Foot & Shoe Accessories

Q: What foot accessories do pointe shoe dancers need?

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Q: What is rosin used for in dance?

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Q: How do I sew ribbons and elastic onto ballet shoes?

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Q: What gel toe pads are best for pointe shoes?

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Q: Do you stock shoe stretch spray for dance shoes?

{"type":"root","children":[{"type":"paragraph","children":[{"type":"text","value":"Yes. Shoe stretch spray can help ease tight spots in leather ballet shoes and jazz shoes. Apply to the inside of the shoe in the tight area and wear or bend while the spray is still wet. It is particularly useful for breaking in new ballet shoes."}]}]}

Q: How do I clean the suede sole of my dance shoes?

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Q: What accessories are needed for tap shoes in Australia?

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Foot and shoe accessories are the small details that keep dance shoes fitting correctly, lasting...

Foot and shoe accessories are the small details that keep dance shoes fitting correctly, lasting longer, and looking polished on stage and in class.

Pointe Shoe Essentials

Prepping pointe shoes correctly takes the right materials. Cut corners here and fit suffers.

Wide Pointe Shoe Elastic sits flat across the ankle and holds the shoe firmly without digging into the skin
Ballet Shoe Ribbon is available in finishes to suit class wear and performance
Elastorib combines elastic and ribbon in one, making it a favourite for dancers who want a clean, secure fit
Stretch Ribbon moves with the foot and is ideal for dancers still developing their arch strength

Choosing the Right Elastic or Ribbon

Width and stretch level both affect how a shoe sits on the foot. Wider elastic distributes pressure more evenly. Stretch ribbon allows a fuller range of movement. Ask your teacher before sewing if you are unsure which suits your shoe style.

For pointe work, most teachers recommend a firm, non-stretch elastic to keep the heel locked down. For ballet flats, stretch ribbon or thinner elastic is usually the better choice.

Socks That Work With Dance Shoes

Jazz Socks are designed to fit snugly inside jazz shoes without bunching. A poor fit inside the shoe affects balance and can cause blisters over time. Look for socks with minimal seams at the toe.

Fitting and Sewing Tips

Always try the shoe on before marking where to sew elastic or ribbon
Leave a small overlap when sewing ribbon ends to prevent fraying
Check elastic tension regularly as shoes wear in, particularly with new pointe shoes
Replace ribbon or elastic at the first sign of fraying, loose stitching, or stretched-out edges

Stocking Up

Ribbon and elastic are consumables. Teachers often ask students to replace them at the start of each term. Buying a spare set early means no last-minute scrambles before exams or concerts.

Fast shipping across Australia and New Zealand on all orders.

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Foot & Shoe Accessories — Frequently Asked Questions

What foot accessories do pointe shoe dancers need?

Pointe shoe dancers typically use gel toe pads, silicone toe spacers, Ouch Pouches, and lamb's wool to protect the toes. The right combination depends on toe shape and personal preference. Total Dance Australia stocks a full range of pointe shoe accessories to help you find the right solution.

What is rosin used for in dance?

Rosin is a natural resin applied to the sole of dance shoes to increase grip on slippery floors. It is commonly used in tap and character shoes but also used under pointe shoes and jazz shoes. Apply a small amount to the sole and work it in with your foot.

How do I sew ribbons and elastic onto ballet shoes?

Ribbons should be sewn at a slight angle to the back seam of the shoe to create a snug fit around the ankle. Elastic is sewn directly across the back seam and should be firm but not restrictive. Total Dance Australia stocks pre-cut ribbons and elastic, and we recommend cotton-backed satin ribbon for durability.

What gel toe pads are best for pointe shoes?

Bloch and Capezio both make quality gel toe pads that cushion the toes inside the pointe shoe box. Choose a pad that covers your specific pain points without making the box fit too tight. Many dancers try a few styles before finding their preferred option.

Do you stock shoe stretch spray for dance shoes?

Yes. Shoe stretch spray can help ease tight spots in leather ballet shoes and jazz shoes. Apply to the inside of the shoe in the tight area and wear or bend while the spray is still wet. It is particularly useful for breaking in new ballet shoes.

How do I clean the suede sole of my dance shoes?

Use a suede brush or nail brush to remove dirt and restore the nap of the suede sole. Avoid getting the sole wet as this can reduce grip. A clean suede sole maintains better traction on dance floors. Clean after each class to extend sole life.

What accessories are needed for tap shoes in Australia?

Tap shoe accessories include replacement taps, tap screws, a tap tightening tool, and heel caps. Rosin is occasionally used for additional grip. Check that your taps are firmly attached before each class and carry a small screwdriver in your dance bag as a precaution.