The 27 Most Comfortable Women’s Flats for Every Occasion, Foot Type, and Price Point.
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For many years, women’s flats have had a reputation for not being easy on the feet; however, thanks to advancements in design and technology, there are many comfortable flats for women that don’t sacrifice style for comfort.
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It’s obviously important to find the best flats for your feet, so you don’t get blisters and throbbing arches, but also because flats are great travel shoes, dress shoes, and everyday shoes. Some women’s flats can even be just as pleasant as comfortable women’s sneakers.
So to help you avoid spending money on options that will leave your feet aching in pain, we’ve researched dozens of comfortable women’s flats to find the best ones to support your feet and coordinate with your wardrobe. Backed by hundreds of glowing customer reviews and our own testing, these styles come from top comfort brands and other designer labels that are getting it right in the support (and style) departments.
Keep scrolling to see our top picks for comfortable flats for women, along with expert tips from several foot specialists and women’s flat trends to know this season.
Top Comfortable Flats for 2023
Best Flats with Support: Kuru Glide Flats
Most Comfortable for Teachers: Dansko Larisa Flat
Best for the Fashionista: Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina Flats
Best Dressy Flats: Vionic Willa Loafer
Best for Wide Feet: Dr. Scholl’s Webster Loafer
Most Comfortable for Work: Crocs Kadee Flats Ballet
Best for Summer: Clarks Danelly Adira Ballet Flat
Most Comfortable for the Holiday Season: Birdies The Swan
Best for Standing All Day: Rothy’s The Point
Best for Plantar Fasciitis: FitFlop Allegro
Best for Arch Support: Vionic Jade Slingback Flat
Best for Travel: Suavs the Barton
Best for Bunions: Skechers Cleo Bewitch Ballet Flat
Best for Walking: Allbirds Tree Breezers
Vivaia Square-Toe V-Cut Flats (Margot 2.0)
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: over 30 hues and patterns
Material: knit upper
Special features: Knit upper made from plastic bottles, natural Artemisia Argyi herbal insole, carbon-free rubber outsole
If the classic leather flat is a little too delicate for your taste, meet The Margot 2.0, a knit loafer with a square toe and contrast piping. This style comes in many colorways, but we can’t help but eye the black-and-white combination. They’re cozy, preppy, and comfortable enough to take on all your favorite cities.
What reviewers say: “I was really skeptical on buying shoes online, since I wasn’t sure on the fittings. although there is a clear instruction how to get the exact sizing just need to do proper measurement. what’s good about it as well is that they allow returns in case it does not fit. overall good experience and will definitely purchase again in the future.”
Buy Now at Vivia
Proenza Schouler Glove Stretch Ballet Flats
Size range: 6-11
Colorways: black, red, tan
Material: patent leather
Tap into your younger ballet days with the Proenza Schouler Glove Stretch Ballet Flats. They have a polished yet crinkled patent leather finish with a round toe, ruched elastic strap at vamp, and gentle gathers. All the details pay homage to the dancer’s quintessential shoe. A flat heel adds the teeniest bit of height and support for all-day comfort, too.
Buy Now at Bergdorf Goodman
Margaux The Holiday Mary Jane
Size range: 33-45
Colorways: black
Material: velvet
There are plenty of vintage-looking shoes making a comeback today, and the mary jane may just be the next one. Marguax’s The Holiday Mary Jane is for the prim and proper dress who looks forward to dresses and tights during the holiday season. The shoe features a velvet composition with a crystal buckle detail, 5 mm of plush foam padding, a 1-inch platform, and a 3-inch block heel.
What reviewers say: “Beautiful shoes that fit perfectly! I wear them with jeans and long dresses. I had such trouble fitting my narrow feet with fashionable shoes until found Margaux!”
Buy Now at Margaux
Amina Muaddi Jamie Lambskin Ankle-Wrap Flatform Sandals
Size range: 6.5-12
Colorways: black, white
Material: lambskin leather
FNAA Shoe Designer of the Year, Amina Muaddi knows a thing or two about the best comfortable flats for women. If you’re looking for the best classic platform sandal, look no further than her Jamie Lambskin Ankle-Wrap Flatform Sandal. They come in two natural leather finishes with a chunky platform and ties, guaranteeing a secure fit.
