Ballet shoes traditionally have a leather sole that does not reach all the way to the edges of the shoe. A modern development is the split sole, which provides greater flexibility and emphasizes the shape of the foot when pointed. They are usually made from soft leather, canvas or satin.
Leather shoes are long-lasting.
Canvas shoes are less expensive but wear faster than average leather ballet shoes.
Satin shoes are often used for performances but can wear out very quickly. Shoes are secured with the use of
elastic, most often with a single band across the arch of the foot, or with two bands that cross in an "X" shape at the top of the arch. In the case of double band shoes, some ballet slipper manufacturers will attach one end of each band to the shoe as part of the production process, and leave it to the purchaser to attach the free ends of the bands for optimal fit. == History ==