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19 Most Comfortable Flats That'll Feel Absolutely Heavenly on Your Feet

Leave those Band-Aids at home!

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a pair of legs wearing jeans and pink shoes
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Sad, but true: Not all flats are comfortable! Sure, the very concept of a flat shoe would make you think that every single pair should be easy to walk in, but some are so flimsy, may feel like your arches have no support, and *don't* even get me started on the blister-causing ones that have to be broken in.

Dr. Robert K. Lee, board-certified podiatric surgeon and Chief of Podiatric Surgery at the UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center, says that many common foot issues from flat shoes stem from overuse—i.e., when you're wearing them to spend a day at Disneyland or when you have a job that requires you to stand all day. These common injuries include plantar fasciitis (inflammation in the heel), metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of your foot), neuromas (pinched nerves in your toes), and stress fractures. Co-founder of Frankie4 and podiatrist Caroline McCulloch says plantar fasciitis is very common and affects around 10 percent of adults. "The more time on your feet correlates with an increased chance of heel pain," she explains. "Making sure your feet have a good foundation is an excellent first step to avoid or alleviate heel pain."

What features should you look for in a comfortable flat shoe?

Dr. Lee says, above all, the most important thing is a correct fit. He explains that everyone has a different shape to their foot, particularly in the forefoot area: "Some people have a pointier shape versus more club shaped; some people have narrow feet, whereas others are more wide. You can't force a triangle piece into a square hole." Issues like bunions or hammertoes can also alter the shape of your foot. Aside from fit, Dr. Lee says that having a thicker more supportive sole will be more protective and comfortable. A small heel and a soft, forgiving material can also make a difference in the comfort department.

McCulloch seconds a correct fit. She adds that people often wear ballet flats that are too small with the aim to stop them falling off, resulting in painful pressure points over the toes, while others tend to wear the correct length, but find themselves clawing their toes to keep the shoes secure to their foot. "This results in pain, discomfort, and excessive heel slippage." A forefoot cushion under the footbed of her designs allows for a tighter fit if needed, without compromising your true size.

An add-on shoe accessory that Dr. Lee recommends is a metatarsal pad. If your forefoot is sore, these pads can help reduce pressure around that spot when you're walking. He also says an orthotic insert can help alleviate pain (if your shoe has enough room to fit one), and toe spacers are a relief if you have any painful corns between your toes.



Now that you have the expert lowdown on what to avoid and what features to look for, I rounded up 19 of the most comfortable flat shoes based on reviews. But don't you worry! They're still very much stylish. All the people complimenting your cute footwear won't even know that they actually feel like slippers on your feet. It'll be your secret, unless you choose to share! For even more comfortable footwear ~content~ click the links for the most comfy shoes overall, comfy heels, and comfy dress shoes you'll never wanna take off.

Our top picks for the best comfortable flats of 2024:


Ready to kick off your boots and slide into one of these? Yup, we know you are. BTW, here are some life-saving no show socks. You're welcome!

All Gender ReEMBER TERRAIN

Pros

  • Great if your feet run cold
  • Squishy insert that molds to feet
  • Ideal for travel, can clip carabiners on them

Cons

  • No half sizes

True story: I gifted my mom a pair of these during the holidays, and she can't stop talking about them. The plush insole feels like a marshmallow for your toes, but it's also firm enough so your feet don't completely sink in. If you're a person who loves a great indoor shoe that's equally great outdoors, these are the slip-ons for you.

Rave Review: "The most comfortable slides ever, better to wear with socks as your feet get quite warm and over time could begin to sweat. I wear them to run errands and lounge around the house, and they are beyond comfortable. Also, I have wide feet and they fit so nice."

Sizing5-16
MaterialsRecycled Polyester, Recycled Rubber
this podiatrist-recommended pair

Frankie4 Poppy Tan

Poppy Tan
this podiatrist-recommended pair

Frankie4 Poppy Tan

Pros

  • Has adjustable forefoot cushions
  • Podiatrist recommended
  • Cradles your arches and heels

Cons

  • Comes in only 3 colors

This style is one that Frankie4's co-founder and Australian podiatrist, Caroline McCulloch, recommends. It has a subtle built-in wedge that provides arch support and a cushiony sole that helps prevents any pain flaring up in other areas of your legs. There's also adjustable forefoot cushions included, so you'll feel like you have a custom fit made exactly for your feet. Fancy!


