Where to Buy Pointe Shoes If You Don’t Do Ballet
Pointe shoes are one of the most important pieces of gear for ballet dancers. It takes time and effort to find the right pair of pointe shoes. This is because the shoes are made specifically for each individual foot, and they must fit correctly to ensure the best performance.
If you’re new to pointe work, it may take a few purchases before you find your perfect pair of shoes. Just like athletic shoes, you’ll want to make sure they feel comfortable and are easy to wear.
The box of a pointe shoe is a rigid enclosure within the front end of the shoe that encases and supports the dancer’s toes. The toe box can be thick or thin, shallow or deep, and some have extended sides called wings that give the dancer extra support along the side of the foot.
This part of the shoe is also padded to keep the foot warm and comfortable during pointework. Many manufacturers now offer custom-made pads that can be molded to match the shape of the dancer’s feet.
Another important consideration for new dancers is the shank of their pointe shoes. Traditionally, the shank was stiff and strong, but today’s pointe shoes can be modified to provide more flexibility. This allows dancers to move through a wide range of positions in the pointe shoe, and also makes it easier for them to perform in high kicks on the tips of their toes.
In order to get the most out of their pointe shoes, most professional dancers modify their shoes by cutting off a quarter of the shank near the heel. They’ll also trim a piece off of the outer sole in order to increase their flexibility even further.
Aside from the actual pointe shoes, you’ll need other accessories to help you get the most out of your time on pointe. These can include gel pads, toe spacers, and toe pads that you can insert between your toes.
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with demi-pointes while you work on your technique. These are smaller and lightweight, so they’re easier on your feet during your first few classes.
Then, if you’re ready, you can begin the journey to pointe! It’s a long process, and it can be expensive. It’s also important to have the support and guidance of your dance teacher, who will be able to give you instructions on how to break in your pointe shoes.
Don’t forget to get a proper fitting from a dance teacher before you purchase your first pair of pointe shoes! This is essential, as the wrong size or a mismatched pair of shoes can be painful and dangerous for the dancer.
When you go to the store to buy your first pair of pointe shoes, be sure to bring your ballet shoes. This will allow the dance teacher to see how your feet and toes are shaped. This will help them recommend the perfect size of shoe for you!
