How to Buy Ballet Slippers

If you're taking ballet slippers or have a child taking ballet, you'll soon find the slippers on the shoes you wear during ballet are imperative. But it can be tricky to step into a ballet store and try to buy ballet slippers. Here are some things to keep in mind.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Avoid buying pointe shoes, unless your instructor has told you to, or if you spend most of your dancing time on your toes. Advanced ballet dancers wear pointe shoes. Pointe shoes are square toed and inflexible.

2. Purchase the correct size and avoid buying ones that are too big for children, hoping they'll grow into it. If you don't buy the right size you could injure yourself. Try a few dance moves when trying on the slippers. Avoid shoes that force your toes to curl. Consider shopping for shoes at about the same time your dance class is, since feet change slightly in size throughout the day.

3. Decide the kind of fabric you want. There are canvas ballet slippers and leather ballet slippers. Leather is warmer and more durable, but canvas costs less and is washable.

4. Consider purchasing a pair for performances and a pair for practice. Ballet shoes for performances are secured with satin straps around the ankle. Practice ballet shoes are secured with an elastic band around the ankle that need to be sewed in place to fit your foot and ankle exactly.

5. Choose the kind of sole you want. Full-sole slippers are similar to pointe shoes. Half-sole slippers may be used by dancers who want to create a stronger pointe. This is a personal preference.

6. Speak to your instructor about what kind of slipper they recommend and where to buy a pair. Your instructor will help you get a shoe that meets your needs and the dancing you'll be doing.