Ballerinas for kids: Everyday, festive and comfortable
Ballerinas look a little smarter than sneakers and go with dresses, skirts and trousers. But are they comfortable enough for everyday wear, and what should you look for when buying? Here's a simple guide.
Are ballerinas practical for kids' everyday life?
Yes, if they fit well. A good kids' ballerina has a flexible sole, plenty of room for the toes and a strap or fastening that keeps the shoe securely on the foot. Then it's suitable not just for parties, but also for nursery, school and the playground.
Without a strap, a ballerina can slip off the foot more easily when running and climbing. For active kids, a style with an elastic strap or velcro is therefore often the better choice.
Ballerina, Mary Jane or ballet shoe: What's the difference?
| Type | Features | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
| Ballerina | Flat, open shoe, often with an elastic strap | Everyday, school and special occasions |
| Mary Jane | Ballerina with a strap across the instep, often with a buckle or velcro | Active kids who need an especially secure fit |
| Ballet shoe | Very soft shoe without a firm sole | Ballet classes and dance, not for outdoors |
The line between a ballerina and a Mary Jane is fluid. More important than the name is that the shoe fits well and suits how it will be worn.
How do you recognise good ballerinas for kids?
- Flexible sole: The sole should bend easily and follow your child's movements.
- Room for the toes: The toes should be able to move freely without touching the front.
- Secure fit: An elastic strap or velcro keeps the shoe on the foot.
- Firm support at the heel: The ballerina shouldn't slip at the heel when walking.
- Breathable material: Leather or suede adapts to the foot over time.
Ballerinas for parties, birthdays and starting school
For special occasions like birthdays, starting school, weddings or school celebrations, a slightly smarter look is welcome. Ballerinas in festive colours or with a shiny finish go well with dresses and skirts.
There's playing and dancing on special days too. So even for special occasions, choose a ballerina that fits comfortably and doesn't slip off. Ideally, let your child wear new shoes at home a few times before the big day.
When can kids wear ballerinas?
Developmental stage matters more than age. Ballerinas are suitable as soon as your child walks confidently and independently. For the very first steps, light, flexible Prewalkers are the better choice. At Wheat, ballerinas come in sizes 22 to 35, depending on the model.
How to find the right size
- Measure both of your child's feet while standing.
- Go by the longer foot.
- Add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room.
- Compare the result with the inner measurements of the specific model.
- Check the fit regularly, as children's feet grow quickly.
If you're unsure, check our size guide
How to care for ballerinas in leather, suede or textile
- Leather: Clean with a slightly damp cloth and care for regularly with a suitable product.
- Suede: Remove dirt with a soft brush and protect with a suitable proofing spray.
- Textile: Follow the care instructions for the specific model.
Always let ballerinas dry at room temperature and avoid direct heat from radiators or tumble dryers.
Find the right ballerinas for your child
At Wheat, you'll find kids' ballerinas in sizes 22 to 35, depending on the model, for everyday wear and special occasions. Explore our ballerinas and find the right pair for your child.
Frequently asked questions about kids' ballerinas
Are ballerinas practical for kids' everyday life?
Yes, if they have a flexible sole, enough room for the toes and a strap or fastening that keeps the shoe securely on the foot.
What's the difference between ballerinas and Mary Janes?
A Mary Jane is a ballerina with a strap across the instep. The strap gives extra support, especially for active kids.
When can kids wear ballerinas?
As soon as your child walks confidently and independently. For first steps, prewalkers are a better choice. Wheat offers ballerinas from size 22, depending on the model.
Which ballerina size fits my child?
Measure both feet while standing, go by the longer foot and add 1 to 1.5 cm of growing room. Compare the result with the model's inner measurements.
Which ballerinas are suitable for parties and starting school?
Ballerinas in festive colours or with a shiny finish go well with dresses and skirts. Make sure the fit is secure here too, so your child can play and dance comfortably.
Which ballerinas suit wide feet?
Styles with plenty of room in the toe area and an adjustable strap. The individual fit is always what matters most.
How do you care for leather or suede ballerinas?
Clean leather with a slightly damp cloth and care for it regularly. Brush suede with a soft brush. Always let ballerinas dry at room temperature.