I’ve only tried a couple different pairs of canvas split sole shoes, and definitely plan on trying more. I’m currently eyeing the new Angelo Luzio Instant Fit 4-Way Total Stretch Ballet Slipper (I’m tempted by the instant fit) and the Bloch Pro Elastic Ballet shoe. I’m currently wearing Angelo Luzio Total Stretch Canvas Split Sole shoes. I’ve worn these for almost a year, and thought that I would touch on why I’ve kept these in my bag.
Fun fact: these shoes were the first ones with stretch canvas on the market, and are still going strong. They are widely loved, and for good reason. The stretch canvas fits the foot well, so your foot looks good flat and when pointed, and creates a smooth look. The first shoes I tried were the Sansha Pro Canvas Split Sole, which have a much thicker canvas and barely any stretch, this was an entirely different experience. What I especially appreciate in the stretch fabric is the better fit around the heel. Without extra fabric around the heel, the line of the leg and foot is streamlined, and looks better. Also, the suede soles under the shoes are well placed to give you a good feeling of the floor, and are not too padded. This shoe, unlike most ballet shoes, have a specific left and right foot. I don’t necessarily find this a pro or con, but the intention is to improve the fit on the foot even more. These shoes also have a higher vamp (the shoe comes higher up on the top of the foot).
I found that the stretch canvas meant I was able to break in the shoes within only a couple classes, but they were still comfortable to wear from the start. These shoes also wash really easily in a cold cycle in the washing machine, and don’t go hard after air drying. Over the months that I’ve been wearing them, they have held up. My shoes have no holes, and there are no seems ripping. All of which are important parts of having a good pair of shoes.
The fit and aesthetic of your shoe are so important, and there are so many options available. It really comes down to trying on the shoe, and then taking a few classes in them to decide if they are a good option for you. If you’re unsure, these are a great place to start.
What are your favourite shoes?