Buy Now at Bergdorf Goodman
Kuru Glide Flats
Best Comfortable Flats with Support
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: black, walnut brown, taupe-metallic
Material: top-grain leather, pigskin lining, sheepskin-wrapped footbed, metal buckle
The elevated sole on Kuru’s Glide Flats makes it a perfect pick for evenings out. The adjustable hook-and-loop straps ensure the perfect fit, even for wide feet. The sheepskin-wrapped footbed offers unbelievable comfort that lasts all day and minimizes impact from every step. The insole is cushioned with arch support, so you can worry about sight-seeing and not foot pain. These come in a variety of colors.
What reviewers say: “I received my order very quickly and the sandals are super comfortable and allow me to walk better without pain. They are really cute and well made. Would recommend to anyone.”
Buy Now at Kuru
Cole Haan Tully Driver Shoes
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: 7 different hues
Material: suede
Look no further than these tan driving loafers from Cole Haan for a traditional option that transcends runways. With a subtle square toe and tonal detailing throughout, this smooth suede loafer has a slip-on finish and is completed with a cushioned GRANDFØAM footbed.
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Dansko Larisa Flat
Most Comfortable Flats for Teachers
Size range: 36-42
Colorways: black, saddle, tan
Material: leather
Dansko takes a traditional black flat and adds advanced design elements to it. The Larisa flat features a combination of leather and textile with Aegis Microbe Shield odor control, a removable EVA footbed for all-day support, and the brand’s Natural Arch technology for arch support.
What reviewers say: “I am on my feet alot at work. This shoe is so comfortable and fits really well! No gaping at the sides. It looks great!! I am almost tempted to order in each color. I would highly recommend!!”
Buy Now at Dansko
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Emme Parsons Spencer Flat
Size range: 35-42
Colorways: Black Suede, Champange Ponyhair, Loden Ponyhair, Merlot Suede
Material: ponyhair, suede
This simple flat comes in a range of neutral colorways to ensure you always have a shoe to make your outfit and mood. It comes in pony hair or suede with a square toe and grosgrain trim that deliver depth and style. It’s one of the best flats for work or brunch with friends.
Buy Now at Emme Parsons
Mansur Gavriel Square Toe Ballerina Flats
Best Comfortable Flats for the Fashionista
Size range: 36-41
Colorways: 6 different hues
Material: Italian Lambskin
Mansur Gavriel is known for its timeless and quality leather goods, and its Ballerina Flats are just that. This pair leans into the ballet flat resurgence with a square-shaped toe and a low vamp that looks pretty on the foot. Plus, the subtle bow detail on the heel adds a feminine finish to any look. Each pair is handmade with exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship with the most supple leather.
What reviewers say: “Elegant, timeless and great fit. I plan on ordering more in different colors!”
Buy Now at Mansur Gavriel
Vionic Willa Loafer
Most Comfortable Dressy Flats for Women
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: over 25 different hues
Material: suede, leather, or novelty
Comfortable dressy shoes can be hard to find, but Vionic has nailed them on the head with their Willa Loafer. Created with a luxurious suede upper, these combine the cushiony comfort of a women’s slipper with the elegant appeal of a smoking loafer. The cushioned footbed and signature Orthaheel technology support the foot’s natural alignment, while the orthotic insole provides arch support.
What reviewers say: “I was looking for a modern, classy, black loafer to wear to work. I was worried these might look “frumpy” in person, but they are gorgeous and exactly what I was looking for. True to size and great arch support too.”
Buy Now at Amazon
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Dr. Scholl’s Webster Loafer
Best Comfortable Flats for Wide Feet
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: 6 different hues
Material: Faux leather upper, rubber sole
Special features: Available in wide and regular widths
Whether paired with mom jeans and a crop top or a tailored suit combo, this modern loafer from Dr. Scholl’s is easy to pull off for any occasion. In addition to featuring a cool, multi-textured upper, the style has a lugged sole that is trendy and functional. Moreover, it boasts an easy slip-on fit and anatomical cushioning with shock absorption and some arch support to ward off foot fatigue throughout the day.
What reviewers say: “Great shoes but runs large and wide. I have a narrow shoe size normally 6.5 to a 7. The 7 is very wide for my foot. I had to buy an insole but love how cute they look and feel!”
