In short: for starting ballet, a full-sole shoe is most often recommended, as it supports the foot while it builds strength. The split sole, more flexible under the arch, better defines the line of the foot: it is suitable for more advanced dancers. For the upper, canvas is lightweight and flexible; satin has a ballerina look. And before buying, ask your teacher: many schools require a specific model or color.
Full sole or split sole?
The full sole covers the entire underside of the foot. It offers more resistance and support, which helps strengthen the foot: it is the usual choice for beginners and children. The split sole (or two-piece sole) only has two pieces, under the front of the foot and under the heel. More flexible at the arch, it shows the pointed foot better, and is suitable for students who already have good technical control (sources: Dance Parent 101, Só Dança).
Canvas, satin or leather?
Canvas (or fabric) is lightweight, flexible, and often cheaper: it is the most common material for classes. Leather is more durable and molds to the foot over time. Shiny satin gives the look of ribbon ballet shoes. Dansezo does not offer leather-upper shoes: our models are made of canvas, fabric, cotton, knit, or satin, some with a leather outsole.
The outsole
It is just as important as the shape. A leather or suede outsole glides on parquet and dance floors, allowing you to turn. A rubber sole grips more: safer on a slippery floor, less suitable for pivots.
Support and sizing
A simple elastic, two crossed elastics, or ribbons hold the shoe on the foot. The shoe should fit snugly, like a second skin, without creases or room at the toe. Measure the foot in centimeters and compare it with our size converter; if in doubt, write us the measurement at contact@dansezo.fr.
Our ballet shoes
Split sole
- Astrid (€29.99): canvas, genuine split leather outsole, elastic, 5 colors, sizes 34 to 44.
- Mirella (€29.99): two-piece split sole, two crossed elastics over the instep, sizes 31 to 44.
- Margot (€39.99): split sole and knit, beige or camel, sizes 33 to 42.
- Annunziata (€29.99): for children, crossed elastics, split sole, flower embroidery on the toe, sizes 24 to 39.
Full sole or soft sole
- Vivace (€29.99): satin finish, ribbons to tie at the ankle and elastic, full suede-look sole, pink or light pink, sizes 23 to 40.
- Adagio (€29.99): fabric upper, leather outsole, elastic, 5 colors, sizes 22 to 38.
- Mavra (€29.99): cotton, suede outsole, elastic, 5 colors, sizes 26 to 43.
- Geneviève (€29.99): canvas, rubber outsole, white or black, sizes 22 to 45.
The entire range: ballet shoes and half-pointe shoes. To learn more: types of ballet shoes and the difference between pointe and half-pointe shoes. Not sure? Our quiz offers 3 models in 1 minute.