In case you were unaware, ballet flats are back and we’re wearing them with everything from straight-leg jeans to midi skirts. Whether you prefer structured, pointy-toes or pairs that more closely resemble slippers, the ballet flat is an ultra-versatile, feminine touch to any wardrobe. Dr. Pamela Mehta dubbed the Vionic Orinda ballet flats ($120) as a great option for sleek flats with arch support, so that's why we're crowning those the best overall pair for you to shop. You'll also see chic pairs made from recycled materials (!) by sustainable brands like Vivaia and Rothy's on this list. (Psst: if you're trying to choose between the two, we've got you covered.) And though they can be notoriously uncomfortable and unforgiving on the arches, ballet flats with arch support do exist. And if “shoes with arch support” makes you envision thick, clunky orthopedic sneakers, these 14 ballet flats with arch support prove that style and comfort don’t have to be mutually exclusive.
14 Pairs of Ballet Flats with Arch Support That Are Equal Parts Comfy and Stylish
All Approved by an Orthopedic Surgeon, Editors and Buyers
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The Best Ballet Flats with Arch Support at a Glance
Best Overall
Vionic Orinda Ballet Flats
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Most Affordable Ballet Flats
Dr Scholl’s Giorgie Memory Foam Flats
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For Walking All Day
Clarks Rena Flat
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Most Eco-Friendly Ballet Flats
Vivaia Valencia Flat
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Most Comfortable Ballet Flats
Birdies The Goldfinch Flats
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Meet the Expert
- Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and Chief Medical Officer at The Good Feet Store. She graduated from University of Southern California and did an orthopedic surgical residency at Columbia University. You can watch her informative videos on Instagram.
How We Chose the Best Ballet Flats with Arch Support
After talking with board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Pamela Mehta, studying reviews from customers of the brands and relying on the trusted word of some of our editors and their favorite flats with arch support, we've developed a comprehensive list of pairs for you to try. To make the cut, the shoes had to balance form and function, offering a solid range of sizes, color/pattern options and supportive materials and fabrics. We found flats that boast cushioned foam insoles for a guaranteed plush step, and we even sourced shoes that welcome arch inserts, too. Flats never looked (and felt) so good.
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Best Overall
What We Like
- stylish square toe provides a roomy toe box
- constructed with Vio Motion technology
What We Don't Like
- many customers say it runs large
Vionic
Dr. Mehta recommends the Vionic Lena flat, which is designed with the company’s Vio Motion technology. According to Vionic, their technology works to provide cushioning, arch support, flexibility and stability in shoes, while correcting posture and promoting full-body alignment. What’s more, it garnered the attention of PureWow Fashion Editor Abby Hepworth, who is a fan of the brand’s comfortable ballet flats. She says, “They're incredibly comfortable, even after a full day of walking around the city, and the insole feels so cushy—you can really tell it's supporting your foot. They also just look really chic and expensive, which is always a lovely bonus.” We especially love that it features a subtle square-toe upper and comes in three fits (narrow, medium and wide), guaranteeing a roomy toe-box and comfortable fit.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13 (narrow, medium and extra-wide options available)
- Colors: 5 options
- Materials: leather, suede, microfiber wrapped EVA, synthetic
- Promising Review: “These are the perfect black flats! Super comfy! The leather is soft and flexible which just adds to the comfort of this shoe. Highly recommend. I have worn them a ton already throughout the holiday season and gotten tons of compliments.” – a Vionic reviewer
Most Affordable Ballet Flats
2. Dr. Scholl’s Giorgie Memory Foam Flats
What We Like
- flexible and durable sole
- heel cushions reduce slipping
What We Don't Like
- only goes up to size 11
- can be snug upon first wearing
Dr. Scholl’s
Dr. Scholl’s is known for its comfy, orthopedic shoes, and the Giorgie ballet flat is no exception. “I had purchased a lot of ‘cute’ non-supportive flats, and my feet, legs and back were paying for it. These help me get through the day,” one reviewer notes. The shoes feature a memory foam cool-fit insole and are available in sizes 6 to 11 in medium and wide widths. The company notably makes shoes that are roomier than industry standard, and the almond toe design adds a dainty point without squishing the toes. These flats come in six colors, including classic black, whiskey and a trendy silver metallic.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 11 (medium and wide options available)
- Colors: 6 options
- Materials: synthetic, faux leather, recycled plastic bottles
- Promising Review: “I highly recommend these shoes for anyone who’s looking for arch support and just overall comfort while still being business casual. The shoes fit great, they are true to size and are comfortable enough that I could wear them all day with no issues” – an Amazon reviewer
For Walking All Day
