We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Style Shoes The 10 Best Comfortable Flats of 2024, Tested and Reviewed We tested 29 pairs of flats to bring you 10 that deserve a spot in your closet. By Camryn Dilger Camryn Dilger Camryn Dilger is the associate commerce editor for Real Simple with nearly seven years of experience writing and editing for various brands. She's reviewed dozens of the trendiest home and lifestyle products on the internet. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on July 18, 2024 Fact checked by Jillian Dara Fact checked by Jillian Dara In addition to fact-checking for Real Simple, Jillian covers various topics from food and wine to luxury travel and culture guides for outlets such as Travel + Leisure, Forbes, and Conde Nast Traveler. Our Fact-Checking Process In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews Final Verdict Our Testing Process How to Shop More to Consider FAQs Take Our Word for It What Is Real Simple Selects? Photo: Real Simple / Alena Kharlamenko When it comes to shoes, flats don’t necessarily scream comfortable, but that doesn’t mean a comfortable pair of flats is impossible to find. It also doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice style in your search for a comfortable flat. The right arch support, material, and sole can make all the difference in finding a shoe that’s not only stylish but provides the structure and cushioning you need for day-to-day wear. According to stylist Jennifer Rosson, flats are also one of the easiest shoes to style. “They pair well with everything from dresses to denim,” she says, making them an essential part of any wardrobe. We set out to find the most comfortable flats available by testing 29 pairs and narrowing them down to the top 10, evaluating each pair based on fit, quality, support, and of course, comfort. We wore each pair of flats over two months, noting the level of arch support, the thickness and sturdiness of the soles, and more to determine true comfortability. In addition to Rosson, we also tapped stylist Vanessa Valiente and podiatrists Dr. David Abdoo, DPM, and Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, to weigh in on how to pick the best flats for you and what to look for when choosing shoes that benefit your foot health. Our Top Picks Best Overall Comfortable Flats: Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane at Rothys.com Jump to Review Best Budget Comfortable Flats: SALE Frank Mully Round Toe Ballet Flat at Amazon $50 $40 Jump to Review Most Comfortable Loafer: Birdies The Starling Flat at Amazon Jump to Review Most Comfortable Flats for Warm Weather: Nisolo Huarache Sandal at Nordstrom $138 Jump to Review Most Comfortable Sandal: Margaux The Wrap Sandal at Margauxny.com Jump to Review Most Comfortable Pointed-Toe Flats: Vivaia Aria 5° Pointed-toe Ballet Flats at Amazon Jump to Review Most Comfortable Mary Janes: Vivaia Margot Mary Jane at Vivaia.com Jump to Review Most Comfortable Ballet Flats: Margaux The Demi Flat at Margauxny.com Jump to Review Most Comfortable Flats for Narrow Feet: Everlane The Day Glove Flats at Everlane.com $138 Jump to Review Most Supportive Comfortable Flats: SALE Vionic Caroll Ballet Flat at Amazon $120 $90 Jump to Review Best Overall Comfortable Flats Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane PHOTO: Rothyâs View on Rothys.com What Stands Out They required no break-in period and were still comfortable even past 10,000 steps. What Could Be Improved The straps don’t adjust, so you can’t make them tighter or looser. Out of 29 pairs of flats, this one took first place due to its material—made from nine plastic bottles, per Rothy’s signature thread—and outstanding support. Not only does this make them a sustainable pick, but we also found them to be breathable in both warm and cooler weather. We thought that they were reminiscent of Birkenstocks in the way they molded to our feet, even for someone with swollen feet in their eighth month of pregnancy, which made them a true standout. The lack of break-in period was also a plus, especially since we were able to wear these shoes without experiencing any pinching or chafing. We even wore them while walking on various terrains like pebbles and cement, and the traction and soles still held up (though they did feel a bit slippery initially). Because of their durable sole, these flats were far from flimsy and didn’t create any discomfort or pain. They also didn’t bend easily, and after regular use, there were no signs of wear and tear. We love how versatile they are, seeing as how we were able to wear them with both dressy and