Decide if you want leather, canvas or satin ballet shoes. Leather shoes are a bit more expensive but are sturdier and last longer. Canvas shoes are cheaper and more flexible, and they allow you to get a better feel of the floor. Satin shoes are only used for performance, as they are the least durable and are difficult to clean. Your teacher will have a preference of which shoes you should buy; find that out first.
Decide if you want full suede sole or split sole shoes. Split sole shoes have the suede bottoms cut in half, so that there’s a circle covering the ball of the foot and one covering the back pad. A full covered sole provides more support, while the split sole gives a greater flexibility. Your dance instructor will have a preference as to which type of sole to buy; find that out first.
Slip the shoes on, toes first, then secure the heels. There should be no gaps anywhere in the shoe. The fit should be snug but not tight.
Stand flat in the shoe, making sure that none of your toes curl up. If they do, they’re too small and you’ll have to get the next size up.
Point your toes, checking to make certain your foot isn’t loose in the shoe or sliding around. If so, get the next smaller size.
Try moving around in the shoes. If you have to tighten the drawstring to make them stay on, they’re too loose. The shoe must fit perfectly, providing ample support and allow you to wiggle your toes and feel the floor while you dance, in order to be considered a good fit.