Wear the same tights that you would wear for your dance class while trying on ballet slippers to ensure a proper fit. Choose a shoe size that is 1 to 2 sizes smaller than your regular street shoes.
Stand flat when trying on the ballet slippers and make sure your slippers aren't causing your toes to curl. Curled toes are a sign that you may need to select a larger slipper size.
Conversely, if the front of the shoe feels excessively roomy, and you are crunching your toes in an attempt to keep the slippers on, choose a smaller size.
Decide if you are interested in a full- or split-sole shoe. A full-sole shoe provides more arch support than that of split-soled shoes, making it ideal for beginning dance students. Split-sole shoes do not offer as much arch support, giving experienced dancers more flexibility in the shoe. Split-sole shoes also allow those with flatter arches to better articulate and point their feet compared to full-sole shoes.
Decide on the slipper material and color. Most ballet slippers are made from canvas or leather. While canvas shoes cost less than leather, the material is not as durable as leather shoes.