What We Like
- comes in medium and wide withs
- antimicrobial lining
What We Don't Like
- few color options
Clarks
Going to be on your feet for hours on end? Slip on a pair of these Clarks ballet flats for all-day comfort. The soft, elastic trim makes for a comfortable, flexible fit, while your feet will float on the molded, contoured cushion footbeds. These shoes have an antimicrobial lining made from partially recycled materials with a durable, non-slip sole. A slight heel gives a little lift, and the shoes are finished in a soft, breathable suede. There are four colors available: black, white, metallic gold and grenadine red.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5.5 to 11 (medium and wide options available)
- Colors: four options
- Materials: rubber, leather
- Promising Review: “Very comfortable to wear, made of solid quality, attention to detail, good gripping on the sole. Dress them up or wear casual. Received numerous compliments on them.” – an Amazon reviewer
Most Eco-Friendly Ballet Flats
What We Like
- made from recycled plastic bottles
- machine washable
What We Don't Like
- sizing can be convoluted,
- insole contains herb Artemisia Argyi, which may cause allergies in some
Vivaia
Promising “flats that feel like sneakers,” Vivaia creates machine-washable shoes out of recycled plastic bottles. The Valencia flats feature a shock-absorbing sole and “yoga mat” midsole that is lightweight with a high rebound. The foam insole provides elasticity, softness and arch support, while the heel padding is described as a “pillow” for ankles. Another draw is the moisture-wicking insole lining, made from the herb Artemisia Argyi, which the company says inhibits bacterial growth.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Colors: 14 options
- Materials: knit, recycled bottles, rubber
- Promising Review: “Such beautiful shoes and so comfy. Arrived quicker than expected and so pleased with how eco-friendly they are.” – a Vivaia reviewer
Most Comfortable Ballet Flats
5. Birdies The Goldfinch Flats
What We Like
- renowned seven-layer comfort technology
- made with vegan materials
What We Don't Like
- sizing can be inconsistent
Birdies
Birdies is renowned for its seven-layer comfort tech. The first layer is shiny quilted satin, followed by targeted arch and heel support, then layers of cushioning, high density foam, a shock absorption pad and memory foam. Basically, they’re made for helping you float—er—fly away. “This style makes my whole outfit look French girl chic,” says Dana Dickey, senior editor at PureWow. “The quilted sole not only feels comfy but looks so luxe when I kick these off at home.” And PureWow Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera agrees, emphasizing how the padded footbed is a game-changer for comfort and support. The brand recommends going up half a size if your foot is wide or between sizes, and it may have a small break-in period, though LaBarbera recommends bending down the back a couple of times to soften up the spot where they hit at the heels. There’s also a 30-day fit guarantee—even if worn—so you can return with no questions asked.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12
- Colors: 14 options
- Materials: vegan raffia, leather, rubber
- Promising Review: “Fit is spot on, shoes are extremely comfortable (even twelve hours into my day), and I absolutely love the look.” – a Birdies reviewer
Most Stylish Ballet Flats
6. Margaux The Demi Leather Flats
What We Like
- inclusive sizing and fits
- five millimeter foam cushioning
What We Don't Like
- higher-end price point
Margaux
Promising French girl sophistication, Margaux's The Demi ballet flat is a classic style featuring a charming grosgrain strip and ultra-plush five millimeter foam insole. It’s made from a soft and luxe Italian leather and has a working cord bow that lets you customize and adjust its fit to your liking. Associate SEO Editor Marissa Wu can attest: “This shoe logs literal miles without a word of protest from the feet. Plus, it comes in a wide width for those needing a little extra space.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 3 to 14 (medium, narrow and wide fits available)
- Colors: 11 options
- Materials: leather, foam
- Promising Review: “Never thought I would come back around on a rounded-toe ballet flat, but these are fabulous. Very comfortable and high quality.” – a Margaux reviewer
Best Day-to-Night Ballet Flats
7. Naturalizer Maxwell Leather Flats
What We Like
- multiple widths available
- contouring insole
What We Don't Like
- can run large and wide
Naturalizer
Looking for a shoe to take you from the office to drinks? The Naturalizer Maxwell flat is a winner, with its simple design that makes it feel at home in the office and at the bar. The contouring insole provides arch support, and the toe box is generous, making this a great pick for wide feet, though it’s important to note that it does come in a medium fit as well as wide. “I've been looking for a long time for the perfect flat,” one reviewer shares. “These are comfortable, with beautiful, soft leather, and a cushy footbed.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 12 (medium and wide fits available)
- Colors: 17 options
- Materials: leather, suede, synthetic, foam
- Promising Review: “Comfortable, has a nice arch, great quality made, leather with rubber outer sole giving it a softer ‘cushy’ feel than most flats out there. I highly recommend these flats.” – a Naturalizer reviewer
Best Ballet Flats for a Night Out
8. Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole Atlas Leather Flats
What We Like
- cushioned footbed with arch support
- modern silhouette
- bow detailing
What We Don't Like
- size range is not extensive
- may require a break-in period
Gentle Souls by Kenneth Cole
If you’re headed for a night on the town but don’t want to stumble through the evening in painful heels, meet these Kenneth Cole Atlas flats. Reviewers love the dainty bow detailing, and one even lauded the fact that they walked about a mile without discomfort. We’ll chalk that up to the Poron cushioning foam sole, as it’s built with high compression and can withstand the impact and shock from walking all day. With a rounded toe and raised heel, this ballet flat gives your outfit sophistication with comfort.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Colors: 7 options
- Materials: leather, PORON-cushioning, textile, rubber
- Promising Review: “I have slightly wide feet but the pointed toes on the shoe seem to be fine. They have a slightly refined look, but you could wear them with more casual clothes and just look more stylish. It’s a pretty little shoe at a great price!” – a Nordstrom reviewer
Best Ballet Flats for Weekend Outings
What We Like
- machine washable
- made of recycled materials
What We Don't Like
- runs half a size small
- sustainable knit fabric doesn’t stretch
Rothy's
This popular ballet flat, made from recycled plastic, comes in a rainbow of nearly 15 colors. With its rounded toe and lightweight, flexible design, the shoe is a versatile addition to any wardrobe. A buttery heel backing prevents irritation from rubbing, and they’re machine washable. Despite having an cloud-like comfortable feel, Dr. Metha recommends pairing them with arch supports for extra comfort as it has little arch support. Rothy’s customer Elizabeth P. says, “I had my first pair for five years before needing to replace [them] because the tread was worn out. They're perfect for everyday use and love that I can throw them in the wash whenever. I have high arches so [I] use inserts with these as well and they work perfectly.”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13
- Colors: 14 options
- Materials: knit made from plastic bottles
- Promising Review: “I am in LOVE with these flats. They are so comfortable, breathable and stylish. I am so glad I decided to get them!” – a Rothy’s reviewer
For the Office
10. Born Brin Leather Ballet Flat
What We Like
- leather-covered footbed
- arch support
What We Don't Like
- smallest size is 6
- heels can rub
Børn
This sweet Born’s Brin ballet flat, which comes topped with an adorable bow detail, offers arch support with additional foam padding in the footbed. Buyers note that they can stand for long periods of time in these flats, and that they’re comfortable even on arthritic feet. “The shoe has arch support, but it isn't very high (noted for those who need full arch support),” notes one Nordstrom Rack reviewer. The rubber sole provides traction and flexibility when moving about, and the shoe comes in many bright colors like a soft rust, buttery yellow and light blue, to name a few.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Colors: 10 options
- Materials: leather, textile, rubber
- Promising Review: “Cute, comfortable, very affordable. I love that they have some arch support, and they come in delicious colors! Nice quality.” – a Nordstrom Rack reviewer
Best Orthopedic All-Star Ballet Flats
What We Like
- comfortable scrunch-back adjusts to your foot’s movement
- sturdy insole features a cushiony foam and arch support
What We Don’t Like
- sizing can be iffy, especially for those with wide feet
Söfft
Aside from the plethora of colors (including a minty green, soft gold and this burnt red), the Söfft Kenni Flat has leather options: full-grain, metallic or Italian. The ballet flat has an elasticized heel with a tab for easy slip-on, while the three-quarter-inch heel gives a little lift. The leather-lined footbed features high-rebound foam and solid arch support, while the sole provides flexibility and traction. We’d pair this simple and versatile shoe with nearly anything in our closet, whether it’s a pair of jeans or a breezy sundress. Buyers suggest going up half a size if you have bunions, wide feet or simply wish to wear hosiery or socks with them.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 6 to 11
- Colors: 6 options
- Materials: leather, foam, rubber
- Promising Review: “Soft leather, stays on [and] heel leather is pliable so no heel blisters!” – an Amazon reviewer
Best Ballet Flats for Wide Feet
12. Vionic Amorie Leather Flats
What We Like
- comes in both medium and wide widths
- boasts a cushioned insole with arch support
- grippy rubber sole provides some traction
What We Don't Like
- the material is quite stiff, so there’s some break-in period
Vionic
With its rounded toe box, the Vionic Amorie flat is a good choice for wide feet, while also offering cushioned arch support and a grippy rubber sole for stability. The brand recommends easing into the shoes, wearing them for limited hours the first few wears so the foot can acclimate to orthotic design, though one reviewer noted that the time was minimal. While there are a handful of colorways and patterns to select from, such as a cherry red and classic black, we’re partial to this chic leopard print oozing major mob wife vibes.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13 (narrow, medium and wide options available)
- Colors: 10 options
- Materials: leather, textile, synthetic
