When it comes to choosing ballet shoes, two names consistently rise to the top: Bloch and Capezio. Both are globally respected, professionally trusted, and beloved by dancers at every level, from tiny tots in their first dance class to seasoned performers on stage. At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, we stock both brands because we know that every dancer's foot is different, and the right shoe can make all the difference to comfort, technique, and confidence.
If you're standing in the ballet shoe aisle (or scrolling through our online store) wondering which brand to choose, you're not alone. This guide breaks down exactly what sets Bloch and Capezio apart so you can make the best decision for your dancer.
A Quick Brand Overview
Bloch: Australian-Born, Globally Loved
Bloch was founded in Sydney in 1932 by Jacob Bloch, a cobbler who crafted custom pointe shoes for dancers at the Australian Ballet. That heritage of precision craftsmanship is still at the heart of everything Bloch makes today. Their ballet shoes are known for a snug, supportive fit and are particularly popular among dancers with narrow to medium feet. Bloch is widely regarded as the go-to brand for technically focused training.
Capezio: A Century of Dance Excellence
Capezio has been dressing dancers since 1887, making it one of the oldest dancewear brands in the world. Founded in New York, Capezio has always had a strong connection to the performing arts. Their ballet shoes tend to offer a slightly roomier fit, making them a favourite for dancers with wider feet or those who prefer a little more toe box space. Capezio is often praised for its softness straight out of the box and its accessible price points.
Bloch vs Capezio Ballet Shoes: Fit and Sizing
Fit is the single most important factor when buying ballet shoes. An ill-fitting shoe can affect a dancer's technique, cause blisters, and even lead to injury over time. Here's how the two brands compare.
Bloch Fit
- Generally fits narrower through the heel and midfoot
- Snug across the toes, encouraging proper foot engagement
- Sizing can run small, so always check the brand's size guide
- Excellent choice for dancers with a narrow to medium foot width
- The elastic pre-sewn on many styles saves time for parents and students
Capezio Fit
- Slightly wider through the toe box, suiting medium to wide feet
- Often feels softer and more flexible from the first wear
- Sizing is generally true to size or a half-size up from street shoes
- A great option for dancers who find Bloch pinches across the toes
- Well suited to beginners who may not yet have a clearly defined foot type
Our advice: Whenever possible, have your dancer try both brands in store. Feet change quickly, especially in growing children, so sizing up is always better than sizing down in ballet shoes.
Materials and Construction
Both Bloch and Capezio offer ballet shoes in canvas and leather, and each material has its own advantages.
Leather Ballet Shoes
Leather shoes mould to the foot over time, offering a personalised fit as they're worn in. They tend to be more durable than canvas and hold their shape well. Bloch's leather range is particularly well constructed, with reinforced soles and clean seaming that ballet teachers often prefer for visible foot lines. Capezio's leather options are equally well made and often a touch softer from the outset.
Canvas Ballet Shoes
Canvas shoes are lightweight, breathable, and typically more affordable. They stretch to the shape of the foot quickly, which is why many dancers and teachers love them for everyday class wear. Both Bloch and Capezio produce excellent canvas ballet shoes, though Capezio's canvas tends to feel a little softer and more forgiving straight away, while Bloch's canvas offers a crisper, more structured feel.
Split Sole vs Full Sole
Both brands offer split sole and full sole options. Full sole shoes are generally recommended for beginners as they build foot and arch strength. Split sole shoes allow greater flexibility and are typically preferred by more advanced students. Bloch's split sole designs are particularly popular for the clean arch they create, while Capezio's split sole options are praised for their comfort and ease of movement.
Durability and Longevity
Dance shoes take a beating, and durability matters, especially when you're investing in quality footwear for a growing dancer.
Bloch ballet shoes are widely considered to be slightly more durable than Capezio, particularly in leather styles. The stitching is tight, the suede sole wears well, and the overall construction holds up to regular class use. Many dance families report getting a full season's wear out of Bloch shoes before needing to replace them.
