Abstract: A lightweight, flexible gymnastic shoe is disclosed. The shoe includes an upper formed of a lightweight synthetic fabric. A relatively broad closure strap has a first end fixed to a medial inside surface of the upper in the area of the arch and a second free end for detachable attachment to the medial outside of the upper. A hook and pile fastener selectively fastens the second end of the closure strap to the upper. A sole is attached to an outer bottom surface of the upper, and is formed of a relatively thin resilient material located only below the toe, ball and heel areas. A liner is located inside the upper and extends along substantially the entire length of the inside top surface of the upper. The liner is formed of a relatively low density cushioning material. A metatarsal pad is located along the liner only in the area of the first and second metatarsal heads of a wearer's foot, and a heel pad is located along the liner in the heel area.