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Learn About Ballet Shoes
A ballet shoe was designed for the ballet dancing. The shoe is made from flexible and thin soles. These shoes are great for both men and women. Most of the ballet dancers prefer to wear soft ballet slippers for comfort.
History of ballet shoes:
Ballet dance was started in 1682 but ballet shoes were worn in mid-18th century by dancer Marie Camargo. From that time to now, these shoes have become very popular.
Types of ballet shoes:
There are mainly 3 types of ballet shoes:
Split sole shoes:
A pair of split sole shoes allows the ballerina dancers better range of motion in her foot.
Full sole shoes:
Full sole shoes support newer dancers. Some experienced ones also prefer the added support with these shoes.
Pointe shoes:
Highly experienced ballerinas wear these kinds of shoes. They offer support to the feet and ankles.
Some things to know before buying ballet shoes:
Check the size of the shoes that fit properly into your feet.
Get information about used materials in the shoes.
A ballet shoe is a light weight shoe. The shoe is designed specifically for ballet dancing. It is made from soft leather, canvas, or satin. It has flexible, thin soles. Ballet shoes must fit very closely to the foot and to retain maximum flexibility.
How to make ballet shoes and what materials are used in construction?
A modern development of ballet shoes is the split sole, which offers a great flexibility and emphasises the shape of the foot when pointed. They are usually made from soft leather, canvas, or satin.
Shoes are secured with a single band across the arch of the foot, or with two bands that cross in an “X” shape at the top of the arch. Some ballet slipper manufacturers will attach one end of each band to the shoe as part of the production process, and leave it to the purchaser to attach the free ends of the bands for optimal fit.
History of ballet shoes
Women began to dance ballet in 1682, twenty years after King Louis XIV of France ordered the founding of the Royal Academy of Dance. At that time, the standard women’s ballet shoe had wheels. Mid-18th century dancer Marie Camargo of the Paris Opera Ballet was the first to wear a non-heeled shoe. After the French Revolution, heels were completely eliminated from standard ballet shoes, as they still are.
A split sole shoe permits the ballerina better range of motion in her foot, and will interfere less with pointing and flexing the foot.
Full Sole Shoes
Full sole shoes are more supportive and favoured by new dancers, but it really comes down to personal preference. Some ballerinas, even experienced ones, prefer the added support that comes from a full sole shoe.
Pointe Shoes
Pointe shoes are worn only by highly experienced ballerinas and are specially designed to provide support to the feet and ankles. They fit in a way that helps ballerinas do all their amazing moves on pointe.
Points to consider before buying ballet shoes
Check the size and fit of the shoes
Ask about materials that are used in a shoe
Check the shoe sole carefully
Look at the elastics
Choose the brands that offer high quality shoes
Some examples of royal ballet shoes
The Royal Ballet Snowflake Beaded Applique
These types of shoes are inspired by the beautiful, flurrying snowflakes from The Nutcracker’s Waltz of the Snowflakes and with hand-sewn, beaded applique.
Royal Ballet Perdita
They are inspired by the Royal Ballet’s iconic production of The Winter’s Tale. They are the new must have and can be matched with absolutely everything, perfect for every occasion.
Royal Ballet Juliet
These shoes are inspired by the Royal Ballet’s iconic production of Romeo & Juliet. They are extremely soft, supple, and flexible. They are the ultimate in everyday wear comfort and style.
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