5 ballet flats for people who can’t stand them
3.9.2025
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Do you find ballet flats too tame or uncomfortable? Then you haven’t seen everything that’s out there. These unconventional models might just change your mind.
Ballet flats are divisive. At times they’re deemed trendy, then they’re called ugly. Confusingly, this sometimes happens at the same time. While some people love their dainty look, others curse the aching feet they give you. If you’re not a fan of the look or feel of these shoes, I might have something for you. Five alternative pairs that’ll surprise even die-hard ballet flat haters.
1. Well-heeled
The brand Camper is known for its unconventional, comfortable shoes. And the ballet flat Casi Myra is no exception. The soft calfskin model features an Ortholite footbed, which claims to provide better support than a conventional ballet flat. On the brand’s website, users share their experience of pain-free feet even after 25,000 steps or ten hours of running in one go.
Source: Camper
2. Punk
Ballet flats too dainty for you? Too feminine, perhaps? The Elphie II by Dr. Martens offer a defiant alternative with that typical bother boot look and its yellow stitching. The pointed toe creates a striking silhouette, while the laces can be tied around the ankle like a classic ballet shoe.
Click here for the black version.
3. Elegant
If you find ballet flats overly cutesy, you should take a look at Krysten by Steve Madden. The mix of slingback pump and ballet flat is striking with its crossed straps, sparkling rhinestone buckle and tapered shape. Perfect for dressy occasions if high heels aren’t your thing.
4. Athletic
Hillary by Vagabond has picked up on the current ballet sneaker trend. This fabric shoe with leather inserts has an athletic touch thanks to its adjustable ankle straps with Velcro fastening. It fits effortlessly into today’s world of fashion.
Source: Vagabond
5. Daring
No, I didn’t link the wrong product. Toe shoes are actually in high demand in fashion at the moment. Both my colleague Laura and I have already reported on this. So if you have a heart for Gorpcore but not for ballet flats, you might find what you’re looking for in the world of barefoot shoes instead.
Header image: Dr Martens
Has endless love for shoulder pads, Stratocasters and sashimi, but a limited tolerance for bad impressions of her Eastern Swiss dialect.
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