Don’t forego comfort in the name of style
Two things can be true at once: Your shoes can be cute and comfortable simultaneously. While many people associate stylish footwear with sky-high stiletto heels and teeny, squished toe boxes, we’re here to remind you that there are plenty of roomy, flat shoes that won’t cramp your style.
Don’t believe us? Look ahead for nine pairs of fall-ready flats that are chic and elegant, without sacrificing any points in the comfort department. Sneaky details like arch support, cushy footbeds and wide widths keep these shoes cute and comfy at the same time. Tell your feet you’re welcome.
In this article: Frank Mully Wide Width Ballet Flats with Arch Support and Wide Toe Box, Cusolemore Mary Jane Flat Shoes for Women with Arch Support and Hidden Wedge Heel and LifeStride Womens Notorious Ballet Flats
What features to look for in comfortable shoes
Just because a pair of shoes looks comfortable, doesn’t mean it’s actually designed to maximize support. When you shop for comfy yet stylish shoes, make sure they have at least some or all of the following details:
Arch support
Arch support helps properly align your feet, improves your balance and stability and offers pain relief, especially if you’re spending long days on your feet. While you can purchase insoles to place inside your shoes, those with arch support already built in may be more convenient and comfortable.
A wide toe box
If you can’t wiggle your toes inside your shoes, chances are you’re going to be looking to get off your feet as soon as possible. Instead, opt for footwear with a wide toe box that gives your toes space to sprawl out. This allows your feet to move naturally, which can help you take more natural full strides.
A flat or low heel
Flat shoes, or those with low heels (1 inch or under), are easier on your feet and calves than higher heels. While high heels put more weight on the balls of your feet, flat shoes distribute your weight more evenly, which makes for a more comfortable walking and standing experience.
Flexible, breathable fabric
Breathable fabrics allow air to circulate around your feet, which helps prevent odor and sweaty feet. Flexible fabrics allow the shoe to move with your foot and can help reduce or eliminate a break-in period.
Best comfortable flats with arch support
Frank Mully Wide-Width Ballet Flats with Arch Support and Wide Toe Box
Don’t stress if these ballet flats get scuffed up: The knitted fabric shoes with rubber soles can be tossed in the washing machine to look good as new. The shoes are available in wide widths and have a round, wide toe box for added comfort.
Cole Haan Tova Bow Ballet Flat
A pair of leather flats is a workhorse staple for any wardrobe. This sheepskin leather pair by Cole Haan comes in three neutral hues, each of which is outfitted with a cushioned footbed with added arch support to keep you comfortable all day long. Other elegant details include glossy hardware and a reptile-embossed ornamental strap.
Loafers are a timeless closet staple that never go out of style. Still, some are much more comfortable than others, so we recommend choosing a pair with arch support like this style from Vionic. The Nappa leather slip-ons have a cushioned footbed, a 1-inch block heel and a removable insole.
Dr. Scholl’s Women’s Jetset Band Slip-On Loafer
Another loafer that’s equal parts chic and comfortable: this two-tone faux leather pair by Dr. Scholl’s. They have ultra-flexible outsoles with extra grip and cushioning, as well as a lightweight and flexible construction that keeps your feet happy all day long. A low 0.75-inch heel elevates without adding discomfort.
BURUDANI Women’s Arch Support Ballet Flats
This pair of goes-with-anything black flats has added comfort in the form of a memory foam sole and arch support. Furthermore, a U-shaped heel cup hugs your foot without squeezing it, helping the shoes stay in place on your feet. The breathable, moisture-wicking fabric keeps your feet dry and snug.
Cusolemore Mary Jane Flat Shoes for Women with Arch Support and Hidden Wedge Heel
Extra-cushioned memory foam arch support and a 1-inch concealed low wedge heel help make these Mary Jane flats feel more comfortable than they look. The square-toe design gives your toes a bit of added space, while the adjustable strap keeps your feet from slipping out of these faux leather shoes.
Available in narrow, medium and wide widths, these comfy leather flats allow every foot shape to get the perfect fit. They’re also equipped with a removable, memory-foam cushioned footbed with arch support and a hidden low wedge heel.
A sweet bow outfitted with gold tips sits atop these classic leather ballet flats available in black and navy leather. There’s also a glossy contrast toe for added appeal. In the comfort department, the shoes offer a removable insole with arch support along with wide, medium and narrow width options. It is recommended to size down in these shoes, which run slightly large.
LifeStride Womens Notorious Ballet Flats
A contoured insole with extra arch support and cushioning keep these loafer-style flats plenty comfortable. Meanwhile, a traction sole and 1-inch heel provide stability. The round-toe flats come in three neutral hues.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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