How To Choose The Most Comfortable Shoes For Every Occasion

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If your shoes have ever caused you such severe pain you've had to forgo the dancefloor at a wedding, hop in a taxi to go just a few blocks, or walk barefoot down the street, we feel you. But it's easier than you think to walk away from shoe-induced foot pain, because our tips will help you choose the most comfortable shoes for every occasion. Dr. Dana Figura, DPM, foot and ankle specialist, exclusively tells Women it's important to consider if your shoes offer the right arch support and cushioning. That will depend on if you have flat feet or high arches. Dr. Figura also suggests not reaching for overly tight or loose footwear. How much room you need will come down to if you have narrow or wide feet, or medical issues such as an ingrown toenail or bunions, which may need more room.

"Consider the terrain or duration of standing/walking," Dr. Figura also tells us. If you know you'll be sitting a lot, you're probably safe to try one of the hottest heel trends. If you'll be doing a lot of walking (particularly on uneven terrain like grass or sand) though, ignore what's hot and opt for flatter shoes. "The biggest mistake I see is prioritizing aesthetics over function," Dr. Dana Figura admits.

Another mistake that leads straight to foot pain city? "Wearing brand new shoes to events without breaking them in or trying them out first," Dr. Figura says. One of the best ways to wear in your footwear is to walk in them for a few minutes each day while wearing thick socks. That will stretch them for more comfortable wear. If you don't have time for that though, your comfiest shoes will probably be an older pair you've worn multiple times.

If you don't have it in your budget to buy new trendy comfortable shoes right now, don't panic, because there are ways to make your existing shoes comfier. "Use gel inserts or cushioning pads for extra support," Dr. Dana Figura exclusively suggests. The right ones will depend on your feet's specific needs, though Dr. Scholl offers 24-Hour Energy Multipurpose Insoles with memory foam, while Dr. Frederick's has Arch Support Gel Inserts. Dr. Figura also recommends moisture-wicking socks, which can help stop blisters. If you're particularly prone to blisters, stock up on Band-Aids and stick them to the areas of the feet that rub most against your shoes and choose footwear you can wear socks with. Dr. Frederick's offers the Original Better Blister Blocker and Foot Petals has the Blisstick Blister Preventer Anti Friction Stick too, which can be applied to the feet to ease rubbing.

There are practical steps to take if you find yourself out and about in footwear that has become increasingly uncomfortable through the day (or night) as well. "Take breaks to sit down and even elevate feet when possible, if needed," Dr. Dana Figura suggests. She adds, "Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol, which can cause swelling."

Once you've taken our tips into account and found your perfect pair of comfortable shoes, if you can afford to, we suggest stocking up. Try buying your supportive boots, heels, sandals, or whatever your uber-comfy shoe type is in multiple colors. That way, you'll have plenty of options for all occasions (bonus points if you can find comfy versions of these six shoes you should have in your closet for endless outfit versatility).