Sign in Pro
Best Pointed Toe Flats For Girl Bosses Reviewed
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Breathability
When considering the initial design of pointed-toe flats, we tend to assume that they all will have a high rate of breathability. The truth, however, is not so cut and dry as this.
The upper material and design will dictate a big portion of whether or not your feet can breathe well. An upper with perforations is going to have a much higher breathability level than an upper which doesn't. Likewise, an upper made of cloth will cool your feet better than thick leather.
The insole and footbed, also, is going to play a part in allowing airflow throughout the product. A faux leather insole, for example, may promote more heat than a real leather insole will. Depending on the actual materials of the faux leather insole and its design, it may trap moisture between foot and surface. Real leather, on the other hand, has a natural, breathable quality. It will absorb the sweat instead of trapping it.
Understanding the materials utilized allows us to gain a more profound idea of its ability to breathe. So, although flats as a design are more breathable than say a pair of boots, not all flats have high breathability.
Comfort
Comfort should never be compromised in any sense. If your feet bleed, the footwear is worthless. Unfortunately, with pointed-toe flats, there is a growing number of styles which skim over comfort in exchange for decorative design. Whether it is a faulty mindset of believing they are uncomfortable, anyway (due to their flat design), or whether it is an oversight, there is no excuse for an uncomfortable experience when wearing shoes. This is especially true for when we put them on right from the box.
There seems to be flawed logic in the footwear world, where everyone assumes that things just need to be 'broken in.' In most cases, however, footwear should never need break-in time. Leather material is the only exception to this rule, as it is thick and needs time to soften in the right places, so to speak. Pre-stretching and other techniques can aid with this.
Take, for example, a pair of shoes that feel great when we first put them on. We begin walking around, and an hour later, we notice that our heels now need band-aids to combat the rawness of the shoe digging into our skin. Our pre-notion of "these just need to be broken in" comes into play, and we band-aid up while hoping the next time we wear them, things will get better.
When it comes to pointed-toe flats, it seems decoration begins to overshadow the importance of comfort; at least, with some companies. We, however, believe this to be a terrible practice and our scores in comfort reflect this, fiercely.
Overall Fit
When we consider the overall fit for pointed-toe flats, we are very aware of the natural styling. That is, a pointed toe is, more than likely, going to have less room in the toe box than that of a round toe design. But if a person with narrow feet is to step into a certain pair, and they find that their pinky toes are being forced to overlap their other toes, then this footwear is considered to have a faulty design. Our score in this area will reflect this, accordingly, dropping it, drastically.
There are slip-on variations and others with ankle straps. Obviously, those having ankle straps are likely to receive a higher number in the overall fit than those models which do not. This, however, is not always true. There are times when an ankle strap becomes cumbersome and does not perform as well as the slip-on variants. This, would then, cause the score to drop.
When evaluating these items for an overall fit, we consider the stability, structuring, and comfort levels while being worn. Also, sizing is part of these elements. If a pair is true to size, it will receive a better number than a pair which fluctuates from being too big or too small.
Any footwear which receives a high score in the overall fit criterium, is footwear that meets the standard, as it were. It might not have great longevity associated with it, but it certainly will feel good while it lasts.
Materials
Materials have obvious importance when it comes to pointed-toe flats. There are many varying upper materials utilized with this style. Everything from denim to leather and cloth to an enamel finish can be found. Also, we find that the insoles vary greatly, as do the outsoles.
With all of that being stated, we do not overly compare a denim material versus a leather material. At the end of the day, these are two varying materials with different qualities about them. What we do compare, however, is the quality, itself. That is, is this footwear equipped with a nice, thick-grade of denim, or is it thin and about to tear before we even put it on?
As for the insoles, we understand they are going to be thin. These are flats we are evaluating. The problem child is not the thickness or thinness of the insole, as it were, but the performance of what is there. If we take two separate insoles of the same density and place them side-by-side, then stand on each one, we should feel no difference between the two if they are performing optimally. But if one insole feels like a thin board and the other feels cushiony, then the one akin to the board will receive the lower score.
Summing it up, the overall material make-up of the entire footwear, as a whole, is taken into consideration. There are many elements to account for, but the end result is the same. Those receiving a higher score have met or exceeded expectation.
Value
Some of us may be old enough to remember the store, Kmart, and their "Blue Light Special." For those of us who have no idea what this is, it is akin to a 'sale of the century,' more or less. Items are placed under a blue, flashing light, to inform us that this is the best deal in the store. Price-wise, it seems that the bargain can never be beaten.
But is this a truth which always holds? The answer is, no. Sometimes, a great deal on the surface is, actually, the off-loading of a product which no one is buying because it is junk, more or less. And as unfortunate as it is, this simple philosophy bleeds into nearly every aspect of our lives, in terms of products. Footwear sales are no different.
