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13 Comfortable, Spacious Heels to Add to Your Closet
All of your favorite styles in a roomier fit.
Like it or not, heels are often an integral part of any woman’s wardrobe. Unfortunately, they’re not necessarily designed for comfort, and we’ve all had that moment where squeezing into a too-tight or narrow pair of pumps can evoke the visual of a certain step-sister trying to cram her foot into Cinderella’s glass slipper. But a wide-fit could be the answer to achieving the sleek and chic look without all of that pinching and crowding.
Sure, we’d all probably rather opt for our favorite sneakers or slides if given the choice, but certain outfits and occasions require a bit more polish. “I personally love heels!” attests Dr. Suzanne Phillips, a podiatrist at Bucks County Podiatry and a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. And while she admits that a lot of heels touted as wide-fit can come off looking “fuddy-duddy,” she notes that there are other characteristics you can look for from well-known brands to ensure a higher level of comfort. “Soft padding at the forefoot of the shoe is helpful. And it goes without saying that a smaller heel should be more comfortable than a heel of 3 inches or higher.” Dr. Phillips also notes that anyone who might need more space in the toe box or elsewhere—including those with flat or even low arches—could benefit from roomier heels, too.
While some might be searching for a shoe with an E, EE, or EEE width for clinical reasons, Dr. Phillips states that “our feet can change with age, particularly with pregnancy when a woman’s center of gravity adjusts. A medium shoe that used to fit may be too snug, or crowd the toes or ball of the foot.” Learn more about the ins and outs of extended sizing and shop the 15 best wide-fit heels for women (in all the best styles), below.
Always elegant, you can make a patent slingback work all year long. This style from Sam Edelman is available in half sizes and multiple widths.
Sizes: 5-14
Colors: 19 options
Material: Leather, fabric, synthetic
Customer review: “Perfect pump in a neutral color to complement my new spring wardrobe. I purchased a wide to accomodate my [size], and they couldn’t be more comfortable.”
The open, round toe on this Barbie-esque, pastel pump leaves extra wiggle room for your toes, while the memory foam cushion ensures all-day comfort.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Lilac, Scarlet, Black, White, Tan
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Such a perfect summer shoe. Comfy, chic & fabulous.”
A cult favorite among the fashion set, the open design of The Row’s staple sandal means no unnecessary confinement for wider sizes.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Black
Material: Sheep leather
Customer review: “Sleek, comfortable, and great style. Says true to size, but I sized up half a size. If they weren’t so expensive, I would get them in more colors!”
Seeking out spacious heels doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a life of orthotics. Even if your favorite designer doesn’t craft heels in extended sizes, specific features like flexible material and a square toe (like the one on this Versace Mary Jane) can give a similar effect.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Black
Material: Leather
Customer review: “So cute and comfortable. Fit is very comfortable and the toe feature is very unique.”
This breathable slide sandal can pass as a summer pastel, or chameleon into fall as a denim accent.
Sizes: 5-10
Colors: Blue, Pastel, Black
Material: Textile, synthetic
Customer review: “Eye-catching sandal...beautiful color and comfortable heel.”
They may not look comfortable, but platforms actually decrease the slope of your foot and keep it more level than a pair of stilettos would. The cushioning on this Marion Parke style adapts to the curvature of your foot, and keeps your heel centered for optimal fit. “Platforms can actually be a better option because the illusion of heel height is offset by the thick platform sole, which means the shoe is less of a high heel than it appears,” adds Dr. Phillips.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Light Denim, Powder
Material: Denim
Customer review: “This is a fun shoe and oh-so-comfy!”
For versatility, there’s no safer bet than Franco Sarto. This kitten heel style is available in multiple widths, materials, and colors. Pair the leopard print with an asymmetrical summer skirt or a pair of cutoff jeans.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Vanilla, Crimson, Leopard, Black, Bronze
Material: Leather/faux leather, synthetic
Customer review: “Fit was perfect. It’s very hard to find stylish shoes in wide. Finally, these are exactly what I wanted...good quality and price.”
Everyone needs an unadorned, classic black pump. This Scarlett Chase version comes equipped with an orthotic-quality footbed and a sturdy heel base. “I usually recommend a chunky heel, or a ‘stacked’ heel rather than a stiletto or thin heel,” says Dr. Phillips.
Sizes: 5-12
Colors: Nude, Black
Material: Leather
Customer review: “I need two different widths and I typically feel pain after a couple of hours wearing heels. Scarletts Chase’s shoe and customer service was a game changer...I ended up keeping the Scarlett 55 instead of the 75 after multiple back and forths. I now own 4 pairs.”
While pointed-toe styles may seem like the opposite of a roomy fit, this heel from Dolce Vita comes in standard and wide widths. Reviewers also noted that the mesh material allowed for extra give and stretch around the front of the shoe.
Sizes: 5-13
Colors: Black Lace, White Lace, Espresso, Onyx
Material: Textile, synthetic
Customer review: “Breathtaking! I ended up loving the mesh, which was ideal for warm weather. I got so many compliments. Also surprisingly very comfortable. I wore them 6+ hours & my feet didn’t hurt at all.”
You can’t go wrong with this feminine yet understated bowtie sandal from Giuseppe Zanotti—a brand ELLE’s senior fashion commerce editor, Dale Arden Chong, recommends from personal experience.
Sizes: 6-11
Colors: Sabbia, Cacao
Material: Leather
Customer review: “Comfy, soft, did stretch a little after I broke them in!”
I’ve personally put on plenty of miles in these pressure-relief Vivaia booties, and they’ve never let me down. “Proper support is essential for maintaining healthy feet,” shares Phillips.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: 15 options
Material: Stretch knit, yarn
Customer review: “I absolutely love these boots, they are stylish, really comfortable and I've had so many compliments, I’m thinking of getting a second pair.”
These metallic platforms are available in three different widths and have an adjustable ankle strap for added stability.
Sizes: 3-14
Colors: Gold Metallic, Dune, Black
Material: Nappa leather
Customer review: “These are beautiful! The platform makes them so easy to walk without giving up style at all!”
For a bold pop of color, try out these patent Mary Jane pumps from Calla Shoes. Designed to fit up to WW sizes, this style is also complete with an arch support insole for anyone who might need extra relief.
Sizes: 5-11
Colors: Poppy, Black, Toffee
Material: Lamb leather
Customer review: “Comfy, stable and not too high, but so chic and elegant—I wear these everywhere!”
Do I Need Wide-Fit Heels?
If you feel your size is on the broader side, don’t panic—Dr. Phillips notes that genetics is the most likely culprit. “If that was the case for your mom or grandma, you may too,” she offers. But wide sizes aren’t just for women who need an extended fit, because they can tend to a host of other podiatric problems—even narrow feet with low arches can benefit from a more spacious heel. If you’re experiencing a lot of irritation or friction, you may need a heel that leaves a bit more breathing room.
“Wearing a shoe that is too narrow can lead to discomfort, irritation...” warns Dr. Phillips. “Friction on the foot is not your friend,” she states. “Wearing the proper width can help a patient avoid [a myriad of issues].” If you’re diabetic, this is especially crucial.
However, you should always consult a podiatrist before diagnosing yourself or making drastic changes. “Wearing a shoe that is too wide can cause problems too,” says Phillips.
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