These Vivaia Flats Are the Best Walking Shoes

Every time ballet flats swing back into season, I brace myself—and my feet. As someone prone to blisters no matter the shoe, I’ve spent years chasing the dream of a stylish, comfortable flats that didn’t leave me covered in Band-Aids. I’ve tried to put fashion over comfort, but the truth always poked through (sometimes literally, thanks to the open tops of traditional flats). Then I discovered the Vivaia Round Toe Sneakerina Yanka Flats and everything changed.

Vivaia’s entire brand mission is based on a question that’s long haunted women everywhere: Why can’t stylish shoes feel as good as sneakers? It set out to create footwear that supports you through everyday life: from the sidewalk to the airport to your next big adventure—and the Sneakerina is living proof they nailed it.

Vivaia Round-toe Satin Sneakerina Yanka Flats

These hybrid flats combine the classic shape of a ballet slipper with the cushioned arch support of a sneaker, something that's been desperately missing from the past styles I've tried. With the familiar low-cut silhouette and no heel, they look like a ballet flat at first glance, but the real magic happens at the top: a satin shoelace tie that adds not just a touch of elegance but adjustability, too—another important support element that flats often forgo. 

The first time I wore them, it felt like stepping onto a memory foam pillow. Thanks to the suede-like integrated insole and supportive build, they hugged my feet in all the right places without any break-in period. I’ve worn them on long treks through New York City—a true endurance test—and not a single blister, hotspot, or twinge of pain followed. I can officially say they’re the most comfortable flats I’ve ever worn.

Vivaia Round-toe Satin Sneakerina Yanka

Naturally, my travel-loving brain immediately started spinning. I have a trip to France planned for August, and the Sneakerinas have officially claimed their spot in my suitcase. They’re foldable, which makes them an absolute dream to pack (no worrying about smushed or creased shoes), and they’re stylish enough to match all my European outfits. I’m already planning to pair them with a floral midi dress for a vineyard tour, a sleek all-white look for dinner in Nice, and casual jeans-and-tee days wandering cobblestone streets.

The versatility doesn’t stop there. I’ve already styled them countless ways here in the city: with trousers and a cardigan, a maxi skirt and blouse, jeans and a simple T-shirt, and each outfit felt effortlessly put together. Plus, the color-matched detailing and luxurious satin fabric upper make them look far more expensive than they are.

Vivaia Round-toe Satin Sneakerina Yanka

I opted for the crisp white shade, which admittedly made me nervous at first. White shoes and city streets are a risky combo. But Vivaia had that covered too: the Sneakerinas are fully machine washable since they're crafted from durable upcycled materials with a sturdy construction that holds up wash after wash. So if they get a little scuffed or dirty (which, let’s be real, they will when you travel), you can toss them in the machine and have them looking brand new again. They also come in gorgeous blue, black, and sweet pink shades, and after falling in love with the white, I’m already tempted to add another color to my lineup.

While I tested the Round-toe Sneakerina Yanka, Vivaia also makes a Square-toe version called the Cristina. It leans even more into that cool balletcore vibe, blending a timeless shape with modern comfort. Bonus: the Cristinas come with two types of laces so you can switch up your look depending on your mood or destination (we’ve even spotted Bella Hadid wearing them).

Vivaia Square-toe Lace-up Satin Sneakerina Cristina

Flats aren't the only shoe style that Vivaia put its comfortable, high-fashion spin on. Keep scrolling to explore the other supportive kicks from the brand that will make excellent travel companions on your next trip. 

More Comfortable Shoes to Shop at Vivaia: 

Square-toe Mary Jane Flats

Arch Pro AdaptAll Sandals

Classic Slip-on Unisex Sneakers

Round-toe Lace-up Mesh Sneakers

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.