Courtesy of Amazon
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Crocs Kadee Flats Ballet
Most Comfortable Flats for Work
Size range: 4-11
Colorways: black, navy, leopard
Material: rubber
Special features: Crocs Lock outsole tread and Croslite foam footbeds
If you love the feeling of Crocs’ clogs but prefer a slightly elevated style, the brand makes a handful of cute and wearable flats for women. Like the clogs, these are perfect for healthcare professionals and those working in a kitchen thanks to their enhanced arch support, airy Croslite foam construction (super easy to clean), and reliable slip-resistant tread. On top of all that, they feature a slightly nubbed footbed to gently massage your feet as you walk. What’s different about these, though, is that they have a more minimal ballerina-inspired silhouette and flattering low vamp, meaning you can easily transition these for off-duty wear, too.
What reviewers say: “I can no longer complain that my feet hurting after doing a 12-hour shift in these. And they look great wherever I wear them!”
Buy Now at Amazon
Clarks Danelly Adira Ballet Flat
Best Comfortable Flats for Summer
Size range: 6.5-11
Colorways: rose gold, red, sand, yellow, black, silver
Material: rubber sole, faux leather upper
Meet your new summer flat. Featuring an airy laser-cut leather upper and woven midsole details, the quintessential warm-weather style will make a solid addition to any sundress or Bermuda shorts outfit. Plus, it has plenty of comfort features you’ll crave, including a cushioned Ortholite footbed, soft lining and lightweight EVA rubber outsole for flexibility and traction.
What reviewers say: “This is my second pair, and I would buy more but your sold out. Love them, very comfortable to walk in.”
Courtesy of Amazon
Buy Now at Amazon
LifeStride Margot Loafer
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: black, brown
Material: faux crocodile leather
Comfort brand Lifestride does what it does best with this sleek croc-embossed loafer, adding on a proprietary Soft System package for all-day support, flex, and cushioning. Available in a deep brown or metallic finish, the shoe also includes a traction outsole for ultimate stability.
What reviewers say: “I can’t wear heels anymore due to joint issues, so these looked perfect,” noted one Amazon reviewer. “They allow me to even wear my specialized orthotics with no problems. Great shoe for a great price.”
Buy Now at Amazon
Hush Puppies Chaste Ballet Flat
Size range: 6-9
Colorways: 30+ different hues
Material: leather
From another leader in comfort comes this staple ballet flat offered in over two dozen color and finishes to suit any taste. A genuine suede lining with a perforated arch design creates a breathable, soft feel once you step inside, while a special triangular-shaped cushioned footbed conforms to the way you walk to provide great air circulation, flexibility, and support. And, you shouldn’t have to worry about slipping on slick surfaces in these either, as they have a molded rubber footbed designed for excellent durability and traction.
What reviewers say: “Cute and comfortable for lots of walking. Versatile to dress up or dress down an outfit.”
Courtesy of Amazon
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Birdies The Swan
Most Comfortable Flats for Holiday Season
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: 13 different hues
Material: velvet upper, satin sole, crystal strap
Birdies flats are hands-down some of this editor’s favorite shoes, as they’re insanely chic and feel amazing on. One of the newer additions to the brand’s lineup, The Swan offers the ultimate blend of high style and comfort, complete with a smooth velvet upper, soft quilted lining, and the brand’s signature seven layers of cushioning. If the maroon colorway isn’t your thing, these do come in 12 other colors and prints to choose from.
What reviewers say: “I love these! Gorgeous, elegant, and so comfortable. Perfect for wearing during the holidays!”
Buy Now at Birdies
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Everlane The Italian Leather Day Glove
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: 7 different hues
Material: 100% Italian Leather
Everlane makes some of the finest yet most affordable styles in the business when it comes to basics like jeans and tees. So it is no surprise that its flats are similarly winners in this department. With an average 4.5-star rating and over 6,000 customer reviews, the made-in-Italy Day Glove flat is crafted with buttery soft Italian leather to feel like a second skin. Also complete with cushioned insoles, breathable side vents, and a pull tab at the back for easy on-and-off access, these are bound to be heavy in your rotation.
What reviewers say: “This is the third pair I’ve ordered; however, I am unsure about the fit. This pair seems to be a bit looser than my other pairs, so not sure if I will need to return. I will wear around on carpet and decide. Overall, it is a beautiful shoe that is well constructed. I wear my other two pairs constantly. I have had major injuries and shoes are difficult to fit my feet and I value the ones I am able to wear.”
