All about Ballet Pointe Shoes

If you are reading this chances are you are about to go en pointe. This means that you will be getting ballet pointe shoes very soon. You deserve congratulations for having reached this stage in your dance lessons. There are many who drop out in the early stages but not you however. In this case, you are probably talented and should therefore continue your study of the beautiful art form called ballet.

Ballet originated in the courts of Italian aristocracy hundreds of years ago and following this was shaped considerably in France. However, it was much later that ballet pointe shoes came into the scene.

You are probably aware of Marie Taglioni and how she revolutionised ballet through her amazing pointe work. The story of Marie herself is an interesting read. No ballerina should miss out on this story as it is truly inspirational. As a child, she was rejected by a dance school but was taught by her father and became one of the most famous ballerinas of all time. She made her name in a famous performance known as Les Sylphides.

Ballet pointe shoes are usually clothed in satin and as usual, you may have to purchase the ribbons separately and sew them on. Most experienced dancers usually do these themselves. The (width of the) ribbons may be thick or thin, but its colour and fabric usually matches the shoes. Specially produced elasticated bands in place of ribbons are also available for pointe shoes. As with any other aspect of dance wear, if in doubt about ribbons, elastics or fitting, seek advice. Dance teachers and dance wear suppliers are likely to be able to offer valuable information to those who need it.

There are different kinds of pointe shoes to cater to different needs. Some are right for beginners while others are appropriate for those with more experience. As a matter of fact, the style of has more to do with the strength of the dancer (and in particular, her feet) than the level she is at when it comes to dancing en pointe.

Sizes come not only in numbers but in letters as well. One lettered 'A' is narrower than another lettered 'D'. This refers to the space of the width where the toes will be. Some brands do not use the alphabetical system but supply shoes described as narrow, medium, wide and extra wide. If in doubt about which size ballet pointe shoes you need, seek advice as fit is extremely important.

Select your ballet pointe shoes carefully and aim to purchase the best quality within your price range. Well made, well fitting shoes can make a world of difference to performance and confidence. As with any item of ballet clothing, check a dance school’s uniform policy before purchasing. The majority of pointe shoes are soft pink, helping to complete the traditional femininity of a ballerina’s outfit. Those who are new to going en pointe are bound to be exited and elated about their progression in ballet lessons, so at this important stage, don’t let your shoes let you down!