Ballet shoe guide
Jazz Shoes
Soft leather slip-ons for jazz, modern and audition class.
What are jazz ballet shoes?
Jazz shoes are soft, flexible slip-ons or lace-ups with a split rubber sole. Many ballet dancers also own a pair for jazz class, contemporary warm-ups and open auditions.
Who they're for
Cross-training ballet dancers, jazz and modern students, musical theatre performers.
Materials and construction
Full-grain leather upper, split rubber sole, elasticated arch.
How to fit them
Jazz shoes should fit snugly with no wrinkles across the vamp. Leather softens fast — go a touch smaller than street size.
Top picks
Our current UK picks. Prices in GBP; links go to trusted retailers.
Slip-On Jazz Shoe
£20–£35The classic elasticated slip-on jazz shoe in soft leather.
Best for: Jazz class, auditions
Frequently asked
Related ballet shoes
Ballet Flats (Soft Ballet Shoes)
The everyday soft shoe every dancer starts in.
Split-Sole Ballet Shoes
Two suede pads under the ball and heel for a stronger arch line.
Full-Sole Ballet Shoes
One continuous suede sole — the traditional exam shoe.
Canvas Ballet Shoes
Breathable, washable and gentle on the purse.