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Most Comfortable Kitten Heels for Women
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Most Comfortable Kitten Heels for Women

Kitten heels are perfect for those who don't find high heels comfortable.

But sometimes even these can feel harsh on your feet, particularly if you have a foot condition like bunions.

We've found the most comfortable kitten heels below, perfect for looking smart without hurting your feet.

Ava - Black Leather Pumps

Ava - Black Leather Pumps

A classic black leather court on a manageable 5cm kitten heel, with extra width and volume through the toe area for a wide forefoot. The roomy toe and arch support carry a full office day, where a standard court would press on the bunion by mid-morning. Fits EE-EEE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region
MaterialBlack leather upper, lamb leather lining
Heel5cm kitten heel
FitFits EE-EEE width feet best
Toe boxExtra width and volume in the toe area, standard at the heel
FootbedArch-supported insole
Best forWork, weekday dressing and any wardrobe slot that wants a low heel
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Our Review

The black Ava is my everyday work court, the pair I put on for a day of meetings because a 5cm heel is low enough to stand and walk in from morning to evening. What makes it work for me is the extra room through the toe area, an EE-EEE that lets my bunion sit without the joint pressing on a hard leather edge the way a standard court does. The arch support holds my foot through hours on office floors. In smooth black leather it goes under any suit or with a pencil skirt. True to size for me across the EE-EEE width.

Pros

  • 5cm kitten heel works for full work-day standing
  • EE-EEE width cap takes wider feet than most courts on the high street
  • Extra width and volume in the toe area accommodates the bunion joint
  • Lamb leather lining over the bunion area flexes with the joint

Cons

  • Smooth leather sole needs grip pads on wet pavement
  • Narrower than EE feet may find the toe area roomy
  • Black leather shows light scuffs at the toe over time
Ava - Light Beige Leather Pumps

Ava - Light Beige Leather Pumps

The Ava court in a soft light beige that sits close to bare skin, so the leg reads longer under a hem. The 5cm heel and EE-EEE toe area give the bunion room, making it a nude court that actually fits a wide forefoot. Fits EE-EEE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region
MaterialLeather upper, lamb leather lining
Heel5 cm kitten heel
ColourLight beige
FitFits EE-EEE width feet best
Toe boxWidened toe box with extra volume, standard heel
FootbedArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forWork, neutral wardrobe staple
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Our Review

The light beige Ava is the court I wear when I want my legs to look longer, because a nude close to my own skin lengthens the line under a midi or a tea dress where black would chop it off. It is the same comfortable court underneath, a low 5cm heel and an EE-EEE toe area that lets my bunion sit without pressing. The arch support carries it through a daytime wedding or a spring work day on my feet. I treat the pale leather gently, since light shades show scuffs at the toe. True to size for me across the EE-EEE width.

Pros

  • 5 cm kitten heel keeps pitch low for all-day wear
  • Extra width and volume in the toe area accommodates the bunion joint
  • EE-EEE width range covers most wide feet
  • Neutral beige works across work and event outfits

Cons

  • Light beige leather shows scuffs more readily than darker shades
  • No E-width option for narrower wide feet
  • Court silhouette without a strap relies on the toe box fit to keep the shoe on
Ria - Mixed Metallic Kitten Heels

Ria - Mixed Metallic Kitten Heels

A mixed-metallic kitten heel that shifts between gold and silver as you move, bright enough to carry a plain black dress or dark denim on its own. Underneath sits the same low heel, ankle strap and bunion-friendly stretch lining, so you can wear the shine through a long evening without the forefoot paying for it. Fits up to EE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region, designed in the UK
MaterialMixed metallic leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelKitten heel
FitTrue to size
Width capFits up to EE width feet
StrapsStrappy upper with ankle strap
Toe boxWide Calla last with hidden stretch panel over the bunion area
FootbedArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forEvening events, parties, weddings
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Our Review

The metallic pair has become a regular for me because it lets me get away with a plain outfit, dark jeans and a black cami, and still look like I made an effort, since the shoe catches the light and becomes the talking point. I have worn it to a Christmas party and a New Year dinner where I wanted shine without buying a new dress. The kitten heel and ankle strap keep me steady through the standing-around part of an evening, and the stretch lining eases my bunion so I'm not counting down to sitting. The finish shifts as I move, reading gold under warm light and silver under cool. True to size at an EE.

