The ballet shoes dancers wear are often peachy pink and are associated with femininity. They are essential for the discipline and symbol of a ballerina’s coming-of-age.
While the ballet flat may have had a rocky fashion history, it has found new life thanks to designers like Hedi Slimane and indie sleaze Instagrammers. Here are some of our favourite options to consider. For more womens ballet shoes, check this out.
Sole
The Stelle Ballet Shoes are designed to hug the foot and provide dancers with ultimate balance. These ballet shoes are lightweight, breathable, and come in classic colours. They also feature pre-sewn elastic straps, which make them easier to put on and remove. They are available in sizes for both adults and children.
The fit of a ballet shoe is crucial to preventing injury. It should be snug but not tight. When you try on a pair of soft ballet shoes, stand up in them and check for space between the arch of your foot and the edge of the shoe. If the gap is too large, it is too big, and you should select a different size.
Ballet slippers are usually made from leather, canvas or satin. The best choice will depend on your child’s experience level, whether they want a full-sole or split-sole ballet shoe and their colour preference. Dancers of colour should choose a shoe that looks like it was designed for them.
Fit
Ballet shoes are sized differently than street shoes, and the right fit is essential. If the shoe is pinching your toes or slipping off at the heel, it is too small and needs to be a larger size. Dance teachers can help with sizing and often have their preferred brands and styles of ballet shoes for their students.
The best ballet slippers are made of soft, stretch canvas or leather that moulds to the foot while offering flexibility and highlighting the shape of the foot when pointed. A padded, cotton-lined foam insole adds cushioning for comfort. Some styles feature pre-sewn crisscross elastics for easy on/off and a secure fit.
Style
Ballet shoes are generally made from canvas or leather. They are very lightweight and fit snugly on the dancer’s foot. It allows the dancer to flex her toes and point her feet in ways that would be impossible with street shoes.
Ballet slippers can be purchased in stores from a variety of suppliers. Some dancers find it best to seek out local providers and try on shoes in person. It helps ensure the shoe is fitted correctly and provides a clear view of the dancer’s foot.
Colour
Women’s ballet shoes come in a variety of colours. It’s best to consult with your dance teacher to determine which type and colour of the shoe is right for you or your child. They can also offer insight into which shoe size is best for your foot and whether you need a broader or narrower shoe. For more womens ballet shoes, check this out.
When ballet pointe shoes were first created, they were designed to resemble a continuation of the ballerina’s leg tone, creating a graceful line from foot to knee to heel. Unfortunately, until recently, most pointe shoes were only available in a pale peachy pink shade. Many dancers of colour, including Misty Copeland and Michaela DePrince, have been forced to pancake or dye their shoes to match their skin tone.
Luckily, manufacturers are starting to take note of this problem. Dancewear companies such as Freed of London and Gaynor Minden have introduced shoes in shades of brown and nude, making it easier for black dancers to match their feet.
Women’s shoes add a touch of femininity to any outfit. Choose from a wide selection of flats and heels that can be worn to any occasion.
Some men wear women’s shoes as a fashion statement. It can be a great way to show off your style and express yourself.