Best Ballet Flats For Travel

Newcomer Rothy’s' ballet flats have been flying off the online shelves since they were spotted on Meghan Markle’s feet during her Australian tour last fall. Praised for their comfort and available in colors ranging from black and gray to kelly green and hot pink, these kicks aren’t just pretty—they’re practical, too. If (or, in our case, when) they get dirty, simply throw them in the washing machine, air dry, and they're good as new. The best part? They're sustainably made from recycled plastic bottles.

There’s a reason why these babies are a perennial fan favorite. Not only do they come in a gazillion colors and textures (from snakeskin to suede, crushed velvet to sequins). They come in regular, wide and narrow widths and feature padded insoles and an almond-shaped toe that flatters every foot.

You know how the elastic binding in some ballet flats can cut into your feet, leaving them red and sore? These feature a wide elastic trim, so you’ll feel as if you’re wearing your bedroom slippers outside, not like you're rubbing your skin off with every step. Fans rave about the padded, leather-lined insole and the reasonable price point, which starts around $50 and taps out under $110.

We adore the high vamp of this Italian leather pair—perfect for those not down with the “toe cleavage” thing. Other features we love: the butter-soft leather that molds over time to the shape of your foot, the cushioned insoles, and the pull tabs at the ankle that makes getting them on easy as pie. With no break-in time required, they’re definitely our kind of shoe. 

The “girl next door” of ballet flats, Emmie has wide appeal. With leather uppers, rubber soles, cushioned insoles and gently rounded toes, this style checks all the ballet boxes. And since you can often find them on sale in the $30s, they fit your budget, too.

Looking for a ballet flat that’s a little edgier than the round-toe classic? Consider Prada’s version, with a leg-lengthening pointed toe and a tiny gold logo charm to subtly telegraph your designer taste (and budget). A small stacked heel gives you a little lift, and the leather lining keeps your feet comfortable all day long.

Just like her character in "Sex And The City," Sarah Jessica Parker's ballet flat is simultaneously city-slick and girly. Available in black and blush, they’re an investment at just under $300. But their leather uppers, lining, and soles make them a worthy one.

Designed to feel light on your feet while providing support where you need it most, these stretchy flats get top marks for flexibility; even the soles can be bent in half with one hand. Lycra uppers feature perforations so your feet can breathe, and the textured rubber sole provides traction without unnecessary bulk. Of the 10 colors, we’re seriously jonesing for the rainbow python.

OK, these beauties are a splurge. But if you’re ready to indulge in a truly luxe pair of ballet flats, these should definitely be on your list. With a pointed toe and asymmetrical wide bow, they’re a stylish standout. And the 100 percent rubber bottoms, with Tod’s signature “pebbles," make them distinctive at the sole level, too.