What is the best heel height for me?
When it comes to heels, opinion can certainly be divided. For some, they feel elegant and empowering, while others associate them with pain and discomfort. If you’re part of the latter group, then it could be that you simply haven’t found the best heel height for you and your feet yet.
Every person’s feet are different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to choosing the perfect pair of heels. Read on to find out more about the most comfortable heel height, how to measure the heel height of your existing shoes, and to find out more about our collection of comfortable heels.
What is a comfortable heel height?
The most comfortable heel height will vary from person to person and will depend on the shape of your foot, the type of shoe and how experienced you are with wearing heels.
What is the average heel height
The average heel height is around 3 inches, or 7.5cm. This falls into the mid-height range, which usually measures in at 2-3 inches, or 5-7.5cm. This is the most classic heel height, and mid-height heels should be comfortable enough to wear all day. That said, the best heel height for you might be lower or higher than the average.
Low heels are typically 1-2 inches, or 2.5-5cm. In low heels, the heel is short enough that the balls of your feet shouldn’t be left aching, even if you’re on your feet all day.
High heels are generally 3-4 inches, or 7.5-10cm. These are typically reserved for dressy occasions like parties or evenings out, as they can be a little more difficult to walk in. Any higher than this and the shoe is likely to have a platform at the front to make it slightly easier to walk in. If you’re new to wearing heels, it’s a good idea to start with a lower heel and work your way up to a high heel once you’ve had some practice.
You’ll only know what the best heel height for you is once you’ve tried a few pairs and worked out which ones you find the most comfortable. It’s important to take care of your feet, so try to give them a rest by alternating between heels and flats.
How to measure heel height
If you have a pair of heels that you find particularly comfortable and want to buy more with the same heel height, then get a tape measure or ruler and determine their height.
To measure heel height, place your shoe on a flat surface. Using a ruler or measuring tape, measure the back of the heel from the bottom where it meets the ground to the point where it connects to the shoe. The measurement you take, in inches or centimetres, is the correct height of that heel.
Our selection of comfortable heels
Your feet should never suffer for the sake of looking good, so it’s important to choose heels that are comfortable and supportive, as well as stylish. Whether you choose a low heel or something a little higher, many of our heels are made with extra cushioning to keep your feet comfortable throughout the day and into the night.
Clarks low heels
If you’re looking for a low heel, ease in with a heeled boot like the Matron Ella with 30mm heels and relaxed ruched styling and soft, supple leather uppers.
Clarks mid heels
For a classic mid heel with added comfort, look to the Kataleyna Rose court shoe which blends premium fabrics with day-to-night comfort.
Clarks high heels
High heels are often associated with discomfort, but our selection of comfortable high heels with added cushioning will take the edge off. The Freva 85 lends a timeless finishing touch to office ensembles and keeps you feeling perfectly balanced thanks to easy-to-wear block heels.
Clarks wide-fit heels
Often the reason for pain when wearing heels is a poor fit, with feet being cramped into a shoe that isn’t quite the right size. That’s why we offer a wide-fit option in many of our styles, including the Adela Court and Freva 55.
Now that you know how to measure heels and how to find the best heel height for you, explore our full collection of women’s heels and find a pair to suit you.
Heel Height Conversion
| Centimetres (cm) | Inches (in) | Heel Height Category |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 0.8 | Low heel |
| 3 | 1.2 | |
| 4 | 1.6 | |
| 5 | 2.0 | Mid heel |
| 6 | 2.4 | |
| 7 | 2.8 | |
| 8 | 3.1 | |
| 9 | 3.5 | High heel |
| 10 | 3.9 | |
| 11 | 4.3 | |
| 12 | 4.7 | |
| 13 | 5.1 |