Rave Review
: "Second pair of Poppys I own. They go with so many outfits and are so comfortable you can wear them all day!! They are the same quality I have come to expect from Frankie4."

Sizing5-13
MaterialsLeather, Rubber
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Boston Genuine Shearling Lined Clogs

Pros

  • Shapes to your foot
  • Fuzzy inside so your feet are comfy
  • Footbed is contoured for arch support

Cons

  • Suede can be hard to clean

Everyone knows how comfortable Birkenstocks are. If you don't yet have a pair, you should change that! The signature cork sole molds to your exact foot shape over time, and the shearling lining on these classic "Boston" clogs make them ideal for colder temps or if your feet are always icicles (*raises hand*).

Rave Review: "I'm a runner and have been fighting a stubborn case of plantar fasciitis. I've found that Birkenstocks are the only shoes that I can wear without pain. I wear these mostly around the house, but they are so comfortable I've been venturing outside in them."

Sizing5-12.5
MaterialsCork, Shearling, Suede
Uchi Flat in Tannat

Pros

  • Lug sole heel provides traction
  • Handmade in Argentina
  • Come in tons of colors

Cons

  • No half sizes

Add some edge to your footwear game with this bestselling pair featuring a square toe, super chic buckle, chunky leather and rubber lug sole.

Sizing35-42
MaterialsLeather
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these printed ones

Birdies The Starling

The Starling

Pros

  • Looks expensive
  • Has 7 layers to create plush padding
  • 15,000+ five-star ratings

Cons

  • Sizing selling out in this particular print

This one's destined for greatness! The style is one of Birdies' most popular. I mean, just peep the 30,000+ reviews. The plush lining inside and perfectly roomy interior will feel like heaven on your feet.

Rave Review: "The Starling Birdies are so comfortable that I own them in multiple colors. Felt so confident about those that the first time I wore them was for a full day of walking around the city, and they did not disappoint! Perfect sizing, no break in time, and so very stylish!"

Sizing5-13
MaterialsCalf Hair
Dream Ballerina

Pros

  • Silhouette doesn't crush your toes
  • Super soft leather
  • Reviewers say they're comfy right out of the box

Cons

  • A tad pricey

These ballet flats are, as their style name promises, a dream. An editor-favorite, the soft leather and glove-like fit make these feel more like slippers and less like actual shoes. Also, how gorgeous is this dark navy hue?! JFYI, these tend to sell quickly with each restock, so if you want 'em, it's wise to snag a pair fast!

Rave Review: "This is my third pair of Mansur Gavriel shoes. The other two pairs are square-toed. I absolutely love these flats. They fit great, conform to the feet, and look great with everything. I will definitely be buying more of these ballet flats."

Sizing35-42
MaterialsLeather
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Best Seller
Emmie Ballet Flat

Pros

  • They come in sooo many colors
  • Leather is flexible
  • Memory foam insole

Cons

  • Minimal arch support

With over 10,000 ratings, you really can't go wrong with these Lucky Brand ones. They come in every color imaginable and have a solid 4.1-star rating out of 5.

Rave Review: "They are very comfortable, have a padded insole, and they're supportive—which you don't find with many flats. I am a heel girl honestly, but during the last few months of my pregnancy, my doctor ordered me into flats. Needless to say, I have tried several brands and these Lucky flats are one of my most comfortable pairs; plus, they are cute and stylish."

Sizing5-13
MaterialsLeather
these knit ones

Rothy's Lollipop Red

Lollipop Red

Pros

  • Knit material is soft on feet
  • No break-in period
  • They're machine washable

Cons

  • Some reviewers say it runs a half-size small

Rothy's knows a thing or two about comfort, since their kicks are made from the softest knit material created from recycled water bottles. Love that sustainability! The brand's popular Mary Jane style has a cute slightly square toe (compared to their popular v pointy flats) and signature contrasting blue stripe detail on the back.

Rave Review: "I can't believe how much I love these flats! For starters, they are so comfortable I literally want to wear them constantly. I didn't think there would be much cushion, but there is. And they stay on because of the strap unlike a lot of ballet flats that feel like they are going to slip off. I did go a half size larger and they are perfect. I bought a second pair in the light pink. Love!!"

