Made of two layers of Texon and a single layer of leather, Alfa Soft shank provides a light support to the arch and is ideal for dancers with tight ligaments or dancers with an underdeveloped arch. In most cases a "beginner' who is starting pointe work will best served with a soft shank. The minimal support provided by a soft shank will allow the dancer to stretch their ligaments to enable the dancer to stand fully "on top" of the platform. In other cases a "seasoned" dancer with tight ligaments may continue to wear a soft shank.