yes, the base is suede....
some designs are really orbiang...very gim gim one!
if u want to tailormade...go leaping lizard.
I got a pair from City Plaza. You can also find it at some dance schools...there is a shop in chinatown....sells dance shoes too. But let me try to recall the address
I will be getting a new pair soon...perhaps end of July. When are you starting your class?