Sizing5-13
MaterialsRecycled Plastic
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Low Wedge Ankle Strap Flats

Pros

  • Zipper at back makes it easy to take on and off
  • Low wedge for a tad more height and comfort
  • Has a lightly cushioned insole
  • Comes in 13 colors

Cons

  • Mixed reviews about the fit
  • Pointed toe might not be best for wide feet

Technically, these have an extremely small wedge, but it's so low, they're basically still flats! They've got more than 15,000 ratings with an average of 4.2 stars, so you know the customers are obsessed. The back has a zipper, so they're easy to take off and put on. No fidgeting and contorting to get the ankle straps buckled!

Rave Review: "I now have this shoe in three different color ways. It’s my daily office shoe and I wear it all day. A half-sock gives it a skosh more padding under the ball of the foot so I can walk all day or dance all night. Works with pants and dresses."

Sizing5-12
MaterialsRubber
these lightweight ones

Allbirds Tree Breezers

Tree Breezers
these lightweight ones

Allbirds Tree Breezers

Now 30% Off

Pros

  • Made from cooling eucalyptus fiber
  • Machine washable
  • Flexible material conforms to your feet

Cons

  • Reviewers say it can run a half size too small
  • Minimal arch support

Want to feel like you're wearing absolutely no shoes? These Allbirds will def do the trick. They're SUPER light and breathable, so your feet won't feel weighed down or sweaty.

Rave Review: "I have been wearing these to work the past couple of months and they have become my favorite shoes! I do a lot of standing and moving around at work and these are comfortable all day. I ordered a size 10—my typical size—but they were too tight. I was able to easily exchange them for a 10.5, which then fit perfectly!"

Sizing5-11
MaterialsEucalyptus Fiber
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these royal-approved ones

Sarah Flint The Natalie

The Natalie

Pros

  • Extra padding in the sole
  • Has a rubber forepart to prevent slipping
  • Made in Italy with 100 percent leather

Cons

  • Not true to size for wider feet, go up half a size

Meghan Markle loves these bow-accented flats, and so do the 600+ customers who gave 'em a nearly perfect 4.6-star review. The extra padding on the footbed definitely helps.

Rave Review: "I love my Sarah Flint Natalie’s. These shoes are not just beautiful, they are so comfortable. The craftsmanship, the attention to details such as the wider toe box, extra cushion, rubber outer sole—it all just makes sense! Walking with these shoes on is like walking in the clouds. I’d highly recommend Sarah Flint shoes."

Sizing4-13
MaterialsLeather
these Parisian ones

Margaux The Demi

The Demi
these Parisian ones

Margaux The Demi

Pros

  • Come in three different widths
  • Avail in tons of colors
  • Handmade in Spain

Cons

  • Shipping might be delayed depending on color

If you're in the market for a cute pair of rounded ballet flats with a bow, then, well, here you are. Margaux is really known for its flats, and this style has 900+ perfect 5-star ratings. Don't mind if I try these out for myself!

Rave Review: "I am new to The Demi, and I must say that is it the most comfortable Margaux. I purchased my usual 38.5, and they were perfect. Gorgeous, soft leather and so classy!"

Sizing3-14
MaterialsLeather
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these loafers

M Gemi The Felize

Editor’s Choice
The Felize

Pros

  • The rubber pegs give more traction
  • The more you wear it, the more it molds to your feet
  • The oval shape prevents crowding in toe box

Cons

  • Some reviewers say they can run slightly small

M Gemi's "Felize" loafers are some of the comfiest shoes you'll ever wear. Period. Go up a half size for the absolute best fit, and trust us, this is a footwear purchase you won't regret.

Rave Review: "This is my fifth pair of the Felize. The suede is luxurious, the colors are fantastic, and they're comfortable to wear if you size up slightly. I'm normally a 40, but in these shoes I wear a 40.5. They look ultra chic and scream high quality."

Sizing35-43
MaterialsSuede, Leather
these second-skin ones

Everlane The Day Glove

The Day Glove

Pros

  • Made with buttery soft leather
  • Comes in 9 colors
  • Molds to your feet over time

Cons

  • Size up if you have wider feet

Wrap those toes up in a hug with these popular, v simple flats from Everlane that have an impressive 4.5-star rating and come in a variety of shades.

Rave Review: "This is the fourth pair of Day Gloves I’ve bought. I love them all. I have bunions on both feet and what they say in the description is absolutely true—they mold to your feet and I’ve never had a bit of pain. I’m so grateful Everlane keeps making these wonderful shoes!"

