The best way to buy dance shoes online
(Links for measuring soles at the bottom of this section)
At the moment dance shoes are made two different ways. Both utilise a "last" which is that brand's specific fit standard for that specific style. You may already know from your own experience that certain brands fit you better than others; this will be down to that specific last is a similar match to your foot shape.
Whether a collection is made by hand or machine can effect how they will fit you. Machine made dance shoes are still technically produced by hand, but cut and sewn using machine automated methods, usually for large quantities which results in a more accurate and consistent size run. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks concerning fit. Handmade shoes can vary by up to 4mm - 6mm in length and width, even within a single pair, or within a size range, this is due to human error and hand method of cutting and sewing. Machines can produce the same exact product without variances.
You can ensure the best fit possible by taking one of your own well fitting shoes with a similar sized heel and measure the outsole to compare to the outsole size of the shoe you are looking to purchase online. This can save lots of money in shipping charges.
Other questions you can ask if you are not familiar with a specific shoe brand: 1) Is the shoe cut wide or narrow? 2) Is the instep cut average or shallow? These questions can make a difference, especially if you have toes that turn upward or if you have had ankle injuries, foot injuries or surgeries, this can effect the width of your foot.
Expectations: Don't expect to find an exact fit; get as close as you can and then modify for your best fit. Use the services of cobblers and professional shoe adjusters to stretch and shape the shoes to be perfect for you. Never be afraid to add straps, insoles, heel grips or lifts, to reach the level of comfort you need. If a shoe requires too many fixes, I would pass on it. But if the shoe has most of what you are looking for, take them to the cobbler and see what is possible. There are no perfect shoes and no perfect feet!
This is the standard size conversion vs last length measurement for each size. Sizing and size runs can differ from company to company, however this is an average for regular street shoe sizing produced in the EU.
For USA, if the link isn't live, please cut and paste this link into your browser to print on on 8.5" x 11" paper:
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0749/9055/1313/files/8.5x11-mm-V2_1.pdf?v=1765658681
For UK and EU, if the link isn't live, please cut and paste this link into your browser to print A4 sized paper:
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0749/9055/1313/files/A4-mm-V2_1.pdf?v=1765658680
Once printed, put your shoe on the paper, aligning the top and the left side to the start of the ruler, then mark the length and the width, that will be the measurements you are looking to match.