They say "pain is beauty," but when it comes to your footwear, you really don't have to live that life. This is true whether you're planning to dance the night away at a party in statement-making heels, walk around for miles discovering a new city, or simply running about town. Your footwear can be both comfortable and stylish -- but you do need to know what to look for when picking out comfy shoes.

Wearing a pair of comfortable shoes obviously delivers its immediate rewards. But it's not just being able to get around without worrying about a blister or weird pangs: Foot health is pretty important.

"Having footwear that fits properly, provides good support, and is made of comfortable materials is essential for your overall well-being," says Jodi R. Schoenhaus, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist at Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center. "[When people] persist through foot discomfort, it can lead to blisters, sores, tendonitis, muscle fatigue, and even stress fractures, resulting in paying the price the next day."

It can even lead to issues over time, including foot deformities or conditions such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. For a pair of shoes that happen to look good? So not worth it. Here's how to make sure you're picking out comfy shoes every time.

Choosing a pair of comfortable shoes takes some intentionality. Follow these podiatrist pro tips and your feet will thank you.