Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (2024)

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (1)

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If you've been keeping up with the latest shoe trends, you know that ballet flats have taken over the fashion world and show absolutely no sign of slowing down anytime soon. From the Miu Miu ballerina flats that helped spearhead the revival (and quickly took over our IG feeds) to new, updated versions from a long list of designers, flats are back, baby! And let's face it, they're a timeless staple thanks to their effortlessly chic silhouette, incredible versatility, and comfort.

Flats may be easy to wear and style, and there's nothing more versatile than classic black flats, but finding flats that are *actually* comfortable? It's surprisingly way harder than you'd think. Though they may be...well, flat, that doesn't automatically mean they're going to be comfy. And if you've ever suffered from flats-induced blisters or pain, you know exactly what I mean. But don't worry, for the sake of you and your feet, I tested some of the best black flats out there—from loafers to ballet flats to Mary Janes—to find the most comfortable pairs to buy now. Keep reading for my personal reviews (yes, I put them all to the test!) of brands like Tony Bianco, Steve Madden, Rothy's, and Everlane below.

Our top picks for the best black flats in 2024:

The black flats that made this list check all the boxes when it comes to versatility, comfort, and of course, style. Oh, and P.S. You can never have too many black flats—especially when they all have something a lil unique, like the styles below.

1

Best Overall Black Flats

Everlane The Day Glove

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (12)

1

Best Overall Black Flats

Everlane The Day Glove

Now 13% Off

There's a reason (actually several) that everyone is obsessed with Everlane's Day Glove flats. First off, they're made with soft, buttery leather that molds to your foot for incredible comfort and a more customized fit. But even better, they're also designed with several features that offer even more comfortable wear, like a pull tab that makes them easy to pull on and off, side vents so your feet don't get sweaty, and a durable rubber sole that's cushioned for added support that most flats lack. Need I say more?

  • Size range: Narrow or comfort width; 5-11
  • Color(s): 12

THE 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!"

2

Most Comfortable Black Flats

Rothys The Point

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (13)

2

Most Comfortable Black Flats

Rothys The Point

I'm willing to bet your TikTok/IG/social media feeds have been filled with these viral flats. They're dubbed as the most comfy flats on the market, and I'm happy to confirm those claims. Made with a super flexible knit design, these pointed flats require zero break-in period and are 100% machine washable, so they'll look as good as new after several wears. And, as a bonus, they're sustainably made using recycled plastic bottles.

  • Size range: 5-13
  • Color(s): 13

THE REVIEW: "I purchased these as a Christmas gift for my daughter. She absolutely loves them and has already given me a 'wish list' for more in the future. She raves that they are stylish and comfortable!"

3

Best Budget Black Flats

Afeetsing Round Toe Ballet Flats

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (14)

3

Best Budget Black Flats

Afeetsing Round Toe Ballet Flats

Amazon comes in clutch yet again with these classic black ballet flats that legit cost $16. But don't be fooled by the price—they actually look and feel like they cost a lot more. The arch insole supports your feet, and the heel cushion prevents you from getting any blisters—as many of the reviewers attest. The best part? If your feet get sweaty, the lining is absorptive. And, c'mon, how cute is that lil bow?

  • Size range: 6-11
  • Color(s): 17

THE REVIEW: "I just got these today and already noticed how comfortable they are on my feet. Fit me perfectly ordering my regular size. Quality is good and compares well to my other flats that cost $75+. I think I will be ordering more."

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4

Best Lace-Up Black Ballet Flats

J.Crew Quinn Lace-Up Ballet Flats

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (15)

4

Best Lace-Up Black Ballet Flats

J.Crew Quinn Lace-Up Ballet Flats

Now 29% Off

If you're really trying to embrace the ballet flat trend, why not go all out with these adorable lace-up flats from J.Crew? I love that I can change them up by tying the laces into bows, a different style, or even removing them altogether. Throw on an LBD, add a blazer, and pop on these bbs, and you've got yourself the cutest look ever.

  • Size range: 5-12
  • Color(s): Black, nude

THE REVIEW: "Stunning...a former ballerina, these are so nostalgic and sweet..."

5

Best Cutout Black Flats

By Anthropologie Floral Cutout Flats

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (16)

5

Best Cutout Black Flats

By Anthropologie Floral Cutout Flats

Spring will be springin' quicker than we know, and if you're not one for the whole socks-with-flats trend, your feet might get sweaty when the weather heats up. The solution? These adorable leather floral cutout flats that have the cutest buckle detailing.

