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Updated August 17, 2023: This guide on the most comfortable wedges for women was updated with new in-stock product for the fall and winter 2023, along with additional information on the wedge sandal trends for the upcoming season, and how to choose the best pair for your foot type.
In the sunny months, you may find yourself stuck deciding between slipping on cute summer sandals or a tall stiletto heel as you attend weddings, backyard parties, or embark on exciting getaways. Comfortable wedge sandals are an essential silhouette to include in your shoe rotation because they thrive at the intersection of supportive footwear and a high-stacked style — so you don’t need to sacrifice on inches, fashion, or essential comfort.
“In a wedge, the heel is elevated, but the outsole is a continuous solid platform, which allows for increased ankle stability and even weight distribution,” explains Silicon Valley-based podiatrist Najwa Javed. “Most people prefer wedges for exhibitions, weddings, and vacations because you get that graceful elongated leg without the pain of traditional heels.” Plus, you won’t find yourself sinking into outdoor surfaces like grass, sand, or cobblestone while you’re enjoying your fun in the sun.
When the hot, sunny weather fades to a crisp fall breeze, you can still extend the wear of your stylish and comfortable walking sandal during the transitional months. They can be worn with anything from long trousers, midi skirts, denim dresses or sweater dresses. Leather, metallic, or textile finishes on sandal uppers and strapping call for textural styling with slouchy socks, or even juxtaposed with sporty Nike gym socks as an eclectic style statement. There are so many ways to contextualize the summer staple for the fall, especially as new trends position wedge heels as a contemporary statement for year-round wear.
Wedges have emerged as an unexpected breakout trend for fall 2023, as seen on the runways in reinvented silhouettes such as inverted block heels, modern platforms, and architectural curvature. Some of the most prominent designers of the moment like Bottega Veneta, Loewe, Dior, Alaïa, Ferragamo, and Khaite have introduced updated iterations of the wedge heel in a range of head-turning styles, from dainty sandals, clunky clogs, sleek slingbacks, and minimalist mules. Forget whatever outdated, early-aughts image pops into your head when you think of wedge sandals, because the comfortable style is officially back — and better than ever.
There are so many different kinds of comfortable wedge sandals to shop this season — from classic raffia-heeled sandals, cork-sole wedges, abstract block heels, platform sandals, and thong heels. While wedge sandals are the most comfortable heel option, not all are made the same. Wedge styles vary in height, cushioning, and fit, which is why it’s important to select one that properly supports your foot type or existing foot conditions to ensure all-day comfort.
We created this comfortable wedge shoe guide to make your chic shoe shopping easy-breezy, with expert tips and product picks for a variety of support needs for different foot types and conditions, along with styling inspiration for fall 2023.
Heel height: 4.3 inches
Materials: Vinyl, leather
Special features: Translucent wedge heel
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $138
Heel height: 75 millimeters
Materials: Bovine leather
Special features: Slingback strap, sculptural heel
Reformation Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 2.4/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $298
Colorways: Black Mesh, Olive Mesh, Beige Mesh
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Platform height: 1.5 inches
Materials: Synthetic fabric
Special features: Sculptural platform
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: Mountain Blue
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Materials: Vintage denim, jute, rubber
Saks Fifth Avenue Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $245
Colorways: White, Orange
Materials: Faux leather
Wedge height: 3.5 inches
Target Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I love these!! I wanted the orange ones but they didn’t restock in my size so I got them in black. These are a staple piece! They are so comfy and perfect for the summer. I can’t wait to wear them! Also, I noticed some other review complaining about the sizing, but I honestly had no issues. I’m a size 7.5 and the 7.5 fit me perfectly! It’s true to size.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Colorways: Porcelain, black, toffee, palmprint, yellow
Heel height: 3 inches
Platform height: 1.5 inches
Materials: Cotton, cork
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Bought these for a girls’ weekend trip and loved them! I wore out to dinner and walked about half a mile without any issues/blisters. They’re really comfortable right out of the box and looked great on. Easy pair to pack and matches everything!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Colorways: Black, Clay, Semolina, Blue Haze, Terra Cotta
Heel height: 2 inches
Materials: Suede, jute, rubber
Special features: Microfiber covered EVA footbed
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I bought these in black and loved them so much that I had to have them in nude as well. These are classic and cute, and the nude color goes with everything!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Related: Best Orthopedic Sandals
Colorways: Black, Natural, Bone, Navy
Heel height: 3.25 inches
Platform height: 0.5 inches
Materials: Textile upper and lining, rubber sole
Special features: OrthoLite Eco footbed
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These shoes are great to pair with summery dresses and skirts. They’re comfy and have cushioning and the neutral color goes with most outfits.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Colorways: Black/Black, Black/Mushroom, Khaki/Bone
