Groundies Lily Classic Leather Ballet Flat

These are what I expect at this price point. They look nicer than what I was replacing which was a well-worn pair of Softstar Ballerine - though it appears they've updated to a bit nicer looking but still significantly higher in price. These are not really barefoot shoes. They only work with my high volume feet with the insole removed but then cut into my ankle because the elastic is highly confining. I should have returned them but I needed them to wear for an event. My big toe joint is flared up from wearing them. I'll be in Vibram Fivefingers and Correct Toes for a while getting back into shape. I cannot recommend these for anyone who has real foot problems.

These are quickly becoming one of my favorite pairs of barefoot shoes. Elegant, sleek, and go with almost anything. I did have to size up as with my usual size 39, my toes touched the front of the shoe's hardened cap, and the band kind of squeezed my tendon (unlike the Ruby flats which I also own). They were clearly not going to stretch out either. I sized up to size 40 and they were perfect! For reference, my feet are 25cm long and 9.5cm wide. The only "con" for some people might be that the inside is all black and can stain light-colored socks (and probably your skin/nail polish but I haven't tried that). I always wear my shoes with socks so I haven't had any issue. I bought a set of black "invisible" cotton toe socks from Temu and it's all good. I can comfortably wear CorrectToes with these flats. I have seen people say that the insole comes out with their feet when they take the shoes off, but I haven't experienced that at all. No crinkling or buckling of the insole either. Honestly these should have more 5-star reviews.

Simple and beautiful but uncomfortable. The elastics keep riding up the top of my foot and my toes end up touching the front. I tried a larger size but I had the same issue. The foot keeps sliding forward and the toes crash into the front. I plan to add thicker insoles and tongue pads, and I hope that helps.