Courtesy of Everlane
Everlane The Italian Leather Day Glove
Rothy’s The Point
Best Flats for Standing All Day
Size range: 5-13
Colorways: 26 different hues
Material: Rothy’s signature thread
Special features: It took about 11 plastic bottles to knit this pair of shoes
Largely credited as the pioneer of knitted flats, Rothy’s is another one this editor’s go-to brands. A sleek pointed-toe option from the label, The Point has a proprietary breathable knit upper made with recycled plastic water bottles (as part of its eco-conscious mission, Rothy’s crafts its shoes using a 3D-knitting process that uses the exact amount of material needed and aims to achieve full circular production by 2023). As if these flats couldn’t get any better, they’re machine washable and available in over a dozen striking finishes to choose from.
What reviewers say: “This is my 3rd pair of Rothy’s points and they just keep getting better. I’ve tried a couple other of their style’s but keep coming back to the points. I have bunions and high arches and these flats are the most comfortable for me. IMO they are the best for dressing both up and down. Love the leopard print with red, I couldn’t be happier.”
Buy Now at Rothys
FitFlop Allegro
Most Comfortable Flats With Arch Support
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: 7 different hues
Material: leather
Special features: Dynamicush technology which delivers enhanced cushioning to minimize impact
Designing its pairs in a biomechanics lab, FitFlop makes some of the best orthopedic shoes on the market. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more comfortable pair of sneakers for women or flats than those from the brand — including its Allegro silhouette. Great for anyone as well as people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, the ballet flat has an anatomically-contoured footbed featuring the brand’s Dynamicush technology in the forefoot for a deliciously bouncy feel. Meanwhile, a soft leather upper with an elasticized topline adds to the shoe’s ease of wear. The flat is actually quite chic, too, offering a streamlined look in a range of classic to pretty metallic hues.
What reviewers say: Lovely soft leather. Silver without the bling. I’ve bought this style before in other colors: very comfortable and work well with lots of outfits.”
Courtesy of Fitflop
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Sam Edelman Felicia Flat
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: Over 20 different hues
Material: Leather, Vegan Patent, Brahma Hair, Suede, Jacquard, Lace, or Sequin
You’ll be eager to reach for these dainty bow-embellished flats every day of the week, not only because they’re versatile but will also feel effortless on your feet, featuring a moldable leather upper and soft synthetic lining and sole. They’re so trusty, one Nordstrom customer even said she wore them to walk down the aisle. “I bought the navy leather pair for my wedding and wore them the entire time. They’re so comfortable, wear easily, and go with just about anything. My husband ended up buying me a replacement pair for our first anniversary. I would buy these again and again!”
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Vionic Jade Slingback Flat
Most Comfortable Flats With Arch Support
Size range: 5-10
Colorways: Neon Lemon, Pastel Lilac, Silver Boa, Periwinkle, Dusty Pink, White Leopard
Material: 100% leather
Podiatrist-founded label Vionic delivers this classic slingback that’s supportive and will actually stay put. It’s designed to hug the arches and encourage natural alignment as you move, with a smooth, adjustable slingback strap for a dig-free fit. This one is perfect for the office, naturally, but would look stunning with casual jeans and blouse pairings as well.
What reviewers say: “I bought the periwinkle slingbacks in my usual size 10 for Vionic shoes and they fit perfectly. The arch support means I can wear these all day. I sprayed them with suede protector to keep them looking as fresh and fabulous as they are. I’m considering another pair in a different color. Vionic is really upping their style game and I’m here for it!”
Courtesy of Vionic
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Suavs the Barton
Best Comfortable Flats for Travel
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: Jet Black, Jet Black Gum, Slate White, Slate Gym
Material: polyfoam insole, microterry fiber, post-consumer recycled threads
Special features: Made Sustainably with 100% Post-Consumer Recycled Threads
Also editor-approved, these slip-ons go the distance for quick coffee runs or hours of urban exploring. They’re equipped with no-stitch knit uppers to prevent hot spots, flexible outsoles, and moisture-wicking, cushioned insoles. What’s more, these shoes pack flat, making them perfect to bring on vacation or keep in your bag at the office for your commute.
What reviewers say: “If possible I would give more than 5 stars. You can dress up or down with these shoes. When I am wearing people usually give me so many compliments and will say looks very comfy slip ons…..Best for travel.”
