subject: Ballet Dance Shoes - An Introduction [print this page] Ballet Dance Shoes - An Introduction Ballet Dance Shoes - An Introduction
Introducing Ballet Dance Shoes
It is common for a large number of ballerinas to own a number of pairs of dance shoes, including the pointe shoes which have a specially made box in the toe so that they can perform the difficult pointe work. The usual colors are pink, and less common are white or black.
The other distinguishing characteristics of pointe shoes are the shank and the sole. The special insole or shank as it is called, can be made from various materials such as leather, cardstock, burlap or plastic of varying lengths and thickness. Some dancers keep more than one type and they are used for performing different styles. The sole is often a solid piece of leather that is sewn into the surrounding fabric and is well hidden on the bottom to accent a dancer's foot. Silk ribbons tied round the ankle are used for securing the shoes, or sometimes drawstring ties or elastic bands. It is possible to purchase ballet shoes without the ribbons or elastic bands. These can be bought on their on and sewn on. The soles of some ballet shoes are made with a split in them thus giving greater flexibility.
For working in a studio or on a softer floor there are dance slippers. The lighter ballet dance shoes can be made from canvas or suede, and often have split soles to give greater flexibilty and tactile feel. Dancers will use these shoes for practise, when they are not doing pointe work. The uppers of the dance shoe can be dyed to match the color of the costume.
Because of the way they are made, ballet dance shoes are sized differently to conventional shoes. Different manufacturers may also have slight differences between each other. These shoes are designed to be a snug fit without rubbing the foot or restricting the circulation.
