What Is RAD Dancewear?
RAD dancewear refers to the specific ballet uniform and accessories required by the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus. The RAD is one of the world’s leading ballet examination bodies, with over 250,000 students sitting RAD examinations each year in more than 80 countries. Its graded syllabus runs from Pre-Primary through to Vocational levels, and each grade has specific uniform requirements.
Zoe Dancewear specialises in RAD ballet uniform, stocking the correct leotard colors, character skirts, exam belts, and accessories for every grade.
RAD Uniform by Grade
Pre-Primary
Pink leotard or ballet dress, pink tights, pink soft ballet shoes. Hair in a neat bun. No character work at this level.
Primary
Pale blue leotard, black character skirt, pink tights for classical work. Character shoes introduced. Exam belt may be required.
Grade 1 and 2
Lavender/lilac leotard, black character skirt, pink tights, low-heel black character shoes. Exam belt required for assessments.
Grade 3, 4 and 5
Purple/violet leotard, black character skirt, Cuban-heel character shoes, pink tights. Higher heels introduced at Grade 4–5.
Grade 6, 7 and 8
Senior grade leotards in deeper colors. Split-sole ballet shoes alongside character shoes. Advanced pointe work for eligible students.
For the complete grade-by-grade breakdown, see our RAD Ballet Uniform Guide by Grade.
Essential RAD Exam Accessories
- Exam belt: Required from Primary grade onward for RAD assessments
- Number bib: Worn at some larger examinations for identification
- Character shoes: Cuban or Spanish heel, strap across the instep
- Ballet tights: Pink footed tights for classical sections
- Props: Ribbon wands, fairy wands, flower petals — grade-specific; see our RAD props guide
Shop RAD Dancewear at Zoe Dancewear
Browse our complete RAD ballet uniform range by grade:
Frequently Asked Questions
What leotard color do RAD students wear?
RAD leotard colors are grade-specific: pink for Pre-Primary, pale blue for Primary, lavender for Grades 1–2, purple for Grades 3–5, and deeper colors for Grades 6–8. Always confirm with your school as individual schools may have slight variations.
Do RAD students need character shoes?
Yes, from Primary grade onward. Character shoes have a low Cuban heel and a strap across the instep. They are required for the character and national dance sections of RAD examinations.
What is an exam belt in RAD ballet?
An exam belt (also called an elastic belt) is a narrow elastic belt worn around the waist over the leotard during RAD assessments. It is part of the standard exam uniform from Primary grade and helps the examiner identify students’ waistline and posture alignment.
Where can I buy RAD dancewear?
Zoe Dancewear is a specialist RAD ballet uniform retailer, stocking the correct leotard colors, character skirts, exam belts, and accessories for every RAD grade. We ship worldwide.