casual outfits for various occasions; the minimalist design comes in 10 different colors. Even though the straps don’t adjust, they were flexible and not too tight, so it wasn’t a deal breaker or cause for concern. Overall, we felt completely supported and secure in this flat. Size Range: 5–13 | Material: Recycled plastic | Sole: Not listed Real Simple / Ivy Ford Real Simple / Ivy Ford Real Simple / Ivy Ford Real Simple / Ivy Ford Best Budget Comfortable Flats Frank Mully Round Toe Ballet Flat PHOTO: Amazon $40 at Amazon What Stands Out They feel like a dupe for more expensive flats. What Could Be Improved Support may vary depending on the color you get. At $40, these landed the spot for our Best Budget pick. The price doesn’t mean the shoes skimped on quality, though. Even after reaching 15,000 steps, we saw no sign of blisters or discomfort, and they remained incredibly comfortable and breathable. They reminded us of our go-to Allbirds flats that are more than double the price, which makes this a great option for being able to buy two pairs of flats for the cost of one. We even felt that these could replace our more expensive flats on occasion. The simple, classic design makes these a great everyday pick for jeans, skirts, and even dress pants. Over the course of testing, we wore them for working, running errands, and outings with friends, and there was no uncomfortable break-in period while doing so. We also loved how they were easy to walk in, thanks to their secure fit and the fact that they were true to size. Even after stepping in mud, they held up after a machine wash, making them durable enough for more out-of-the-ordinary use. That said, we do feel that the support of the padding could be improved, and the support was slightly inconsistent across colors, as some colors seemingly had less than others. They also could have more grip at the bottom, and we felt that they might not be the best option for walking on slick surfaces. Despite this, the shoes were flexible enough to wring out after getting wet, making them easy to clean no matter the weather. Size Range: 6–12 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Megan Pearlman Real Simple / Megan Pearlman Real Simple / Megan Pearlman Most Comfortable Loafer Birdies The Starling Flat PHOTO: Birdies View on Amazon $70 at Nordstrom $130 at Zappos What Stands Out They felt very similar to slippers in terms of comfort. What Could Be Improved Velvet might not be the best fabric choice for warmer weather or pet owners. Because of their quilted, cushioned sole, these flats almost reminded us of a slipper. The combination of the silky fabric interior and the soft velvet exterior only contributed to their comfort, though it did take away from breathability and their ability to withstand warmer weather. Some pinching did occur from the gap between the sole and side of the shoe, but it wasn’t a recurring problem, and we didn’t experience any pain or discomfort during or after testing. They were actually quite sturdy and supportive and didn’t easily bend or twist. The deep sapphire color we chose looked great with slacks, skinny jeans, and skirts, but different colors and fabrics are also available for those who prefer a different style. We did notice a small scuff after regular use, so another material besides velvet might be a better option for those concerned with durability. Pet owners might also want to think twice, as hair did stick to these shoes (though it was nothing a lint roller couldn’t fix). Their rich velvet material contributed to a high-quality feeling, and combined with the patterned silky soft sole, this made for a luxurious-looking and -feeling shoe. Size Range: 5–13; medium and wide | Material: Velvet, suede, leather, calf hair, raffia, and tapestry | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Elizabeth Theriot Real Simple / Elizabeth Theriot Real Simple / Elizabeth Theriot Real Simple / Elizabeth Theriot Most Comfortable Flats for Warm Weather Nisolo Huarache Sandal PHOTO: Nisolo $138 at Nordstrom $138 at Zappos $138 at Nisolo.com What Stands Out The woven design gives plenty of airflow. What Could Be Improved Breaking them in did cause blisters. A huarache sandal is perfect for the summer months, and this pair was our top pick. Though the website advises to opt for a half size smaller than your normal size, many reviewers assured they fit true to size. In testing,our usual size felt secure and easy to walk in. Due to their woven design, they were very breathable, and our feet never felt too hot or sweaty. Just note that we did experience some chafing and blistering on our toes and heels during initial wear. The soles were on the firmer side, which meant they offered our feet support during wear, and the soft leather material moved with our feet instead of staying rigid. We also found that the rubber outer sole had good traction, and we especially loved the interesting design and how they held up extremely well during the testing period, even when walking 10,000 steps during a single wear. Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Leather | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Alena Kharlamenko Real Simple / Alena Kharlamenko Most Comfortable Sandal Margaux The Wrap Sandal PHOTO: Margaux View on Margauxny.com What Stands Out Their high-quality materials make for an ultra-comfortable wear, even for a lace-up flat. What Could Be Improved They’re more expensive than other lace-up sandal options. A comfortable sandal is hard to come by, but the Margaux The Wrap Sandal took the cake for the best flats with laces we’ve ever worn. Even with a laced design, they didn’t give us blisters, thanks to their luxe leather material. What’s more is that they always stayed secure on our feet, even when wearing them for several hours and for various activities. We tested two lace styles (tied around the ankle and criss-crossed upwards), and both resulted in a comfortable experience—no blisters or redness noted. A 5-millimeter foam padding in the sole made for a buttery, cushioned feel. The soles were thin but not flimsy, and they molded to our feet with every use. They weren’t the most flexible due to their Italian leather lining throughout the entire shoe, but the quality is what makes this flat especially impressive. To keep them in the best shape possible, we recommend using the dustbag they come with. We would also recommend this shoe for any office-to-dinner outings because of their stylish design. The quality is reflected in the price, though, and the $225 price tag may be a bit steep for some. That said, it may be worth it to those who value a lace-up flat that doesn’t dig into your heels or leave marks and is even comfortable enough to wear throughout an entire pregnancy. Size Range: 3–14 (narrow, medium, and wide) | Material: Italian Nappa leather | Sole: Not listed Real Simple / Ivy Ford Real Simple / Ivy Ford Real Simple / Ivy Ford Most Comfortable Pointed-Toe Flats Vivaia Aria 5° Pointed-toe Ballet Flats PHOTO: Vivaia View on Amazon $97 at Nordstrom View on Vivaia.com What Stands Out They have a minimalist design and fit well on narrow feet. What Could Be Improved The fabric might not hold up long term as well as others. For those who prefer a pointed-toe style, this pair from Vivaia carried us from eight-hour office days to baseball games as well as brunch and even through the rain. The cushioned bump inside the back of the shoe helped it stay on our feet when running from place to place, and we didn’t experience any mid-step gaping like we have with other flats. We also never experienced any pinching, rubbing, or blistering—there was no break-in period for this shoe. The knit upper was flexible without being too loose, so we also didn’t experience any stretching out of the shoe during the testing period. We appreciated the amount of cushion—extra on the ball and the heel—and flexibility when it came to the insole, as this allowed us to stay comfortable even on long walking days. We also noticed extra arch support, and even though it did bend easily, it didn’t feel flimsy, either. Additionally, we loved the textured rubber sole, as it gave us traction on slick marble, tile, rainy sidewalks and even wet subway stairs, living up to their claim to be water resistant (the water beaded up instead of soaking in). The knit upper didn’t feel too thin, and the overall quality was evident throughout the shoe. On the other hand, we questioned the long-term durability due to the nature of the knit fabric, so keep in mind that they might not hold up for as long as other options might. Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Skye Senterfeit Real Simple / Skye Senterfeit Real Simple / Skye Senterfeit Most Comfortable Mary Janes Vivaia Margot Mary Jane PHOTO: Vivaia View on Vivaia.com What Stands Out The strap is fully adjustable, and they fold in half for easy packing. What Could Be Improved They might not work for those with wider feet. Those who love a square toe will appreciate the Vivaia Margot Mary Jane. According to Valiente, square toes are “more fashion forward, and they are inherently more comfortable than a pointy toe flat since they give the toes more room.” This rang true in our testing, as there was plenty of room in the square toe—just enough to give our feet space, but not too much so that it felt overly loose. Achieving the perfect fit is taken one step further with the perforated strap (as opposed to a strap with a set number of holes), so you can adjust the buckle as needed to customize it to your foot. The shoes were immediately comfortable and didn’t require any break in period—no blistering or redness occurred at all during testing. The knit exterior made from recycled plastic bottles was surprisingly breathable and airy, which also make these a great warm weather pick. We were impressed to find that they even held up in the rain, and our feet didn’t get wet or damp. After testing in multiple weather conditions, the shoes still didn’t show any signs of wear and didn’t dirty easily, which we appreciated for a fabric shoe. We’re happy to report that after wearing these for three hours, our feet didn’t hurt at all. Even when walking on uneven terrain or over rocks, we still couldn’t feel any discomfort. Their lightweightness didn’t take away from their support, either. The cushioning was soft and supportive, and despite their flexibility, they didn’t feel low quality or flimsy. This quality actually made them perfect for traveling, as they could fold in half or lie completely flat for more convenient packing in your carry-on luggage. Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Anna Popp Real Simple / Anna Popp Real Simple / Anna Popp Most Comfortable Ballet Flats Margaux The Demi Flat PHOTO: Margaux View on Margauxny.com What Stands Out The adjustable bows allow you to tighten the shoes for your perfect fit. What Could Be Improved At $245, they’re the most expensive on our list. A ballet flat is a staple piece in many closets, and this is the most comfortable pair we tested. They’ve become our go-to shoe, taking us everywhere, including dinners with friends, the office, bars, and shopping. We really liked that we were able to cinch the shoes to our liking with the bow cords so that they fit perfectly and molded to our feet. The leather also softened with wear, making them even more snug and comfortable. One use did result in a few hot spots and rubbing, but after that, we didn’t run into any issues of note. Despite this, we were able to walk comfortably over long distances and even wore them for up to eight hours at a time. We did encounter some fatigue after several miles on hard cement, which is why Rosson says, “If you fall in love with a style that's not the most comfortable, consider saving them for occasions when you won't be walking or standing much.” In those cases, a classic ballet flat like this one serves the purpose of looking high quality, due to its soft Italian nappa leather, whether you dress it up or down. With 10 equally classic colors to choose from, it’s perfect for adding to your capsule wardrobe. The hard leather sole felt sturdy but somewhat thin, though this didn’t give us any cause for concern when it came to wearing down. In fact, it contributed to its durability, standing up well in terms of quality and with most terrain. The material surrounding our feet still felt malleable and flexible, though the exterior didn’t have much traction aside from its rubber heel, so they may not be the best choice for rainy weather. In all, these shoes proved that style and comfort can coexist in a ballet flat, even in lieu of a sneaker on the streets of New York. Size Range: 3–14; narrow, medium, and wide | Material: Italian Nappa leather | Sole: Leather Real Simple / Abby Moore Real Simple / Abby Moore Most Comfortable Flats for Narrow Feet Everlane The Day Glove Flats PHOTO: Everlane $138 at Everlane.com What Stands Out The high-quality leather felt both durable and flexible. What Could Be Improved The fit was very snug. These Everlane flats impressed us with their comfortable sole and durable, high-quality leather material and craftsmanship. Because of their flexibility, they were easy to slip on without feeling like they could potentially slip off. The shoes were comfortable to walk in because of their cushioned sole and the small holes included for breathability. Our feet didn’t feel too close to the concrete, which has been an issue for us in the past with other flats. Though the shoes are supposed to “fit like a glove” to the foot, the fit was so snug that the top of our feet didn’t fit completely within the shoe, even after three or four wears. We wished there were an elastic or stretch design feature or a wide option for those with larger feet, and we also thought the price was a bit higher than what we would expect to pay for a more plain and