Since joining the royal family, Meghan Markle has become a major style icon. So when she stepped out in a pair of black pointed-toe ballet flats by Rothy’s, it’s no surprise the brand became a viral sensation. And while the phrase “quality over quantity” is certainly true, not everyone can afford to drop $145 on a pair of flats. Fortunately, you don’t have to. There are plenty of shoes like Rothy’s that offer similar styles, constructions and comfort to the cult brand, but at a fraction of the price – and you can buy them all on Amazon.
Why is the Duchess of Sussex (and millions of other shoppers) a fan of Rothy’s? For starters, Rothy’s shoes are said to be comfortable and durable thanks to their unique, eco-friendly knit fabric, made with recycled plastic water bottles, which is lightweight and flexible yet doesn’t lose its shape. Additionally, their cushioned insoles are made from algae-based foam and the outsoles are made from sturdy renewable rubber. Along with their commitment to durability, Rothy’s shoes are also notable for being machine washable.
While not all of the shoes on this list are as eco-friendly as Rothy’s (although a few are), they do share some of the brand’s other hallmarks, such as stretch knit uppers, flexible rubber soles, classic silhouettes and machine washable. And I’ve made sure to include alternatives to four of the brand’s best-selling styles – The Point, The Flat, The Driver and The Sneaker – so there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for office-appropriate flats or a pair of polished slip-on sneakers, this list brings together seven of the best shoes like Rothy’s, starting at just $27.
1
These budget Rothy lookalikes you can fold in half
At first glance, these color-block flats could easily be mistaken for a pair of Rothy’s The Point flats, until you take a closer look at the affordability. These shoes are made from a mesh fabric which, although not made from recycled materials, is very lightweight and durable. The interior is lined and has a lightly padded insole for all-day comfort. Another cool feature? They have flexible outsoles that allow you to bend them in half, so they’re great for travel or on the go.
Helpful review from Amazon: “This might be my most favorite Amazon purchase EVER! These shoes are so comfortable and stylish, I can’t believe how much I paid for them! I hope they make them forever because I will probably buy any style they come out! Someone at work asked me if they belonged to Rothy and I said “no, but more comfortable and MUCH more affordable”‘ Take them, you don’t not regret it!”
- Colors available: 21
- Available sizes: 5 —11
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
2
These loafers that are a great alternative to Rothy’s The Driver
If you’ve looked at Rothy’s driving loafers but aren’t in the mood to splurge, look no further than these square toe loafers from VIVAIA. Like Rothy’s, this brand also focuses on sustainability and uses environmentally friendly materials. The knit uppers are made from recycled plastic water bottles, and the cushioned insoles are made from natural latex that wicks away moisture and odor and provides arch support. The sturdy outsoles are made of carbon-free rubber. The brand also offers many other shoes like Rothy’s – you can find more styles on their Amazon homepage.
Helpful review from Amazon: “I bought them for the look and was surprised by the comfort […] I just love them. They look great with jeans or work pants. They are so comfortable that I forget they are on! Size up if your feet are not narrow!! »
- Colors available: 10
- Available sizes: 5 —11
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : Yes | Cushioned insoles: Yes
3
A pair of pointed toe ballet flats available in 37 colors
With over 1,000 five-star reviews, these pointy-toe ballet flats are another much-loved The Point lookalike. They’ll keep your feet dry and comfortable, thanks to a moisture-wicking knit upper and tiny perforations that allow your feet to breathe. Like Rothy’s, the insoles are cushioned for comfortable all-day wear, while the outsoles are made of flexible, durable rubber. These apartments can be cleaned by lightly rubbing the stains with a mild cleansing foam and a cloth.
Helpful review from Amazon: “I can’t justify the price of Rothy’s. I’ve always wanted a pair but I’m REALLY hard on shoes. Also, I have problems with my feet, so I usually only buy shoes with memory foam. THESE. ARE. SO. COMFORTABLE. I wear a 7 and they are true to size. The knit material is amazing and they have a cushioned insole and they are very flexible. They also come with an extra set of insoles! I ordered the brown one and as soon as I wore them the next morning I bought another pair in grey.
- Colors available: 37
- Available sizes: 5 —11
Machine washable: NOT | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
4
This fan-favorite knit ballerina
Skechers are known for their extreme comfort, and these ballet flats are no exception. And with their slightly pointed toe (reminiscent of Rothy’s The Flat) and scalloped trim, they’re more chic than you’d expect from the brand. Rubber outsoles provide traction, while Skechers air-cooled memory foam insoles provide both comfort and breathability. With over 4,500 perfect ratings on Amazon, they are a fan favorite.
Helpful review from Amazon: “I own a pair of Rothys and love them, but I just can’t get over the price. I bought these in order to achieve a similar look but at a more reasonable price. I first bought them in “red”, then ordered a second pair in black color. The red is more of a rust/khaki color, which I love. They have a memory foam insole that provides good arch support and overall comfort. I felt like I was wearing slippers. I found them true to size without stretching too much.
- Colors available: 5
- Available sizes: 5 — 11 (also available in large)
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
5
A pair of slip-on sneakers that are a cross between two Rothy classics
These mesh trainers are reminiscent of The Sneaker, since they are slip-ons, but their slightly higher ankle height is also reminiscent of Chelsea style. They feature a knitted mesh upper that allows ventilation and are sewn for durability. Plus, their shock-absorbing cushioning keeps your feet supported on long walks, while flexible rubber outsoles provide Rothy-like comfort and flexibility. A tab at the back makes it easy to put on.
Helpful review from Amazon: “This shoe is WONDERFUL! It’s one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. These shoes are the closest thing to going barefoot…while walking on clouds! I have a lot of foot problems, including big bunions and hammer toes, so finding shoes that don’t hurt is almost a miracle! I walked several miles last weekend in total comfort – amazing! The shoe fits like a glove, is extremely lightweight, and the design is sleek and attractive.
- Colors available: 31
- Available sizes: 5 — 13
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
6
These loafer-inspired knit flats with memory foam insoles
If you don’t like the traditional ballerina silhouette, these loafer-inspired ballet flats from Skechers might be what you’re looking for. The upper is made from a mesh fabric that stretches for a snug fit, and the rounded toe is reminiscent of Rothy’s The Flat. Just like Rothy’s, they have soft rubber outsoles that provide adequate traction. Plus, they’re equipped with Skechers unique cooling memory foam insoles that are comfortable, breathable, and help prevent sole sweat.
Helpful review from Amazon: “The shoes are really cute and very comfortable. I’ve been on my feet all day and have no discomfort or pain anywhere. I wear a seven sometimes 7 1/2. I ordered them in a seven and they fit perfectly I received many compliments.
- Colors available: 4
- Available sizes: 5.5 — 11 (also available in large)
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
7
A pair of knit loafers with extra padding for all-day comfort
Another flat inspired loafer, this pair of Clarks looks like a cross between The Flat and The Driver. And like all Clarks shoes, they’ll feel like slippers rather than real shoes. The ultra-cushioned triple-layer padded insoles are ideal for those looking for extra foot support, and the uppers are made from a lightweight knit fabric with a breathable lining. Soft rubber outsoles provide traction, just like Rothy’s.
Helpful review from Amazon: “These shoes are heaven! So comfortable and classy. I bought black for work. They are machine washable and so comfortable! They look 100% like Rothy’s but are about $100 less. I I have wider feet due to bunions and these work great for me.The knitted material allows for a certain flair that most flats don’t have.
- Colors available: 11
- Sizes available: 5 — 12 (also available in large)
Machine washable: Yes | Recycled materials : NOT | Cushioned insoles: Yes
