Ballet Shoe Sizes: Measuring Correctly for the Perfect Fit

A perfect pirouette doesn't start with the turn itself, but at the foundation: your ballet shoes. How often have I seen in my classes a dancer struggling with shoes that just don't fit right, which directly affects technique and enjoyment? In this blog post, I explain exactly how to correctly measure your ballet shoe size, so you always find the perfect fit, whether you are a beginner or have been dancing for years.

As an experienced dance instructor, I know from my own experience and from hundreds of students how crucial the right fit is. Ballet shoes that are too large cause sliding and blisters, while shoes that are too small pinch the feet and curl the toes, which can cause injuries. Especially when you are going to buy ballet shoes, online or in a specialized store, accurate measurement is essential. I still remember as a young dancer thinking a size larger was handy “for growth,” but that is a pitfall I now consistently advise my students against. Whether you prefer the supple texture of canvas ballet shoes or the sturdiness of leather, the basis of a good, safe fit is universal.

Forget the general shoe sizes you know; ballet shoes often fit differently. I will help you through the process step-by-step, so you can choose the right size with confidence and focus entirely on how you dance ballet.

Why Measure Correctly?

As a seasoned dancer and teacher, I have had countless students over the years, from the very smallest doing their first plié to advanced dancers preparing for auditions. One thing I emphasize time and again is the absolute importance of correctly fitting ballet shoes. It's not just a detail; it's the foundation upon which your entire dancing experience and development rests.

What I often see is that dancers, and especially parents of young dancers, tend to buy shoes 'for growth,' or choose shoes that are too small assuming they will "stretch out." This is a common mistake with far-reaching consequences. Your feet are your instrument, and your ballet shoes are extensions of it. If those extensions don't fit perfectly, you are at a disadvantage before you've even taken a single step.

Impact on Technique and Performance

A perfectly fitting ballet shoe allows you to fully articulate your foot, from your heel to the tips of your toes. This is essential for every movement in ballet. Think for example of a relevé: if your shoes are too loose, your foot slides forward, preventing you from getting over your metatarsals and distributing your weight correctly. The result? Instability, less power, and an imprecise line. If they are too small, your toes are compressed, hindering the natural spread and grounding of your foot.

In practice, you see this reflected in the quality of your dance. A smooth transition from flat to demi-pointe and then to pointe (if applicable) requires the fabric of your shoe to close seamlessly around your foot, without too many folds or tension in the wrong places. For adult dancers, whether you are starting or have been dancing for years, the correct size is essential. Our collection of women's ballet shoes offers a wide range of options that, if measured correctly, will optimally support your technique.

Health and Comfort in the Long Term

In addition to technical aspects, there is the matter of comfort and foot health. A poorly fitting ballet shoe can lead to a range of annoying and sometimes long-term problems:

• Blisters and chafing: Shoes that are too loose cause friction, shoes that are too tight pinch. Both lead to painful blisters.
• Calluses and corns: Constant pressure in the wrong places can lead to the formation of stubborn calluses or corns.
• Toenails: Shoes that are too small can cause ingrown toenails, a particularly painful condition.
• Foot deformities: In the long term, a structurally poor fit can contribute to the development of hallux valgus (bunions) or hammer toes, especially if your feet are still developing.

I cannot emphasize enough how important this is, especially for young dancers. Their feet are still growing and extremely sensitive to incorrect pressure. A look at our ballet shoes for girls shows how important we find sizing for the health of young feet.

Whether you choose supple canvas ballet shoes or the sturdiness of leather, the basic rule remains the same: fit is king. It is well worth the investment in time to measure correctly. It not only prevents discomfort and injuries but also allows you to focus entirely on your dance, without distractions from painful feet. That is why it is so important to measure your feet correctly, regardless of whether you have been buying ballet shoes for years or are just starting. A good fit is the key to an enjoyable and successful dance career.

Measure Your Foot Correctly

As a dancer, I know from personal experience how crucial the correct fit of your ballet shoes is. A perfectly fitting shoe is not only comfortable; it is essential for your technique, your balance, and preventing injuries. What I often see with both beginners and dancers who have been on stage for years is that they don't measure their feet correctly, or simply ignore a brand's size chart. This leads to frustration and often to buying multiple pairs before the right one is found.