  • Size range: 5-10.5
  • Color(s): 7

6

Best Edgy Black Flats

Steve Madden Graya Flats

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (17)

6

Best Edgy Black Flats

Steve Madden Graya Flats

If you prefer flats with a lil edge, check out these pointed slingbacks from Steve Madden. The cool hardware is the perfect touch to the silver trend we're seeing everywhere rn, and the tiny block heel adds a touch of elevation to the flat. Oh, and if you really wanna spice it up, try the red, white, or snake patent leather versions.

  • Size range: 6-10
  • Color(s): Black patent, red, white, or snake patent

THE REVIEW: "True to size! Great shoe, padded footbed, is quite comfortable. Love the style."

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7

Best Embellished Black Flats

Tony Bianco Madison Black Suede Flats

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (18)

7

Best Embellished Black Flats

Tony Bianco Madison Black Suede Flats

I think these Tony Bianco rhinestone flats may have my heart. I mean, anything that is bedazzled does, but these black flats just take it to a whole other level. The diamante detailing looks so luxe on the black suede exterior, and the simple glove design of the actual flat makes it super easy to pair them with any outfit to add a little elevated touch.

  • Size range: 5-10
  • Color(s): Black suede

8

Best Studded Black Flats

Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (19)

8

Best Studded Black Flats

Reformation Bethany Ballet Flat

If you're not down for full-on sparkle or studs, these leather ballet flats have subtle studs for just a *hint* of edge without overdoing it. Oh, and I find that they get even comfier with wear, as the leather forms to your foot.

  • Size range: 5-11
  • Color(s): 8

THE REVIEW: "I wore these for 6 hours on New Year's Eve and was extremely happy with them. Super comfortable - I was able to do multiple ceilidh dances—at times as intense as an aerobics class!—then walk back 2 miles to where I was staying."

9

Best Editor-Loved Black Flats

Birdies The Goldfinch

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (20)

9

Best Editor-Loved Black Flats

Birdies The Goldfinch

Now 31% Off

Ask all the Cosmo editors what their favorite flats are, and I guarantee more than half of them will mention a pair from Birdies. Why, you may ask? The incredibly comfortable seven-layered cloud-like footbeds in every pair. Oh, and not to mention, they're really stinkin' chic.

  • Size range: 5-12
  • Color(s): 15

THE REVIEW: "I bought these on a whim and half expected to return them. I’m happy to report no return necessary - they are my new favorites. The look is sophisticated casual while being super comfy. I highly recommend!"

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10

Best Black Loafer Flat

G.H.BASS Whitney Leather Loafer

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (21)

10

Best Black Loafer Flat

G.H.BASS Whitney Leather Loafer

Okay, so funny story: I was in a thrift store and I found a super discounted pair of penny loafers. I ended up wearing them to a family event and my grandpa knew immediately that they were the G.H.Bass loafers he wore as a kid. Since then, they've been my go-to shoe, and I swear no one has yet to make a loafer as classic and comfortable as this one. They're the original, after all.

  • Size range: 5-11
  • Color(s): 6

THE REVIEW: Absolutely love these loafers! I had black Weejuns back in high school. I am thrilled with the comeback. Just bought them in black again. The quality is fantastic. They are comfortable with or without socks. They’re great with long skirts, jeans, and wide-legged pants."

11

Best Ruched Black Flats

Helsa Ballerina Flat

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (22)

11

Best Ruched Black Flats

Helsa Ballerina Flat

Elsa Hosk—the queen of some of the coolest lewks—dropped her namesake(ish) brand, Helsa, and I think I'm obsessed with everything in the collection, including these scrunched black flats. The crinkle patent leather is ev-ery-thing, the top buckle closure adds a fun touch, and the almond toe is oh-so chic. This take on a ballerina flat is something I would absolutely splurge on for an elevated look.

  • Size range: 5.5-1o
  • Color(s): Black, silver

THE REVIEWS: "Got so many compliments wearing these flats:)" one tester writes. "Quality is superb! Feels expensive," adds another.

12

Best Black Slipper Flat

Mar Soreli Tradizionale

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (23)

12

Best Black Slipper Flat

Mar Soreli Tradizionale

Everyone needs a pair of ~luxe~ slippers to walk around the house, run the occasional errands in, or even dress up. These velvet beauties by Mar Soreli are my favorite ever—they're handmade in Italy so you can truly see the craftsmanship that goes into every pair. Plus, they're as comfortable as they look. If you want a pair that has a more classic flat design, check out Mar Soreli's Mary Jane collection.

  • Size range: 2-12
  • Color(s): 12

THE REVIEW: "I love your shoes. The colors are beautiful and so much fun to wear. Great quality and everyone asks where I got them!"

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Why trust 'Cosmo'?