Materials: Thermoplastic Rubbers sole
Heel height: 2.42 inches
Crocs Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.1/5 stars
Famous Footwear Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Super comfy and goes well for a casual activity or a daily wear. Love the color and the easy strap to buckle.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $54.99
retailer
Colorways: Black, Brindle, Sandshell, Peacoat, Topanga Tan, Canyon Rose, Beige, Sesame
Materials: 100% Leather, Foam sole
Platform height: 0.75 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Super comfortable. I’m an 8.5 with wide feet and they fit very nicely. Going to a wedding with lots of walking and grass, so have to be practical.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $58.96
retailer
Colorways: Over seven colors
Materials: Nylon webbing upper, Durabrasion rubber™ sole
Platform height: 1½ inches
Wedge height: 1¾ inches
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Famous Footwear Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I love these sandals. The straps are adjustable so you can make sure they fit just right and aren’t too loose or too tight like some other sandals. And they’re probably the most comfortable platform/flatform shoes you’ll find. I want them in all the colors.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $65
Related: The Best Hiking Sandals
Colorways: Black, Green, Pink, Red
Materials: Knit fabric upper
Platform height: 1 inch
Wedge height: 1¾-inch molded wedge heel
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What reviewers say: “When I received this in the mail, I never opened a box up so quickly! It was extremely fast shipping, seamless ordering, and a beautiful product. I am reliving the 90s and looking forward to wearing these all summer long! A must buy, very comfortable and affordable!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
retailer
Colorways: Natural, Black, Blue
Materials: Textile upper and lining/synthetic sole, OrthoLite® Eco™ footbed
Heel height: 2 1/2 inches
Platform height: 1 inch
Additional features: Toms is a Certified B Corporation, which meets standards for verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
Famous Footwear Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “They are very supportive and comfortable for lots of walking on hard surfaces. They are also light and airy for Alabama summertime.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $59.99
retailer
Colorways: Black, Bubble Pink, Gold
Materials: Rubber sole, Leather Upper
Heel height: 3 3/4 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I wear a size 8.5 and the 8.5 fit perfectly! I broke my ankle a few years ago and I’m super afraid of wearing anything with a wedge or heel because I’m afraid of losing my balance. These have a nice grip on the sole and fit so well that they feel secure and amazing!! I am THRILLED with my purchase of the gold Jessica Simpson wedge flip flops. They’re so diva!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $30
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: White, Gold Metallic, Palomino, Pink
Material: Leather sole
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I get compliments every time I have these on; not to mention they’re more comfortable than tennis shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $69.99
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Over 10 colorways
Materials: Suede, textile or combination uppers, Rubber outsole with high traction design
Heel height: 3 1/2 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These shoes are so comfortable I get blisters for any shoe. They give you support they are not too high heels matches with any clothes. They have a cushion inside. I am very picky on shoes but these are beyond. Very well recommended!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $71.96
Colorways: Black, Natural, and Red Pepper
Materials: Canvas, Suede upper
Heel height: 2.5 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These are so comfy I have no words to describe their greatness. It was like walking in your favorite pair of flats, but your legs look good. The design is so cute I received compliments throughout the wedding I attended. If you want to look fantastic and be comfortable, buy these, but buy them a full size down because they run big.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $100
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Materials: Suede upper, Leather lining
Heel height: 2¼” cork wedge heel
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I bought these for a vacation to have something a little more than just sandals. They are so comfortable, so sturdy, no blisters and I walked A LOT.” -Birkenstock customer
Price upon publish date of this article: $145
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Rust, Black, Cognac, Taupe
Materials: Faux Leather, Synthetic sole
Platform height: 0.5 inches
Heel height: 2 3/4 inches
Shoe Width: Medium
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Famous Footwear Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Loved these shoes from the second I put them on. They are so comfortable and stylish, the wedge on them is the perfect height to wear them all day!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $80
Colorways: Blue Multicolor, Pink Multicolor, Sea Multicolor
Materials: Fabric upper, Synthetic lining, Memory foam footbed
Heel height: 3.5 inches
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “When I saw the sea motif print on these shoes, I knew I had to have them. They will be perfect for the summer season with shorts, jeans, and flowey dresses. I usually take a size 6 1/2 but ordered a 7 because I have a wider foot and they fit perfectly. Can summer come any sooner?”
