The 11 Best Comfortable Flats of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
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After testing 29 options, these stylish picks were the best.
Real Simple / Sabrina Weiss
Comfortable flats are a staple in any wardrobe, since they can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. While they aren't the most supportive type of footwear, it is possible to find a pair that maximizes comfort without sacrificing style, especially if you're looking for something more elevated than sneakers or slip-ons.
According to Dr. David Abdoo, DPM, a podiatrist at Salinas Valley Foot & Ankle, flats “are not an ideal choice for activities that require extended standing or walking.” (Comfortable sneakers would be a better option.) But, that doesn't mean you should write them off completely. “It's essential to consider your specific needs, such as high arches or flat feet, and the intended use of the footwear,” he says.
To find the most comfortable flats, we tested 29 pairs in real-world conditions. We looked at the quality and materials of each pair and checked out how the soles moved and flexed. We wore the shoes around our homes and throughout our daily routines, noticing how our feet felt and whether the shoes caused pain, blisters, or rubbing.
We also brought in the experts: In addition to Dr. Abdoo, we also spoke with Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Pinewood Family Care Co. Both doctors weighed in on what to look for in a pair of comfortable flats, signs that your flats need replacing, and more.
Best Overall Comfortable Flats: Rothy’s The Square Mary Jane
What Stands Out
They felt great on various terrains for thousands of steps per day—and they’re machine-washable.
What Could Be Improved
The straps can’t be adjusted.
Rothy’s are known for their comfy, machine-washable shoes and material made from recycled single-use plastic bottles. These lightweight Mary Janes have a durable, flexible sole that supported our feet on pavement, pebbles, and cobblestones. We tested them walking, driving, running errands, and for social events. Overall, we were impressed by how stylish these shoes look, how comfortable they felt in hot and chilly weather, and how versatile they are with everything from leggings to dressy attire.
We loved that we didn't need to break in the shoes for them to fit well—they felt secure right away and didn’t stretch out over time. The soles were initially a bit slippery but had great traction after we wore them a bit. Our feet felt great after walking up to 10,000 steps daily in these shoes, with no swelling, overheating, blisters, or chafing.
These shoes can dress up or down, making them an ideal option for weekend trips or a capsule wardrobe. They currently come in seven colors, including classics like black and gardenia (white with black piping). There are also more unique color options like lollipop red and pink. We do wish the strap across the top was adjustable, which could help people with narrow feet get a more secure fit.
Price at time of publish: $159
Size Range: 5-13 | Material: Recycled plastic | Sole: Not listed
Best Budget Comfortable Flats: Frank Mully Round Toe Ballet Flat
What Stands Out
There was no break-in period for these comfortable, versatile shoes.
What Could Be Improved
The soles are thin and don’t have much traction.
We didn’t need time to break into these true-to-size flats; they were comfortable immediately. These shoes have a breathable knit upper and a flexible rubber sole that feels great while walking thousands of steps per day.
We liked the huge variety of colors and styles, with over 25 options ranging from leopard print to flamingo pink. Some styles seem to have more padding and support than others, which made shopping for them a bit confusing. We also loved how they were easy to wash. After stepping in mud, we washed them on a delicate cycle using cold water and a mild detergent and let them air dry. After cleaning, they looked brand-new.
Our feet felt supported in these shoes, but the soles felt a bit thin. These shoes aren’t the best for rainy or icy weather, as the lightweight rubber soles were slippery on slick ground. Still, these are stylish, comfortable shoes at a great price point.
Price at time of publish: $39
Size Range: 6-12 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber
Most Supportive Comfortable Flats: Vionic Caroll Ballet Flat
What Stands Out
These flats have great arch support.
What Could Be Improved
The leather material can cause temporary rubbing or blisters while the shoes break in.
These leather ballet flats have a cute crossover design on the toe and are available in tan, navy, and black. We loved the robust arch support and that these shoes have the APMA Seal of Acceptance (from the American Podiatric Medical Association), indicating that the design helps promote good foot health. And based on the fit and quality, we expect these shoes to last several years, making the price point worth it.
These flats felt like wearing a pair of comfy sneakers. We had no problems going up and down stairs, walking around a trade show, and even helping move furniture on a hot day. We did find that the leather upper may need some breaking in—we experienced some rubbing and blisters after one particularly long day, which can happen the first few times you wear a stiffer shoe.
Price at time of publish: $120
Size Range: 5-12, medium and wide | Material: Leather | Sole: Thermoplastic rubber
Most Comfortable Ballet Flats: Margaux The Demi Flat
What Stands Out
These flats boast a classic style and an incredible size range.
