Julia Roberts Once Changed Out of Her Red Carpet Heels for Flats That Shoppers Say Feel ‘Like Walking on Pillows’

Not quite a ballet slipper and not exactly a sneaker: Meet the sneakerina.

As a mom in my 40s, one of the best parts of getting older has been caring less about what’s “in” and more about how things actually feel. Gone are the days of chasing trends and wearing heels that would give me blisters before dinner. And it seems Julia Roberts, 58, is right there with me.

The Oscar winner’s stylist previously Instagrammed a photo of Roberts swapping out red carpet heels for a pair of Vivaia Sneakerinas, saying she slipped into them “for comfort.” She wore the same pair in Venice earlier this fall as well, and more celebrities, including Oprah, have also been spotted wearing practical Vivaia shoes in other styles.

Vivaia Yanka Satin Sneakerina

Vivaia Sneakerinas are washable, packable, and flexible (translation: You can toss them in a weekender bag, and they’ll still be your go-to for a coffee run or travel day). My co-worker tested them and said they felt “like wearing slippers,” and were so lightweight she had to check if she was still wearing shoes. A shopper at the brand’s website noted they felt “like walking on pillows” and that there’s “no need to break them in because they cradle your feet with pillowy, silky softness.”

Sure, $159 for a pair of shoes isn’t cheap, but because they cover so much ground (from work flats to travel sneakers to weekend walking shoes), they might actually save you money and closet space.

They’re also easy to dress up or down: Think straight-leg jeans and a blazer for casual Fridays, or a midi skirt and favorite sweater for weekend errands. Roberts even wore hers with a designer dress, which tells you they’re versatile enough for a night out, too. One reviewer with ankle pain even ditched their date-night heels for them, calling them “the most beautiful and comfortable shoes ever.” Wear them with or without socks, and while the black pair truly goes with anything, there are 12 other color options and even six different laces so you can match your mood — and your outfit.

Step into some of the most comfortable flats we’ve tested with more Vivaia styles below.

Vivaia Margot Square-Toe Mary-Janes

Vivaia Valentina Bow Loafers

Vivaia Claire Round-Toe Flats