A reader recently emailed to ask:
“Where can I find some ballet flats that will easily fit into my bag and are also affordable? After a long night dancing in stilettos, sometimes I just can’t wait till I get home to take them off and would love some compact back-up shoes I could take with me! Do you have any suggestions?” – Janice M. from Miami, FL
We set out to find the perfect pair of roll-up flats to solve problems like this and got to try out a couple different pairs we think you’ll like!
BEST BET
Name: Kushyfoot Flats To Go
Soft, flexible faux leather Flats-to-go are an instant and elegant solution to a perennial need for the relief of sore heels, blisters and scrunched up toes. Featuring an elastic back for a better fit, and a unique, 3-dimensional wavy sole that cushions and massages the foot as the wearer walks-perfect for indoors and for any even outdoor surface. They slip neatly and easily into their owner’s purse, folded into a cute clear plastic carrier with its own little handles.
Price: around $9 ($26.97 for 3 pairs)
Where: www.kushyfoot.com
GOOD COMPS
Name: Aftersoles
AfterSoles are the shiny SOLEution to stiletto-induced sorrows. These stylish, compact, rollable ballet flats have been carefully designed to roll up neatly and securely, fitting in the smallest of purses or pockets. When your aching arches have had enough, simply unroll your AfterSoles and pop your heels into the cute shoe bag that comes with every pair. Slip on your new “funk-tional” flats for a few extra hours on the dance floor or a more comfortable walk or drive home. Your tired tootsies are already thanking you in advance
Price: $15
Where: www.aftersoles.com
Name: Fabbys
Super cute, super compact, rollable little ballet flats that can fit in a small clutch. So that you can take them wherever you go, and always have a cute comfy backup to those beloved high heels. Fabulous AND sensible. These are comparable to Aftersoles, but fit slightly better.
Price: $20
Where: www.fabbys.com
EXTRA SUPPORT
Name: CitySlips
CitiSlips offer a “total package” solution to a crippling (literally) problem. Their innovative split-sole structure and comfy elastic backing allow them to fold neatly and securely into a compact carrying case. Once the flats have been removed, the small pouch unzips and expands, becoming a full-size tote bag. Throw those heels inside and enjoy a more comfortable commute home, or another few hours on the dance floor.
Price: $25
Where: www.cityslips.com
PRICEY OPTIONS
Name: Footzyrolls
Created by sisters Sarah and Jenifer Caplan, Footzyrolls are a collection of rollable ballet flats that are so convenient and versatile they are the perfect solution for females who are looking for comfort without sacrificing beauty. This sleek shoe fits into even the smallest of evening bags, and provides relief when you just cannot take another step in those Louboutin’s. Completely rollable and foldable Fits in the smallest bag Water proof and Skid proof Sole Carry as your spare pair Great for travel Great to wear in the office Great to wear outside. Upper is made from a PU that you can easily clean You will never want to go out without them!
Price: $30
Where: www.footzyrolls.com
Name: Sex and the City Foldable After Party Shoes
Silver sparkle slip-ons delicately embellished with a pale pink embroidery, diamante, and beads. The Charlotte shoe shows off a dazzling yet sophisticated style that will add a dash of sparkle to your wardrobe.
Specially designed to give comfort and relief from the pain of wearing heels, the foldable After Party Shoe is perfect for any occasion and durable enough to wear all day long. Now you can party like your favorite Sex and the City girlfriends.
Price: $65
Where: Shop HBO
Name: Bloch London Nabuk Roll Up Ballet Flat
Bloch recently entered an exciting new period of innovation and fashion design with the creation of mainstream footwear, following the demands by current customers to create street-ready shoes. These shoes are said to be super comfy, much like wearing actual ballet slippers just with the added support of a sole for outside wear. Be careful with the sizing on these though as they run a tad small!
Price: $67
Where: www.Amazon.com
EMERGENCY OPTIONS
If you don’t have time to order roll up flats online beforehand, that’s ok because two companies in Britain, Rollasole and Afterheels, have created vending machines that sell “emergency” roll-up flats for only $8.00 per pair. With each purchase you get your flats, a dust bag to put your fabulous, albeit hurtful stilettos in for safe keeping, and a little keepsake box. Genius!