Sizing5-11
MaterialsLeather
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these wallet-friendly ones

Amazon Essentials Loafer Flat

2-Day Shipping!
Loafer Flat
these wallet-friendly ones

Amazon Essentials Loafer Flat

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Has memory foam for cushion
  • Available in standard and wide

Cons

  • Some reviewers say the quality isn't great
  • Run a half size small

Always love an affordable but still stylish option! These Amazon Essentials loafers are a great closet staple; judging by the reviews and ratings, customers can't get enough of 'em.

Rave Review: "I've worn these shoes for over a year now, and I will probably purchase another pair. I absolutely love them. They're both comfortable and stylish with an expensive look!! I'll probably order them in black also."

Sizing5-15
MaterialsFaux Suede
these mixed-material ones

Vionic Minna Ballet Flat

Minna Ballet Flat

Pros

  • Comes in medium, wide, and narrow
  • Features orthotic inserts for arch support
  • Has contrasting toe-cap detail

Cons

  • Some reviewers say the materials don't hold up

A cute toe-cap detail always looks good on flats. This Vionic pair has a patent leather one for some extra shine, as well as, a dainty bow. About 800 people reviewed this pair and are definitely fans.

Rave Review: "It's hard to find stylish shoes with arch support for plantar fasciitis, but these are one of my favorite pair of flats. I bought the navy patent leather with silver details and love them. Very comfortable and I can wear them to work or dress up a pair of jeans on the weekend."

Sizing5-12
MaterialsLeather
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these neutral ones

Rebecca Allen The Skim Flat

The Skim Flat

Pros

  • Come in various shades of beige to find your skin tone
  • Memory foam cushioning
  • Breathable lining

Cons

  • Some reviewers say they scuff easily

If you have trouble finding a flat that matches your skin tone, definitely check out this pointy-toed pair that comes in multiple neutral shades. The foam-cushioned footbed and breathable lining are also welcome bonuses!

Rave Review: "I own two pairs and absolutely love them; I get so many compliments! I’ve never had a pair of flats that don’t slip off my heel when walking UNTIL these! Rebecca Allen got that right, too, thankfully! Couldn’t ask for a more comfortable pair of flats!"

Sizing6-11
MaterialsLeather
these woven ones

Nisolo Ama Woven Mule

Ama Woven Mule
these woven ones

Nisolo Ama Woven Mule

Pros

  • Water-resistant leather
  • Slip-ons
  • Shock absorbing insole

Cons

  • Only available in standard width

Over 250 reviewers agree that these slides are simply the BEST. The shock-absorbing sole and the buttery soft lining definitely help with the comfort factor of these gorgeous, woven flats.

Rave Review: "These mules are a classic and made so well! I love the detailing of the woven, black texture. They are very comfortable and don't dig into my foot. The little heel adds a nice little touch."

Sizing5-11
MaterialsLeather
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these velvet ones

Brother Vellies Mia Flat

Mia Flat

Pros

  • Made in Italy
  • Soft scrunchy elastic doesn't dig into back of heel
  • Square shape doesn't crowd toe box

Cons

  • Expensive

The scrunchie-like slingback on these velvet flats will feel so nice on the back of your foot. Heaven.

Sizing6-12
MaterialsVelvet

Why trust Cosmo:

best flats

Cosmo’s team of fashion experts—which includes fashion director Cassie Anderson and fashion features director Rachel Torgerson, senior accessories editor Andrea Zendejas, and fashion editors Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien and Danielle Flum—have decades of experience in the industry. They spot relevant trends on the runway before they even hit your TikTok FYP or Insta Explore Page and conduct research across retailers of all kinds to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we've curated a chic little corner of the internet for you like it’s our job (because it is, heh).

We have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

Lettermark
Lauren Adhav
Associate Fashion Editor

I'm Cosmopolitan's Associate Fashion Editor and write about any and all trends, major celeb fashion moments, and why wide-leg jeans are basically the best. I originally moved to New York City to audition for RENT, only to find out that the play closed 10 years ago. 

Headshot of Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien

Tarah-Lynn Saint-Elien is the fashion editor at Cosmopolitan, writing weighty and witty stories that run the gamut of gushing over Zendaya to convincing you of everything you need in your closet! She began her journey in the industry with a fashion and faith blog and an internship at Elle about 10 years ago. Since then, she's also served as the style editor at The Haitian Times. The Haitian-American pageant queen is Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, a Syracuse Masters graduate, and the author of three books, including: Claim Your Crown. Follow her on Instagram and TikTok: @iamtarahlynn.

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