At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, we know that the right foot and shoe accessories can make a genuine difference to how a dancer feels, moves, and performs. Whether you're a dance mum preparing for your daughter's first ballet class, or an experienced pointe work student looking to upgrade your ribbon setup, finding quality products at a great price, with fast delivery, is exactly what we're here for. Shop our foot and shoe accessories range and get free shipping across Australia on eligible orders.
Why Foot & Shoe Accessories Matter More Than You Might Think
It's easy to overlook the small details, but ribbons, elastics, and toe protectors are foundational to a dancer's comfort and safety. A poorly secured ballet shoe can slip mid-class, disrupt technique, and even lead to unnecessary strain on the foot and ankle. The right ribbon holds everything in place, allowing the dancer to focus entirely on their artistry rather than their footwear.
Beyond function, there's also the question of appearance. In ballet especially, neatly tied, smooth ribbons are part of the overall aesthetic. A tidy, well-presented shoe signals care and discipline, qualities that RAD and ATOD teachers notice. For competition and exam days, having your ribbons sewn and tied correctly is simply non-negotiable.
If you're new to choosing ribbons and elastics for ballet or pointe shoes, our in-depth guide Ballet Shoe Ribbons vs Elastorib vs Stretch Ribbon: Which Foot & Shoe Accessory Should You Buy? breaks down every option so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Our Ribbon Range: From First Ballet Shoes to Advanced Pointe Work
Total Dance stocks a carefully selected range of ribbons suited to every stage of a dancer's journey. Here's what you'll find when you shop with us.
Ballet Shoe Ribbon
Our Ballet Shoe Ribbon is a reliable, classic choice for recreational and exam-level students. It's the staple that dance teachers have recommended for years, offering a firm hold with a clean finish that sits flat against the ankle. If you're shopping for a beginner or a younger student who is still learning to tie and sew their own ribbons, this is a wonderful starting point.
Satin Ballet Shoe Ribbon
For dancers who want a polished, professional look, the Satin Ballet Shoe Ribbon is a step up in finish and feel. The smooth satin surface reflects light beautifully, giving the foot a sleek, elongated appearance that's particularly sought after for performances and exams. It's suitable for soft ballet shoes and pairs well with the more structured styling expected at higher levels of classical training.
Wide Pointe Shoe Ribbon
Pointe work demands a ribbon that can support the foot securely while still looking elegant. A wider ribbon distributes pressure more evenly across the ankle, which many pointe students find far more comfortable during prolonged wear. If your dancer has just been cleared for pointe work by their teacher, investing in a quality wide ribbon from the outset is a smart move.
Stretch Ribbon and Stretch Satin Pointe Ribbon
For dancers who prefer a little give in their ribbon, stretch options offer excellent comfort without sacrificing security. The Stretch Ribbon accommodates the natural movement of the ankle through relevé and demi-pointe, making it a favourite among students in contemporary ballet and those with wider ankles. The Stretch Satin Pointe Ribbon combines that flexibility with a lustrous satin finish, delivering both comfort and visual appeal for performance days.
Elastorib: The Hybrid Solution
Elastorib is one of those products that dancers quickly wonder how they ever managed without. It combines the structure of a traditional ribbon with built-in stretch, creating a secure fit that moves with the foot rather than against it. It's particularly popular for students who find standard ribbons too rigid, or who struggle with ribbons loosening during class. If you're unsure which style suits your dancer best, our guide to pointe shoe elastics, ribbons and toecaps for dancers offers a thorough comparison to help you decide.
Other Foot Care Essentials You'll Find at Total Dance
Ribbons are just one part of a well-stocked dance bag. Our foot and shoe accessories collection also includes products designed to protect the feet, extend the life of your shoes, and keep everything comfortable through long rehearsals and performances.
Lambswool for Pointe Shoe Comfort
Lambswool is a traditional and time-tested solution for cushioning the toes inside a pointe shoe. It molds to the shape of the foot with warmth and softness, making it ideal for students who find harder toe protectors uncomfortable. Many teachers still recommend lambswool as a first option for new pointe students because it allows the foot to feel the shoe properly while still providing gentle protection.
Super Spacers
Super Spacers are a practical choice for dancers who experience discomfort between the toes during pointe work or long classes. These small, soft separators help align the toes, reducing friction and preventing blisters. They're a low-cost addition to the dance bag that can make a noticeable difference to foot comfort over time.
Mesh Pointe Bag
Caring for your pointe shoes between classes is just as important as what you do during class. The Mesh Pointe Bag allows shoes to air out properly after use, which helps preserve the structure of the box and extend the life of the shoe. Pointe shoes are a significant investment, and proper storage is one of the simplest ways to protect that investment.
Browse our complete selection of foot care and shoe accessories to find everything your dancer needs in one convenient place.
Free Shipping Across Australia: What You Need to Know
We understand that buying dancewear online in Australia should be straightforward and affordable. Total Dance offers free shipping on eligible orders, so you can stock up on Ballet Shoe Ribbon, Satin Ballet Shoe Ribbon, Elastorib, Lambswool, and Super Spacers without worrying about extra costs eating into your budget.
Our team processes orders promptly, so your accessories arrive ready for the next class, rehearsal, or exam preparation session. If you're not sure whether a product is right for your dancer, our friendly customer service team is always happy to guide you through the options. We know dance, and we know what works.
For dancers and dance families based across Australia, from Sydney and Melbourne to regional areas and everywhere in between, our online store means you have access to premium dancewear without needing to travel to a specialty store. And if you're shopping for a dancer in New Zealand, we've also put together a dedicated resource on foot accessories for NZ dancers, covering pointe shoe ribbons, elastics, and toecaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Ballet Shoe Ribbon and Elastorib?
Standard Ballet Shoe Ribbon is a flat, non-stretch ribbon that provides a firm, structured hold around the ankle. Elastorib is a hybrid product that incorporates stretch into the ribbon itself, allowing the ankle to move more freely while still maintaining a secure fit. Many dancers transitioning to pointe or those with high-arched feet find Elastorib more comfortable for extended wear.
Which ribbon is best for a beginner pointe student?
This often depends on the teacher's recommendation and the specific pointe shoe. As a general guide, a wider pointe ribbon offers more ankle support, which suits beginners well. Some teachers recommend starting with Elastorib or a Stretch Satin Pointe Ribbon to help the student ease into the demands of pointe work. When in doubt, ask your dance teacher before purchasing, as many schools have specific requirements.
How do I know how much ribbon to buy?
As a general rule, you'll need approximately two metres of ribbon per pair of shoes. This allows enough length to wrap around the ankle twice and tie a neat knot and bow. If your dancer has particularly slender or wide ankles, you may need to adjust slightly. It's always better to buy a little extra and trim to fit than to run short.
Does Total Dance offer free shipping on foot and shoe accessories?
Yes. Total Dance offers free shipping across Australia on eligible orders. This applies to our full range of foot and shoe accessories, including ribbons, Lambswool, Super Spacers, and more. Check our website for current shipping thresholds and terms, and feel free to contact our team if you have any questions before placing your order.