Courtesy of Suavs
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Skechers Cleo Bewitch Ballet Flat
Best Flats for Bunions
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: black, light grey, natural, taupe, charcoal, navy
Material: 100% flat knit
Special features: Available in narrow and wide widths
Over 4,000 Amazon customers gave this simple vegan flat a five-star rating, with plenty of those saying it’s the ultimate style for people with wide feet or bunions. That’s because these shoes are made with a soft, stretchy knit upper that expertly conforms to your foot without causing uncomfortable pressure. (Bonus: The upper is machine washable for easy maintenance and has a stylish scallop trim to boot). Inside, an air-cooled memory foam insole keeps feet cool and cushioned.
What reviewers say: “Love these shoes. I have issues with bunions and these shoes are incredibly comfortable. I have 3 pairs in different colors. They are great for dress or casual wear.”
Courtesy of Amazon
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Madewell The Adelia Mule
Size range: 5-12
Colorways: black
Material: leather
Special features: man-made sole (35% of which is recycled)
Madewell’s Adelia Mule offers a timeless look in supple leather that needs zero break-in time. Plus, it’s packed with the brand’s signature MWL Cloudlift Lite cushioning for ’round the clock bliss.
What reviewers say: “These slides worked well for me for dressing up and with ankle jeans. All leather. Classy.”
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Naturalizer Juliette Loafer Flat
Size range: 4-12
Colorways: Lodge Brown
Material: faux leather
Special features: made of 80% recycled paper and soy-based ink
Naturalizer also makes a popular croc-embossed loafer, done in a slightly more traditional penny loafer silhouette. It has an almond toe design to provide ample room for toes, as well as anatomically sculpted cushioning, breathable linings, and a flexible, non-slip outsole for stable strides.
What reviewers say: “The comfort of these shoes now make me only want to wear naturalized. Worth buying”
Courtesy of Amazon
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Aerosoles Candice
Size range: 6.5-11
Colorways: 8 different hues
Material: rubber sole, faux suede upper
Courtesy of the support shoe experts at Aerosoles, these flats with a little extra bling won’t cause achy arches. The key: A plush quilted footbed and supportive diamond pattern outsole. Keep in mind these may run a bit narrow in the toe box, so may not be the best fit for those with wide feet.
What reviewers say: “These shoes are so adorable! They match perfectly with a sweater I have, so I was excited to find these. They are quite comfortable and live up to the Aerosoles reputation. I can walk comfortably in these all day at work. Very happy with these.”
Courtesy of Aerosoles
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Allbirds Tree Breezers
Most Comfortable Flats for Walking
Size range: 5-11
Colorways: 12 different hues
Material: eucalyptus tree fiber
Special features: has a carbon footprint of 3.84 kg CO2e.
Like Allbirds’ ultra-popular sneakers, these breezy flats from the brand are all about comfort and sustainability (not to mention, they’re machine-washable!). They have a soft, breathable tree fiber upper with a cozy ribbed collar to keep feet cool and locked in place. What’s more, they include bouncy, contoured outsoles made from Brazilian surgarcane and a cushioned insole composed of eco-friendly castor bean oil. (One customer even noted she walked two miles through an airport in these and didn’t feel any pain.) Lined with merino wool, the insoles do double duty to wick away moisture and ensure freshness.
What reviewers say: “These little ballerina slippers don’t look like much in the box but on your feet they’re quite cute and SO COMFORTABLE….like wearing bedroom slippers!”
Courtesy of Allbirds
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Comfortable Women’s Flats Shoes for Different Foot Types and Conditions
Comfortable Flats for Flat Feet: If you have common foot conditions like flat feet or high arches, California-based podiatrist Dr. Najwa Javed encourages you to “always buy a shoe with a stable sole to help support the arch of the foot.” Control and stability are important to help neutralize stresses and avoid overpronation, which can cause pain in the foot and leg. So instead of finding a comfortable flat with thick inner foam, search for a pair with a firm insole so you have more control.
Comfortable Flats for Wide Feet: If you’ve got wide feet, opt for shoes that come in a wide size option or have a soft upper to reduce pinching for wide feet. Wiggle your toes when you try the shoes on to see if the flat is a good fit for your wide feet. If you can wiggle them, then that’s a sign they fit properlyt. If your toes feel confined, move on.