What Could Be Improved
They are very expensive.
We found that these shoes needed a day or so to break in, and initially caused some rubbing and hot spots on our ankles and the tops of our feet. After that, we found them incredibly comfortable. The Nappa leather uppers felt soft and malleable on our feet. During testing, we noticed that the leather soles were slim and inflexible, which provided some structure and support but also led to some tired arches after 8-hour days walking around New York City.
We loved the classic design of these shoes and found that they went well with almost any outfit. These ballet flats come in various stylish colors and an incredible size range, from US 3 to US 14 (with medium, narrow, and wide widths available). And the classic bow isn’t just for show—it’s an adjustable cord you can use to tighten or loosen the shoe for a better fit.
Price at time of publish: $225
Size Range: 3-14; narrow, medium, and wide | Material: Italian Nappa leather | Sole: Leather
Most Comfortable Mary Janes: Vivaia Margot Square-Toe Mary Jane
What Stands Out
These lightweight shoes have a fully adjustable instep strap.
What Could Be Improved
The fit may not work well for people with wider feet.
These Vivaia flats have a knit upper made from recycled plastic bottles, a deodorizing insole, and a rubber outsole with a slight heel. The square shape provides plenty of toe room, and the material feels light and breathable even in hot weather and rain. Plus, the cushioned insole kept our feet supported and comfortable for hours on end.
During testing, we found that the flexible rubber soles flexed but still provided plenty of support. We couldn’t feel rocks or uneven terrain while walking. Our favorite part of these shoes is the instep strap, which is fully adjustable to ensure a good fit over the top of your foot. We were also impressed by how lightweight and flexible these shoes are. We could fold them flat for easy packing, making them great for weekend trips and travels.
Price at time of publish: $97
Size Range: 5-11 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber
Most Comfortable Loafer: Birdies The Starling Flat
What Stands Out
The quilted, cushioned insole provides superior comfort.
What Could Be Improved
The velvet fabric doesn’t hold up well to weather (or pet hair).
These classic loafers have an 8-millimeter heel and a non-slip rubber sole. We loved the quilted, cushioned insole, which made us feel like we were wearing comfortable slippers rather than outdoor shoes. The sturdy footbed kept our feet comfortable for up to eight hours of indoor and outdoor wear.
We tested a velvet pair, which might not be the best choice for hot weather or precipitation (we also found that pet hair stuck to the fabric, so we needed a lint roller handy). Luckily, these flats come in other fabric options, including suede, leather, calf hair, raffia, and tapestry, so you can find options for different seasons.
Price at time of publish: $98
Size Range: 5-13; medium and wide | Material: Velvet, suede, leather, calf hair, raffia, and tapestry | Sole: Rubber
Most Comfortable Sandal: Margaux The Wrap Sandal
What Stands Out
These sandals have high-quality materials and a stylish look.
What Could Be Improved
The price point is higher than most other options on our list.
We loved these stylish wrap sandals as a day-to-night shoe option. In our experience, lace-up straps are usually fiddly or uncomfortable, but these were neither. After we found the most comfortable way to tie the laces (looping them twice around our ankles and securing them with a bow), the shoes stayed secure. Plus, the laces are made from buttery leather that didn't dig into our legs or leave welts. The soles felt thin but weren’t flimsy, and the 5mm of foam padding helped the shoes mold to our feet. They don’t have much traction but are comfortable for wearing to work and out for brunch.
These shoes are handmade in Spain and come in women’s sizes 3-14, making them a great option for people who wear harder-to-find shoe sizes. The brand recommends avoiding wearing these in the rain and using a leather lotion to keep the shoes supple.
Price at time of publish: $225
Size Range: 3-14 (narrow, medium, and wide) | Material: Italian Nappa leather | Sole: Not listed
Most Comfortable Pointed-Toe Flats: Vivaia Aria 5° Pointed-Toe Water Repellent Ballet Flats
What Stands Out
These shoes fit very well on narrow feet.
What Could Be Improved
The water-repellent fabric doesn’t stand up to super heavy rain.
These flats come in a range of solid colors and cute prints, including water-repellent fabric in cream or black. The shoe’s knit upper had a good amount of give but wasn’t too stretchy—the shoes didn't stretch out or loosen over time. The super-flexible sole was comfortable to walk in, and we liked the light arch support and extra cushioning around the toe and heel areas. We found that the heels of these shoes didn’t slip off our narrow feet or gape mid-step.
