General consensus, whether it's online or at the barre, seems to be that the Sansha Pro split sole ballet slippers are the favourites of most dancers. I decided to give them a try - and found out that they truly held up to their reputation, so long as size is pre-determined. I would recommend that a shoe 1.5 sizes larger than the dancer's street shoes be selected. If between sizes, order one size up and shrink in the washing machine and dryer if necessary. Following other recommendations to size 2 sizes up from street size, I ordered a 12 M. For reference, I am a size 10 women's with a very narrow ankle. I found the size I ordered to fit quite loosely, especially through the arch and heel. Adjusting the drawstring to tighten the shoe only caused the back of the slipper to rub against the back of my heel, causing a very minor blister. However, considering that the product is made out of a canvas material, I would try shrinking these shoes with hot water and a hot dryer if they are too large. Traditionally, I've preferred to use leather slippers (last longer, show less wear, less prone to absorb sweat), so the leap to canvas was a bit bizarre for me. However, I enjoyed having a lightweight, breathable ballet slipper. As opposed to leather slippers, which trap humidity inside of the shoe, the canvas fabric allows the foot to breathe. I also found that they didn't wear out particularly fast. Rather, the longevity of canvas was quite similar to that of leather slippers. The split-sole is a feature which I think should be common to all dance shoes, regardless of the dancer's age or ability. It is far easier to achieve a fully pointed foot and to be conscious of the position of the arches in a split-sole shoe. The split-sole offers less stability for younger/less experienced dancers, but ultimately allows for a greater strengthening of the foot. Elastics are firmly attached near the heel of the slipper, and cross over the top of the shoe to be sewn in place where desired. Typically, the elastics should be sewn at the highest point of the arch. This provides the dancer with the greatest stability and support possible from the shoe. Use a pencil to mark the placement of the elastics while the slipper is on the dancer's foot. A sewing machine, or needle and thread in a light colour, may be used to attach the elastics to the shoe. Ultimately, the Sansha Pros provide a beautiful, supportive slipper to dancers of all abilities. The shoes are high-quality and durable, with a well-constructed shape. Please get sized before you purchase, if at all possible. If not, size up 1.5 sizes.