Price upon publish date of this article: $79.99
Courtesy of Amazon
Colorways: Black, Beige, Light Tan, Midnight Navy
Materials: Leather upper & lining
Heel height: 2.8 inches
Features: Microwobbleboard cushioning inside a firmer shell for stability
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These shoes are worth the price. If you want comfortability and quality, as well as modern style, these hit the mark. I have always been a big fan of FitFlops ever since I wore them all around Universal Studios and my feet NEVER felt tired. I am going on vacation through Europe and didn’t want to bring impractical shoes but still look cute. These are it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $159
Colorways: Pearl, Nude Caramel, Flame Orange
Materials: Leather upper
Heel height: 4 1/4 inches
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $158
The Wedge Sandal Trend for 2023
Block-heeled wedge sandals covered major ground on fall 2023 runways. While the cork, raffia, and rope wedge heels remain a timeless staple for the summertime, autumnal notes of patent leather, deep hues, metallics, and snakeskin dominated the runways for transitioning season.
Something about this season’s reimagined wedge feels chic and sophisticated. Function and high fashion fuse together in elevated abstract silhouettes while maintaining hints of classic heel and sandal styles. Bottega Veneta added sleek wedge heels to glossy mules and tall chrome boots, while Ferragamo toyed with the minimal buckles on inverted heels that call back to timeless Mary Jane styles. Khaite pushed the summery sandal style farther into fall with architectural inverted heels, strapping, and moodier finishes, while Reformation released trendy kitten heel-inspired slingbacks on angular block heels.
The street style set further proves our point, styling a variety of wedges with slip dresses, white jeans, and even knee-high socks. Some fashion week attendees pulled out bold-colored slide-on wedges while others donned trendy PVC wedge sandals with midi dresses and flare pants. We even saw people style classic style espadrille wedges and cork wedges of the early aughts.
While the silhouette has been popping up more and more in ultra-modern updates, the wedge is a both a trendy and timeless wardrobe staple that’s far more functional than any other style of heel.
The Best Wedge Sandals for Different Foot Types and Foot Conditions
Similar to when you’re looking for the most comfortable sneakers or comfortable flats, you should begin by assessing your foot type to find the most comfortable wedge sandals, Dr. Javed says. If you have any of the below foot conditions, shop accordingly.
- Sandals for wide feet: “Look for soft upper materials, like canvas, that can stretch to accommodate the shape of the foot,” she says. “Most wedges are narrow, so make sure to buy a half size up.”
- Sandals for flat feet: “Those with flat feet or fallen arches should buy shoes with a heel that’s at least one-inch tall but no more than three inches tall for optimal midfoot support,” Dr. Javed advises. She also notes that you can specifically look for wedges with built-in arch support.
- Sandals for bunions: “Go for wedges with no more than two inches of heel elevation,” she says, adding that styles with soft, stretchable leather uppers are best to prevent further aggravating the bony protrusions.
- Sandals for plantar fasciitis: For people with plantar fasciitis, the heel height rule is opposite. “Opt for at least two inches of heel elevation to help reduce the pull of the Achilles, which is connected to the plantar fascial band,” Dr. Javed explains.
- Sandals for neuromas: “If you have a pinched nerve, make sure to buy a platform wedge to help reduce pressure in the toe box,” she says. In addition to recommending silhouettes made with stretchy canvas and leather uppers, she also prefers options with outsoles made of cork, a material that’s naturally shock-resistant and cushiony. “Styles with canvas or soft leather uppers and jute outsoles are the most comfortable options,” she says.
What to Look for In Comfortable Wedge Sandals
To shop for your go-to wedge sandals for summer, there are a few factors to keep in mind that address function, comfort, and personal style.
- Material: Wedge sandals come in a variety of materials in textiles, from raffia, cotton, canvas, leather, mesh, and more. If you intend to wear wedges outdoors, look to washable materials such as canvas and cotton, or faux-leather that’s easy to wipe clean. Mesh will allow for breathability under the hot summer sun, while leather will retain heat on a cool day.
- Arch support: Arch support is an essential element to any comfortable shoe, especially if you have high arches, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis. Luckily, wedge sandals are great shoes for high arches and ample arch support, which will vary across steep heel drops, platform or flatform styles, and footbed cushioning. Brands like Vionic and Naturalizer excel in this category, with a myriad of styles to choose from that incorporate soft EVA cushioning and built-in arch support.
