3 min read
Canvas vs Leather Ballet Shoes
Canvas or leather is the first choice every ballet parent and adult beginner makes. Neither is better — they suit different bodies, budgets and studios. Here's how to decide.
Which is cheaper — canvas or leather?
Canvas is usually £5–£10 cheaper. A children's canvas flat sits around £12–£18; a leather flat sits around £18–£30.
Which lasts longer?
Leather lasts roughly twice as long as canvas — a leather flat will do a school year of weekly class; a canvas flat will last two terms in the same use.
Which looks smarter for exams?
Leather takes shoe polish and holds a clean line. Most UK exam boards prefer leather for graded exams from Grade 3 upward.
Which is easier to look after?
Canvas can go in a 30°C mesh wash. Leather is wiped clean with a damp cloth and re-polished with pale pink shoe cream.