- Promising Review: “I love these flats! They are so comfortable and feel good on my feet. I like the support they give to my feet, knees and back.” – a Vionic reviewer
Best Quilted Ballet Flats
13. Aldo Preri Ballerina Flats
What We Like
- excellent price point
- designer lookalike
- versatile styling
What We Don’t Like
- no option to select silver hardware in place of gold
Aldo
“This Aldo ballet flat is my go-to for spring outfits,” says Dickey. “The two-tone style is so versatile, and the heavy foam padded insole is really comfy.” What’s more, it’s incredibly chic (very reminiscent of Chanel). From the classic ballerina style to the quilted material and gold hardware embellishments, we’re obsessed with how luxe these look, and—get this—the refined shoes are only $60. Thanks to the dual-density foam and padded insoles, these flats boast a pillowy walk in every step. “They’re my go-to travel shoe because they work with dresses, shorts, jeans, everything…and I can have a full day of sightseeing without an ache. Also, the medium-deep rounded toe box design is roomy enough so that my foot has a little room to swell without chafing after a long day of walking,” Dickey adds.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 11
- Colors: 3 options
- Materials: synthetic, rubber, foam
- Promising Review: “The two-tone style is so versatile, and the heavy foam padded insole is really comfy.” – Dana Dickey, senior editor at PureWow
Best Square Toe Ballet Flats
14. Vivaia Margot 2.0 Square-Toe V-Cut Flats
What We Like
- a plethora of colors and patterns to select from
- comfort can convert even the most skeptical of ballet flat wearers
- pain-free after long bouts of walking
What We Don’t Like
- some reviewers with high arches wish it had a higher arch support
Vivaia
According to PureWow Associate Editor Chelsea Candelario, Vivaia’s Margot 2.0 is *the* flat that’ll persuade even the most skeptical into loving ballet flats. “It’s SO comfortable. I didn't like wearing flats for a long time, but these made me a converter. I feel like I walked all over NYC and my feet is never in pain. I also love the square-toe design that makes it different than a traditional ballet flat.” If you were wondering what the 2.0 refers to, it’s referencing a few upgrades the brand took to its original Marot style, including a heel cushion that prevents blisters, extra arch support and a brand-new insole built with the upmost comfort in mind. But there are so many more features than that to love (It’s antimicrobial, breathable, machine-washable and comes in a whopping 50 colors and patterns).
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 5 to 13 (normal and wide fits available)
- Colors: 50 options
- Materials: synthetic, rubber, foam
- Promising Review: ““I absolutely love these shoes! I have such problems with my feet (surgeries, broken bones, high arches that can never get enough support—you get the idea), [so] I can very rarely find shoes that my feet do not hurt in after wearing for just a short while. These are like heaven.” – William G., a Vivaia reviewer
What to Consider When Buying Ballet Flats with Arch Support?
Finding the ideal pair of ballet flats with arch support comes down to a few details:
- Opt for a comfortable arch that works for you: Remember why you’re purchasing the flats and don’t compromise until you find what you’re looking for. Fancy a pair of ballet flats with an arch that’ll suit people with high arches? Look into a supportive insert to slide into your new flats from Rothy, like one buyer did. Want a pair that’ll hold up after a long day of walking? The Orinda ballet flats by Vionic can keep your feet uber-comfy.
- Consider the cushioning: Don’t forget about the insoles, people! Flats that feature padded insoles and foam cushioning will help absorb shock and distribute pressure, making for a soft bed that your feet can enjoy.
- Assess the toe box: Whether you have bunions, long toes or just prefer a bit of space, a roomy toe box will feel far more comfortable than a pointed toe. Look for ballet flats with square toes or rounded toes, as well as medium or wide fits in place of narrow fits if it suits your foot.
- The width of your foot: Speaking of fits, we suggest you look at the shape of your feet to find out whether you have a narrow or wide feet. If your toes spread-out out further than your heels when standing, then your feet may run wide. On the contrary, if your foot follows a slender, straight line and your toes point without splaying, then you may have a narrow foot. Another way to measure is to gauge the fit of your current shoes.
- Mind the materials: Pay attention to materials, people. Will the Italian leather soften and take on the form of a second skin with time? Does the recycled knit upper stretch and give with movement?
What Are the Benefits of Shoes with Arch Support?
“Arch support is crucial in keeping your feet, knees, hips, back and body in proper alignment,” shares Dr. Pamela Mehta, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and medical advisor to The Good Feet Store. “Lack of proper orthotics can increase your chances of developing a serious foot condition or conditions in the joints above the foot and ankle.” Dr. Mehta notes that ensuring you have proper arch support can lead to better balance and posture. While the words “arch support” may recall clunky, practical shoes, she shares that arch support simply means you have a shoe that provides support to all four arches of the foot, which can relieve pressure on joints and reduce pain and discomfort.
