Selecting the right ballet shoes is essential for comfort, safety, and developing good technique. For new dancers and dance parents, the options can feel confusing. This guide explains the key decisions step by step so you can choose with confidence.
We will cover:
- Types of ballet shoes (full sole vs split sole)
- How to choose based on skill level and material
- What to look for in beginner shoes
- How to find the right size and fit
- Color choices and inclusivity in ballet shoes
1. Typos of Ballet Shoes
Understanding the two main types of ballet shoes helps you quickly narrow down your options.
1.1 Full Sole Ballet Shoes
What they are
Full sole ballet shoes have one continuous sole that runs along the entire bottom of the shoe.
Best for
- Brand-new dancers
- Young students
- Anyone still building basic foot and ankle strength
Benefits
- More support under the whole foot
- Extra structure and resistance to help develop strength
- A stable base that makes it easier to balance, jump, and turn
Because full sole shoes encourage dancers to work through the entire foot, they are usually recommended as the first ballet shoe for beginners.
1.2 Split Sole Ballet Shoes
What they are
Split sole ballet shoes have two separate sole pieces—one under the ball of the foot and one under the heel—with a flexible section under the arch.
Best for
- Intermediate and advanced dancers
- Dancers with established strength and control
Benefits
- More flexibility through the arch
- Allows a more fully pointed foot
- Shows a more defined and aesthetically pleasing line
Split sole shoes are usually not the first choice for very new dancers, but they are popular once technique and strength are more developed.
2. How to Choose Ballet Shoes
When choosing ballet shoes, focus on a few key factors:
- Skill level
- Foot size and shape
- Material
- Brand and style preferences
- Class or studio requirements
2.1 Skill Level
New dancers / first-year dancers:
Start with full sole shoes for better support and strength-building.
More experienced dancers:
May prefer split sole shoes for greater flexibility and a more refined line.
2.2 Foot Size and Shape
Every brand and style can fit slightly differently, so always:
- Check the size chart for the specific shoe
- Read any fit notes (for example: runs small, runs large, narrow, or wide)
- Consider the dancer’s foot width and arch height
- Taking a moment to review the size guidance for each product will help you avoid returns and discomfort.
2.3 Material
While ballet shoes come in several materials, one of the most common for beginners is leather:
- Durable
- Supportive
- Helpful for building foot strength
Other materials, such as canvas, are often used by more experienced dancers who prefer a softer, more flexible feel.
2.4 Brand Options
Many dancers and parents find it helpful to start with well-known, reliable brands. Popular ballet shoe brands include:
- Bloch
- Capezio
- So Danca
- Sansha
Please note that Amazon exclusive brands are generally not the quality dance teachers prefer in their class rooms.
If you need personalized help choosing a brand or style, you can contact customer support at The Dance Store: hello@dance.store
3. Beginner Ballet Shoes: What to Look For
The first pair of ballet shoes sets the foundation for good technique.
Why Full Sole Leather Shoes Work Well for Beginners
For most new dancers, a full sole leather ballet shoe is a strong choice because it:
- Supports the entire foot
- Encourages correct use of the foot through class exercises
- Helps build strength and stability
4. Finding the Right Size and Fit
Proper fit is one of the most important parts of buying ballet shoes.
4.1 How Ballet Shoes Should Fit
A well-fitted ballet shoe should:
- Feel snug, like a sock—not loose like a street shoe
- Allow the toes to lie flat and lengthened inside the shoe
- Hug the foot without causing pain or cutting into the skin
4.2 Signs of Poor Fit
Check for these warning signs:
- Pain or pressure in the toes, heel, or sides of the foot
- Toes bent or curled because the shoe is too short
- Straps or elastics digging in too deeply
- Elastic that feels overly tight or restricts movement
- Excessive gaping or wrinkling of the material, which can indicate a shoe that is too large
- If you see any of these, try a different size, width, or style.
4.3 Using Size Charts and Getting Help
Because sizing varies between brands and styles:
- Always check the product’s size chart as dance shoe sizing generally does not equal street shoe sizing
- Read any fit notes included in the description
If in doubt, reach out for assistance: hello@dance.store
A quick question before you order can save time and ensure your dancer starts class with comfortable shoes.
5. Color and Inclusivity in Ballet Shoes
5.1 Traditional Ballet Shoe Colors
Many studios and teachers request “ballet pink” shoes, which usually appear as a light pink or peach tone. This has been a long-standing tradition in ballet.
5.2 Inclusive Color Options
Dancewear has increasingly moved toward more inclusive color ranges to better represent dancers of all skin tones. Ballet shoes are now available in multiple shades so that dancers can choose a color that:
- Reflects their skin tone more accurately
- Helps them feel seen, represented, and included
- Creates a continuous line from leg to foot on stage
This shift supports a more diverse and welcoming dance community.
5.3 Matching Skin Tone Across Dancewear
To create a cohesive look, many dancers like to coordinate:
- Shoes
- Tights
- Undergarments
Choosing products in similar shades can elongate the leg line and create a uniform appearance on stage or in photos. Your best chance to pick the same shade across shoes, tights and undergarments is to stay the same brand.
6. Summary of Key Points
- Start brand-new dancers in full sole ballet shoes, ideally leather, for support and strength-building.
- Consider split sole shoes later, as strength and technique improve.
- Use brand-specific size charts and fit notes to choose the right size instead of assuming that street size will apply to the dance shoe size.
- Watch for clear signs of poor fit and adjust as needed.
- Choose colors that meet studio requirements while also supporting inclusivity and representation.
If you have questions about brands, sizing, or styles, The Dance Store is available to help: hello@dance.store
