I quite like varina/varas. I think the trick for them to be comfortable is to get the right size. They tend to run narrow. I first got 6.5B, and they felt fine when I tried but hurt a lot when walking. I ended up returning. This complete changed with 6.5C. Those were comfortable and nice. Not a lot of store carry 6.5C, so they are just about never on sale. I will make a 7B work if I find them at a good sale. They are wide enough but a little long, so a pair of heel pad does the trick.
I would recommend you try a wider width. Not sure if you bought them at a store with good return policy, I recommend you exchanging to a wider one or bigger one with heel pad
You can also take them to a cobbler to get the shoe stretched. Many department stores will offer this service for free.
Good luck!