Regular ballet shoes are also known as one-strap elastic slippers. These slippers have one elastic band that stretches across the top of the foot to secure the slipper. These slippers are typically available in pink or black and can be purchased in either satin, leather or canvas. The soles of the slippers can be made either as a split sole, with a break in the sole under the arch, or a traditional full sole shoe.
Like the regular ballet shoe, crossed elastic ballet shoes can be found in pink or black and are made from either satin, leather or canvas. The soles of the slippers are also available as split or full sole. The crossed elastic ballet shoe, however, has two elastic bands that cross the top of the foot in opposite diagonal directions to secure the shoe to the foot.
Regardless of the shoe selected, most ballet slippers come with the straps only partially sewn onto the slipper or completely detached. Make sure not to sew the elastic over the drawstring and to fit the elastic to the foot of the dancer. Dance Class.com suggests sewing the elastic on the outside of the slipper so that the elastic does not rub against the skin.
Dancers have options when purchasing their shoes. Both types are available from a myriad of online retailers as well as walk-in dance specialty stores. Some dance studios also offer ballet slippers for sale. Make sure to try on a wide variety of shoes to find the best material and fit. The shoes should be secure and comfortable.