Short answer: ballet tights are smooth and fine, in pink or the school color, and are made to show the leg line. Jazz tights are usually tan or black, and are often convertible or footless so dancers can work barefoot or in jazz shoes. Choose by the class and the dress code, not by the name on the packet.
How are jazz tights different from ballet tights?
| Ballet tights | Jazz tights | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical colors | Pink, or the school color | Tan, nude or black |
| Typical style | Footed or convertible | Convertible or footless |
| Purpose | Show a clean leg line in ballet shoes | Allow bare feet and floor grip, blend with costumes |
| Fabric feel | Fine and smooth | Smooth or slightly more matte |
When should I wear each color?
- Pink: the usual choice for ballet class and exams. See pink or skin-tone tights.
- Tan or nude: a skin-tone leg line for jazz, contemporary and stage, matched to the dancer’s skin.
- Black: a practical choice for adult classes and some schools, and for darker costumes.
- Sheer black: a lighter, see-through black for performances and dress-up looks.
- Mesh: a stretchy, open-weave tight, often used for fashion or costume looks, rather than class.
Which style should a child wear?
For a child’s first ballet class, soft pink footed tights are the simplest choice. For jazz, creative movement or hip hop classes, ask whether the studio prefers tan, black or leggings. Kids’ tights need to stretch with growth, so check the height range on the size chart.
How do I choose the right size?
- Measure height and weight.
- Compare to the size chart, and if you are between sizes choose the larger one.
- Check the waist, so it does not roll or squeeze.
Our tights size guide explains each step. Our footed ballet tights come in sizes S to 2XL.
What is the difference between tights and leggings?
Dance tights are thinner and smoother, made to be worn under a leotard and skirt. Leggings are thicker and made for everyday wear. See our guide to tights vs leggings.
How do I make tights last longer?
- Wash on a gentle cycle in cool water, and air dry.
- Pull them on slowly, with clean, dry hands and short nails.
- Keep a spare pair in the dance bag, in case of a run.
Which tights for which class?
| Class | Common choice |
|---|---|
| Ballet | Pink footed or convertible tights |
| Jazz | Tan or black convertible tights |
| Contemporary and modern | Tan, black or footless tights |
| Hip hop | Leggings or joggers, not tights |
| Creative movement | Soft tights or leggings |
Common mistakes with dance tights
- Choosing the wrong shade. A tan that does not match the skin tone breaks the leg line.
- Buying too small. Tights that are too small thin out and run quickly.
- Wearing mesh for class. Mesh snags easily and is better for costumes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between jazz tights and ballet tights?
Ballet tights are usually pink and footed or convertible. Jazz tights are usually tan or black and often convertible or footless.
What color tights should I wear to jazz class?
Tan, nude or black, depending on the studio and costume. Ask your teacher.
Can I wear black tights to ballet class?
Some adult classes and schools allow black tights. Many ballet classes ask for pink. Check the dress code.
What are mesh tights used for?
Mostly for fashion and costume looks, not for ballet class.
What size tights should I buy for my child?
Choose by height and weight on the size chart, and go up a size if between sizes.