The All Around Best Barefoot Ballet Flats for 2024

*Disclosure – Anya’s Reviews is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

A woman's feet wearing a pair of barefoot ballet flats from Groundies. There are many other pairs of beautiful barefoot ballet flats around her feet.
The best barefoot ballet flats fit your unique feet.

Barefoot ballet flats are an incredibly versatile shoe. They are classy enough to wear to work, simple enough to wear with jeans, and somehow dressy enough to wear with a formal gown. In the world of barefoot & minimalist shoes, which doesn’t usually cater to women, that’s a tough find!

But fit is extra important with this style of shoe, which is why I’ve been on the hunt for the best barefoot ballet flats that not only look good but also fit a wide range of feet well. Here are my top picks, along with a complete list of barefoot ballet flats for women, and the best options for extra wide feet.

What Are Barefoot Ballet Flats?

Standard ballet flat (left), Barefoot ballet flat (right)

Many of us gravitate towards flats for comfort (better than heels, amiright?). But in my opinion the standard ballet flat is not cutting it. Most options you find in store and online have a painfully pinchy toe box and a small heel. We can do better! That is why I wear barefoot ballet flats. They are:

  • Shaped like a foot – No toe squish!
  • Zero drop – No heel whatsoever.
  • Secure to the foot – No flopping.
A side by side comparison of two black ballet flats being held up by a hand. On the left is a flat with a small heel (annotated with a red line) and a red X underneath. On the right is a shoe that is completely flat the whole length of the shoe with no heel whatsoever. This is annotated with a straight line and a green check mark underneath.
Most flats actually have a small heel! I look specifically for zero drop flats.

The features of a barefoot ballet flat ensure that I am truly comfortable, which for me is a top priority. Intrigued by this idea? Head here to read more about how barefoot shoes might help resolve your foot issues.

Find Perfect-For-You Ballet Flats

Because we all have uniquely shaped feet, barefoot ballet flats present an issue for the foot conscious gal. The lack of straps, laces, and shoe upper give you little wiggle room (literally), and a delicate balance between space for your toes and a secure fit is needed. Understanding your feet and your options is more important than ever when picking out barefoot flats!

4 photo collage showing feet of different width. Narrow, average, wide, and extra wide

That is why we recommend choosing barefoot ballet flats based on your foot type. Learn more about the volume, width, and shape of your feet in this article on The Best Barefoot Shoes for Your Foot Type!

This means that some options on this list will be better for you than others. To that end, I have included relevant fit & sizing info so you can hone in on your ideal barefoot ballet flat!

We also recommend the following:

  • Keep a few pairs of heel grips on hand in case your foot is slipping
  • Consider adding an insole to improve fit or add cushion.
  • Choose options with a strap if you have stubborn issues with fit and comfort

While our top 6 focuses on traditional ballet flat styles without straps or ties, we’ll show a more complete list of options with variety after.

Two women standing in a road wearing dress clothes smiling at the camera. Groundies Lily ballet flats in two widths for wide and extra wide feet with anatomical toe box and zero drop outsole
Samantha wears an extra wide barefoot ballet flat, while I fit best in a slimmer shoe.

And don’t forget that ballet flats aren’t the only dressy style! If you would like to explore more dress shoe styles beyond the ballet flat, please head to my roundup of the All Time Best Women’s Barefoot Dress Shoes.

The All Around Best Barefoot Ballet Flats

Below you’ll find the top 6 most versatile, high quality, and best fitting barefoot ballet flat options on the market.

Be Lenka

Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off your Be Lenka EU purchase. We also carry Be Lenka flats at Anya’s Shop in the US.

Be Lenka ballet flats are well made and durable, with a removable insole. I especially love the Bellissima flat that has a cut out detail for just a little bit of interest – it gives them a professional edge.

Because these have a bit more structure to them than the others we’ve talked about so far, I found that they felt a little tight when brand new and needed some breaking in. But after a few wears they are comfortable without slipping. I also appreciate the removable insole which gives you a little more cushion and a lower volume fit if you need it (or remove it for more space!).

Full body photo of a woman in a black dress walking to the left wearing Be Lenka Bellissima flats outside in the sunshine on a gravel road

Groundies

We also carry some Groundies flats in the US at Anya’s Shop!

Groundies barefoot ballet flats are super light and stylish, and the two widths make them versatile for a variety of foot types.. They are sleek and stay secure around my narrow heels, while still being light and spacious for comfort. The outsoles are very thin and flexible, with real barefoot feet.