Forget the idea that you can "just" take your normal shoe size. Ballet shoes are different. They are designed to fit like a second skin, enveloping your foot and supporting every movement. There is no room for "a little extra" or "growing room" (well, for young dancers a tiny bit, but more on that later). Let's therefore go through step-by-step how to accurately measure your feet, so you can choose your perfect pair with confidence.

Preparation: More than Just a Ruler

Before you start, gather the necessities: a sheet of paper (larger than your foot), a pencil or pen, and a ruler or tape measure. But preparation goes further than that. How you stand is important. Stand up straight, with your weight evenly distributed over both feet. This is crucial because your feet spread slightly under your body weight. This gives the most realistic measurement, exactly as your feet are when you dance and need the shoes most.

Another practical tip: measure your feet at the end of the day. Your feet swell slightly during the day, especially after a day of activity. By measuring then, you get the most spacious and therefore safest size for longer dance sessions. And don't forget: wear the socks or ballet tights you normally wear in your ballet shoes. This can make a subtle difference, but every detail counts for the perfect fit.

The Measurement Process Step by Step

Now for the actual measurement. Place the sheet of paper on a hard, flat surface. Place your foot flat on it, with your heel lightly against a wall to create stability. Make sure your foot is completely relaxed, but with weight on it.

• Trace your foot: Hold the pen or pencil perpendicular to the paper and trace the outline of your foot as accurately as possible. Be extra precise at the toes and the heel.
• Measure the length: Draw a straight line from the longest point of your heel to the tip of your longest toe. This isn't always your big toe; in practice, I often see that the second toe is longer. Measure this line in centimeters. This is your foot length.
• Measure the width: Measure the width at the widest point of your forefoot, usually at the ball of your foot. This is also an important measurement, especially when buying ballet shoes, because shoes that are too narrow can pinch the toes and shoes that are too wide provide insufficient support.

Important Notes: Always measure both feet! I cannot emphasize it enough. Almost nobody has two exactly identical feet. Always use the size of your largest foot. For children who are still growing, it's a trade-off. A small growth margin of 0.5 cm is possible, but a thumb's width at the front is really too much and significantly hinders technique. Canvas ballet shoes stretch slightly less than leather shoes, so accuracy is extra important when choosing canvas ballet shoes.

With these concrete measurements in hand, you are ready to consult the size charts of various brands. Remember: every brand has its own specific size chart, so always compare your measured length and width with the chart of the brand you have in mind. A well-fitting ballet shoe feels comfortable, does not pinch, but at the same time offers full support without any slack.

Ballet Shoe Sizes

As a dance teacher, I see it time and again: the search for the perfectly fitting ballet shoes. It is a crucial step that is often underestimated, especially by beginners. A ballet shoe is so much more than just footwear; it is an extension of your foot, an instrument that helps you refine your technique and prevent injuries. What I often see is dancers sticking to their regular shoe size, but in practice, that rarely works with ballet shoes.

The Importance of the "Second Skin" Fit

The ideal ballet shoe feels like a second skin. This means there should be no excess material at the toes, the heel, or the sides. Your toes must be able to lie fully extended without curling or having too much room to slide. A common mistake, especially among parents of young dancers, is buying ballet shoes 'for growth.' While the intention is good, this greatly hinders the development of the foot and technique. A shoe that is too large causes tripping, insufficient grip, and a lack of contact with the floor, which is essential for foot exercises and pirouettes. It's like trying to paint with a brush that's too big: you miss the precision. For women's ballet shoes, where more complex foot movements are often expected, this precision is even more important.

When you try on a ballet shoe, pay attention to the following points:

• Toes: They should lie flat and lightly touch the front of the shoe, without too much pressure. No empty space, but no curled toes either.
• Heel: The heel must be firmly enclosed. There should be no space where your finger can fit between the heel and the shoe. If the shoe bulges at the back, it is too big.
• Sides and Instep: The material should lie smooth over your instep and the sides of your foot, without folds or bumps. The elastics should stretch comfortably over your instep without cutting in.
• On Demi-Pointe: Stand on demi-pointe. The fabric of the shoe should pull tight but should not wrinkle excessively or pull your toes backward. This is a good test to see if the shoe follows the natural line of your foot.

