it's the same here Joanofarc (love your name by the way)

There are actual some flats that are athletic flats. I had a wonderful pair I wore to walk all around Washington D.C. I like flats because I"m so tall, they don't make me any taller

Have you tried shopping online for shoes? I know it's frustrating when all the stores will carry are the latest fashions!

Best wishes
Sparrow