The Barefoot+ (wide width) means even people with extra wide feet will be able to enjoy the good style and quality of Groundies barefoot flats. It’s not available in every Groundies flats style, but the most popular ones are. The fit has been true to size for me.

Groundies Lily flats shown top down unworn. On the left is Lily Brown in Barefoot Plus extra wide width, and on the right is regular barefoot width is a pretty pale pink. Both feature anatomical shapes and a super flexible outsole
Groundies Barefoot+ (wide) next to Groundies Barefoot.

Learn more about the fit and feel of these in my Groundies Dress Shoes Review.


Xero Phoenix

The Xero Phoenix is one of the most affordable cute barefoot ballet flats, and I find them perfect as a simple dress shoe. They are knitted, which makes them look a bit more casual, but the cut is really nice and they feel good to wear.

These also come with a removable insole, and they can be a bit loose on narrow heels. They’re also frequently out of stock because they are so popular! If you can snag a pair, they are worth it. And they do get restocked!

A woman's feet close up wearing a pair of Xero Shoes black knit rothy's dupe barefoot flats.

Read my detailed Xero Phoenix review here!


Softstar Ballerines

Softstar Ballerines are one of the best barefoot ballet flats around. They are soft and unstructured but not wrinkly; spacious but not bulky. You can order it in tons of different colors and it has a very mainstream look (calling all Tieks fans!). I love the metallics myself. Softstar hand makes all their shoes in Oregon and they are high quality.

I appreciate that the insole is a little bit cushioned, which makes these more practical for all-day wear or pavement walking (they’re a favorite among teachers). And these also come in two widths!

Top down view of Softstar Shoes Updated Ballerine in Regular and Wide width. The wide version is truly wide.
Ballerine in regular width (left), and Wide (right). Wide fit is best for extra wide feet.

The heel does slip a little more in these than in my Groundies, so I added a heel grip once the leather broke in. You can also get a sport strap if you’re concerned about slipping and they also come in a wide version. I have one pair in a 5u/women’s 6, and another in a 6u/women’s 7. The fit is true to size.

Read my detailed review of the regular and wide Softstar Ballerine here!


Shapen Tulip

Use code ANYA5 for 5% off. Note that they don’t accept returns outside the EU. We also carry these in a few colors at Anya’s Shop in the US!

The Shapen Tulip is a classic ballet flat but with an option ankle strap. I love that detail because it makes the flats more secure on your foot and is super cute. The Tulip also comes in two widths, so work for a lot of people with extra wide feet! They have some gorgeous metallics and neutrals that are perfect for weddings and other fancy occasions.

Since the updates made to model 3.0, the Tulip flats now fit true to size! I’m wearing my regular flat size, 36 in regular width and Samantha wears these in a 37 wide width.


Peerko Petite

Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off. Note that Peerko does not accept returns outside the EU. We also carry these at Anya’s Shop!

The Peerko Petite is a new ballet flat with a secure fit on low volume feet & narrow heels. They come in a few fun prints and are one of the only barefoot flats I’ve tried that isn’t loose around my heel! They are true to size. I hope to see them in solid neutral colors in the future.

These are my favorites, but there are more options if you haven’t found what you’re looking for! See below for a full list of barefoot ballet flat options.

All the Barefoot Ballet Flats

Here is a full list of ALL the barefoot ballet flats out there, in alphabetical order! I was more inclusive with this list, so you’ll find ballet flat styles with additional embellishments.


Two pairs of feet in Angles Fashion Ballet Flats. The left shows a slim regular width and the right shows a wider option. Both have anatomical shaped toe boxes and zero drop soles

Angles Fashion – Use code ANYA for 5% off (does not ship to the USA). Read my review here! You can also find Angles Fashion at Anya’s Shop


Side view highlighting the cutout sling back style feature of Be Lenka Bellissima black leather ballet flats.

Be Lenka – Use code for 5% off (returns only accepted within the EU and USA). You can shop select Be Lenka styles at Anya’s Shop


Top down view of Medium width hideaway lace ups in saddle weave with ankle ties. Anatomical shaped comfortable shoes for women handmade in the usa

Everleigh Meadow – Soft handmade shoes in tons of colors and 3 widths! Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off. Read our full Everleigh Meadow Review here


Stock photo of Aintap FeelBarefoot leather turkish ballet flats

Feelbarefoot – Use code ANYA50 for a discount


The Drifter Leather – A few ready-to-ship styles, with custom options available. My Drifter Leather reviews here.