Material Differences: Canvas versus Leather

When buying ballet shoes, you often encounter two main materials: canvas and leather. Both have their own characteristics that influence the fit.

• Canvas Ballet Shoes: These are popular due to their breathability and lower price. Canvas stretches less than leather but does mold to your foot. The initial fit must therefore be very snug. Because they stretch less, they can feel tighter over time, especially after washing. They offer a good sense of contact with the floor and are an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced dancers.
• Leather Ballet Shoes: Leather is more durable and stretches more than canvas, especially due to body heat and perspiration. This means you might need to buy a leather shoe slightly tighter than a canvas shoe, as it will stretch a bit more after a few lessons and mold perfectly to the unique shape of your foot. They often offer slightly more support and last longer.

In practice, I see that the choice often depends on personal preference and the type of dancer. For young dancers who grow quickly, canvas ballet shoes can be a practical choice, while more experienced dancers prefer the durable and molding aspect of leather. Regardless of the material, the focus always remains on that perfect "second skin" fit that gives your feet the freedom and support they deserve.

Brand & Material Differences

If you've been dancing for a while or are just starting and want to buy your first ballet shoes, you probably know that a 'size 38' isn't always a 'size 38.' This certainly applies to ballet shoes! What I often see in practice is that students order a pair with their street shoe size in mind, only to be disappointed that the fit is totally different. The biggest culprits here are the differences in materials and the unique sizing that each brand employs. It is truly essential to understand this before making a purchase, because a perfectly fitting shoe can make the difference between dancing joy and frustration.

The importance of material: Canvas, Leather and Satin

The choice of material for your ballet shoes has a huge influence on how the shoe feels, how long it lasts, and, very importantly, how it adapts to your foot. There are three main materials you will encounter:

• Canvas ballet shoes: This is a very popular choice, especially for beginners and for daily training. Canvas is breathable and relatively affordable. The big advantage – and at the same time something to keep in mind when fitting – is that canvas is fairly supple and stretches slightly after a few wears. Because of this, you might want to fit the shoe slightly tighter than 'comfortable' initially. A common mistake is buying them too loose, after which they start to sag after a few lessons. For young dancers growing quickly, or for the first ballet shoes for girls, canvas is often an excellent start due to its flexibility and ease.
• Leather ballet shoes: Leather is more durable and often offers more support than canvas. The great advantage of leather is that over time it molds to your foot, almost like a second skin. This ensures an unparalleled fit and comfort, provided you choose the right size. Initially, leather can feel a bit stiffer, but be patient; it will become more supple. Again: don't buy them too big, because leather also stretches slightly, albeit less than canvas.
• Satin ballet shoes: You see these less often for regular training, but all the more for performances and shows. Satin has a beautiful shine and an elegant look. The disadvantage is that satin has much less stretch and is more sensitive to wear. This means the sizing is even more precise here. They must fit well immediately, as there is little room for stretching or adjustment.

Brand philosophy and fit

In addition to the material, the differences between brands are at least as important. Each brand has its own 'last' or fit, based on a certain foot shape. What is perfect for one dancer might not work at all for another. I have often seen a student who wears a size 37 with one brand suddenly need a 36 or even a 38 with another brand. This is due to factors such as:

• Width: Some brands are known for their wider fit, ideal for dancers with a wider forefoot or a higher instep. Other brands are narrower, perfect for a slim foot.
• Toe shape: The way the toes lie in the shoe can differ per brand. Some have a rounder toe, others a more pointed one. This can affect how your toes lie and whether you have enough room without sliding.
• Arch support: Although soft ballet shoes do not have a stiff sole like pointe shoes, the cut of the sole and the upper can either accentuate and support the natural arch of your foot or not.

In practice, this means that you cannot blindly trust a size if you want to buy ballet shoes from a new brand. My advice is always to try different brands and materials if possible. Feel how the shoe sits around your foot. Is there enough room for your toes to spread without pinching? Is the heel well enclosed? Are you not sliding? Don't forget that your feet swell during dancing, so preferably try them on at the end of the day. Ultimately, it's about the shoe feeling like an extension of your foot, so you can focus entirely on your technique and expression, without distraction from uncomfortable or poorly fitting shoes.