We also tested these waterproof flats in rainy weather and noticed water beading up on the shoe fabric rather than soaking in. Our feet still got wet in super heavy rain (because the shoe’s low profile allows rain to hit your feet directly), but the fabric definitely lives up to the water-repellent promise. Plus, the textured rubber sole had fantastic traction and didn’t slip on marble, tile, or wet pavement.
Price at time of publish: $97
Size Range: 5-11 | Material: Knit | Sole: Rubber
Best Dressy Comfortable Flats: Naturalizer Samantha d'Orsay Flat
What Stands Out
The sides are stretchy, and the sole provides a surprising amount of arch support.
What Could Be Improved
There was a break-in period.
These flats have a leather and suede upper, and the contrast of the two fabrics gives the shoes a stylish look. We appreciated the comfortable add-ons, like the padding at the ball of the foot and stretch at the side of the shoe for more flexible movement. We found that these shoes had a sturdy, solid sole that didn’t bend much, providing a lot of arch support.
We love the shoe's classic shape and color, which makes this pair great for anything from a workday to an outdoor wedding. We also like the low hidden wedge heel, which helps us feel supported while walking. The non-slip outsole provides traction, and the shoes are designed using sustainable materials and packaged in boxes made from 80% recycled paper with soy-based ink. Still, it's worth noting that these shoes took a few hours to break in, and in that time caused some rubbing and blisters on the back of our heels.
Price at time of publish: $99
Size Range: 4-12; narrow, medium, and wide | Material: Leather | Sole: Not listed
Most Comfortable Flats for Warm Weather: Nisolo Huarache Sandal
What Stands Out
These sandals have a high-quality and beautiful design.
What Could Be Improved
They aren't the best option for very long walks.
These woven sandals are made from super-soft leather with a flexible rubber sole that provides plenty of support. We particularly liked how the leather uppers moved and breathed with our feet, and thanks to the woven design, our feet got plenty of airflow and never felt overheated or sweaty. We love that they're available in five neutral colors, and demonstrate gorgeous craftsmanship and sustainability.
Though we loved the shoe's design and overall versatile look, we wouldn’t recommend them for spending long hours walking. Though they are comfortable to slip on, we experienced chafing and blisters after walking over 10,000 steps, so they're best for days at the office or occasions where you won't be walking far distances.
Price at time of publish: $138
Size Range: 5-11 | Material: Leather | Sole: Rubber
Most Comfortable Flats for Narrow Feet: Everlane The Day Glove Flats
What Stands Out
These close-fitting shoes are great for narrow feet.
What Could Be Improved
The sizing is not totally intuitive.
These snug-fitting flats are made from supple, supportive leather that hugs your feet like a glove. The silhouette is definitely more casual, but the high-quality materials make this a pretty versatile shoe that you could wear just about anywhere. Plus, this shoe is available in a wide range of colors—in addition to seven standard colors, there's also a rotating selection of limited edition hues.
We found that the cushioned insole provides good support, and the back pull tab is convenient for putting the shoes on. This is a great shoe for people with narrow feet, but isn't ideal for those with wide feet or a higher instep. Keep in mind that there are some sizing quirks: Sizes 5–6.5 run large, sizes 7–8.5 run true to size, and sizes 9–11 run small.
Price at time of publish: $135
Size Range: 5-11 | Material: Leather | Sole: Rubber
Final Verdict
Our overall pick for the most comfortable flats is the Rothy's Square Mary Jane. We love the lightweight material and flexible sole, and the fact that the shoes felt comfortable right away. They supported our feet for miles of walking—no blisters in sight. We also appreciated their stylish look, which makes them a great choice for the office, errands, or social events. For those shopping on a budget, opt for the Frank Mully Round Toe Ballet Flat, which is versatile and available in many colors.
Our Testing Process
We tested 29 different pairs of flats in real-world conditions over a span of several weeks. First, we examined each shoe for our first impressions of the materials and construction. Then we tested arch support by bending each shoe in the middle and then trying to wring them out like a dish towel. This helped us see if the arches moved easily, and how flexible the shoe felt.
Next, we broke in the shoes by wearing them for at least an hour around our homes. We noted our first impressions and what made the shoes comfortable or uncomfortable. We assessed the sturdiness of the soles, the fit, and whether or not it was easy to walk around in the shoes.
After that, we wore each pair of flats at least two times, for two hours or more each time. We evaluated each pair for breathability, support, versatility, traction, comfort, and signs of wear and tear. We also noted if the shoes irritated our feet, causing blisters, foot pain, or hot spots.
