The 12 Coziest Flats of 2023

May 16, 2023 | Categories: Fashion, Health

The Vionic Mina Ballet Flat is a comfortable shoe designed by a podiatrist to support foot health.

Many of us wear flats because we want comfortable shoes we can walk in that still look nice with jeans, work clothes, or eveningwear. For one reason or another—perhaps because of foot problems like bunions and plantar fasciitis—we’re bypassing heels for comfortable flats for walking so we can be “on the move” and feel good doing it.

“A flat should fit comfortably not only in length but also should have ample room in the toe box and a good comfortable arch,” says Mark J. Mendeszoon, DPM, FACFAS, FACPM, physician spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and footwear expert.

Depending on the individual’s foot type, it is essential to try the flats on and feel if the shoe provides the proper amount of cushioning or support. “Flats generally tend to be lightweight, so flats that have more support will often provide more stiffness and thickness in the overall shoe, especially the arch area,” says Dr. Mendeszoon. Some of the shoes in our roundup have a few days’ breaking-in periods, which is normal.

We talked to podiatrists about what to look for when buying flats so you don’t have to buy many shoes online, try them on, and deal with the hassle of returning them if they hurt your feet.

These are the best flats for walking, according to podiatrists.

Our Top Picks: 12 Best Comfortable Flats of 2023

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