A woman wearing Groundies Lily soft pink barefoot ballet flats and standing on the balls of her feet to show their flexibility

Groundies – Comes in two widths! You can find select Groundies styles at Anya’s Shop


Stock photo of Jancarik ballet flats, barefoot wide toe box  with v vamp detail

Jancarik (select EU countries) – Available in 3 widths and half sizes!

For international shipping, you can find select Jancarik styles at retailer Tupsunupsu


Close up front angled view of Jenon Leather J. Joplin Pumps in embossed leather with criss cross elastic laces up the front.

Jenon Leather – Custom options. Only available for shipping within Europe & US. Read my Jenon Leather Review here


Leguano Ballerina in black

Leguano – Handmade in Germany with a stretchy upper. Really comfy, but pretty casual looking.


Top down view of Lisbeth Joe Harare flats in black suede with optional ankle strap

Lisbeth JoeANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. These flats work well for high volume feet, but aren’t super wide in the toe box.


Magical Shoes – Use code ANYA for 10% off. These are good for people who want a lot of space above the toes. See my review here.


Oesh Flats – The Oesh flats are wide and flat, but have a thick cushioned outsole – making them a good option for someone who wants a comfy dressy shoe that’s not a barefoot shoe.


Top down view of Mary Jane flats with 3 straps plus an ankle strap in patent burgundy leather with a wide toe box

Origo Mary Jane – We love these and they come in 4 patent leather options! Use code ANYA for 10% off (also works on the Mexico site!)

See these featured in this Fashion But Make It Barefoot article!


Top down view of Peerko Petite barefoot ballet flat in a fun plaid color

Peerko Petite – Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off (returns not accepted outside the EU). Also available at Anya’s Shop!


Top down view of Shapen Tulip 3.0 bronze metallic barefoot wide toe box flats with a flexible sole

Shapen Tulip – Regular and Wide width. Use code ANYA5 for 5% off (returns not accepted outside the EU). We also carry these at Anya’s Shop!


A top down view of a woman with wide feet and narrow heels wearing Softstar Ballerine flats in aged acorn on her right foot. Her left is bare to show her foot shape

Softstar Shoes – Handmade in the USA available in 2 widths and a the ability to customize your colors! Read my detailed review of the regular and wide Ballerine here!


Top down view of the storehouse flats in leopard print,

The Storehouse Flats – These flats are not as wide as others here, but they are a cheaper option and come in a lot of fun colors.


Unshoes PrimroseANYA for 10% off. Not exactly a ballet flat, but they can pass in a pinch!


Stock image of Vivobarefoot Opank ballet flat in black leather with anatomical wide toe box and zero drop sole

Vivobarefoot – Opanka Ballerina. My code ANYA25VB for 25% off will get you 10% off. They are comfy and have a good fit with the elasticized opening, but are a more casual option.


A close up angled side view of a woman's feet in Xero Phoenix black knit dress flats

Xero Phoenix – Knit or leather. Perfect Rothy’s dupe! Read my Phoenix review here


Zaqq Barefoot – A ton of unique style options! But the ballet flat models are slimmer than their other styles, and I find them too narrow for my feet.


Zkama Shoes – Czech brand, have not yet tried myself but they seem to do good work.


A close up view of a pair of feet wearing stylish women's barefoot dress shoes from Zlatush

Zlatush – Custom options. These are all handmade and made to order, so can be a tricker process. But if you have the patience for it, they are unique and beautiful.


Best Flats for Extra Wide Feet

Have extra wide feet? Here are all the barefoot ballet flat brands that cater to wide feet, with many custom options to get your exact shape and size.

The Drifter Leather – Custom. My Drifter Leather reviews here.


Top down close up of blue hidden seam mama janes from everleigh meadow, handmade barefoot shoes in fun colors for women with extra wide feet

Everleigh Meadow – Soft handmade leather mary janes in tons of colors and 3 widths! Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off. Read our full Everleigh Meadow Review here


Magical Shoes – Use code ANYA for 10% off. Read my review here




A close up of a pair of Velvet Ballet Pumps from Tadeevo showing the top and side profile of the shoes.

Tadeevo – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!