Because we are aware of this, however, we are quick to sniff out the junk from the quality. Just because a pair of shoes may seem budget-friendly, doesn't mean that it holds high value. If the pair spoken of falls apart after a few hours of wear, then the value is awful, and our numbers do reflect this. Likewise, if a product is a bit pricey but it excels in all other areas, it may cost more, but the value score is going to be high.
Furthermore, if a product carries a guarantee and has great customer interaction (i.e. allowing returns, has a polite helpdesk, etc.), then this product will rise in value. So, in essence, the value is more than just the money we spend, it is the way we feel long after we have reached the end of the purchase.
Top 10 Picks
1. Ollio Comfort Light
Vibrant and delicious, these have the colors to match! Rarely do we see an item which is, actually, true to size. These, however, stand up to this element. So much so, that if you wear a size below the minimum size available, these will be too large. They do stretch with wearing, so what may feel tight at first, will change. Out of the box, this pair is extremely pointy-looking, but it tones down after the natural stretching during wear.
This item has a 0.3-inch heel height and faux suede upper. Once these have been worn a little while, the comfort level rises while the fit improves. They are very, true to size; meaning, these stretch to conform.
The multiple colors available are rich and vibrant. As such, these can really help an outfit to pop, so to speak. And although most of the colors are solid, there is a leopard-print version, as well.
The style is simplistic, yet it retains a modern feel. We love the attention to comfort and these provide that rather well. And with this item kind to the wallet, the value is tough to beat.
2. Dream Pairs Mary Jane
A popular choice, the Mary Jane style can be found in many settings. For this particular model, there are multiple variations of styling with different color choices. There is the single ankle strap with buckle closure or crisscross strap with rear zipper closure. Additionally, there are 18 colors available; everything from solid colors to floral print.
For those familiar with Dream Pairs, they do a fairly decent job of building comfort and then the footwear around that. This style is no different. In addition, the 0.15-inch heel height is minimal and holds true to the flats design.
Whether you are searching for something extravagant, as can be found in the crisscross strap, or are looking for something more refined, as in the single ankle strap, this model does a great job at handling both.
At the end of the day, these can be utilized as casual or dress, which means these have a nice versatility associated with them. Moreover, the value ranks high.
3. Kaitlyn Pan Ballerina
Cute and adorable, these have a genuine, leather upper and insole. Decorated with ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) studs, this model is flashy, yet practical; especially, considering the dual ankle straps with buckle closures. We love the overall appearance of this item! Furthermore, this pair has a slip-resistant outsole, microfiber leather lining, and 0.25-inch heel height.
The dual ankle straps give this product stability. They are minimal in their construction to help retain the feel of a slip-on shoe. With their presence, however, these become easier to walk in within a practical sense.
Genuine leather is utilized in the upper, insole, and lining. This allows for sturdier construction while, also, permitting a thin-cut of material. In essence, this helps to achieve a lasting product while maintaining a lightweight feel.
The only real problem with this model is the tight toe box. Of course, they are a pointed toe, so this accounts for some of that. Even so, the toe box is tighter than other like models. As such, we recommend sizing up to compensate.
4. Shop Pretty Girl Jersey
When it comes to the variations of styling on this model, all we can say is, "Wow!" Different colors yield different results in style. There is the slip-on version having a knotted tie at the forefoot. Another style yields an ankle strap with buckle closure. Next, we have an ankle strap with a cute, lace-up feature at the forefoot. After this, there is a weave design or lace-up feature at the forefoot. And, finally, a single ankle strap with buckle closure. In other words, "Wow!"
Along with the many stylings according to color choice, these utilize various materials for the upper (i.e. denim, cloth, velvet, etc.). The choices for the consumer is rather mind-boggling and a welcome change from the ordinary same-as-the-rest-only-changing-the-color concept.
For those with wide feet, we recommend going with your normal size, as there is a little wiggle room. For everyone else, a size down should suffice if you enjoy a tighter fit. Also, paying attention to the material of the style you are choosing is ideal, as some materials stretch more than others.
Overall, these are simply amazing, in terms of choice and pricing. The attention to detail, also, gives us the ability to dress up or down; dependent on which style is chosen.
5. Dream Pairs D'Orsay
As far as the concept 'flat' is concerned, these definitely fit the bill, as it were. There is zero arch support. Outside of this, there are a plethora of color choices and the D'Orsay style allows for dressing up or down. They are elegant and professional, aesthetically speaking. Furthermore, there are half sizes available to aid in a better fit; albeit, these do run narrow and small.
Unless you are going to add in an insert, do not expect to wear these for hours without your feet aching. The footbed is completely flat, and the end result does rear its mighty head, as the cushioning is minimal.
We can't help but love the style as a whole. The sheer amount of wardrobe variations that we are able to pick and choose from becomes vast indeed. There are 16 colors to choose from which opens up the horizon that much wider.
