These Machine-Washable Ballet Flats Are a Game Changer for Traveling

I’m the kind of traveler who will walk 10,000 steps instead of taking a taxi while vacationing abroad. I love getting to know the sights and sounds of a new city on foot. Unfortunately, that sometimes means dealing with blisters and heel pain. Given this, I’ve been on the hunt for comfortable flats for a while now, testing out shoes ranging from Chanel ballerina flats (an impulse buy that I regret!) to Amazon Basic flats (scored for $5!).

Thus far, Vivaia’s Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats have proven to be the most comfortable and durable that I’ve tested, able to hold up while traversing cobblestone streets to sandy shores. It’s rare to find a single pair of shoes that are suitable for so many different itineraries and day-to-day experiences. What’s more, they’re machine washable, which has been a game changer for me as a digital nomad. Here’s all the reasons why I love my Vivaia Flats, and why they’d be great to bring along with you for your next vacation.

Image: Vivaia

Price: $69+ at Vivaia

Shop now at Vivaia

Make sure to add this Vivaia promo code before you buy, as your purchase may be eligible for a $10 off discount. And if you’re a RetailMeNot member (it’s free to sign up!), know that you can earn 2% cash back on your purchase from now until the end of January 2026.

Get $10 off at Vivaia

Earn 2% cash back at Vivaia

Image: Vivaia

Vivaia prides itself on the fact that they’ve designed delicate-looking women’s shoes that are just as comfortable as sneakers—and I can confirm that is certainly the case, at least with the Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats. They boast an insole with heel rebound, provide arch and forefoot support, and come with a built-in heel patch for added comfort. The rubber outsole is also surprisingly thick, so you won’t feel every pebble and crack on the sidewalk while walking, which can often happen with ballet flats.

Image: Vivaia

Vivaia shoes are crafted using a flexible material that can be squished, packed down and even folded in half without losing their shape or looking worn down and frumpy. I love that I can squeeze these shoes into my carry-on without having to be precious with them.

Image: Vivaia

I love the style and convenience of ballerina flats, but all too often they can start to give off a somewhat funky smell (sorry—but IYKYK). I love that my Vivaia flats are machine washable, or in some cases, hotel-shower washable. I can comfortably walk through rain storms or muddy areas and know that I can just throw my shoes in the wash when I get home. I also really like that these shoes don’t give off any smells when washed semi-regularly.

Image: Vivaia

My Pointed-Toe Ballet Flats are incredibly versatile and match pretty much my entire wardrobe. I opted for the classic black water-repellent design, which works just as well for exploring a city by day or dressing up and going out by night. The water-repellent design also means I can wear these shoes on the beach, during rainy days, or while walking through grassy areas without worrying about damaging the shoe.