Body Wrappers makes two ballet slippers: a leather full-sole (styles 211A adult, 211C child) and a 4-way stretch-canvas split-sole (styles 250A adult, 250C child). Here's how to choose between them and get the size right.

Should I choose canvas or leather ballet slippers?

Leather full-sole slippers are soft and traditional — they mold to the foot over time and are a common first shoe while a dancer builds foot strength. Stretch-canvas slippers are lightweight, hug the foot to show a clean line, and pack easily.

• Leather 211 — soft sheepskin leather with a breathable cotton lining, a double lock-stitched suede sole, and an elastic edge (no drawstring) that adheres to and enhances the arch line.
• Canvas 250 — Body Wrappers 250 A/C cotton/spandex 4-way stretch canvas: breathable, durable, and flexible, with handmade pleats and elastic straps attached over the arch and heel. It molds to the foot to show articulation.

Shop leather full-sole ballet slippers · Shop canvas split-sole ballet slippers

What's the difference between full-sole and split-sole ballet shoes?

A full sole is one continuous sole under the whole foot and gives more resistance; a split sole has separate pads under the ball and heel with the arch left open, so the foot looks more pointed and articulated. Many beginners start with a full sole to help build foot strength — ask your teacher what they prefer for your level. Body Wrappers' leather slipper is full-sole (211) and its stretch-canvas slipper is split-sole (250).

What size Body Wrappers ballet slippers should I order?

It depends on the style, because the two are built differently. For the leather 211, order 1 to 1.5 sizes down from your street shoe size. For the 4-way stretch-canvas 250, order 1 to 1.5 sizes up for a standard fit (2 to 2.5 up for roomier); men add 2 sizes. Always check the size guide on the specific product page.

• Leather 211 — widths M and N; go 1 to 1.5 sizes down from street shoe size.
• Canvas 250 — width M; start 1–1.5 sizes up for a standard fit, 2–2.5 up for a comfortable fit; wider feet size up; professional dancers may prefer snugger; men add 2 sizes.

Do these slippers need a drawstring or sewn-on elastic?

No — both styles are no-drawstring. The leather 211 has an elastic edge for an easy pull-on fit, and the canvas 250 comes with elastic straps already attached over the arch and heel, so there's no need to sew on elastics.

Are the canvas slippers machine washable?

Yes — the 4-way stretch-canvas 250 is machine washable. Wash cold and air dry to preserve the shape and color of the canvas. For the leather 211, follow the care guidance on its product page.

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