simplistic style. Size Range: 5–11 | Material: Leather | Sole: Rubber Real Simple / Jasmine Hyman Real Simple / Jasmine Hyman Real Simple / Jasmine Hyman Most Supportive Comfortable Flats Vionic Caroll Ballet Flat PHOTO: Amazon $90 at Amazon $45 at Nordstrom $42 at Zappos What Stands Out No inserts are needed, thanks to plenty of arch support. What Could Be Improved They may not be as comfortable on first use. For a flat that provides optimal support for all-day use, these were our top pick. Even after a full day of work, which included walking around a trade show for two hours, we still felt comfortable enough for dinner out later that night. We also wore them on a 90°F day, and our feet didn’t show any signs of sweat or smell. We loved how there was zero pinching in the toes and the arches supported us in all the right places, even without inserts. In other words, they fit perfectly. Even though our feet didn’t ache after walking for hours on end, we did notice signs of blisters at first and opted for Band-Aids halfway through the day. The support reigned supreme against other pairs—in fact, they felt as supportive as a pair of sneakers despite looking like a fancier dress shoe from the outside. Though they’re not the most flexible pair of flats, they’re not stiff, either, and they have enough flex for comfortable walking and going up and down stairs. The soles provided plenty of traction on various surfaces, and we noticed no signs of scratches even after regular use and a shiny faux crocodile exterior. Thanks to their arch support, these flats even pass the test of walking around the city without hurting your feet. Size Range: 5–12, medium and wide | Material: Leather | Sole: Thermoplastic rubber Real Simple / Sabrina Weiss Real Simple / Sabrina Weiss Real Simple / Sabrina Weiss Final Verdict At the end of our testing, we found the Rothy's Square Mary Jane to be the most comfortable flat. We also appreciated the way they molded to our feet, worked with a variety of different outfits, and felt completely supportive and secure, even after walking for long periods. For a budget option, the Frank Mully Round Toe Ballet Flat is a great choice for its simple, classic design, durability, and ability to stay comfortable all day. Our Testing Process We tested 29 pairs of flats in real-world conditions over the course of two months. We wore the flats at least two times for a minimum of two hours in different settings to evaluate how well they supported us at work, when dining out, while running errands, and so much more. While wearing them, we took note of if we experienced any discomfort, redness or pain and how long they took to feel broken in. We also paid attention to how overheated or sweaty our feet felt, if they were versatile enough to wear with various outfits, and if there was any wear and tear at the end of the testing period. We also evaluated each shoe’s level of arch support, bending each shoe in the middle and wringing them like dish towels to determine how flexible, sturdy, or flimsy they were. Lastly, we assessed the fit, making note of how secure they felt on our feet or if any pinching or rubbing occurred. Real Simple / Skye Senterfeit How to Shop for Comfortable Flats Like a Pro Arch Support “Arch support is pivotal in any shoe, including flats,” Dr. Sharma says. “Everyone has a different arch profile, so selecting a shoe that supports your unique arch type (be it high, neutral, or low) is essential. A flat with inadequate arch support can lead to foot fatigue, plantar fasciitis, and other discomforts.” Make sure that whatever flat you choose has some support on the bottom, and avoid those that feel too thin or unsupportive. For a pick with optimal arch support, we recommend the Vionic Caroll Ballet Flat with its removable microfiber-wrapped EVA footbed. Material Both Dr. Abdoo and Rosson recommend leather or suede for a comfortable yet stylish flat. Not only are these materials soft and more comfortable with age, but they also allow for air circulation, help avoid moisture buildup and odors, and adapt to the shape of your feet over time. Even when opting for leather or suede, it’s still possible to encounter a break-in period, as is evident with many of the shoes that we tested. Naturally malleable materials, like the flexible knit material found in the Rothy's Square Mary Jane and the Frank Mully Ballet Flat, can help speed up this process. Next is the makeup of the sole. “Dense materials such as wooden soles are poor shock absorbers and can increase stress to the musculoskeletal structure,” Dr. Abdoo says. “Rubber and cork materials are preferred sole