Unshoes PrimroseANYA for 10% off




A close up view of a pair of feet wearing stylish women's barefoot dress shoes from Zlatush

Zlatush – Custom options


Vegan Barefoot Ballet Flats

If you wear vegan shoes, here is a list of all the vegan barefoot ballet flat options. Check out this post for more on vegan barefoot shoes.

Ahinsa vegan barefoot ballet flats in regular and wide width

AhinsaANYASREVIEWS for 10% off


Be Lenka Delight, a knit vegan barefoot ballet flat

Be Lenka Delight – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off



A close up of a pair of Velvet Ballet Pumps from Tadeevo showing the top and side profile of the shoes.

Tadeevo Velvet or Mesh Pumps – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!


A close up angled side view of a woman's feet in Xero Phoenix black knit dress flats

Xero Phoenix – Super comfortable and cute knit flats! Read my Phoenix review here



Barefoot Mary Jane Flats – with a Strap

These barefoot ballet flats all have a mary jane strap, which can make them fit more securely.

Ahinsa vegan barefoot ballet flats in regular and wide width

Ahinsa – Vegan. Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off


Angles Fashion barefoot mary Janes

Angles Fashion – Use code ANYA for 5% off (does not ship to the USA). Read my Angles Fashion review here!


Conker Shoes – You can have them made on their barefoot sole without a heel.


The Drifter Leather customer barefoot mary janes

The Drifter Leather – Custom and ready-to-ship options. My Drifter Leather reviews here


Top Down view of a woman's feet in cuffed skinny jeans wearing Duchess and Fox leather handmade in the USA Mary Janes with super flexible zero drop sole

Duchess Barefoot – Use code ANYA for 10% off


Top down close up of blue hidden seam mama janes from everleigh meadow, handmade barefoot shoes in fun colors for women with extra wide feet

Everleigh Meadow – Soft handmade leather mary janes in tons of colors and 3 widths! Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off. Read our full Everleigh Meadow Review here


Jenon Leather Villet Flats product photo black barefoot mary janes

Jenon Leather – The Villet is a really polished looking mary jane that can be customized in any color you’d like! Read our full Jenon Leather review here to learn more about this brand.


A top down view of a pair of feet standing wearing burgundy Lisbeth Joe Paris barefoot mary janes

Lisbeth Joe – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off


Magical Shoes – Use code ANYA for 10% off.


Posh Panda – Read my mocc review here!





A close up of a woman's legs wearing Tadeevo burgundy velvet ballet pumps standing by a tree in the grass.

Tadeevo – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!


Xero Shoes Cassie hemp barefoot sporty mary jane in purple

Xero Cassie – Hemp sporty mary jane in several solid colors.


Zeazoo – My review here. Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off



A close up view of a pair of feet wearing stylish women's barefoot dress shoes from Zlatush

Zlatush – Custom options

And that’s a wrap on the best barefoot ballet flats in the industry! You can see that there is a wide variety

A photo collage of barefoot ballet flats for women - Zaqq Marq, Lisbeth Joe Harare, Storehouse Flats, Softstar Ballerines, Zlatush shoes, and Vivobarefoot Jing Jing

Share This Post:

Tagged:

Subscribe to the Barefoot Shoe Digest™

Stay up to date on all the best shoes, current sales, newest releases, and more

You May Also Like:

Comments

59 thoughts on “The All Around Best Barefoot Ballet Flats for 2024”

  1. This is a fabulous list – thanks! But disappointed that so few of the brands offer their shoes in wide sizing. IMO this should be standard in the BF world. If the entire shoe is too narrow for someone, that kind of defeats the purpose of wearing BF shoes! Would love it if you could pass on that feedback to brands you work with.

  2. I messaged Duchess Barefoot three different times with basic questions and never received one response. They also don’t accept returns, based on these two factors I would not recommend.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Picture of Hi. I'm Anya.

Hi. I'm Anya.

I first discovered barefoot shoes after a long history of foot issues. By changing my footwear and strengthening my body I was able to completely transform my life. Anya’s Reviews is my way of sharing with the world that healthy feet are happy feet!

Follow Me

Subscribe for weekly updates

Check out our shop!

Shoe Finder

Popular Posts

Archives
Scroll to Top

Thank you for subscribing!

So I can serve you better, can you answer this one quick question?

What is the #1 thing I can help you with?

Subscribe to the Barefoot Shoe Digest™

Stay up to date on all the best shoes, current sales, newest releases, and more.