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Ballet shoes are an essential part of a dancer’s wardrobe and are one of the first items many beginner dancers look for. These are not only part of the uniform but serve a specific purpose in the learning progression of dancers. Well-fitted dance shoes help the development of proper dance techniques, whereas improper ones can lead them to incorrect toe pointes or overcompensated movements.
Two of the most common ballet shoe types dancers decide between are canvas and leather. Each type has its unique advantages and disadvantages - both of which we’ll explore, to help you make an informed decision.
Canvas ballet shoes are made from lightweight and breathable canvas fabric that easily mould to a dancer’s foot. They offer great flexibility which allows dancers to move their feet with ease. Additionally, the material allows better air circulation, which prevents the feet from getting sweaty quickly, making it ideal for summer classes or performances.
On the other hand, leather shoes are made of sturdy, high-quality leather that offer more resistance and stability. Unlike canvas shoes, these take a little longer to conform to the feet, but they eventually provide a comfortable and supportive fit.
One of the key differences between these shoes lies in their sole. Typically, canvas ballet shoes will only have split soles, while leather ones can have both split or full sole varieties. Beginners are often recommended to wear full soles and then advance to split sole shoes.
Generally, leather is a more durable material than canvas and will last longer before needing replacement. However, modern technology has enhanced the durability of traditional canvas shoes. Quality pieces are now unlikely to wear out and don’t need to be replaced unless the student has grown out of it. The exception are stretch canvas shoes, which are primarily made for a sock-like fit rather than durability.
Leather material has a stronger grip on wooden floors, which can often be slippery due to some types of coatings or dust. The opposite is true for linoleum or Tarkett floors, which offer too much grip for leather. This can turn the ankles and knee joints the wrong way or lead young dancers to “turn out” from their feet rather than by engaging their hip rotator muscles.
On the other hand, canvas is naturally more slippery than leather even with the aid of Rosin, so dancers might have to exert more effort to maintain their balance while moving around the room.
Canvas materials are almost always more affordable than leather. It’s also easier to maintain as it can be easily thrown into the washing machine or washed by hand. On the other hand, while leather is more expensive, it requires less frequent replacement than canvas. However, mending and cleaning are not easy tasks with leather and will require some experience.
If you’re unsure which shoe type to pick, it’s best to ask the advice of professionals such as advanced dancers or dance instructors. They can offer unique insights into the mechanics of each shoe from personal experience and help you understand your specific needs and goals
Every dancer’s feet are different and not all shoes will fit the same. That’s where professional fitters come in. They ensure that the shoe not only fits perfectly, but also fits your feet type.
When visiting shoe shops, try out different shoes and be honest about the fit and feel of each one to your fitter. Ensure you move, stand, or even dance in each one to identify which ones fit snugly without restricting movement.
Both shoe types offer unique benefits. When it comes to durability, leather is ideal, however, if you are looking for more flexibility, canvas shoes are the better option. Ultimately, the choice between which one to choose depends on your preference and specific needs. The best way to determine which is better is to take them for a test run and see which material feels most comfortable.
For the best selection of canvas and leather ballet shoes, explore our extensive catalogue at Mino Dance. We offer a range of colours, soles, and styles. For more inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out to us now!