Rothy's and Everlane both use recycled plastic to make comfortable women's flats - here's how they compare in comfort, style, and price

How different can two knit flats be? There actually is a distinct difference between the feel, as well as the maintenance, of Everlane's and Rothy's flats.

Rothy's knit material is thinner and slightly tighter-woven, and the 3D printing process that produces it results in a less noticeable pattern. Rothy's round-toe flats have some more give and flexibility, so they could be ideal for wide feet. The pointy-toe version is best for narrow feet. Since the insole is also made from recycled materials rather than something like leather, it feels drier and slightly more breathable, and it won't stick to the bottom of your feet. If you tend to have sweaty feet, Rothy's might be better for you. They're easy to clean — just take out the insoles to hand-wash and throw the shoes themselves in the cold wash cycle of your washing machine.

The Everlane Day Glove ReKnit knit material is thicker and fashioned into a rib pattern. The flat also has a thicker, more defined "collar" that hugs onto your foot. The cushioned leather insole is buttery soft, smooth, and flexible, providing all-day comfort reminiscent of the original Day Glove. Together, these components make a lightweight, breathable shoe that you can wear straight out of the box. Due to the leather detailing on this shoe, you can only spot clean it.

Rothy's flats come in two styles. The Flat has a rounded toe and angular opening, while The Point has a pointed toe and an angular opening. Compared to Everlane, Rothy's has many more color and print options, like this leopard print. However, it regularly "retires" colors and prints and introduces new or limited-edition ones, so if you see a style you like, it's better to buy it sooner than later.

The Everlane Day Glove ReKnit flats are pretty new, so there are currently only five colors available: black, white, pink, red, and yellow. As a basics brand, Everlane doesn't really do prints, but as it expands its color offerings, you can expect more solid color options. There is one silhouette, which has a rounded toe and rounded opening.

Based on shoe budget alone, you might have an immediate preference for one brand over the other.

Rothy's flats are more expensive. The rounded toe flats cost $125 and the pointed toe flats cost $145.

Everlane's Day Glove ReKnit costs $98.

We own, regularly wear, and love both brand's flats, but the bottom line is this:

If you like shopping many different colors and patterns, want a low-maintenance shoe you can easily wash, and desire more flexibility and give, get a pair of Rothy's flats.

If you don't want to spend more than $100, are okay with basic colors, and prefer a thicker, more structured feel, get a pair of Everlane Day Glove ReKnit flats.