The 9 Most Comfortable Flats to Wear Instead of Sneakers (2024)

After appearing in Bazaar’s guide to the best ballet flats, Mansur Gavriel’s Dream Ballerinas have earned a second shout-out here. The leather is soft and water-resistant, the fit is adjustable with the perfectly placed ties, and the square-toe shape is endlessly walkable. Their simple, streamlined design also makes them a contender for a personal uniform.

“It’s an effortless staple that looks chic with an oversize wide-leg trouser, monochromatic T-shirt, and a menswear-inspired leather belt,” senior fashion and accessories editor Jaclyn Alexandra Cohen agrees.

Sizes: 35–41

Colors: Silver, pink, black, navy, cacao, leaf, sand, and more

Materials: Leather

What reviewers are saying: “Great flats! These are so comfortable and pretty.”

When texture and a little sprezzatura are your highest priorities, choose these woven ballet flats from Eledera. Each pair is hand-woven in Italy, with a technique that creates a flexible yet durable fit. In the low (10-millimeter) heel, leather and rubber are stacked for extra support.

Sizes: 36–41

Colors: Red, black, brown

Materials: Woven leather, rubber

“Break-in free” might sound like an overpromise, but this pair over-delivers on it. From the first time I wore these Mary Janes (to work, with a striped sweater, circle skirt, and white crew socks), I was impressed with their construction and feel. They’re like house slippers cleverly masquerading as out-and-about shoes, with their soft, flexible, and supportive sole. The special recycled fabric has a hint of stretch that doesn’t stretch out—a crucial distinction for a shoe I now wear weekly. And, like Archibald’s favorite pair, they’re also machine washable.

Sizes: 5–13

Colors: Black, chocolate spot, red, gardenia, and more

Materials: 3-D knit

What reviewers are saying: “These shoes were comfy right out of the box! Also super nice looking. I’ve already gotten lots of compliments and I’ve only worn them twice. My co-workers are all buying pairs!”

Mesh flats like Dear Frances’s deliver comfort beyond a low-to-the-ground sole. The sleekly minimalist mesh fabric feels like a whisper against your skin on warm days.

Sizes: 35–42

Colors: White, black, red, nude, and more

Materials: Mesh, leather

What reviewers are saying: “Bought these on a whim & they did not disappoint. Quality construction, comfortable after a full day of wear & true to size. Very stylish, unique & minimalist. ordering was easy & shipping was quick. Love!”

Gucci’s Jordaan loafers were my first designer footwear purchase, and I’ve never looked back. The curved toe and horsebit detail are truly timeless; archival street-style images will back me up here. I also love how the back of the shoe folds down to make it a mule, if you so choose.

Sizes: 4–12

Colors: Floral, black, white, brown, pink, and more

Materials: Canvas, leather

Fashion insiders have been whispering about the imminent return of Tory Burch’s logo-medallion flats for months. Regardless of where the trend cycle is spinning, these preppy flats are packable for an elevated travel outfit or comfortable enough to wear through security and on the flight.

Colors: Tan, black, mauve

Materials: Leather, rubber, metal hardware

What reviewers are saying: “These shoes are well worth the price! Completely comfortable, beautiful fit, and well made. Highly recommend!”

I felt an urge to shop Miu Miu’s ballet flats the moment they appeared on the runway. I waited nearly a year after their release, absorbing all the ways other women were styling them, to make sure they’d be more than a one-time wear, before finally ordering mine.

I’ve never been so delighted by a purchase. People often use the word silky to describe satin, and this was the first shoe I thought earned the qualifier. Then there’s the construction of the toe box and the heel, which caressed my foot from the moment I first put them on. With a little pair of ankle socks, I can comfortably wear them all day while soaking in all sorts of praise. (Most commonly, “Mrs. Prada would approve!”)

Sizes: 6–10

Colors: Pink and black (at Nordstrom); cocoa, lake blue, black, red, and white (at Miu Miu)

Materials: Leather, satin, elastic band

Slide into something comfortable for birthday parties, work dinners, and other functions with a semiformal dress code. These Margaux mules are lined with 5 millimeters of memory foam, to support your feet through long hours standing—and they’re adorned with an oversize bow that’s a gift to wear.

Sizes: 5–13.5

Colors: Black, midnight, pink, linen, and more

Materials: Suede, leather, memory foam

What reviewers are saying: “I just got my shoes and was immediately impressed with the workmanship and how beautiful they are! I wore them in NYC this past weekend for a night on the town and they were so very comfortable. I ended up wearing them down to breakfast at the hotel and for the flight home… they are not only stylish and versatile but easy on your feet as well! I am very impressed with the quality, look and fit of these shoes.”

I own more than a few pairs of Everlane shoes, from fisherman sandals to these glovelike ballet flats. This pair offers incredible quality at a lower price: The leather is soft, the bow fixtures stay tied, and the little loops at the back make them easy to take on and off. The way the shoe hugs my foot isn’t as amenable to a sock-styling moment, so I often wear these with a thin, no-show liner.

Sizes: 5–11

Colors: Black, canvas, pale pink, toasted almond, and more

Materials: Leather

What reviewers are saying: “This is the most comfortable ballet flat I’ve ever owned. I wear them basically every day to work and walking around NYC. My feet never hurt and did not need to break them in. They run true to size. Worth every penny.”

Comfortable flat shoes for standing all day will likely be made with lightweight, soft materials. Leather, satin, and 3-D woven knits won’t irritate your feet; they’re also more pliable and flexible. As for the soles, memory foam–padded insoles guarantee you can spend hours on your feet.

Toe shape and silhouette also contribute to a flat’s comfort level, Rothy’s chief product officer Heather Archibald notes. Pointed toes can be more suited to narrow feet, while square or rounded toes accommodate wider feet.