Character shoes appear in RAD ballet from Grade 3 onwards, and choosing the wrong pair can mean being turned away at an exam. This guide covers everything you need to know — from which heel height is required at each grade, to whether to buy black or tan, and how to get the fit right the first time.
What Are Character Shoes?
Character shoes are low-heeled, strapped dance shoes used in character dance — the theatrical, folk-influenced style that forms part of the RAD syllabus from Grade 3. They are distinct from ballet slippers (which are flat and soft-soled) and pointe shoes. Character shoes have a small block heel, a T-bar or ankle strap, and a smooth leather or faux-leather upper that allows turns and sliding steps on studio floors.
RAD Grade Requirements at a Glance
| RAD Grade | Heel Height | Colour |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 3 | Approx. 1.5 cm | Black |
| Grade 4 | Approx. 1.5 cm | Black |
| Grade 5 | Approx. 2 cm | Black |
| Grade 6 (Intermediate Foundation) | Approx. 2.5 cm | Black or tan (check with teacher) |
| Grade 7 (Intermediate) | Approx. 2.5 cm | Tan |
| Grade 8 (Advanced Foundation) | Approx. 5 cm / kitten heel | Tan or black depending on variation |
Note: Always confirm current requirements with your teacher, as RAD syllabus specifications can be updated between editions.
Black vs Tan Character Shoes
In the lower grades (3–5), black character shoes are standard. Tan or flesh-toned shoes appear from the intermediate grades onwards and are designed to create a visual line from the leg through the foot — particularly important in character variations where the costume may include bare-legged looks.
If you are buying for a child in Grade 3 or 4, buy black. If they are Grade 6 or above, ask their teacher before purchasing — the requirement may vary by school or specific exam syllabus.
What to Look for When Buying Character Shoes
Heel Height
The heel must match the grade requirement. A heel that is too high or too low will be visible in an exam and may affect the mark. Check the specification in the current RAD syllabus or ask the teacher.
Strap Style
A T-bar (T-shaped strap) is the most common and most secure style for younger dancers. An ankle strap is also acceptable and tends to be preferred by older students. Avoid slip-on styles without a strap — the shoe needs to stay firmly on the foot during character footwork.
Sole
Character shoes should have a smooth, hard leather or synthetic sole that allows gliding and stamping movements without gripping the floor. They should not have rubber soles — rubber grips too much for character work.
Fit
Character shoes should fit like a smart shoe — snug but not tight, with about half a centimetre of growing room for children. The heel should sit firmly in the cup without slipping. The strap should fasten comfortably without cutting in.
Sizing Tips for Children
Character shoes often run small compared to school shoes. If your child usually wears a UK size 2 in school shoes, try a 2.5 in character shoes first. Always try them on with the tights they will be worn with in class — tights add just enough thickness to affect the fit.
How Long Do Character Shoes Last?
With weekly class use, a good pair of character shoes typically lasts one to two dance years for growing children. The heel and sole wear down faster than the upper, so if the shoe still fits but the heel is damaged, a cobbler can often replace the heel tip inexpensively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are character shoes used for in RAD ballet?
Character shoes are worn for the character dance sections of the RAD syllabus, which begin in Grade 3. Character dance draws on European folk dance traditions — polkas, mazurkas and waltzes — and requires a specific type of low-heeled, strapped shoe that allows stamping, clicking heels and smooth sliding steps on a studio floor.
What heel height do I need for RAD Grade 3?
RAD Grade 3 character shoes typically require a heel of approximately 1.5 cm. Always confirm with your teacher as requirements can vary by the current syllabus edition. Buying a shoe with the correct heel height is important — examiners are trained to notice incorrect footwear.
Can I use the same character shoes for multiple RAD grades?
Possibly — if the heel height requirement stays the same between grades (for example, Grades 3 and 4 both require approximately 1.5 cm) and the shoes still fit, you can continue wearing them. However, children’s feet grow quickly, and by Grade 5 the heel requirement increases, so most children need at least two pairs across their exam years.
Are character shoes the same as jazz shoes?
No. Jazz shoes are typically flat or have a very minimal heel and are used in jazz and contemporary dance. Character shoes have a defined block heel and are specifically used in character dance. They are not interchangeable in RAD exams.
How do I clean character shoes?
Wipe the upper with a slightly damp cloth after each use. For leather shoes, apply a small amount of leather conditioner or black shoe polish monthly. Allow them to dry naturally — never put character shoes near a radiator or in direct sunlight, as this can crack the leather or warp the heel.