Wear the celeb-worn shoe trend without foot pain
Podiatrist-Recommended Ballet Flats for High Arches
- Katie Holmes’ Exact Pair: Vivaia Margot Ballet Flats, $129; Amazon and Vivaia
- Podiatrist Favorite: Vionic Klara Ballet Flats, from $57; Amazon
- Sculpted Insole: Naturalizer Vivienne Ballet Flats, $63 with coupon (orig. $79); Amazon
- 50% Off: Vionic Orinda Perforated Ballet Flat, $73 (orig. $145); Nordstrom
- Popular Amazon Pick: Frank Mully Knit Ballet Flats, $33 (orig. $40); Amazon
- Perforated Perfection: Vionic Robyn II Ballet Flats, $110; Amazon
- Beautifully Woven: Vionic Gracia Woven Flats, $83 (orig. $150); Amazon
Ballet flats continue to dominate shoe trends, with Katie Holmes, Jennifer Garner, and Gwyneth Paltrow all stepping out in them. But as someone with high arches, I assumed the trend wasn’t for me, considering past pairs left my feet aching before noon.
According to board-certified podiatrist Dr. Anne Sharkey, the right features make all the difference. People with high arches should look for cushioning, support, and stability since their feet absorb shock less effectively. Her biggest tip? “Pinch the back of the heel,” she says. “There should be some resistance. If it completely collapses, the shoe is not supportive enough.”
Below, shop seven podiatrist-approved ballet flats that pass the pinch test.
Related: Supportive Loafers, Mary Janes, and More Shoes That’ll Be Mainstays in Your Fall Lineup Are Back in Stock at Quince
Vionic Klara Ballet Flats
$57 at Amazon
Sharkey says this is a pair she often wears herself, thanks to its blend of comfort and support. It includes two arch-support insoles for a more customizable fit, and the removable insert lets you use your own orthotics if needed — which is always a nice bonus. Sharkey also likes the shock-absorbing outsole and roomy square toe box, which “gives the toes room to wiggle.”
Naturalizer Vivienne Ballet Flats
$90 at Amazon
These classic ballet flats have a contoured footbed, breathable lining, and built-in arch and heel support that make them feel noticeably more stable than flimsier pairs. Sharkey explains that a slightly thicker outsole cushions each step, which is especially important for people with high arches. If you’re spending the day sightseeing, commuting, or walking around town, that extra padding can help your feet feel less fatigued by the end of the day.
Vionic Orinda Perforated Ballet Flat
$145 $73 at Nordstrom
Between the perforated leather design and lightweight construction, these feel especially suited for hot summer days. The removable insole adds another layer of support, while the textured outsole helps you feel more steady on your feet.
Ballet Flats to Avoid If You Have High Arches, According to a Podiatrist:
- Options with completely flat or ultra-thin soles
- Styles that can fold or roll in half
- Flats with little to no cushioning
- Pairs with narrow toe boxes that squeeze the forefoot and toes
Related: We Quizzed Teachers on Their Favorite Comfy Shoes — Picks from Vionic, Brooks, New Balance, and Others Earned an A+
Sharkey’s advice is simple: You don’t have to avoid ballet flats — just be more selective about the pairs you choose. Thankfully, there are plenty of supportive options out there, including more to shop below.
Frank Mully Knit Ballet Flats
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Vivaia Margot Ballet Flats $129 at Amazon |
Vionic Robyn II Ballet Flats $110 at Amazon |
Vionic Gracia Woven Flats
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