Every fashion editor has an expansive collection of designer heels perched in the closet, but it’s the most comfortable flats that appear in the outfits we actually wear. I relied on my most comfortable flats for work, travel, and everywhere else even before ballet flats had returned to the mainstream on runways from Miu Miu to Tory Burch. I discovered my most-worn pairs through years of professional research and plenty of personal shopping—and found that pairs from Mansur Gavriel, Eledera, and Margaux look polished while fitting like they're custom-made.
Rothy’s chief product and merchandising officer Heather Archibald succinctly defined the qualities setting my most comfortable flats apart from other shoes: They all have stability, support, and flexibility in spades. (Who can honestly say the same about a four-inch heel?) “A luxurious insole [brings] lasting comfort, high-quality materials are flexible, soft, and durable, and seamless construction minimizes potential friction points and discomfort,” Archibald says. “I also look for lightweight shoes that allow for freedom of movement, which prevents fatigue and promotes natural foot motion.”
When flats are comfortable and speak to my personal style, I can’t help but wear them daily. To assemble Bazaar’s edit of the most comfortable flats ahead, I considered the silhouette, toe box shape, and materials of each shoe. I also incorporated shopper reviews and styles I’ve purchased and tested at length. The resulting list includes nine flats that are so good, they could possibly replace your walking shoes.
Our Favorite Comfortable Flats of 2024
Most Comfortable Flats Overall
Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina
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Most Comfortable Woven Flat
Eledera The Woven Quadra Ballerina
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Most Comfortable Mesh Flats
Dear Frances Balla Mesh
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Most Comfortable Travel Flats
Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flats
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Most Comfortable Designer Flats
Miu Miu Logo Strap Ballet Flat
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Most Comfortable Flats Under $150
Everlane The Day Ballet Flat
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This post has been updated.
Most Comfortable Flats Overall
Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina
Most Comfortable Flats Overall
Mansur Gavriel Dream Ballerina
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.”
Most Comfortable Woven Flat
Eledera The Woven Quadra Ballerina
Most Comfortable Woven Flat
Eledera The Woven Quadra Ballerina
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
Most Comfortable Mary Jane Flats
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
Most Comfortable Mary Jane Flats
Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
“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!”
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Most Comfortable Mesh Flats
Dear Frances Balla Mesh
Most Comfortable Mesh Flats
Dear Frances Balla Mesh
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!”
Most Comfortable Loafers
Gucci Jordaan Leather Loafer
Most Comfortable Loafers
Gucci Jordaan Leather Loafer
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
Most Comfortable Travel Flats
Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flats
Most Comfortable Travel Flats
Tory Burch Minnie Travel Ballet Flats
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!”
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Most Comfortable Designer Flats
Miu Miu Logo Strap Ballet Flat
Most Comfortable Designer Flats
Miu Miu Logo Strap Ballet Flat
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.”
Most Comfortable Flats Under $150
Everlane The Day Ballet Flat
Most Comfortable Flats Under $150
Everlane The Day Ballet Flat
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.”
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How do I find comfortable flat shoes?
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.
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