materials.” Fit To make sure you have the right fit, Dr. Sharma recommends these tips: The shoe should fit snugly without being too tight.There should be about a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe (which isn’t always the big toe) and the end of the shoe.The heel should fit comfortably against the back of the shoe without slipping out.The widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the shoe. Shape is also important to consider when it comes to finding your perfect fit, as "narrow pointed tips can force the digits into an unnatural position and can further degrade existing bunion and hammertoe deformities," Dr. Sharma says. "Rounded or squared tips on the forefoot can help achieve a similar fashion statement as pointed shoes without the added pressure and pain.” That said, pointed-toe shoes, like the Vivaia Aria 5° Ballet Flats can still work and provide optimal comfort due to their knit construction, making them flexible enough for your feet. We also like the Naturalizer Samantha D’Orsay Flat for another comfortable pointed-toe option, as its stretchy sides allow for better movement. Real Simple / Alena Kharlamenko More Comfortable Flats to Consider Aerosoles Big Bet Ballet Flat: We loved that these shoes had a solid amount of cushion on the insole, and its plush material made for a comfortable wear that didn’t rub, chafe, or pinch our feet anywhere. We wished that there was more arch support and that the top of the heel wasn’t as stiff, as it caused us some redness at first. Allbirds Tree Breezers: While wearing this flat, we appreciated the lack of break-in period—they were immediately comfortable to wear right out of the box—their cushioned insoles, and their smooth inner fabric. On the other hand, we wished they were more breathable like the name suggested, and we wouldn’t opt for these as a summer shoe. Musshoe Pointed Toe Flat: This flat impressed us with its soft material and stylish design that comes in a variety of colors. While they were well-cushioned and had padding on the back of the heel, they didn’t provide much arch support, and we also questioned their durability and longevity given that we saw wear and tear after only a few uses. Real Simple / Cathie France Questions You Might Ask Are flats better for your feet than other shoes? “Flats, by design, are not intended for long-term, all-day wear,” Dr. Abdoo says. “These shoes lack the support and cushioning needed for extended use. Prolonged wear of flats can lead to potential issues.” To combat this, he recommends saving your flats for occasions when you know you won’t be on your feet for too long and replacing them with more supportive footwear in situations where extra support is needed. How can you make flats more comfortable? “If the shoe itself does not have a built-in arch support, purchasing a dress orthotic device either over the counter or custom may be essential to prevent foot issues,” Dr. Sharma says. In addition to breaking them in before longer wears, supportive insoles can be the difference between a comfortable flat and an uncomfortable one. How do you know when it’s time to replace a pair of flats? According to Valiente, there is a common misconception that wear and tear like fading color or scratches means it’s time for replacement, but actually, it might be time to see your local shoe repair. “A cobbler can restore the color and even replace the sole of the bottom and the cushion inside your shoes,” she says. “I often have my clients replace the original sole of a shoe with a Vibram sole for the extra comfort and safety since Vibram is the go-to non-slip bottom.” Your shoes might be beyond repair if the insole has flattened out, the shoe has stretched so much that it doesn’t fit securely, or you start to experience discomfort or foot pain after wearing the flats. “No matter how much you love them, once they show signs of significant wear, it’s time for a new pair to ensure optimal foot health,” Dr. Sharma says. Take Our Word for It This article was written by Camryn Dilger, an associate commerce editor at Real Simple with years of hands-on experience researching, testing, editing, and reviewing dozens of products. To find the best flats, we tested top options in real-world conditions, assessing each pair for comfort, value, fit, support, and quality. Finally, we got expert input from Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Pinewood Family Care Co., Dr. David Abdoo, DPM, a podiatrist at Salinas Valley Foot & Ankle, and stylists Vanessa Valiente and Jennifer Rosson. What Is Real Simple Selects? Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.