Block heel pumps are classic styles that remain popular for their chic yet practical designs. While they’re a wear-to-work essential, more recently, block heel pumps have been embraced by the fashion community for casual wear.
Block heel pumps have thick heels that offer more stability than most heel types, including stiletto and kitten. They’re also safer to wear for prolonged periods of walking because they’re less likely to throw off your balance, given their thick designs.
If you’re looking for a contemporary block heel pump, Calvin Klein Women's Nita Almond Toe Pumps are a top style that features a simple metallic band for a touch of class.
Block heel pumps feature a stump-like heel that provides more stability than slender heel designs, including stiletto and kitten heels. Because the heels are so thick, their structured aesthetic is associated with functional and utilitarian fashion. With that said, many block heels have elegant designs and details that soften the silhouette.
Block heel pumps are worn with professional attire, including pantsuits, dresses and slacks. The style may also be worn with casual outfits, including flared trousers, skinny jeans, A-line skirts and rompers. Certain low-heeled block heel styles may be acceptable footwear for school uniforms as well.
You can find countless styles of block heel pumps made with synthetic materials such as faux leather and micro-suede. They have the look and feel of their real counterparts, only they’re lightweight and more affordable. However, these materials may deteriorate much sooner than others.
Leather and suede pumps are built to last. They have a finer aesthetic that polishes upscale looks, including outfits and handbags with leather or suede accents. Unfortunately, these block heel styles are expensive and require ongoing care to keep them looking their best.
Generally speaking, block heel pumps share the same stocky, stump-like design. While square is the most common shape, a few styles have round heels. There’s also a subset of block heel pumps called stacked heels, which feature a column of visible layers and horizontal lines. The design is particularly popular in loafer-inspired block heel pumps.
Toe box refers to the front part of a shoe. It’s available in several shapes, and as far as block heels are concerned, round, square, pointed and almond are the most popular. Round and square toes are comfortable because they allow a reasonable amount of wiggle room for toes. Pointed and almond toes give the foot a dainty silhouette, but they’re nowhere as comfortable as round or square toes.
Many heeled styles, including block heel pumps, are now designed with comfort features. Cushioned footbeds are the most common, though they’re not suitable for everyone. They tend to be thicker than regular footbeds, which means it may not be possible to add insoles or orthotics. Other popular comfort features include elastic details, flexible insteps and seamless designs.
Block heel pumps made with inexpensive materials start at $40. Better-quality styles, including those made with leather or suede, start at $75 and run as high as $225. Designer block heel pumps cost $250-$750.
A. Low- and medium-heeled styles range from 1-3 inches. The highest block heel pumps start at approximately 3.5 inches and go as high as 6 inches. These usually have platform soles to support the sharper heel angles.
A. To prevent pumps from transferring dirt and debris onto clothing, invest in travel shoe bags. Another option is to store them inside plastic bags, but you may need to double-bag them to prevent potential rips and tears that may occur when luggage is handled.
Calvin Klein Women's Nita Almond Toe Pumps
What you need to know: The classic style has a contemporary update with a pointed toe and metallic detail.
What you’ll love: At just over 2 inches, the heel is the right height for walking and commuting. It’s made with buttery-smooth leather that naturally flexes with the foot. These pumps run true to size, but there’s enough room to place insoles inside them.
What you should consider: The metallic accent is gold, which may contrast with silver jewelry.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy's
LifeStride Devyn Slip-On Pumps
What you need to know: A preppy option, this stacked block pump has a loafer-inspired design that dresses up any bottom, from jeans to slacks.
What you’ll love: These LifeStride shoes have a cushioned insole and flexible upper. They’re one of few styles available in wide widths. The traction outsole improves grip on slippery and uneven ground. They’re available in four neutral colors.
What you should consider: A few shoppers would have liked to see this style available in lighter brown or neutral shades.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
Alfani Women's Step N' Flex Jensonn Block Heel Pumps
What you need to know: If you’re looking for a dressy block heel pump, this 3-inch style with contrast details is a popular choice.
What you’ll love: The rectangular heel has the stability of a block style with a stiletto-inspired silhouette. It has extra heel and sock padding for shock absorption. The metallic accent creates a unique contrast between the heel and ankle counter.
What you should consider: Some people like the red suede choice, but others would have preferred it was smooth leather.
Where to buy: Sold by Macy’s
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