Tips for Purchase

After carefully measuring your feet, as we discussed earlier, comes the moment of truth: purchasing your new ballet shoes. This is where theory and practice come together, and where you can really make a difference for your dance experience. What I often see in the studio is that dancers, and especially parents of young dancers, sometimes make a decision too quickly. However, a well-fitting ballet shoe is crucial for technique, comfort, and even injury prevention.

Choose the Right Material: Focus on Canvas Ballet Shoes

Today there are many options, but canvas ballet shoes are a popular and often excellent choice, especially for beginners and for daily training. They are breathable, flexible, and mold beautifully to the foot. In practice, I notice that canvas shoes 'break in' faster than leather shoes, which is nice if you are looking for immediate comfort. They are also easier to wash, which is a plus given the sweaty feet we all have sometimes after an intensive lesson! Note: canvas stretches slightly more than leather, so keep that in mind when fitting. They really need to fit snugly from the start.

A common mistake is buying shoes that are too big, with the idea that the dancer can 'grow into' them. This is especially tempting with children. But a ballet shoe that is too large offers no support, causes friction, and can lead to blisters and even toes that start to 'claw' to keep the shoe in place. This hinders the development of good foot technique. The toes must lie flat and extended in the shoe, not curled.

The Fit: What Feels Good?

When you try on ballet shoes – whether it's ballet shoes for girls or adults – there are a few crucial points to look out for. Put the shoe on and stand up straight, and then also try going into a plié and relevé. The shoe should feel like a second skin:

• No room at the toes: Your toes should lightly touch the front of the shoe, but without pinching or curling. There should be no 'swimming room' at the end.
• Snug in width: The shoe should fit tightly around the widest parts of your foot, but without being painful or cutting off circulation. If you see bumps or folds in the material when you stand, the shoe is likely too wide or too large.
• Arch support: A good ballet shoe hugs your arch. Many modern ballet shoes have a split sole, which emphasizes the flexibility of the foot and shows off the arch beautifully. Make sure the sole fits well and isn't hanging loose under your foot.
• Heel: The fabric should fit snugly around your heel without it creeping up when you do a plié or relevé.

Remember that sizes can differ per brand. Therefore, always trust the fit and your feeling, not blindly the size label. It might be that you need a 38 with one brand and a 39 with another, even if your feet are exactly the same.

The Practice of Elastics and Ribbons

Often ballet shoes are delivered without pre-sewn elastics or ribbons. This is not a mistake, but a conscious choice so you can sew them exactly to size for your foot. A common piece of advice is to attach the elastic on both sides of the heel, exactly at the fold of the shoe. For ribbons, the place where the ribbon touches the shoe when you fold it over your ankle is the correct position. This is a small detail, but the difference in comfort and stability is enormous if done correctly.

Take your time for the purchase of your ballet shoes. See it as an investment in your dancing pleasure and your technique. A perfectly fitting shoe is the foundation for every beautiful movement.

Common Mistakes

After years of being on the dance floor myself and helping countless dancers find their perfect fit, I see the same missteps returning. Choosing the right ballet shoes is an art in itself, and the wrong size can greatly hinder your enjoyment and progress. Let's discuss some of the most common pitfalls so you can avoid them.

The Trap of 'Growth Room' (Shoes Too Large)

What I often see, especially with parents buying ballet shoes for their daughters, is the tendency to buy 'for growth.' The idea is understandable: children grow quickly. But in practice, a ballet shoe that is too large is disastrous. A shoe that is too loose provides no support, causing the foot to slide. This leads not only to blisters and chafing – which is painful and demotivating – but also to serious technical problems. The dancer instinctively starts 'clawing' the toes to get grip in the shoe, instead of extending and using the foot correctly from the ankle and metatarsal. This hinders the development of the right muscles and can even lead to bad habits that are difficult to unlearn.

A ballet shoe should feel like a second skin. If your child, or you yourself, notice that the fabric at the top of the foot wrinkles or that there is too much room for the toes when the foot is extended, then the shoe is likely too large. The toes must lie flat and extended in the shoe, without any space left at the front. Remember: a ballet shoe does not stretch out the same way a regular shoe does, especially not the sturdier women's ballet shoes that offer more structure.

