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We Found the Most Comfortable Ballet Flats

If the shoe fits, make sure it’s comfortable...

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Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Few trends have survived consecutive seasons longer than the ballet flat, and to no surprise. The style is chic, practical, and something of a trend chameleon. Because of the recent surge in popularity, the fashion market is seeing more styles, colors, and fabrications of the beloved shoe, making it all the more tempting to snag a new pair. But with all these options, which are the most comfortable ballet flats?

Aiming for comfort is truly the best methodology when shopping for shoes that will survive beyond a trend’s lifespan or a single season. You want something that can wear consistently. For more tips on how to shop for the shoe without comprising on comfort, I tapped the brand responsible for my personal favorite version, Aeyde.

“When searching online for comfortable and stylish ballet flats, it’s crucial to prioritize factors like construction, durability, and support,” says founder Luisa Dames. “You’ll want shoes that are soft and flexible yet resilient,” she continued, explaining some of the finer details of Aeyde’s production process.

Equipped with a better understanding of what constitutes a quality rendition, I set out on the hunt for the most comfortable ballet flats. Read on to find my top 18 picks.

Editor’s Choice

Aeyde Gabriella Leather Ballet Flats

Gabriella Leather Ballet Flats

Pros

  • Family-operated production
  • Premium materials
  • Half sizes available

Cons

  • Runs big (order down by half a size)

My personal everyday ballet flat is this pair from Aeyde. Not only is the quality unmatched, but the simplicity and lightweight design keeps this pair in my rotation. The flats perfectly shape the feet and carry me from day and night.

Sizes: 36-42

Colors: 8 Colors

Materials: Leather

Ballerina’s Choice

Repetto Sophia Leather Ballerina Shoes

Sophia Leather Ballerina Shoes

Pros

  • Stylish ankle strap
  • Designed with care
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • Cost of international shipping

Repetto designs with actual ballerinas in mind. With intent and craftsmanship behind every sole, comfortability is no question. These ribbon ankle ties add an adorable (and useful) extra touch.

Sizes: 36-43

Colors: Black

Materials: Leather, rubber

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One-of-a-Kind

Khaite Marcy Mesh Flats

Marcy Mesh Flats

Pros

  • Designer
  • Half sizes available

Cons

    If you’re committing to a luxury investment, you likely want maximal comfort to come with it. Not only do these sheer Khaite flats look like a dream, but they’re also crafted with the highest quality materials, ensuring comfort and longevity.

    Sizes: 6-10.5

    Colors: Beige Mesh, Black Crystal, Beige Crystal, Black Mesh Crystal, Beige Floral

    Material: Mesh, leather

    Square Toe

    Alohas Sway Ballet Flats

    Sway Ballet Flats

    Pros

    • Lace detail
    • Affordable price
    • Sustainable

    Cons

      Made from sustainable leather with flexible outsoles, these bow-knotted flats are the perfect choice for the trendy woman.

      Sizes: 35-42

      Colors: Brown, Black, Cream, Beige

      Materials: Sustainable leather

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      Worth It

      ALAIA Mesh Ballerina Flats

      Mesh Ballerina Flats

      Pros

      • Exceptional comfort
      • Designer
      • Half sizes available

      Cons

      • Quick to sell out

      In case you haven’t seen the ALAIA ballet flats enough, I’d like to present them once again. While the price tag is that of a luxury item, these flats have received stellar reviews specifically for comfortability.

      Sizes: 35-41.5

      Colors: Noir, Nude, Orange

      Materials: Leather, rubber

      Rave Reviews

      Tony Bianco Miami Nappa Flats

      Miami Nappa Flats

      Pros

      • Great reviews

      Cons

      • Runs big

      I first saw these flats on my friend Campbell “Pookie” Puckett. I asked her if they make the cut when it comes to comfort, and she swears by them as her go-to day after day.

      Sizes: 5-11

      Colors: White, Black

      Materials: Leather

      Customer review: “I’ve worn these for weeks..so comfy.”

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      Pointe Perfection

      Larroudé Blair Flat

      Blair Flat

      Pros

      • Trendy
      • Sold on Amazon
      • Luxury
      • Half sizes available

      Cons

      • Might have a break-in period

      This pair of flashy flats from Larroudé looks and feels like a dream come true. Dress these up or down, and enjoy the a combination of comfort and class.

      Sizes: 5-11

      Colors: Blue, Ivory, Silver, Raw

      Materials: Patent leather

      Conscious Craftsmanship

      Loeffler Randall Leonie Crystal-Embellished Mesh Ballet Flats

      Leonie Crystal-Embellished Mesh Ballet Flats

      Pros

      • Elastic strap
      • Padded sole
      • Ethics-first brand

      Cons

      • Delicate embellishments
      • Not water-resistant

      Founder and designer Jessie Randall is a firm believer in a slow business mindset. Each pair of these rhinestone ballet flats are hand-crafted to perfection with overconsumption in mind. You’ll quickly notice these precious flats are worth the small investment for the delicate detailing.

      Sizes: 5.5-11

      Colors: 10 colors

      Materials: Polyester, leather

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      Luxury Pair

      The Row Elastic Ballet Flats

      Elastic Ballet Flats

      Pros

      • Designer

      Cons

        If I could add any style to my shoe collection, I’d choose this pair from The Row. No bells or whistles, just a perfect luxury flat that goes with any outfit, no matter the occasion. Keep in mind, this is a pair you’ll cherish for years to come.