Even with the hard surface of the footbed or minimal cushioning, thereof, these are hard to pass up; simply, because they excel in all of the other areas. Our advice is to purchase an additional insole, in order to maximize the potential of this footwear.
6. Meeshine Foldable Ballet
With varying tones of gold, black, and silver, the array is wide in choices of both color and decorative styling. These utilize a PU, leather upper and are foldable for an easy stowaway. They are lightweight and are perfect for occasions, such as weddings, formal events, and parties. And dependent on the style chosen and the outfit to match, these may even be deployable as casual.
One of the defining characteristics of a Meeshine pointed flat, is the decorative toe. And if you are familiar with the attachment, fixation is achieved through glue. This means they must be treated with a little care. As such, the practical use for them is a special occasion or light office work, and not as everyday wear.
Unlike some of the other Meeshine flats we have encountered, these do not cause heel blistering. They are rather comfortable and feel like a slipper, more or less. Furthermore, the PU, leather upper makes them a bit sturdier than some of the other models from this same company.
With the overall fit being true to size and the comfort factor sitting nicely in the upper range, the value for these is rather good. If you are looking for something unique casually, or are in the market for a special occasion item, these might be the perfect grab.
7. Toms Diamond Jutti
This model is a bit tricky. Some of the varying color choices will change the upper to low breathability, whereas others are highly breathable. Also, we find that not all of the style changes reflect the pointed toe as it should within the Jutti series. In fact, there are quite a few variations which are round toe and are not identified to reflect this.
Over the years, Toms has made quite the name for itself. Unfortunately, this becomes quickly identifiable by some of the higher pricing. They do, however, construct a fairly solid piece of footwear for the long-term.
Even with the variations between the round and pointed toe stylings, a quick eye ball's scan can rectify any misleadings. Additionally, with the varying upper materials and designs, thereof, you should pay close attention to the changes, as breathability factors are greatly altered, as a result.
This is not a gorgeous product; nor, is it at all ugly, so to speak. It is, however, a casual piece of work with only a few variations allowing for dressing up. Special consideration should be taken when matching to dressier clothing.
8. Meeshine Classic Suede
Decorative jewelry or a bowtie is the staple to this particular style. With that being stated, the decoration is hot-glued and not an actual sewn-in portion of the upper. This makes these a bit more fragile, which is an unfortunate element with an attribute so centrally focused. Outside of this, these are great for those having narrow feet, as the fit is rather slender; albeit, there are a few reports that those with wide feet thought the fit was just fine.
Depending on the color choice, the accessory style will change. And although the colors available are rather low, the selection in color isn't too bad (i.e. black, nude, and white). This means the choice in outfit selection broadens a bit.
These can be worn as casual or dress, and even as a special occasion. And if it were not for the fragility in the attachment of the accessory, these might even be a steal at the price for which they are sold. Regrettably, the opposite is true.
Breathability is average, as is the comfort, materials, and overall value. The fit is subpar and the heel may cause blisters to form. This is a sad ending to an item with so much potential and promise.
9. Meeshine Classic Ballet
This is one of those items which narrows down our wardrobe selection. Each style is plaid with only a couple of choices not having the gaudy appearance of accessory. Now, this item works well when dressing retro, but outside of that or a pair of jeans, the wardrobe selection is rather minimal. They have a 0.39-inch heel height and are foldable.
Great for a party or other like occasion, these would a good pair to add to the arsenal of a shoe collection. Unless you are someone who enjoys the gaudy accessory appearance on your footwear or is someone who loves plaid, these are really impractical as everyday footwear.
They do have a wider range of size selection than some of the others on this list, which helps to set them apart. With that being stated, a narrow foot fits nicely, For others, not so much.
With the appearance being so specific in nature (plaid), the model suffers in versatility. The wardrobe choices available are so minimal that these fall into the realm of occasion-only shoes.
10. Ollio Comfort Enamel
Although the concept is grand when we compare these to the Ollio Comfort Light series, these fall short in performance. The back of the heel can rub raw and the enamel peels away a little too easily. Furthermore, the sizing is too small. Unlike the Comfort Light series, these will not stretch. And if they do, you can kiss the enamel good-bye.
This pair is disappointing, especially in the realm of comfort. The rear of the heel can be rubbed raw, meaning it is band-aid time just to wear them. And although some footwear does have a break-in period, this is not a style which should need such a treatment.
The enamel creates a patent look which is great. But the enamel, also, is a finish. This means that any stretching of the footwear can, equally, cause the enamel to crack and then peel away; leaving us with an undesirable piece of footwear.
Overall, these should be worn on minimal occasion and should not be utilized as everyday footwear. In addition, they needed to be treated with care, such as a walk on eggshells, as the durability factor is extremely low.
Sources
- , What is the difference between..., article
- , Ballet Flat, definition
- , Shoe Syllabus, article