Pointe Shoes

Pointe shoes are required to permit the dancer to dance 'en pointe'.

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The shoe is required to be strong enough to hold the dancer up, yet flexible enough to allow the dancer to work 'through the foot'. Because the shoe must support the foot as it works, it is important that the block and width of platform is correct for the dancers as they move.

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The shoe should feel snug but not pinch and the dancer should feel the block cupping the toes. They should not be bought 'to grow into'. Shoes that are too large make it impossible to achieve proper support and balance.

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Every dancer's feet are unique and finding the perfect fit is crucial for both performance and comfort.

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While we have pointe shoes for sale on our website, please remember that by purchasing online, you are replacing a pair of pointe shoes of the same manufacturer, style and size that you have been fitted for by a trained fitter within the last six months.

 

Sewing Ribbons

 

There are various ways to attach ribbons on pointe shoes.

The one we recommend:

First step would be folding the heel forward.

Ribbons should be sewn on the angle created by this fold.

Stitch the ribbons below the binding so it’s still possible to use the drawstring.

It would be ideal if the ribbons are stitched from the bottom of the shoe to give the foot extra support.

 

 

Tying ribbons

 

Cross the ribbons over the instep and pull it tight and flat around the ankle.

The correct place to tie the ribbons is on the inside of the ankle, in the hollow space underneath the malleolus bone.

Tuck the excess ribbon out of sight for a clean and seamless appearance.

 

 

Care of pointe shoes

 

• Do not store pointe shoes in plastic bags (netted pointe shoes bags are recommended)

• The tip of the pointe shoe should be protected by suede toe caps or darning. It helps to reduce wear and improves grip.

• After each wear put the pointe shoes in an airing place to dry separately (never on a radiator).​

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Pointe Shoe Fitting

 

All pointe shoe fittings are by appointment via telephone (020 8309 0877) or email (stagedoor1@btinternet.com). This ensures that each dancer gets our undivided attention throughout the process of finding the correct fit.

 

Please ensure your toenails are correctly cut and you wear or bring a pair of tights or socks that you would be wearing in your dance class.

 

Please remember to always have your new pointe shoes assessed by your dance teacher prior to sewing your ribbons and elastic on. Your dance teacher must approve the pointe shoes, as we do not allow exchanges once shoes show signs of wear and tear and have elastics and ribbon sewn on.