- Silhouette: There are many different styles and silhouettes of wedge sandals. Similar to other heels and sandals, you’ll discover wedges with a variety of upper styles, like closed-toe, peep-toe, single straps, criss-cross strapping, thong straps, and gladiator straps. There are also several heel options to shop, from platform, flatform, slides, flip flops mules, and more.
Wedge Sandal Outfit Ideas
Wedges offer a world of height matched with comfort, no matter where you take your outfit.
- For everyday: When it comes to comfortable wedges for women, it’s not just about good looks; you also need a pair you can throw on, no matter where you’re heading or wearing. When you find the perfect everyday wedge sandal, you’ll see how it can be teamed with all outfit equations. For example, your trusty wedges with a low heel height and platform height can be styled with a skirt and a blazer for brunch, or jeans, and a graphic T-shirt for errands. Yes, they can even be paired with workout leggings — just look at Teva’s hiking sandals.
- For the office: Wedges, when worn appropriately, can be suitable for the office. Look for clean lines and pointed or square toes. Then style your wedges with a formal frock, such as a shirt dress, denim dress, or a modest full-length skirt. You can even pair the sandal with slouchy trousers so the accentuated heel peeks out from under. Finally, throw a light sweater or jacket in your work bag since the office will probably be chilly. Pro tip: If your toes will be exposed, make sure they’re freshly groomed and painted.
- For weddings: Getting ready to attend a wedding doesn’t just mean you have to find the perfect wedding guest dress — it also means you need to find the perfect pair of shoes to complete your outfit. Whether the wedding is indoors or outdoors, wedges are the most comfortable option since they usually have a platform that takes away from the heel height. Most importantly, make sure the color you choose is neutral so that you can wear it with any type of dress and re-wear them for other summer events.
- For traveling: If you have plans to explore a European city this summer, pull out your most comfortable wedge sandals. Cushioned wedge slides or flatforms are great options since they’re fashion-forward yet supportive. Pro tip: If you plan on walking a lot, make sure that you’ve tried your wedges on beforehand, so you can ensure that you don’t get any unwanted blisters.
- For nights out: Wedges are an ideal choice for nights on the town where you’ll be walking, dancing, and taking lots of pictures. Take a style cue from Shay Mitchell on a recent trip to New York City, who styled transparent Amina Mauddi Lupita Glass Wedge sandals in an all-chrome outfit of trousers and a trendy form-fitting vest. If you love the look but want a more affordable shoe to shop, look to Schutz’s Aprill Vinyl sandals. You can also pair elevated wedge sandals with a mini skirt, bodysuit, or cocktail dress for a sexy ensemble that’s far more comfortable than it appears.
How We Selected the Best Comfortable Wedge Sandals
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To find the best comfortable wedge sandals on the market, the team at Footwear News assessed several different factors and design elements of every pair of wedge sandals and heels on this list: fit, heel height, style, materials used, personal testing, and market research. To narrow our selections of the best wedges, we looked to online consumer reviews and interviewed an expert podiatrist for medical insight on proper foot support and comfort. We also considered the best retailers to shop when selecting pairs of comfortable wedges for women, cross-checking with Google’s new Top-Quality Store Badge (a rating that indicates retailers with quick shipping, clear return policies, and positive shopper reviews). Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Najwa Javed is a Board Certified Podiatrist and Founder of E’MAR Italy. Throughout her years of practice, she has focused on achieving an optimal state of health for her patients through mitigating foot and ankle injuries. With specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research, she integrates biomechanical stability with surgical innovation, biologic therapies, and modern science. With her brand, she is on a mission to shake up the luxury heel market with her line of supportive heels marrying high style with medical innovation, backed by her 15 years of expertise.
Meet the Authors
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Fairchild Media Group, where she writes and edits shopping stories for Footwear News and WWD. Prior to her current role, she wrote countless buyer’s guides, trend stories, and reviews on fashion and beauty products, including shoe-focused stories for women. You can find her in wedges when she’s running errands around New York City on the weekend or attending showroom appointments to check out the latest footwear trends during the work week. Chwatt wrote the updated version of this story featuring the best comfortable wedge sandals for women with 2023 trend information, new products, and additional expert information to help you find your perfect pair.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. Cigliano updated this guide to comfortable wedge sandals on August 17, 2023, with brand new product releases and trending platform wedge sandals for fall.
