Men’s Ballet Shoes: What Male Dancers Wear and How They Fit

Short answer: men’s ballet shoes are soft, flat shoes in black or white, made of canvas or leather, usually with a full or split sole. Most schools tell male students which color to wear. Choose the size from a size chart, as a male dancer’s foot is often wider than the sizes made for girls, and check the fit while standing.

What are men’s ballet shoes?

Men’s ballet shoes, also called male ballet slippers, are the soft practice shoes worn by boys and men in ballet class. They are made in the same basic style as women’s shoes, with a lower, simpler cut and no pink. Male dancers keep the foot supported while allowing it to point and flex freely. If you also need the rest of the uniform, see our male ballet attire guide.

What color should male dancers wear?

• Black: a common choice and easy to keep clean-looking.
• White: used by some schools, especially for performances or exams.

The right color depends on the school, so check the dress code. Boys’ class uniforms are covered in boys’ ballet clothes.

Canvas or leather?

Canvas is light, breathable and washable. Leather is firmer, lasts longer and keeps its shape, which many male dancers like for stronger jumps. See canvas vs leather ballet shoes for the full comparison.

Full sole or split sole?

A full sole gives more support while the feet are still getting stronger. A split sole lets the arch show and is common once a student is stronger. The full sole vs split sole guide explains both.

How should men’s ballet shoes fit?

The shoe should be snug, with the toes lying flat and no gap at the heel. A shoe that is too big folds across the arch, and one that is too small cramps the toes. Measure the foot, use the ballet shoe size chart and read how ballet shoes should fit. If the foot is wide, see ballet shoe width fitting.

What else do male dancers need?

A fitted top, tights or dance trousers and a dance belt are the usual basics. Read about the dance belt and men’s leotards and unitards.