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?
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.
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!
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.
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!).
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.
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!
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!
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.
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
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
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
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.
Groundies – Comes in two widths! You can find select Groundies styles at Anya’s Shop
Jancarik (select EU countries) – Available in 3 widths and half sizes!
For international shipping, you can find select Jancarik styles at retailer Tupsunupsu
Jenon Leather – Custom options. Only available for shipping within Europe & US. Use code JENON10 for 10% off. Read my Jenon Leather Review here
Leguano – Handmade in Germany with a stretchy upper. Really comfy, but pretty casual looking.
Lisbeth Joe – ANYASREVIEWS 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.
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!
Peerko Petite – Use code ANYASREVIEWS10 for 10% off (returns not accepted outside the EU). Also available at Anya’s Shop!
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!
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!
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 Primrose – ANYA for 10% off. Not exactly a ballet flat, but they can pass in a pinch!
Vivobarefoot – Opanka Ballerina. My code ANYA25VB for 25% off everything but Sensus sandals, and Gobi sneakers. You can use code ARVIVO20 20% off those. will get you 10% off. They are comfy and have a good fit with the elasticized opening, but are a more casual option.
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.
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.
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
Softstar Ballerines in wide – Review here!
Softstar Primal Merry Jane – Read my review here!
Tadeevo – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!
Unshoes Primrose – ANYA for 10% off
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 – ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
Be Lenka Delight – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
Tadeevo Velvet or Mesh Pumps – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!
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. Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 10% off
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 – Custom and ready-to-ship options. My Drifter Leather reviews here
Duchess Barefoot – Use code ANYA for 10% off
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 – 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. Use code JENON10 for 10% off.
Lisbeth Joe – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off
Magical Shoes – Use code ANYA for 10% off.
Posh Panda – Read my mocc review here!
Softstar Primal Merry Jane – Read my review here!
Tadeevo (Recommended for EU only) – Use code ANYASREVIEWS for 5% off. Read my review here!
Xero Cassie – Hemp sporty mary jane in several solid colors.
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
64 thoughts on “The All Around Best Barefoot Ballet Flats for 2025”
Fabulous. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I appreciate this information so much!
You’re welcome! So glad it’s helpful.
I’ve often looked at Softstar Ballerines, but from their pictures it looks like they curve in and come up high at the back, which would not work for me, would rub and cause blister. I need a more vertical, straight up/down around the heel, if that makes sense (Like the back on the Vivobarefoot Jing Jing Lace shoe). (Sorry, I don’t know all the proper shoe terminology ?)
Thoughts? Thanks, love love your blog.
The Ballerines do have a big curvy heel cup, but it is not stiff at all. I have a Halgund’s deformity on my heel and haven’t had any irritation from the Ballerines, but my heel does want to slip a little so I put a heel grip in there. Otherwise, the Zlatush shoes would be a good option for you. It’s a lower cut heel with a straight cut.
Brilliant job! I can’t be the only person who loves barefoot but has to wear clothes that Just don’t go with sports type shoes. This guide is the first sensible list I’ve seen. SO much appreciated! (Now I’m going to have a nice cup of tea and drool over The list 😉
You certainly are not the only one! I’m glad you found it and are enjoying it!
You forgot about crupon! I love my crupon shoes and I bought them based upon your recommendation. Thanks for all that you do 🙂
So glad you love your Crupons! They’re not really a traditional ballet flat, but maybe they fit in the Mary Jane category!
Hi Anya. I love your blog. Can I ask what thickness of sole you got in the Zlatush shoes? Thanks
I never made a selection about sole thickness because the T strap flat is a ready made style, not custom. I think it says how thick it is on her website, but I’d guess it to be about 4mm.
Hi Anya,
Just came across these flats and wondered if you had ever tried them?
https://www.anglesfashion.cz/PRO-ZENY/Balerinky/Harmonia/HARMONIA-Black
trying desperately to find the perfect everyday shoes but keep having to send things back!
I love your blog by the way! x
Hi!I have looked at those and link to them in the post, but haven’t tried them yet. I actually came really close to ordering them! They seem like a really good toe box shape, but I don’t have any knowledge on sizing, fit, or quality of the brand.
Hi Anya!
I too have the Lisbeth Joe flats, and I’m curious how you stretched out the elastic? I love the shoes, but I’ve never been able to wear them for very long because the elastic at the back pushes my foot forward and jams my toes in the front toe box and its so uncomfortable! They would be perfect if they didn’t have the elastic.
Thank you for all the amazing reviewing you do!! 🙂
Hey there! I stuffed the toebox with socks and devised a sort of contraption with a pen where one end was pressing into the socks and the other pushing out the heel. I also just pulled on it with my hands for a minute or so at a time.
Was looking for advice. I have been in the minimilist shoe game for 8 years now. Vivobarefoot and New Balance were my go-to. I have found groundings now because of your site and I appreciate it. May grab a pair of Liverpool and the Japanese style minimalist boots look great too. My question is about my wife. She uses zero drop for the opposite reason of you and me I think. She has CMT which is a disease that has has to do with high insteap and arch, from lack of muscle around the arch and instep and ankle making her gate hard to lift her toe box, making it easy for her to trip over her toes. Getting a mimimalist shoe for her is just trying to get something lightweight with zero drop to help her lift her foot easier during walking. She has not been able to wear a mary jane or ballerina style because her instep is so high she just slips out of them when walking. I see some of your reviews here looks like the instep can get held in the shoe with good straps. Just wonder if they will be uncomfortable straps that dig in if cinched too much. Anyway thanks for all the shoes and reviews. -Dan
Hi Dan! Great to hear from you, and I’m glad you’ve found some use out of the site. For your wife, she might like the options with an ankle strap. Those won’t go over her instep but will still keep the shoe secure so she isn’t tripping. Some examples of those are the Lisbeth Joe Harare or the Magical Shoes Ballerina. She can also get some custom mary janes with an extra long strap over the instep. Dextra Perspective might be a good option, or the Softstar Ballerines have an elastic strap option she could request to be extra long.
Thank you very much for the help!
Hi! Wonderful collection indeed! I am in love with botky mechovky ballet flats but I am still undecided about the style. Is the closing of your pair comfortable? Thank you!
Yep, no issue with the buckle rubbing. It is on the outside, so only leather touches my skin.