Real Simple / Katie Bowler
How to Shop for Comfortable Flats Like a Pro
Arch Support
“Arch support is pivotal in any shoe, including flats,” says Dr. Sharma. “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.”
Flats by nature are, well, flat, so they tend to have less arch support than the typical shoe. Be sure to look for flats that have some support on the bottom, and avoid shoes that have an extra thin sole. To make this process easier, you can look for shoes that have the APMA Seal of Approval, which designates products that promote foot health. If arch support is important to you, we recommend the Vionic Caroll Ballet Flat, which have a removable microfiber wrapped EVA footbed that provides total comfort.
Material
“Opt for flats made from breathable, natural materials like leather or suede,” says Dr. Abdoo. “These materials allow air circulation, reducing the likelihood of moisture buildup and odors. Additionally, such materials tend to adapt to the shape of your feet, enhancing comfort even during brief periods of use.”
It's worth noting that pretty much all shoes have a break-in period, even ones made of comfortable materials. We found this to be the case in our testing, with many of the shoes feeling slightly tight or too structured at first and then giving way to a more comfortable fit. Going for a naturally malleable material should speed up that process though—we found that to be the case with the Rothy's Square Mary Jane and the Frank Mully Ballet Flat, which are both made of a flexible knit material.
“The makeup of the sole is also important,” says Dr. Sharma. “Dense materials such as wooden soles are poor shock absorbers and can increase stress to the musculoskeletal structure. Rubber and cork materials are preferred sole materials.” All of the shoes on our list have a rubber or leather sole.
Fit
There are a few tips to making sure you have the right fit. “A well-fitting shoe should snugly fit the foot without being too tight,” says Dr. Sharma. “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. Also, the widest part of your foot should align with the widest part of the shoe."
Also, you should consider the shape of the shoe. "Narrow pointed tips can force the digits into an unnatural position and can further degrade existing bunion and hammertoe deformities," says Dr. Sharma. "Rounded or squared tips on the forefoot can help achieve a similar fashion statement as pointed shoes without the added pressure and pain.”
You can still find a pair of comfortable pointed-toe shoes—in particular, we recommend the Vivaia Aria 5° Ballet Flats, which have a knit construction that provides a good amount of give. Another dressy yet comfortable shoe is the Naturalizer Samantha D’Orsay Flat, which has a pointed toe but stretchy sides for better movement.
Real Simple / Alena Kharlamenko
More Comfortable Flats to Consider
Aerosoles Big Bet Ballet Flat: We liked that this shoe is flexible, lightweight, and cushioned, but we struggled with the lack of arch support. The buckle style works for casual and dressy settings but won’t be great for people who prefer neutral shoe hardware.
Allbirds Tree Breezers: We loved this shoe's cushy insoles and versatile look. However, we felt like our feet were overheating, even in a chilly office setting—it feels better suited for cold weather wear rather than year-round use.
Musshoe Pointed Toe Flat: This shoe is comfortable and doesn't pinch or rub. However, we think the soft material around the toe area might show wear and tear over time, and the heel started to bunch after a few wears. We recommend these shoes for short events, but they aren’t ideal for all-day wear.
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,” says Dr. Abdoo. “These shoes lack the support and cushioning needed for extended use. Prolonged wear of flats can lead to potential issues. I would recommend reserving flats for short-term occasions and opting for more supportive footwear for long-term use to prioritize foot health.”
Still, when you want an elegant, everyday shoe without a high heel or the clunky look of sneakers, comfortable flats can be your go-to.
How can you make flats more comfortable?
One of the worst parts of wearing new shoes is the break-in period, so you can get a head start by wearing your new shoes around your home for a few hours. Another option to make flats more comfortable is to add supportive insoles.
“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.
How do you know when it’s time to replace a pair of flats?
According to Dr. Sharma, it may be time to replace your flats when:
You can see noticeable wear on the sole or heel.
Any cushioning on the insole has flattened out, so it doesn’t provide support.
The shoe has stretched out or lost its shape, so it doesn’t fit securely.
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,” says Dr. Sharma.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Nina Bahadur, a writer who has spent over a decade covering home, health, commerce, and culture. We tested each shoe in this article in real-world conditions, assessing each pair for comfort, value, fit, support, and quality. We also got expert input from Dr. Shital Sharma, DPM, a board-certified podiatrist with Pinewood Family Care Co., and Dr. David Abdoo, DPM, a podiatrist at Salinas Valley Foot & Ankle.
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.
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