Pros

  • Mixed metallic finish pairs with gold
  • Silver and champagne jewellery so they work across outfits
  • Ankle strap holds the foot over the wider Calla last
  • Kitten heel sits below a typical evening heel height for longer wear
  • Stretch panel flexes over the bunion joint

Cons

  • EE width cap won't suit EEE feet
  • Metallic leather creases visibly at flex points after repeated wear
  • Strappy silhouette gives less coverage than a closed court
Claudia - Black Croc Leather Pumps

Claudia - Black Croc Leather Pumps

The Claudia pointed court in black croc-textured leather, where the surface adds a patterned detail to plain black without a hint of colour. A low kitten heel and a roomy bunion-friendly toe area keep the sharp pointed look comfortable. Fits EE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region
MaterialBlack croc-embossed leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelKitten heel
StylePointed-toe court shoe
Width fitFits EE width feet best
Sizing noteTrue to size
Toe boxPointed toe with wide toe box and hidden stretch panel over the bunion area
FootbedArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forWorkwear, evening occasions
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Our Review

The croc Claudia is the black court I wear when a plain one feels too flat, because the textured surface catches the eye up close and dresses up an all-black outfit on its own. The pointed toe sharpens my tailoring, and yet the court is cut to give my bunion room rather than tapering hard onto the joint the way most pointed shoes do. The low kitten heel lets me take it from a work day into evening drinks without my forefoot aching. I wear it with a black suit or straight jeans and a blazer. It runs true to size and fits an EE.

Pros

  • Kitten heel adds lift without the angle of a high heel
  • Hidden stretch panel sits over the bunion area inside a pointed silhouette
  • Croc-embossed texture hides scuffs better than smooth black leather
  • Lamb leather lining flexes with the joint

Cons

  • Pointed toe still tapers from the wider forefoot so very narrow feet may slide forward
  • Width sits at EE so EEE feet may feel snug across the joint
  • Croc embossing can catch on tights or hosiery
Maisie - Black Suede Boots

Maisie - Black Suede Boots

The Maisie kitten-heel ankle boot in soft black suede, on a 4cm heel with a wraparound detail at the ankle. The soft suede wraps gently around the bunion and the hidden stretch panels give the joint room. Fits up to EEE, true to size, though it may not suit a high instep.
OriginHandcrafted in Porto, Portugal. Designed in the UK
StyleKitten heel ankle boot with wraparound detail
MaterialBlack suede upper, lamb leather lining
Heel4cm kitten heel
FitTrue to size, fits up to EEE width (EE-EEE)
Toe boxWide toe box with soft suede over the bunion area
InsoleArch-supported cushioned insole
Sizing noteNot suitable for feet with a high instep
Best forAll-day wear through autumn and winter
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Our Review

Black suede Maisie is the boot I reach for in autumn, because the soft suede and 4cm heel feel dressed-up with tights and a skirt. The wraparound detail at the ankle adds a bit of interest, and the soft suede gives gently where my bunion sits. The 4cm heel is just enough lift to wear all day. As with the leather Maisie, it may not suit a high instep. Fits up to EEE, true to size, and I keep the suede out of the rain.

Pros

  • Soft suede wraps over the bunion area without rigid pressure
  • 4cm kitten heel adds a small lift while keeping a wider base
  • Wraparound detail at the ankle holds the foot in place
  • EE-EEE width covers a broader range of forefoot widths

Cons

  • Not suitable for feet with a high instep
  • Suede upper needs weatherproofing and shows water marks
  • Kitten heel won't add as much height as a mid or block heel
Maya - Cherry Leather Boots

Maya - Cherry Leather Boots

The Maya mid-heel ankle boot in cherry leather with a delicate gold chain, the colour version on a 28cm ankle and 16cm shaft. The mid-heel and hidden stretch panels keep it dressy and comfortable over the bunion. Fits EE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Porto, Portugal. Designed in the UK
StyleHeeled ankle boot in cherry leather
MaterialCherry leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelMid heel
FitEE width
Toe boxWide toe box with hidden stretch panel
Ankle circumferenceApprox. 28cm
Shaft heightApprox. 16cm
DetailGold chain across the vamp
InsoleArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forDay-to-night dressing with tailored trousers or a midi skirt
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Our Review

Cherry Maya is the ankle boot I wear when I want colour with a bit of polish, since the deep red and gold chain lift a plain outfit. The mid-heel takes it from day into evening, and the hidden stretch panels give over my bunion. The measured 28cm ankle and 16cm shaft meant I could be confident of the fit. I wear it with black trousers or a midi skirt. Fits EE, true to size.