Comfortable Flats for Plantar Fasciitis: People who suffer from plantar fasciitis should look for flats with a flexible midsole and padding in the forefoot, as well as options that can accommodate an insole — for extra support.
Comfortable Flats for High Arches: If you have exceptionally high arches, you’ll want to find a flat with an elevated cushion where the force is greatest upon contact. With a high arch, the foot cannot adapt to the ground as easily, so people with this foot type should seek shoes that offer a better balance of cushion and control, Dr. Parker M Gennett advises.
Comfortable Flats for Knee Pain: Comfortable shoes for knee pain aren’t a long-term fix; however, they can help alleviate or avoid aggravating the pain by getting your foot into proper alignment and diffusing pressure away from the knee. So, to find the right shoe for your pain, you must first understand the source of your discomfort, which can vary, says Dr. Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania. Overuse injuries are one of the most common. “Most overuse injuries are related to faulty biomechanics in which people may develop muscle imbalances, stress on tendons or bones secondary to the foot being either too flat (hyper-pronated) or too high of an arch (caved foot),” he says.
Comfortable Flats for Back Pain: When shopping for shoes for back pain, remember a few things. First is the type of back pain you’re experiencing. “I think people have to realize that with back pain, it depends on the problem that you have,” says Mark Mendeszoon, a podiatrist and owner of Achilles Running Shop in Pennsylvania. “For example, my back hurts right now because I had a hard workout this morning and then stood in surgery all day. But if you have severe arthritis and localized back pain, you’ll need a lot more than shoes to help you.”
Comfortable Flats for Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are the growth of bone on the bottom of your heel, and in order to prevent and alleviate pain, finding the best shoes for heel spurs should be your first step. “If you have a spur, you need a cushy heel,” Dr. Rushton says. Anatomical arch support is also helpful in promoting healthy foot alignment. Good alignment means the entire foot will absorb the impact of every step rather than just the heel.
Comfortable Flats for Neuropathy: Need comfortable shoes for neuropathy? According to Dr. Mike Rushton, co-founder and medical director of Forward Motion Orthotics in St. George, Utah, diabetics can experience odd sensations in their feet and poor circulation. He recommends wide-fitting flats with “plenty of depth” to avoid rubbing and chafing that can lead to greater sores and injuries. “There are diabetic shoes on the market that boast all these qualities, as well as special insoles that decrease friction on feet,” Rushton explains.
Comfortable Flats for Bunions: Dr. Genett says that anyone with bunions will generally need flats with wider toe boxes. The toe box is often overlooked when finding the right comfortable shoes for bunions; however, it should be kept top of mind because it can solve many foot issues. For example, if you’ve been dealing with blisters, bunions, or other foot pain, find a comfortable flat with a broad forefoot area so your toes can spread out and grip the ground for push-off.
What to Look for in the Most Comfortable Flats for Women
Comfortable Flats for Work: If you’re heading back to the office and are looking for comfortable shoes for work, search for a pair that cradles your foot. This will ensure your weight is redistributed equally across the foot and is important whether your job requires you to stand all day or not. If you want to prevent tightness and chafing, buy work shoes in a half size larger than your typical size.
Comfortable Flats for Weddings: Since you don’t have to worry about the heel height with flats, consider the toe box of a bridal shoe. This can make a huge difference in terms of comfort, especially for those with particular foot conditions. “If you have a square, wide foot, bunions or hammertoes, avoid narrow, pointy toe boxes,” warns New York-based podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera. “Instead, opt for a rounder or square-toe box.”While the traditional ballet flat silhouette is making a comeback, there are plenty of modern and eye-catching styles you can now add to your cart for your wedding day. Think soft knit flats done in elegant patterns, sleek croc-embossed loafers, and cool color-blocked mules. As an added incentive, some brands are making their cute and wearable flats eco-friendly, so you can wear them knowing that you’re doing good for your feet and the environment. Of course, it doesn’t hurt if your comfortable wedding shoes are chic and versatile, too.
Comfortable Flats for Walking: Like women’s walking sneakers, the best walking flats should be built with high-quality materials to guarantee perfect performance and a worthy investment. A shoe’s sole should consist of materials like rubber, leather, and polyurethane, all of which provide flexibility, durability, and traction. New York-based podiatrist Dr. Parker M Gennett says walking shoes should also have “a stiff heel counter, firm, protective sole and torsion stability,” adding that “if you can twist the shoe like a pretzel, it’s probably not a good option.” If you have flat feet, look for sneakers with stiffer elements, such as insoles and orthotics. If you have high arches, choose more flexible and cushioned shoes to help absorb shock.
