Heel Incline vs. Heel Height: The Key to Feel Comfortable in Heels
When you're shopping for your next pair of high heels, it's easy to get caught up on the heel height. But let’s not forget about the incline!
I used to only look at how high the heel was, but then I realized, that comfort isn’t just about the height. it’s about the slope your foot is sitting on. Trust me, once you start considering the incline, your feet will thank you, and you’ll be able to wear your favourite heels for longer without feeling that dreaded pain. Let me explain why the heel incline matters just as much as the height!
What is the difference between heel height and heel incline?
When you're hunting for your perfect pair of high heels, it’s super important to understand the difference between heel incline and heel height.
Heel Height is the vertical measurement from the bottom of the heel to where it meets the shoe's sole. This is what gives you that lift and can make your legs look amazing.
But here’s the thing: heel height alone doesn’t tell the whole story about how comfy those heels will be.
Heel Incline, on the other hand, refers to the angle of the heel in relation to the shoe's base. It’s all about how steep or gentle the slope is from the heel to the toe. A steeper incline can push your weight forward, putting extra pressure on the balls of your feet, which isn’t exactly what you want when you're out and about. Meanwhile, a gentler incline helps distribute your weight more evenly, making those heels much easier to wear for longer periods.
Here is a quick explanation
Heel Height vs Heel Incline
Just to make sure we’re all on the same page, here’s a handy table breaking down the difference between heel height and heel incline.
5 High Heels with a Comfortable Heel Incline
Now that you know about heel inclines vs heel height, you know I won’t leave you hanging! Here are 10 brands known for offering high heels with gentler slopes
Naturalizer
Naturalizer Astrid Pump
Naturalizer is known for its comfortable heels with a gentler slope.
They offer options for narrow, medium, and wide fits, so there’s something for everyone! The only downside?
I really wish they’d open a store here in Europe so us Europeans could easily get our hands on their fabulous styles!
Charles & Keith
Charles & Keith is a brand for stylish heels that feature a more gentle slope. Think of cute mary janes and classic styles. They’re perfect for keeping your feet comfy all day long. Their designs are chic and modern, offering a great mix of style and comfort. They don’t offer a variety of widths so do keep that in mind.
By paying attention to both heel height and heel incline, you can make smarter choices while shopping, ensuring you snag a pair that not only looks fabulous but also keeps you feeling comfortable all day long!
ASOS Design
Next up is ASOS Design! Now, I’ll admit that ASOS can be a bit of a hit or miss when it comes to comfort, but one thing they consistently do well is offer heels with a gentler incline.
Plus, they’re super affordable and come in various widths, making it easier for you to find that perfect fit. Back in my student days, ASOS Design was my go-to brand. It was budget-friendly, and the comfort wasn’t too far behind!
If you're looking for trendy heels without breaking the bank, ASOS Design is definitely worth checking out.
Sam Edelman
Sam Edelman holds a special place in my heart because they've truly cracked the code for comfy heels that are also aesthetically stunning!
Their designs manage to blend style and comfort seamlessly, making it easier than ever to strut your stuff without sacrificing your feet.
Plus, they offer wide-calf boots and so much more, catering to a variety of styles and needs. Whether you’re looking for chic heels or cozy boots, Sam Edelman has you covered!
Stuart Weitzman
Stuart Weitzman leans more towards the luxury side, but don’t let the fancy branding fool you!
They actually offer heels with a gentle incline that prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.
Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or just want to feel fabulous every day, Stuart Weitzman proves that you can have both elegance and ease in your footwear!
And that’s a wrap! You now have some great options for brands that offer comfy heels with gentler inclines. Seriously, who says you can’t have style and comfort?
I’d love to hear from you, though…
What’s your go-to brand for comfy high heels?
Drop your favorites in the comments!