booties are the perfect way to stand out. The Cadee Booties from Journee Collection feature a combat design that adds retro charm, while subtle fabric choices offer softness to an edgier look. Plus, with plenty of toe room and Tru Comfort Foam Footbed, these shoes will be as convenient and comfortable as can be.

Available in four colors in women’s shoe sizes 6 to 11, these booties are also ideal for those who want a little extra ankle support and an optimized foot height with their 1.25-inch block heel. Because of the inside zipper, they’re also well-designed for those who are searching for an easy shoe that still gives the appearance of laces without needing the dexterity to tie them.

$70 at Macy’s

Fabiana Filippi Suede Loafers

Bright pink suede loafers.
Credit: Reviewed / Fabiana Filippi

For a trendy Barbie-inspired vibe, reach for the Fabiana Filippi Suede Loafers.

If you love all things Barbiecore but love her penchant for heels a whole lot less, the Fabiana Filippi Suede Loafers are a great option. They capture Barbie’s signature style while offering all of the comfort and support that your feet need. Go full Elle Woods and wear them to work or use them for your next big event. Wherever you wear them, you’re sure to feel feminine and fabulous. These flats are available in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 11.

$860 at Farfetch (Save $95)

Only Maker Square Toe Colorful Strap Flat Sandals

Flat, strappy sandals with multicolored straps.
Credit: Reviewed / Only Maker

These size-inclusive flat sandals are stylish and just dressy enough.

These square-toed sandals are a great way to add a feminine touch without having to add any height. The subtle rainbow coloring of Only Maker’s Square Toe Colorful Strap Flat Sandals is embellished with rhinestones that are sure to catch the light wherever you are, and you’ll feel like a million bucks walking around in them. Combine all the comfort of flip flops with the class of a dress shoe with these fun mules, shoppable in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 15.

$40 at Only Maker (Save $20)

André Assous Nalah Ballet Flat

Off-white ballet flats.
Credit: Reviewed / André Assous

Achieve the balletcore look with these flats from André Assous.

Ballet flats are a common shoe in the feminine footwear world, but not all flats are created equal. These 1-inch Nalah Ballet Flats from André Assous are a great example of a classic style done right. By adding a smidge of height and a rounded toe, this shoe provides the optimal shape to keep your feet happy and your posture in alignment. Buy the flats in one of three neutral colors, or spice things up a bit with the shiny gold version featured here. Shop the style in women’s shoe sizes 5.5 to 11.

$77 at Nordstrom (Save $33)

Naturalizer Kristin Flat

Lavender suede flats.
Credit: Reviewed / Naturalizer

These comfortable flats from Naturalizer are classic and timeless.

If you love a good pointed toe but struggle to find a comfortable pair, the Kristin Flat from Naturalizer might be for you. This modern take on a flat is a great way to add some visual interest without a heel doing the heavy lifting. Customers rave about the comfort while wearing these—which doesn’t come as a surprise as Naturalizer is famous for prioritizing comfort and foot health. For those who want to change things up a bit, this twist-on-a-classic style is a good way to start. The Kristin can be shopped in four colors in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 13.

$50 at Naturalizer (Save $75)

Easy Spirit Caster Dress Shoes

Black pumps with a gathered detail on the toe.
Credit: Reviewed / Easy Spirit

Add a basic black pump to your wardrobe with this option from Easy Spirit.

If you’re looking for something as professional as it is sophisticated, this Caster Dress Shoe from Easy Spirit is a great find. It’s available in six colors (including a sparkling silver and velvet black), women’s shoe sizes 5 to 12, and pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Whether you’re wearing it to work or heading to a night out, this shoe is practical but dressy, and with its high quality and extra detailing on the toe, it goes beyond your average pump. Plus, Easy Spirit is known for its focus on comfort, so you can shop knowing that your money will be going toward a shoe you’re sure to love.

$99 at Easy Spirit

Elf Wild Rose Leather Ankle Booties

Brown leather boots with buckle straps.
Credit: Reviewed / Elf

Shop these booties from Elf for an easy go-to look.

Ankle boots are a great choice to pair with everything from dresses to pants. The Wild Rose Leather Ankle Booties from Elf are handmade with unique detailing that adds some dressiness while keeping a neutral color palette. Perfect for going out on the town or pairing with your favorite renaissance fair outfit, this is a bootie that will be sure to be a crowd pleaser. It’s worth noting that the four buckles are the only way to fasten them, so if you’re looking for shoes for individuals that have arthritis or other dexterity issues, these may prove more of a challenge than others on the list. The Wild Rose bootie comes in four colors in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 13.

$195 at Elf

YYTing Low Heel Women Ballroom Dance Shoes

YYTing low-heeled shoes with a silver upper.
Credit: Reviewed / YYTing

These low-heeled dancing shoes are available in four fun colors.

These low-heeled Ballroom Dance Shoes were designed with dancing in mind, so it’s no surprise that they’re widely beloved for their comfort. Available in the sparkling silver shown here, or in subtler black and tan, these sandals will make you feel like you’re ready for Dancing With the Stars on your next night out. Because of their slip-on nature, they’re perfect for people who are older or have trouble navigating buckles and ties. Plus, with a design that encourages a natural foot shape and support, they’re ideal for anyone to stand for long periods of time at an event. Shop the style in four colors in women’s shoe sizes 5 to 12.

$60 at Amazon

The Walking Company Rieker Sina 78

The Walking Company shoes with a low heel and black leather upper.
Credit: Reviewed / The Walking Company

The Walking Company is a go-to source for comfortable shoes.

The Walking Company is another brand known for its comfortable footwear, and the Rieker Sina 78 wedge slingback is an outstanding example of one of their popular styles. It has all of the elegance and shape of a heel without the discomfort, coming in at a gentle 1-inch heel but giving the appearance of more height. The colorful design and woven pattern makes it stand out in the crowd, and the multiple color options mean you can choose your level of subtlety or pair it with any outfit. Overall, this is a dress shoe you’ll love to wear again and again no matter where you’re headed. Shop the style in two colors in women’s shoe sizes 36 to 42.

$125 at The Walking Company

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