        Sizes: 35-41

        Colors: Black

        Materials: Calfskin

        Personalized Option

        Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina

        Square Toe Ballerina

        Pros

        • Customizable
        • Array of colors
        • Italian leather

        Cons

          I was drawn to the bold colors of these adjustable flats from Mansur Gavriel. As if these Italian leather slip-ons weren’t perfect already, you can even personalize each pair with a monogram. To put it over the top, reviewers rave about the comfort and quality.

          Sizes: 35-41

          Colors: 9 Colors

          Materials: Italian lambskin leather

          Customer review: “These ballet flats are very comfy and stylish—they go with a vast array of colors too! No break-in time for me and I wore them all day the first time. I have these flats in 5 colors and still want more!”

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          Classic Staple

          Jeffrey Campbell Dancerina Shoes

          Dancerina Shoes

          Pros

          • Budget-friendly
          • True to size

          Cons

            If you’re steering away from luxury prices but still want a stylish and reliable shoe, Jeffrey Campbell never fails.

            Sizes: 5-11

            Colors: Black, Pink, Silver, Royal Blue

            Customer review: “I have these shoes in black, red and silver. Fit like a glove...”

            The Prototype

            Miu Miu Logo Strap Ballet Flat

            Logo Strap Ballet Flat

            Pros

            • Designer

            Cons

              I wouldn’t be writing this article without the brand that brought the ballet flat back. No matter what Miu Miu releases, I will always be a fan. This silk pink pair is truly the epitome of a ballet flat.

              Sizes: 34-42

              Colors: Pink, Black

              Materials: Leather, silk

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              Biker Buckle

              Yishaweiqi Wide Welt Buckle Ballet Flats

              Wide Welt Buckle Ballet Flats

              Pros

              • Affordable

              Cons

              • Chunky

              These flats are for those that like a little flare in their footwear. Bold with a pointed toe, this designer dupe is anything but boring. If you want to change a basic outfit to a head-turner, get this pair from Amazon.

              Sizes: 4-12

              Colors: 14 Colors

              Materials: Faux leather

              Customer review: “These honestly look and feel like the real thing. IYKYK…super comfortable from out of the box! I wore them for the first time this week and it was a long 15 hour day.”

              Subtle Details

              Reformation Barbara Ballet Flat

              Barbara Ballet Flat

              Pros

              • Half sizes available
              • Sustainably made

              Cons

                Reformation isn’t just for spring dresses; you don’t want to miss the shoe selection. I like this pair for its slip-on style and stretch laces. No hassle, just a cute pair of shoes ready for your weekend errands.

                Sizes: 5-11

                Colors: Black Leather, Morning Dew, Porridge, Silver

                Materials: Sustainable leather

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                Trusted Brand

                Schutz Arissa Woven Ballet Flat

                Arissa Woven Ballet Flat

                I own a few different pairs of Schutz shoes, and not only can I wear them season after season, but I can do so without bandages, blisters, or stashing a second pair of shoes in my bag.

                Sizes: 5-11

                Colors: Black, Miele, Ouro Claro Orch

                Materials: Leather, synthetic

                Customer review: “Love the woven texture for added style, the leather is ultra soft, no break in time needed. A classic flat with a fun twist! Thinking about a second color love them so much!”

                Wrap Around

                Charles & Keith Ankle-Strap Ballet Flats

                Ankle-Strap Ballet Flats

                As far as I can tell, this shoe is completely perfect. At an affordable price and with a chic ankle strap, you might want to get more than one color.

                Sizes: 5-12

                Colors: Black Patent, White Patent, Blue Denim

                Materials: Wrinkled patent PU or denim

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                Mesh Style

                Gradinery Mesh Ballet Flats

                Mesh Ballet Flats

                Pros

                • Great reviews
                • Good traction

                Cons

                • Not practical for weather

                For those that want to incorporate mesh flats for their spring and summer ensembles but are not ready to commit to a luxury option, this pick from Amazon is an exceptional choice. They even have a slip-resistant sole.

                Sizes: 6-11

                Colors: Beige, Black, Silver, Gold

                Materials: Rubber, fishnet

                Customer review: “I LOVE these! I’ve worn them a few times even though it’s been too cold still where I live because I’m obsessed! So comfy didn’t need to break in. Way better than expected!”

                Amazon Hero

                Semwiss Ballet Flats

                Ballet Flats

                Pros

                • Machine washable
                • Affordable
                • Good traction
                • Memory foam insole

                Cons

                  After reading through hundreds of helpful Amazon reviews, I’m convinced that these flats only have an infinite list of pros.

                  Sizes: 6-10

                  Colors: 12 colors

                  Materials: Rubber, mesh

                  Customer review: “I was skeptical, but WOW! These are so comfortable. Like walking on a cloud...”

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                  Meet the Experts

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                  Luisa Dames is the founder of the Berlin shoe and accessories brand Aeyde. Dames focuses on luxury sustainable and minimalistic pieces. Inspired by her German heritage, she creates with intent and her brand has customers in more than 30 countries.

                  Why Trust ELLE

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                  Every product featured on ELLE.com is independently researched, tested, or editor-approved. We only recommend products that we stand behind, and the merchandise featured on our site is always driven by editorial and product testing standards, not by affiliate deals or advertising relationships. Any content created in partnership with advertisers is marked as such.

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