Women’s Flats Trends for 2023
In fashion, dressers usually fall into one of two categories: those who crave comfort and those who care more about appearance. However, the rise of women’s flats for 2023, spearheaded by labels such as Miu Miu and Chanel, has bridged the gap between these separate shopping types.
Some believe this growth in the popularity of flats is because women have given up heels for good, thanks to the pandemic; however, it’s also because of the new term, “balletcore.” While the trend may consist of ballet flats, empire waist skirts, and silk tops, the simple shoe is the standout piece that makes a statement while delivering comfort.
These modern flats are not like the ones worn back years ago. While they may have been worn with skirts and tights, now the runways and our favorite style inspirations show them with everything from baggy jeans to leather pants and knit dresses. Plus, this shoe is no longer seen and worn in neutrals like black, white, and tan but is now offered in colors such as pastel hues and prints for year-round wear.
Regardless of what has influenced designers and shoppers to gravitate toward the sweet, stylish, and easy shoe, there’s a reason it will continue into 2024, and it’s not hard to see why.
How We Tested and Reviewed the Best Comfortable Flats for Women
Footwear News has been a leading authority in the footwear industry for over 75 years. Our experts know how to research, source, and test the best shoes for all activities and occasions.
After logging dozens of hours of research and combing through hundreds of customer reviews across several retailers, we tapped several top doctors to help us determine the best comfortable flats for women. We also took into consideration the top-standing shoes within a variety of workplaces and types of flooring. We also kept in mind break-in periods and out-of-the-box comfort. Style, price point, and value were also considered while prioritizing podiatrist-recommended flats and tips.
As new shoes are released throughout 2023, we will continue to update this guide to the best comfortable flats for women to deliver the most up-to-date recommendations and tips to enable you to focus on whatever your day may bring — and not your achy feet.
Meet the Authors
Samantha Peters is the former Senior Style Commerce Editor at Fairchild Media Group (FMG). She previously oversaw Footwear News’ shopping vertical for three years, where she became an expert on the latest footwear trends and innovations by testing and reviewing shoes in a wide range of categories — from athletic to streetwear styles and cute summer sandals for women. Peters initially wrote this story that was then updated by the FootwearNews team.
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Fairchild Media Group, where she writes and edits shopping stories for Footwear News and WWD. Prior to her current role, she wrote countless buyer’s guides, trend stories, and reviews on fashion and beauty products, including shoe-focused stories for women. You can find her in comfortable walking shoes when she’s running errands around New York City on the weekend or attending showroom appointments to check out the latest footwear trends during the work week. Chwatt updated this comfortable flats story with new trend information and products.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Michael Fishkin is a certified pedorthist and currently treats patients at Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialists.
Dr. Najwa Javed is a Board Certified Podiatrist and Founder of E’MAR Italy. Throughout her years of practice, she has focused on achieving an optimal state of health for her patients through mitigating foot and ankle injuries. With specialized training in foot and ankle surgery and clinical research, she integrates biomechanical stability with surgical innovation, biologic therapies, and modern science.
Dr. Michael Rushton is the Co-Founder of JM Orthotics and developer of semi-rigid heat molding material utilized for direct molding in podiatry. He has 13 years in private practice specializing in conservative care and orthotic therapy. Dr. Rushton is also a national tri-athlete competitor.
Dr. Gennett is board certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Podiatric Medical Specialties Board. He is also a diplomate of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons and was a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association. Dr. Gennett has been in practice for about 25 years at the Foot & Ankle Care Center. Dr. Gennett has a well rounded practice with in office setting where he treats pediatric and adult sports injury as well as routine care of podiatric and orthopaedic foot and ankle conditions.
Dr. Jackie Suterais a New York-based podiatrist who specializes in women’s foot care, giving her patients the opportunity to talk through ailments and help them understand how podiatric issues relate to their overall health. She’s one of New York City’s most trusted experts in the industry, and has appeared in many national news outlets discussing and writing about foot care. Dr. Sutera approaches her practice with compassion, conscientiousness, and her unique wide-ranging base of knowledge and experience.
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