Pros

  • Hidden stretch panel over the bunion area flexes with the joint
  • 16cm shaft sits at the ankle without pressing on the calf
  • Gold chain detail across the vamp lifts the boot for evening wear
  • Cherry leather pairs with neutrals across the wardrobe

Cons

  • Fixed 28cm ankle circumference suits standard ankles only
  • EE width cap rules out EEE feet
  • Leather upper needs conditioning to keep its finish
Edith - Champagne Leather Kitten Heels

Edith - Champagne Leather Kitten Heels

The Edith is Calla's T-bar heel on a low flared heel, with a wide front strap that gives the bunion room, here in champagne metallic leather. The wide strap also suits a forefoot prone to Morton's neuroma, while the low heel keeps it easy to wear. Fits up to EE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region
MaterialChampagne metallic leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelFlared low kitten heel positioned under the mid-heel
StyleT-bar kitten heel with wide front strap
Width fitFits up to EE
Sizing noteTrue to size
Toe boxWide front strap with room over the bunion area
FootbedArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forParty season, festive occasions, weddings
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Our Review

Champagne Edith is the T-bar I wear for festive parties, since the soft champagne metallic catches the light without the brightness of full silver. The low flared heel gives just enough lift to feel dressed-up while staying easy on my feet. The wide front strap is the clever part, because it gives my bunion room and covers the joint, and it eases the forefoot pressure I get from Morton's neuroma in narrower shoes. It dresses up jeans or a party dress. Fits up to EE, true to size.

Pros

  • Wide front strap gives room across the forefoot where bunions sit
  • T-bar holds the foot in place over the instep
  • Low flared heel set under the mid-foot keeps the centre of gravity stable
  • Strap layout also accommodates Morton's neuroma

Cons

  • Champagne metallic marks more visibly than matt finishes
  • Open-strap design exposes the foot to dust and weather
  • Width caps at EE so EEE feet should look elsewhere
Greta - Taupe Suede Mules

Greta - Taupe Suede Mules

The Greta is Calla's square-toe mule on a 7cm heel, finished with a knot across the foot, here in taupe suede. The square toe lets the toes sit flat while the cushioned insole and EEE width give the bunion room. Up to EEE, true to size, though it may not suit a high instep.
StyleSquare-toe mule with knot detail across the vamp
MaterialTaupe suede upper, lamb leather lining
Heel7cm
Toe shapeSquare toe
FitUp to EEE width
InsoleCushioned, arch-supported
Fit caveatMay not suit wearers with high insteps
Best forSummer occasions, weddings, garden parties
CareSuede brush and weatherproofing spray before first wear
OriginDesigned in the UK, handcrafted in Porto, Portugal
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Our Review

Taupe suede Greta is the square-toe mule I reach for when I want a warm neutral for summer, since the taupe goes with more than the brighter Debbie colours and the knot across the foot adds a little detail. The 7cm heel lifts me and the square toe lets my toes sit flat rather than tapered. The cushioned insole and EEE width give my bunion room. Worth knowing it may not suit a high instep, since the knot sits across the top of the foot. Up to EEE, true to size.

Pros

  • Square toe gives the forefoot extra room without widening the heel
  • Knot detail draws the eye across the vamp rather than at the toe
  • EEE width cap with lamb leather lining over the bunion area
  • 7cm heel for summer occasions without going stiletto-high

Cons

  • Backless mule construction will not suit wearers with high insteps
  • Suede upper needs weatherproofing and is not the shoe for damp grass
  • No back strap means a less secure fit than the strappier styles in the range
Petra - Taupe Leather Slingbacks

Petra - Taupe Leather Slingbacks

The Petra flat slingback in warm taupe leather, the soft-neutral version of the square-toe bow slingback on a low heel. The cushioned insole and stretch panel flex over the bunion, so a low slingback stays comfortable all day. Fits EE, true to size.
StyleSlingback with bow detail across the vamp
MaterialTaupe leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelLow heel
Toe shapeSquare toe
FitTrue to size, fits EE width feet best
Toe boxWide toe box with discreet stretch panel across the bunion area
InsoleCushioned
Best forWorkwear with tailored trousers, midi dresses, denim and a blazer for evenings
OriginDesigned in the UK, handcrafted in Porto, Portugal
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Our Review

Taupe Petra is the flat slingback I reach for when black feels too hard, since the warm taupe sits softly with cream, camel and denim. The square toe and bow keep it smart, and the low heel is easy on my feet through a long day. The stretch panel flexes over my bunion so the joint isn't pinched, and the open back keeps it cool. I wear it for work or dress it up with denim and a blazer. Fits EE, true to size.

Pros

  • Square toe gives the forefoot horizontal room without widening the heel
  • Hidden stretch panel flexes across the bunion joint
  • Taupe leather sits as a neutral with grey
  • Navy and brown wardrobes
  • Low heel pitch for full-day office wear

Cons

  • EE width cap is narrower than the EEE flats in the range
  • Slingback strap can slip on narrower heels and may need adjusting through the day
  • Lighter taupe leather shows marks more visibly than black
Ria - White Leather Kitten Heels

Ria - White Leather Kitten Heels

A clean white leather kitten heel for the bride or guest who wants a low lift rather than a tall occasion heel. The bunion-friendly stretch lining flexes over the joint and the ankle strap holds the foot steady, so a full day from ceremony to evening stays comfortable. Fits up to EE, true to size.
OriginHandcrafted in Portugal at a family-run factory in the Porto region, designed in the UK
MaterialWhite leather upper, lamb leather lining
HeelKitten heel
FitTrue to size
Width capFits up to EE width feet
StrapsDelicate straps with adjustable ankle fastening
Toe boxWide Calla last with hidden stretch panel over the bunion area
FootbedArch-supported cushioned insole
Best forBridal wear, weddings, special occasions
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Our Review