Capezio shoes, while slightly less long-lasting in some canvas styles, are still excellent quality and offer very good value for their price point. They're an ideal choice for younger dancers who will grow out of their shoes before they wear them out, making the lower price point a practical advantage.
Price Comparison
Price is always a consideration, and both brands offer accessible options without sacrificing quality.
- Bloch ballet shoes generally sit in the mid-range price bracket, reflecting the brand's premium construction and Australian heritage.
- Capezio ballet shoes are often slightly more affordable, making them a great entry point for new dancers or families with multiple children in dance.
At Total Dance, we stock a range of options across both brands to suit different budgets. If you're looking for a way to save across your dancer's full kit, keep an eye on our $5 Special section for great value add-ons and accessories.
What Do Dance Teachers Recommend?
We speak to dance teachers and studio owners across Australia every day, and here's what we hear most often.
- Many teachers specify one brand over the other for uniformity within their studio, so always check with your teacher before purchasing.
- Bloch is frequently recommended for students who are progressing quickly and need a shoe that supports correct technique.
- Capezio is often suggested for younger beginners and recreational dancers who need comfort and ease of wear.
- Both brands are considered professional-grade and suitable for exam and performance use.
Completing Your Dancer's Look
Great ballet shoes deserve a complete, polished kit. Once you've chosen between Bloch and Capezio, think about what else your dancer needs to feel confident and ready to dance. A good dance bag makes a real difference to a dancer's daily routine. The 'I Love Dance' Bag is a popular choice at Total Dance, offering plenty of room for shoes, a leotard, and all the extras that come with a busy dance schedule.
For class and performance, pairing ballet shoes with a quality leotard creates a clean, elegant line that helps teachers assess posture and movement. Explore our range of leotards to find the perfect match for your dancer's style and level.
Our Verdict: Bloch vs Capezio Ballet Shoes
There is no single winner in the Bloch vs Capezio debate because the best ballet shoe is always the one that fits your dancer's foot correctly and suits their level of training. Here's a simple summary to guide your decision.
- Choose Bloch if: Your dancer has a narrow to medium foot, is at an intermediate or advanced level, values a structured fit, or attends a studio that specifies Bloch.
- Choose Capezio if: Your dancer has a wider foot, is a beginner, prefers a softer feel from day one, or you're looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.
Still not sure? Our team at Total Dance is always happy to help. Whether you're shopping in store or reaching out online, we can guide you through sizing, styles, and what's going to work best for your dancer's specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bloch or Capezio ballet shoes better for beginners?
Both brands offer excellent options for beginners. Capezio is often recommended for new dancers due to its softer feel and slightly more forgiving fit. However, if a beginner has a narrow foot, Bloch may actually be the more comfortable choice. The most important thing is getting the right fit, so sizing carefully is always the priority.
How do I know if ballet shoes fit correctly?
A correctly fitted ballet shoe should be snug but not painfully tight. The toes should be flat and not scrunched, and there should be no excess fabric bunching at the front of the shoe. The heel should sit firmly without slipping. Ballet shoes are meant to fit more closely than street shoes, but they should never cause pain or numbness.
Should I buy leather or canvas ballet shoes?
This depends on your dancer's level and preferences. Full sole leather shoes are traditionally recommended for beginners as they help build arch strength. Canvas shoes are lightweight and great for class use at all levels. Split sole canvas shoes are popular with more advanced students for the flexibility they offer. Check with your dance teacher if you're unsure which style is required.
Can I buy Bloch and Capezio ballet shoes online from Total Dance?
Yes, Total Dance stocks a curated range of ballet shoes from both Bloch and Capezio, available online and in store. If you need help choosing the right size or style, our knowledgeable team is always available to assist. We recommend checking each brand's size guide before ordering, as sizing can vary between brands and even between styles within the same brand.
