We all know the feeling: You walk out the door for a day on the go, only to find 20 minutes later that your choice of footwear just isn't going to cut it in the comfort department. Unfortunately, the pain and blisters aren't the only downsides to wearing uncomfortable shoes—there's the chance they could cause more long-lasting damage to your feet. To help you prevent this, we reached out to an expert to find out which shoes are the worst for foot health.
Frankly, we expected high heels to top the list, but podiatrist Robert Khorramian, MD provided a surprising response to our question. The worst offender? Ballet flats. Dr. Khorramian pointed out that with women's busy schedules, unstructured flats don't offer enough support. He noted that walking for long periods of time in ballet flats "causes metatarsalgia neuroma and plantar fasciitis," and also "destroys the fatty tissue underneath the feet," resulting in the ever so dreaded corns and calluses.
While Dr. Khorramian named ballet flats as the most common shoes to cause foot-related issues, he explained that other unsupportive or painful styles are also worth avoiding. "Flip-flops can cause a lot of injuries," he stated. "Pointy shoes can also cause corns and blisters because of the lack of circulation to the toes."
Some of the most unsupportive shoes for your feet include classic ballet flats, flip-flops, pointed shoes, and precarious heels. So what are the best ways to protect your feet? "Always buy shoes that are cushiony underneath the soles of the feet and have enough toe room," said Khorramian. And if you are planning to wear shoes with little support or high heels, he recommends carrying a larger bag where you can easily swap to comfortable shoes. "If you must wear heels, avoid wearing them while you’re driving, for long periods of time, and while walking."
Shop supportive, stylish shoes:
A heavy-duty sole means you're ready for anything.
When shopping for the perfect ankle boots, opt for a lower heel.
Perfect for a day at home or at the office.
These boots offer plenty of support.
You can never go wrong with sneakers.
Skip the stilettos and try this comfier heel instead.
A boxier pointy-toe shoe will keep your feet from feeling jammed.
These trendy sneakers offer tons of support.
Swap flip-flops for these supportive sandals.
Loafers: Always classic choice.
These shoes are oh so cool and comfortable.
These sneakers were made for walking around all day.
These sleek loafers are polished enough for the office.
A low block heel offers more support for your feet.
Proof that fancy shoes don't have to be uncomfortable.
A square toe will keep your feet comfy.
We're all about these practical heeled loafers for fall.
The flats style that's on the rise this fall.
Want more comfortable shoe inspiration? Here are cute outfits to wear with the It sneakers of the moment.
-
I'm an NYC Shopping Editor—I Can't Stop Thinking About These 31 Rich-Looking Fall Finds From Nordstrom, Zara, and H&MDid I mention they're under $250?
-
I Live in Murray Hill—Here Are the 8 Places I Like to Shop for a Fashionable Fall ClosetStylish sweaters and suedes ahead.
-
Sambas Aren't "Out," But If You Want to Wear Them in 2025, You Should Style Them Like ThisFresh and elegant.
-
Fashionable Clothing Ahead—28 Chic Fall Picks From Zara, Nordstrom, J.Crew, and ShopbopFrom sweaters to jackets.
-
Proenza Schouler Just Announced Its New Creative Director—Everything to Know About Rachel ScottA new era.
-
These 32 Chic Zara Fall 2025 Shoe Finds Are the Key to Looking Like a Fashion Person—Good Luck Picking Just One PairPrepare for endless compliments.
-
These 33 New Fall Zara Items Are Giving Off "I'm Chic Walking in a Metropolitan City" EnergyCool, elevated, and forward pieces.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