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (24)

Cosmo’s team of digital fashion experts have decades of combined 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—testing many brands IRL—to bring you the best clothing and accessory picks for every season. Basically, we’ve curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s our job (because it is, heh).

Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes products for all sizes. These comfortable loafers were chosen based on style, functionality, testability, price point, and so many reviews to put together this shoppable list of the very best for you!

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (25)

Siena Gagliano

Associate Editor

Siena Gagliano is the associate editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers beauty, fashion, travel, and lifestyle. Wanna know how to get the best brows of your life? Gotchu. What about how to find the best fashion deals of the season, the softest sheets on the market, or exactly how to use retinol without irritating your skin? Check, check, and check. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Siena was a writer at Bustle and several other media outlets. As her 2024 goal, she has vowed to find the best (extra) dirty martini NYC has to offer—and yes, that means ~attempting~ to try every cute co*cktail spot in the city (hit her up with some recs, pls). Follow Siena on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at that magazine life.

Found: The Best Black Flats That Won't Kill Your Feet (2024)

FAQs

How do I stop my flats from hurting my feet? ›

Try a friction block stick if you don't wear socks with your flats. A friction block stick looks like a small tube of deodorant, but its designed to be applied directly to your foot. It reduces the amount of friction between your foot and your flat, reducing blisters if you don't wear socks.

Are flats bad for your feet? ›

The problem with flat shoes is that they strain your sole, Achilles tendon and calf muscles, they have no shock absorption and your toes often do all the work to keep the shoe on.

What is the best alternative to ballet flats? ›

A very low heel or wedge is actually more supportive and comfortable than a true flat, and it's also more appropriate for an office setting. Wear such a shoe as you would with flats, low heels and wedges look great with all lengths and styles of pants and skirts.

Do you wear socks with black flats? ›

Typically, flats are meant to be worn without socks because they often feature open-top designs. But if you absolutely must wear socks, look for a pair specifically designed for the sleek construction of a work flat.

Why do flats hurt my feet? ›

You might be surprised that wearing flats can leave you asking, “Why do my feet hurt?” However, flat shoes that lack arch support cause you to flex your muscles to support the arches. This can cause aches and pains later.

Why do flats always hurt my feet? ›

Ballet flats, flip flops and other flat shoes also cause injuries because they offer little to no support for the arch and no cushion for the bottom of the foot. Shoes that provide no support or cushion can lead to inflammation of the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot known as the plantar fascia.

Why do podiatrists hate ballet flats? ›

“They traditionally don't offer any arch support,” explains podiatrist Saylee Tulpule. “This lack of support can lead to common foot issues such as plantar fasciitis” — inflammation of the lower foot and heel tissue — “and can aggravate flat feet or joints in the midfoot,” she tells Yahoo Life.

What are the worst shoes for flat feet? ›

Men and women with flat feet should generally avoid shoes that offer little to no arch support, such as flip flops, shoes with thin or flat soles, and certain types of high heels. Look for shoes that will provide the support you'll need to safely participate in physical activities.

Why do podiatrists not recommend Skechers? ›

Sketchers DO NOT have appropriate stability in the upper fabric and the heel counter to complement an orthotic. As such, you will probably find the orthotic redundant, or in worse case contributing to the cause of injury. Remember, an orthotic does 50% of the work. The shoe does the other 50%.

Are flats still a thing? ›

Today, ballet flats are seen as the shoe for any outfit. They pair nicely with a business look, but they can also be the comfortable shoe for a casual style. Ballet flats are thriving as modern celebrities like Taylor Swift, Nathalie Portman, and Emma Stone adopt them into their looks.

What ballet flats did Audrey Hepburn wear? ›

Fresh-faced Audrey Hepburn was known to have her ballet flats custom-made by Salvatore Ferragamo. A classically-trained ballerina, Hepburn brought the youthful style into the spotlight, paired with everything from black pixie pants to midi skirts.

What socks to wear with black flats? ›

Ballet flats and other types of flats that leave the top of the foot exposed won't look very good with crew socks. Consider wearing them with low-cut or hidden-liner socks. They will protect your feet, but they won't show beyond your shoe.

What Colour flats go with everything? ›

Black, beige, and grey shoes go with anything. Since they are all neutrals, you can wear these colors to offset a more vibrant outfit. Of course, with these neutrals, you can either mix and match or keep them in a similar tonal family. For example, there can be warm beiges and cooler beiges.

Why are flats so uncomfortable? ›

Flats don't give your arch enough support, which can lead to back, knee, and foot pain, and flip-flops do similar damage. Both can also lead to plantar fasciitis, a painful condition in which the tissue on the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed from supporting your arch without the help of shoes.

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