For a while now, we’ve been hearing the same thing: “The girlies don’t wear heels anymore.” And honestly? It might be true. Comfort is winning, and sneakers, flats and loafers are getting more love than ever.

But we also think there’s another reason. A lot of people are wearing heels that simply aren’t made to be comfortable. The right pair can make all the difference, and shopping smarter can help you wear heels for longer without the pain.

Here’s the BN Style guide to shopping for heels:

Choose curved heels over straight heels.
There are two types of heels. Curved heels and straight heels. Prioritize shopping curved heels. This is because Curved heels are often more comfortable because they help distribute your body weight better and can feel more supportive when you walk.

Make sure there’s enough room for your toes.
Another trick is to avoid heels that squeeze your toes together. A wider toe box gives your feet more space and can help reduce pressure and discomfort.

Pick block heels when you can.
While thin heels of course look classy and hot, block heels offer more balance and support than thin stilettos, making them easier to walk in and more comfortable for long hours.

The right heels shouldn’t have you counting down the minutes until you can take them off. A few smart choices can make wearing heels a lot more enjoyable.