Choosing between ballet shoe ribbons, Elastorib, and stretch ribbon is one of those decisions that looks small but matters a lot. The wrong choice can affect how a shoe sits on the foot, how secure it feels mid-class, and how polished it looks on exam day. This guide breaks down each option clearly so you can buy with confidence.
What Is the Difference Between Ballet Shoe Ribbons, Elastorib and Stretch Ribbon?
All three serve the same basic purpose: securing the ballet shoe to the foot. But they behave very differently in wear. The right choice depends on the dancer's level, foot shape, age, and whether the shoes are for everyday class or performance.
Traditional Ballet Shoe Ribbons
Traditional satin or grosgrain ribbons are sewn onto the shoe and wrapped around the ankle before being tied in a small, neat knot. They give the cleanest line on stage and are required for most exam boards and performances. Ribbon width is typically 25mm. Satin has a shinier finish and sits flatter. Grosgrain has a ribbed texture and tends to hold knots more securely.
Traditional ribbon requires more skill to apply and tie neatly. It is the standard choice for intermediate and senior dancers, pointe work, and any performance or exam context where appearance is assessed.
Elastorib: The Combination Option
Elastorib is a ribbon with built-in stretch. It combines the look of a traditional ribbon with the give of an elastic. It wraps and ties like regular ribbon but accommodates ankle movement more forgivingly. This makes it a practical choice for dancers with high insteps or those who find rigid ribbon uncomfortable during long classes.
Elastorib suits recreational and pre-vocational dancers who need the ribbon look without the restriction. It is also a good middle-ground option for students preparing for exams but not yet at a level where examiners will scrutinise ribbon type closely.
Stretch Ribbon
Stretch ribbon has significantly more give than Elastorib. It is faster to put on and comfortable for younger or beginner dancers who are still developing the coordination to tie ribbon neatly. It is not suitable for performance or examination in most cases, but it is practical for recreational classes and younger students.
For younger dancers especially, stretch ribbon reduces the time spent at the barre fixing shoes and lets them focus on learning. It is also easier for parents to manage before class.
How to Choose the Right Option for Your Dancer
Start with the dance school's requirements. Many schools specify ribbon type in their uniform policy, particularly for exams and concerts. If the policy says ribbon, use traditional satin or grosgrain ribbon. If there is flexibility, consider the dancer's age, level, and foot shape.
- Beginner and recreational students under ten years old: stretch ribbon is practical and comfortable.
- Students in pre-primary through to Grade 3 or 4: Elastorib offers a neat appearance with some forgiveness.
- Exam and performance students from intermediate level upward: traditional satin or grosgrain ribbon is the standard.
- Dancers with high insteps or wide ankles: Elastorib or stretch ribbon will be more comfortable for regular class wear.
- Pointe work: traditional ribbon only, sewn securely and tied correctly every time.
You can find ribbons, Elastorib, and stretch ribbon in our foot and shoe accessories range, alongside elastics, toecaps, and other essentials.
Practical Tips for Sewing and Wearing Ballet Shoe Ribbons
Ribbon sewn incorrectly will not hold through class. A few practical points make a real difference.
- Fold the heel of the shoe forward to find the natural crease point. This is where ribbon should be sewn, not at the very back of the heel.
- Sew through the lining only, not through the outer canvas or leather. This keeps the ribbon secure without distorting the shoe.
- Use a thread that matches the ribbon colour, not the shoe colour.
- Seal the cut ends of ribbon with a flame to prevent fraying. Do this carefully and quickly, just enough to melt the edge.
- Tuck the knot under the ribbon wraps before securing. This keeps the finish clean for performance and exam settings.
If you are helping a dancer with pointe shoes for the first time, it is worth reading a detailed guide on elastics and ribbons together. Our article on buying pointe shoe elastics, ribbons and toecaps covers the full picture, including which combinations work best and what to look for when shopping.
Getting the Right Ribbon Width and Length
Standard ballet shoe ribbon is 25mm wide. This suits most soft shoe applications. For pointe shoes, 38mm ribbon is more common because it provides better support across the ankle.
Ribbon is typically sold by the metre or in pre-cut lengths. For a child's soft ballet shoe, around 1.2 to 1.4 metres of ribbon is usually enough for both shoes. For adult soft shoes or pointe shoes, allow 1.6 to 2 metres total. It is better to cut slightly long and trim after fitting than to come up short during sewing.
Colour is almost always pink for ballet. Check your school's uniform requirements before buying, as some schools specify theatrical pink versus ballet pink. A small difference in shade can be visible under stage lighting.
Browse the full range of ribbons, elastics, and foot care products in our dancewear foot and shoe accessories section to find the right option for your dancer's shoes and level.
