Why is it so difficult to find a heeled shoe with arch support? Is it because dress heels have a slimmer profile and added arch support would push the foot out of the shoe? While shoe manufacturers succeed at designing fairly stylish flats and loafers with enhanced arch support, finding moderate arch support for work and business events can sometimes feel like a unicorn hunt.
The good news is, you’re not hunting alone anymore. The SLH editorial team has put together a timely list of solid performers that not only focus on support and comfort, they also come in several size options (including wide and double wide). Oh, and if it seems like dealing with your pain in the foot is giving you a pain in the wallet, we’ve scoured the internet sales to show only shoes for under $100.
And for extra credit? We’ve included at the end of our article a few of our favorite insole supports. These little wonders can help in those times when you’re (literally) on your feet for hours and aren’t really into the “hobble-step” look…
Hush Puppies, Mabry Tapered Heel Pump $60.00
This office-friendly pump is available in sizing from 5 1/2 Medium to 11 Wide. Almond toe front that gives you the look of a pointed toe but without the nerve pinching that comes with it. Memory foam cushioning inside in the arch and the balls help maintain comfort. The outsole is molded rubber for traction and the cute cross-strap overlay detail gives it visual interest.
Lifestride, Rozz Mary Jane Pump $44.97
Who doesn’t love a Mary Jane? With a cute, buckle-strap closure, firm stacked block heel and plenty of cushioned bedding inside, this may become your very favorite office shoe.
Easy Street, Eloise Ruched Block Heel Pump $54.99
Sizing for this ruched ruby beauty starts at 6 Narrow and goes all the way to a 9 1/2 Double Wide. Modest in heel, the outsole is flexible with a generously padded insole to give much needed support.
David Tate, Marlena Pump $49.97
Talk about sizing options – this butterfly-inspired pump comes in sizing from 7 Narrow to 13 Wide. Breathable mesh gives extra support to the sides, while the cushioned footbed and rubber sole keep your feet in comfort. Also comes in black.
Aerosoles, Inner Circle Wedge Pump $59.97
In sizing from 5 Medium to 11 Wide, this easy slip-on wedge heel from Aerosoles sports a sleek round toe and well-cushioned arch support. We love the navy blue (above pic) but it also comes in black as well.
Hush Puppies, Daryn Block Heel Patent Pump $60.00
Another winner from Hush Puppies. Craving the look of a ballet flat, with the elevated look of a dress heel and with great support? You’re welcome. Comes in sizes 5 1/2 Medium to 11 Wide. Rounded cap toe outside and memory foam cushioning inside.
Naturalizer, Sam Wedge Slip-on Shoe $19.24
Oh boy did we save the best for last! With size offerings from 5 Medium to 11 Wide, this slip-on wedge heel from Naturalizer sports a well-padded footbed, almond shaped toe, a super grippy rubber sole and gives off the coolest athleisure-meets-office-wear look. What could be better? How about the fact that we found it for under twenty bucks? You’re welcome.
EXTRA CREDIT : INSOLES
So as promised, we’re adding our two cents for your two feet with two well-recommended insoles. Each one is specialized to tackle the most common issues associated with arch pain – over pronation and Plantar Fascia.
Foot Petals, True Reliever Insoles $29.97
With a 3/4 length orthotic insole, these arch supporters are life-savers if you suffer from mild overpronation. The anti-microbial top fabric is heat and friction reducing.
Implus, Sof Sole Plantar Fascia Insole $12.97
Made specifically to combat the pain resulting from stress to the plantar fascia, these insoles fit sizes 5 to 11. The insoles contain a relief bridge to provide sturdy support to painful arches while a gel heel cup combats heel pain.
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