Flat women's ballerinas, with strap or soft
Women's ballet flats are the thinnest flat shoes: classic round-toed, Mary Janes with a strap over the foot, pointed for a sharper look, soft and barefoot for comfort. Among the brands available: Birkenstock, Tamaris, Steve Madden, Geox, Pédiconfort and Be Lenka.
Strap ballet flats hold the foot better and don't slip off the heel.
Which women's ballet flats to choose?
The classic women's ballet flats with a round toe go with everything. The babies, which have a strap over the instep, provide better support and give a retro look. Pointed ballet flats elongate the leg and dress up the outfit more. The soft models, known as barefoot, allow the foot to move like it's barefoot.
Are ballet flats comfortable?
A ballet flat that is too thin doesn't cushion and tires the foot on hard floors. For long walks, choose a cushioned sole, a slight heel, and soft leather. Barefoot shoes, on the other hand, focus on a very thin sole to let the foot do its thing.
How to wear ballet flats?
With a midi dress or a skirt, they lighten the silhouette. With a cigarette trouser or ankle-cut jeans, they show off the instep. Pointed ballet flats can replace heels at the office.
How to find the right size?
The ballet flat should hold the heel without slipping and not squeeze the toes. A ballet flat that slips off the heel is often half a size too big; a gel heel insert can correct the gap.
How to maintain ballet flats?
Condition the leather, brush the suede, and waterproof it. Have protective pads put on the thin soles. Get leather ballet flats resoled when the sole wears down: a thin sole wears out quickly.
Which ballet flat brands to choose?
These ballet flat brands share the page.
- Birkenstock, a German brand, is known for its anatomical sole.
- Tamaris, a German brand, focuses on patented comfort technologies.
- Steve Madden, a New York brand, has built its success on a variant of babies.
- Geox, an Italian brand, is known for its breathable membrane.
- Pédiconfort, a French comfort footwear brand, has received the AFNOR label "Tested and approved by seniors".
- Be Lenka, a Slovak brand, specializes in barefoot shoes.
What other flat shoes are there?
Other flat shoes have their own page: women's loafers, derbies and oxfords, and all the selection on the flat shoes page.
When to find ballet flats at reduced prices?
Lightweight and flat, ballet flats are mainly worn from spring to autumn: summer sales fall right in the middle of the season, while Black Friday allows for early shopping. These are the two times to look out for sale ballet flats.
November offers are gathered on the Black Friday page, winter and summer discounts on the women's shoe sales page, and already discounted pairs on the Promotions page. Fast delivery and best price guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
Ballet flats or babies: what's the difference?
The babies are ballet flats with a strap over the instep, closed with a buckle or button. The strap holds the foot better while walking.
How to prevent ballet flats from hurting?
Choose a cushioned sole and soft leather, and break them in at home. A pad under the forefoot helps during long days.
Can you wear ballet flats in winter?
With opaque tights and a skirt or shorts, yes, in dry weather. For rain, a rubber sole prevents slipping.
What is a barefoot ballet flat?
It's a ballet flat with a very thin and flexible sole, with a wide forefoot, allowing the foot to move freely. It requires a gradual adjustment.
How to prevent ballet flats from smelling bad?
Wear foot covers, let them dry between wears, and sprinkle baking soda inside at night. Alternate two pairs so they can dry.
