Ballet technique shoes: full sole vs. split sole

A very common question about ballet shoes is this: "What is the difference between full sole ballet shoes and split sole shoes?"  

Pictured above on the left is a full sole ballet shoe.  You can see that the sueded leather sole of the slipper runs from the heel of the shoe to just before the toes.  In the photo on the right, the ballet slippers are split sole.  There is one sueded leather pad at the heel of the shoe and another larger one covering the ball of the foot to just before the toes.

As far as I know, all full sole shoes are leather or imitation leather.  Split sole shoes may be made of leather or canvas.  In general, canvas shoes wear out more quickly than leather shoes, but canvas shoes are cheaper.

Split sole ballet technique shoes are a relatively new invention.  They have only been on the dance scene for the past two or so decades.  Because split sole shoes do not have any leather sole in the arch of the shoe, it is easier for dancers to point their feet.  The point also looks more exaggerated, which is considered more beautiful and indicative of a higher level of technique.  

Before split sole shoes were invented, advanced dancers would often fold and crease their full sole shoes to make the arches more flexible.  I have heard stories of Baryshnikov folding his shoes in half, then turning them inside out before storing them in his dance bag.  

Although split sole shoes are an advantage for advanced and adult dancers, small children should usually wear full soled technique shoes.  This is because the full sole causes the foot to work harder, thus strengthening a growing and developing foot.  Once a child is around 11 years old and the growth plates in the foot have fused together, it is a good idea to move to a split sole slipper.  Adult beginners just starting ballet can start with either a full sole or split sole slipper, as either is appropriate.  Most adults do use split sole shoes, though, so that would be a good choice if fitting in is an important goal.

All brands of ballet shoes are sized differently, and very few of them follow the same scheme as street shoes.  If you have never worn ballet slippers before or if you want to change brands or styles, visit your local dancewear store for a professional fitting to find the shoe that works best for you.

What is your favorite kind of ballet technique shoe?  Do you prefer full or split sole? Leave a comment!