Clarks Ayla Low Ballet Comfortable Flat

Every woman should have one pair of flats (or more) since high heels can take a toll on her feet. Flats don’t have to be unattractive or matronly to feel good, either; these days, the best brands add extra features to make them feel more comfortable (and look cuter) than ever before. You don’t need to spend a small fortune on them, either; while natural fabrics like leather and suede cost more, plenty of synthetic and less costly pairs look just as good.

Flats come in different toe shapes, like round, almond and pointed. Round ones are usually the most comfortable because they have wider toe boxes; very pointy ones look more refined but can pinch. Almond shapes are a good compromise because they offer the best of both worlds: they’re more tapered and a bit dressier.

Ballet flats also lean more towards a casual feel; loafers can be better suited for work or dressing down. Slip-ons and mules are the easiest to put on and pull off, but you can also find flats with ankle straps, laces, Velcro and buckles.

Knowing your foot type is critical for finding the right kind of flats. People with high arches need shoes with arch support, and many flats have this. A firm, cushioned insole is best for flat feet, and people with neutral arches are the lucky ones; they do well with all different kinds of shoes and flats.

Some flats are very soft throughout and have flexible bendable heels, but too much of this can hurt some people’s feet. If you want to treat your feet, look for flats with cushioned insoles made from foam. Ortholite inner soles have a reputation for comfort, and many flats come with removable ones.

Brands like Crocs make firmer shoes that provide the additional support to keep those picky feet happier. Good shoes are hard to find, so if you find a pair of flats that fit well and don’t hurt after a long day, get a few pairs.

• Shop for flats that mimic the size of your foot. If yours is wider at the top, opt for rounded toes.
• Wiggle your toes when trying shoes on; there shouldn’t be any pressure, but the shoes shouldn’t feel loose.
• If the shoes are too tight, try a larger size; you can’t depend on them stretching out because this doesn’t always happen.
• If you have high arches, buy gel arch supports for the insoles of your flats if they’re uncomfortable.
• For many, flats look best without socks, so opt for no-see-ums or nylon knee-highs.