I would point any bride who dreads a tall heel toward the white Ria, because it carries the occasion in tone but keeps you on a low kitten height you can actually last the day on. The stretch lining sits over my bunion and gives as I walk, which matters when a wedding means standing for photographs, walking to a reception and staying until the end. The adjustable ankle strap stops the heel slipping on a smooth venue floor. It is understated next to a tall embellished heel, so it suits a simple column dress or a christening rather than a show-stopping gown. True to size for me at an EE.

Pros

  • White leather suits bridal and wedding settings
  • Adjustable ankle strap secures the heel through long ceremonies
  • Kitten heel reduces pressure on the forefoot compared with a stiletto
  • Stretch panel flexes over the bunion joint

Cons

  • White leather marks easily on grass and outdoor venues
  • EE width cap won't suit EEE feet
  • Open strappy upper leaves the foot exposed in cooler weather

What To Look For

Look for comfortable features

There are certain features that you should look out for when you want to buy comfortable heels that are less likely to cause you pain. Inbuilt arch support is popular as it can stop your arches from collapsing and therefore prevent foot pain.

A thick block heel can also help you stay steady on your feet. Platforms are also popular as they don’t have as much foot tilt. This means there’s reduced pressure on the foot during walking and more stability.

As long as it’s suitable for the occasion in question, an open-toe style can be a good option. This kind of style should reduce the pressure on your toes as well as your nails to prevent pain and damage. You can also seek out a wide toe box that gives you a generous amount of wiggle room.

Top-quality Materials

Some materials used to create footwear are more comfortable than other kinds. Look for high-quality leather heels if you can. If your shoes are made from genuine leather, this will be easier to break in than other types of materials. It will soften as time passes and conform to the shape of your foot.

Another advantage is that it is naturally breathable and comes with anti-fungal properties, which means it’s not as likely to harbour unpleasant odours. Very hard soles aren’t ideal because they don’t enable your foot to adapt to walking surfaces. You should instead look for shoes which come with soles made from cork, rubber or moulded foam.

Find out how heels should fit

Poorly fitting footwear is a leading cause of pain and discomfort and pain. Your heels should leave plenty of wiggle room for your toes and fit securely around the feet. Your shoes shouldn’t be causing any pain in your legs or toes. If you are experiencing pain, your heels may be too small or high for your feet.

You may experience unnecessary strain if you find yourself dealing with pumps, platforms or wedges which flop around or slide off your feet. Perhaps your feet tend to come out of your heels too easily? If so, consider opting for a pair that comes with a strap and will hold your feet in place.

Related Styles:

What are kitten heels?

Kitten heels are shoes that come with a thin, one to two-inch heel. They come in various silhouettes such as boots, mules, sandals and pumps. Shoes with kitten heels are often worn at work in offices by people seeking practical feminine footwear. Kitten heels are also commonly worn at parties by those who deem high heels to be too uncomfortable.

Are taller heels less comfortable than smaller ones?

Taller heels can be more uncomfortable due to the way they place more strain on the balls of your feet. However, comfort levels can vary from one person to another. Some tall heels can be more comfortable than others. If you have a shoe with a block heel and a generous amount of cushioning, this might still feel comfortable even if the heels are high.

Kitten heels can feel uncomfortable if they come with a thin heel and a hard insole. For activities like exploring the city, walking through the airport or negotiating uneven terrain, it’s best to opt for lower heels.

What is the best way to pack lower heels?

The best way to pack lower heels is to pack them on their sides so you can make them as flat as possible. It’s then a good idea to place them against your suitcase walls as this will save space and prevent them from moving around too much.

If your heels are particularly soft, you can stuff socks or underwear inside them to encourage them to retain their shape. If you’re still facing difficulty, purchase a weekender bag or packing cubes.

What are the most comfortable high heels?

Seek out high heels which are suitable for the natural shape of your foot. Podiatrists also suggest that you look for a low heel, a large square or rounded toe box, a rubber outer sole and cushioned insole.

Platform, wedge, stacked heel and chunky heels tend to be more comfortable due to the way that they deliver extra stability and transfer weight across a larger surface than pumps and stilettos do. Insoles also play a big role in providing comfort.

Cushioned and styles with arch support can feel more comfortable than flat and hard insoles. Stiff, small and pointy toe boxes can be very uncomfortable and aren’t great for the health of your feet.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our post on the most comfortable kitten heels.

If you have any questions, contact us at hello@callashoes.co.uk or leave your questions in the comments.

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