Pain is NOT an Option (Shoes Too Small)

On the other side of the spectrum is the mistake of choosing shoes that are too small. Sometimes this happens because people think the shoe will still 'stretch out,' or because a tight fit looks aesthetically better. However, ballet shoes that are too small cause immediate pain and can cause serious damage in the long term. Pressure points, ingrown toenails, and even bruising under the nails are common complaints. The toes are compressed and curled, which disturbs the natural line of the foot and makes a correct spread of the toes impossible. This hinders not only circulation but also the development of foot muscles and the flexibility of the arch. A dancer may be less able to plié, turn pirouettes, or fully extend the foot as a result.

Your shoes are too small if your toes feel curled, if you experience painful pressure points on the sides or top of your foot, or if you notice your foot becoming numb while dancing. A ballet shoe, whether it's canvas ballet shoes or leather shoes, should encompass the foot without pinching. Your toes should be able to lie comfortably flat and you should be able to fully extend and flex your foot without resistance from the shoe.

Choosing the Right Material and Model

A third common mistake is ignoring the differences between materials and models. Canvas ballet shoes are popular due to their breathability and lower price, but they stretch less than leather shoes. Leather molds more to the foot and eventually offers a more personalized fit, but often needs a short break-in period. The type of sole is also crucial: a split sole offers maximum flexibility and emphasizes the arch, ideal for more experienced dancers. A full sole, on the other hand, offers more support and is often the better choice for beginners and young dancers, as it helps develop foot muscles and correct technique.

So don't just choose any shoe, but think about your level, your feet, and the requirements of your dance style. A well-fitting shoe is an investment in your dance career and your foot health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the correct size of ballet shoes so important?

A perfectly fitting ballet shoe is crucial for comfort and performance. Shoes that are too large cause folds and blisters, while shoes that are too small cause pain and obstruction of foot movement. The right size supports the foot optimally, improves technique, and prevents injuries, allowing dancers to focus entirely on their movements without distraction.

How do I measure my feet correctly for ballet shoes?

To measure accurately, place your foot flat on a sheet of paper against a wall. Draw the outline and measure the distance from the heel to the tip of the longest toe. Also measure the width at the widest point. Repeat this for both feet, as they can differ. Always use the largest dimensions when consulting size charts.

Should ballet shoes fit differently than normal street shoes?

Yes, absolutely. Ballet shoes should fit much more snugly than normal shoes. They should feel like a 'second skin,' without excess space at the toes or heel. The toes should lie flat and the foot should be tightly enclosed, but without pinching. This ensures maximum control and feel for the floor, essential for ballet.

Is there a difference in sizing between canvas and leather ballet shoes?

Yes, often there is. Leather ballet shoes stretch slightly over time and mold to the foot, which means they can feel tighter initially. Canvas ballet shoes stretch less and retain their shape better. Keep this in mind when fitting: canvas should fit well immediately, while leather can be slightly tighter with an eye toward stretching.

Do ballet shoe sizes correspond with my normal shoe size?

Unfortunately, not always. Ballet shoe sizes are often different from your regular street shoe size and can even differ per brand. Therefore, it is crucial to always measure your feet and consult the specific size chart of the ballet shoe brand. Do not trust your normal size blindly, as this often leads to an incorrect fit.

What should I do if my feet fall between two sizes?

If you fall between two sizes, it is often advisable to choose the smaller size, especially with leather shoes that will still stretch. With canvas ballet shoes, you can try both sizes if possible. Also consider the width of your foot; some brands offer different width sizes. A shoe that is too loose is more bothersome than a shoe that is just slightly tighter initially.

Can children wear ballet shoes 'for growth'?

No, this is strongly discouraged. Although it can be tempting to buy shoes that children can grow into, this is counterproductive and even dangerous with ballet shoes. Shoes that are too large lead to tripping, blisters, and can hinder the development of proper technique. A correct fit is essential for safety, comfort, and learning the correct basic principles.

The beauty of ballet is the grace, the strength, the expression. And the basis for that expression lies, literally, at your feet. What I especially want to give you is that precision in measuring and the importance of the right fit – whether you go for supple canvas ballet shoes or another material – is of invaluable importance. It's not just about the size, but about the feeling: firm, but not pinching, like a second skin. That attention to detail is an investment in your dancing pleasure and performance.

Once you have found that perfect size, a world of comfort and confidence opens up. Ready to take the next step? Then explore our extensive women's ballet collection, or if you have a young dancer at home, take a look at our