If you’re like most parents, the thought of having to buy your child a pair of ballet shoes can be overwhelming. You want them to have the perfect fit and style that best meet their needs. After all, this is an important purchase—one that will ultimately determine how comfortable they are when performing on stage or in class. However, selecting the ideal pair does not have to be as daunting as it may seem. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when buying children’s dance shoes. Read on for more!
Girls’ and Boys’ Ballet Shoes
When buying ballet shoes for your kids, it’s important to make sure you know the difference between girls’ and boys’ ballet shoes. Girls generally have a softer leather upper, whereas boys have a stiffer leather that offers more protection. Additionally, the soles of boys’ ballet shoes are also often canvas or other textiles which provide better support during jumps and various acrobatic manoeuvres.
Colour of the Ballet Shoes
Consider your child’s individual tastes and preferences when deciding which ballet shoes to buy. Light colours, such as pink, champagne, and tan, will help any performance look extra fancy and may be a great choice if they plan to participate in shows or competitions. Darker shades, like black, create a more subtle look and may work better for attending regular ballet dance classes.
Material of the Ballet Shoes
Ballet shoes for kids should be made of strong, durable materials that can withstand the demands of ballet practice and repeated classes. The best material for children’s ballet shoes is usually leather or canvas as they can provide enough flexibility and support at the same time. The right kind of shoe can make a huge difference in your kid’s ballet performance so make sure you pick a good quality pair!
Fit and Size of the Ballet Shoes
Sizing and fitting the proper ballet shoes for your child can be a tricky task. One of the best tips is to measure the length and width of their feet rather than just buying a regular size shoe that might seem right at first. In addition, kids’ feet tend to grow quickly, so getting shoes a fraction larger in size can help with comfort. You also won’t need to replace them sooner than expected.
Full Sole or Split Sole Ballet Shoes
When shopping for the perfect pair of ballet shoes for kids, be sure to consider whether to purchase full sole or split sole options. Full sole ballet shoes are ideal for beginner dancers, as they provide more support, protection, and flexibility. On the other hand, split sole ballet shoes are great because they allow more range of motion and flexibility during dance movements.
Cost of the Ballet Shoes
One of the best tips on how to buy ballet shoes for kids is to set a budget. Children outgrow their clothes and shoes rather quickly, so it’s not always a smart idea to invest in really expensive shoes. That said, research well-known brands so that you can determine the quality of the materials used in their ballet shoes and look for something that fits within your desired price range while still providing the fit and quality necessary for dancing.
Elastic or Ribbon Ballet Shoes
Lastly, when buying ballet shoes for kids, you should pay special attention to the closure: elastic or ribbon straps are preferable. This will help ensure that the shoe stays on and prevents the dancer’s foot from slipping inside. Ballet shoes with an adjustable drawstring are not ideal, as they can be uncomfortable and can dig into skin if pulled too tight.
Enroll Your Kids at Performing Dance Arts for Ballet Dance Lessons in Toronto
At Performing Dance Arts, we provide students with extraordinary instructors that are certified to teach youth how to dance. Our ballet dance classes for kids in Vaughan offer a comprehensive training of the art, so that students learn more than a simple routine. They’ll learn about technique, exercises to boost their strength, flexibility, theory, and more.
Our studio inspires creativity, and our instructors will motivate your child to dance with passion, creativity, and excitement. Contact us to register your child or learn more about our kids’ ballet dance classes in Etobicoke. We offer dance classes for all skill levels and ages!
