note: Each item will have a suggestion in it’s DESCRIPTION of how to choose your size.
How to choose ballet shoes?
Whether you’re choosing your first or twentieth pair of ballet shoes, there are important considerations to make when determining which sole, style, color and material will make the perfect pair for you.
We recommend consulting your dance teacher regarding which ballet shoe is best for you or your child. They can offer insight into the material and sole that is best suited for their dance level, as well various color preferences.
How should Jazz Shoes Fit?
Like ballet shoes, jazz shoes must fit accurately in order to serve the dancer properly. Jazz shoes should feel snug on the foot, similar to how a sock may feel. Over time, jazz shoes will naturally mold to the shape of the foot.
While the jazz shoes should feel firm on the feet, it is important to recognize if the shoes are too tight. If the shoe is hurting the side of your feet, that is a good indicator that the shoe is too narrow. If toes are bending, curling or overlapping when a jazz shoe is worn, that indicates the dancer needs to try a bigger size. While you should expect a dancer’s toes to squeeze together due to the design of a jazz shoe, all the toes should be able to rest flat on the ground.
If there is extra material in the shoe, especially near the toes, then the jazz shoe may be too large. Jazz shoes that are too large can cause uncomfortable rubbing on the feet.
What Size Tap Shoe Should I Buy?
Like ballet and jazz shoes, tap shoes must fit accurately in order to serve the dancer properly. A snug fit is optimal for shock absorption, tap precision and a better sound quality when dancing. It is best for tap shoes to feel tighter rather than looser, as tap shoes will mold to your feet as you continue to wear them.
While tap shoes should feel firm on the feet, it is important to recognise if the shoes are too tight. If the shoe is hurting the side of your feet, that is a good indicator that the shoe is too narrow. If toes are bending, curling or overlapping when the shoe is worn, that indicates the dancer needs to try a bigger size.
How should character shoes fit?
Like all dance shoes, character shoes must fit accurately in order to serve the dancer properly. Character shoes should feel snug on the foot without compromising comfort.
If the shoe is hurting the side of your feet, that is a good indicator that the shoe is too narrow. If toes are bending, curling or overlapping when a character shoe is worn, that indicates the dancer needs to try a bigger size. If there is extra material in the shoe, especially near the toes, then the shoes may be too large.
The ankle strap on a character shoe should hold the shoe onto your foot securely. It should not dig into the top of the foot or ankle uncomfortably or prevent you from pointing and flexing. If there is no further room on the fastening to loosen or tighten the strap to your comfort, it may be worth exploring different styles, sizes or ankle strap options.