Pointe FAQ
Do I need an appointment? How do I make an appointment?
Yes, we REQUIRE an appointment for ALL pointe shoe fitting/assistance. You can call us at 724-933-0555 to schedule an appointment.
How long do pointe shoe appointments take?
On average, a beginner pointe shoe appointment can take 45 minutes to an hour depending upon the dancer. As the dancer becomes more familiar with pointe shoes, the appointments are shorter.
What should the dancer bring to the appointment?
First timers should wear convertible tights to their appointment. This is to ensure an accurate fit inside of the shoe. Returning pointe dancers should wear convertible tights in addition to bringing their old shoes, toes pads and any accessories (toe spacers, lambs wool, pinky pads etc).
What brands of pointe shoes do you carry?
We currently carry Capezio, Bloch, Russian Pointe, Nikolay and Suffolk. We are adding other brands in the near future. Within each brand, there are multiple styles. Contact us at the store to check style availability. (724-933-0555)
Are they sized like street shoes? Do ALL pointe shoes run the same?
The short answer is NO. Each brand designs and sizes their shoes differently. A dancer maybe a size 7 in street shoes, but a size 9 in Brand #1, size 4.5 in Brand #2 and size 39 in Brand #3. This is why we HIGHLY RECOMMEND a dancer be FIT for pointe shoes by a trained fitter. We DO NOT RECOMMEND purchasing them without a fitting unless it is the SAME SIZE the dancer has been wearing.
How old should a dancer be when starting pointe?
We recommend a first timer be no younger than 11 years old. The anatomy of a growing dancers foot is still changing. A younger dancer going on pointe can result in injury. A dancer should only go on pointe if they are approved by their dance instructor.
Are they made of wood?
They are not wood, but are more similar to paper mache. Layers of material are wrapped around a form called a 'last'. These cardboard-like sheets and paste harden and create the box of a pointe shoe. As the dancer wears their shoe, their body heat and sweat will begin to break down and soften the box.
What do dancers wear inside of their shoes?
Students should wear tights inside of their pointe shoes as well as their choice of toe pads and accessories (if needed). Some dancers prefer a thinner toe pad, some prefer a thicker one. Some prefer to use just a little bit of loose lambs wool. The main purpose of the toe pad is to give a small barrier between the dancer's toes and the floor. The toe pads are not meant to "numb" or completely take away the feeling of the floor. The dancer should still feel the floor beneath them to dance properly (and to stay safe!). Toe pads should be chosen when being fitted to ensure a snug and proper fit.
Can pointe shoes have growing room?
No. Pointe shoes are to be fit to the dancers foot. A baggy or oversized shoe will result in injury. They are fit to accommodate the dancers toe pads and tights. When the dancer is on pointe, there should just be a pinch of fabric at the back seam. This is the industry standard "pinch room".
When do I know that its time for a new pair?
- Your shoes no longer fit your feet length-wise
- Your shank has snapped or no longer supports you
- Your toe box has softened and no longer supports your weight, causing you to fall forward over your platform
Do the ribbons come pre-attached to the pointe shoes?
They do not come pre-attached to the shoes but we do provide the ribbons and elastics for free. After your fitting, the dancer should have their shoes approved by their instructor. If they approve of the fit, then the ribbons and elastics can be sewn onto the shoe. If the teacher does not approve of the fit, the shoes need to be returned without being worn or sewn. Call us and we will schedule a refitting. Be sure to take down any notes the teacher gives about what they want changed.