The shoes that ballet dancers wear when dancing are similar to ordinary soft-soled exercise shoes. It’s just that the front part of it is glued layer by layer with special glue and compacted to form a hard head, and there is a small plane at the front end (a few are also wooden and metal); The sole has a rubber shoe plate inside and a leather sole on the outside. The ballerina can stand up with the help of the shoe plate, and use the small flat surface of the toe box to stabilize the center of gravity. Ballet slippers are an integral part of a dancer’s wardrobe. They provide the necessary support and flexibility needed to perform complex ballet moves. However, with so many different types of ballet shoes to choose from, it can be overwhelming to choose the right pair. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect ballet shoes for your needs.
1. Types of ballet shoes
There are three main types of ballet shoes: leather, canvas and satin. Leather shoes are the most common and durable, while canvas shoes are light and breathable. Satin shoes are often used for performances and special occasions.
2. Choose the right size
It is very important to choose the correct size ballet shoes to ensure fit and support. Ballet shoes should fit snugly but not too tight. It is recommended to try on the shoes in person and consider the width and shape of your foot when choosing a size.
3. Full sole and split sole
Ballerinas come in two sole options: full sole and split sole. Full-soled shoes offer more support and are recommended for beginners, while split-soled shoes offer more flexibility and are more favored by advanced dancers.
4. Pointe shoes
Pointe shoes are a special type of ballet shoes designed for dancers who have trained over the years and have developed the strength and technique needed to dance on pointe. It is important that pointe shoes are professionally fitted to ensure proper support and fit.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance and care of ballet shoes can prolong their life and ensure peak performance. It is recommended to dry the shoes after each use, avoid wearing them outdoors, and replace them when worn or damaged.
shoe tips
Cut off the ribbon on the toe: The most thorough method is to cut off the satin at the flat position of the toe, which will look better when performing on stage. In addition to the forged surface, there are also canvas pointe shoes on the market. Beginners are more suitable to use the canvas surface first, so that they can avoid slipping when they are on their toes.
Apply hot prickly heat water on the toe: use cotton to dip a little hot prickly heat water on the flat surface of the toe, which also has the effect of anti-slip. In addition, professional dancers often apply hot water on the entire pair of shoes, because the matte upper can make the foot line look longer.
Dip water in the toe area: Use cotton to dip a little water above the toe cap and upper, that will make the shoes change just the right amount according to your foot shape. Or use alcohol instead of water, then the shoes will not soften so quickly.
Cut off the shoe plate: Cutting the shoe plate at the arch of your foot will make your instep line more prominent. But remember to pull up the nails on the heel before cutting off the shoe board, and put the insole back in place after cutting the shoe board, so as not to hurt your feet. Tighten the toe straps by crossing them: this will give the shoe a tighter fit and maximize the instep line.
What to do if the heel keeps slipping off: First, wet the heel with a little water, and fill your heel with rosin, and then put on the shoe and the heel will not slip off. After tying the ribbon, sew up where the knot was tied. If you have to change your shoes, spray hairspray on the knot after tying the ribbon.
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