Note to the Ballet Student and Parent:
Not every child can dance on pointe!
The decision to start pointe work should me made by a skilled and knowledgeable ballet dancer. If a student should attempt pointe work before ready they are at risk of building bad habitats that can take several years to correct. More serious is a injury or permanent damage to the bone or muscle structure of the foot, which for outweighs the risk of disappointment.
To avoid having these problems, a teacher must consider several things in selecting students who are ready to begin pointe work:
Training- The student should have had at least a solid one to three years is serious ballet training and be currently taking at least two to three classes per week. This is the minimum time and preparation needed for a student to develop sufficient technique and strength to prepare for her pointe pointe work.
To avoid having these problems, a teacher must consider several things in selecting students who are ready to begin pointe work:
Training- The student should have had at least a solid one to three years is serious ballet training and be currently taking at least two to three classes per week. This is the minimum time and preparation needed for a student to develop sufficient technique and strength to prepare for her pointe pointe work.
Age- No student should try pointe work before the age of 8 or 9. The pressure of the body's weight on the foot and toes, which are still soft and growing at that age can cause malformation of the bones and joints. Many teacher prefer to wait until the student is 10, 11, or 12.
Attitude-The student must have a good attitude: paying close attention to and working on corrections given by her teacher. If a student does not have a good attitude and take her corrections and apply them she will not improve in her pointe work. Therefore she shouldn't attempt pointe.
Bone Structure- The structure of the student's ankle and foot has great importance. The ideal foot has toes of nearly equal length which provide a "squared off" platform to stand on. This is a rare foot type to find so the ideal one beside that is having at least the first 2 or even better the first 3 toes on the feet the same length. Students having a longer big toe may experience slight difficulty and discomfort on pointe, since the entire body weight must be supported on just the big toes, but this type of foot does not necessarily prevent a dancer from dancing well, safely, of pain free. The hardest foot shape to work with is when the second toe is the longest. If the difference in length in very slight, certain modifications can help relieve pressure on that toe. If the difference in length is great, the teacher may want to discourage the student from attempting pointe work. The second structural consideration besides toe length is the flexibility of the ankle, and amount or natural arch or instep. A student whose feet have insufficient flexibility and/or arch will not be able to place the ankle in a direct line between the knee and the toes on pointe. The dancer who is not able to stand on the tip of her pointe shoes may need more time or may not be allowed to attempt pointe work until ankle strength increases. A foot that has an extremely flexible or high instep will need special care and consideration from a teacher with a watchful eye. This type of ankle is often very weak and may require extra strengthening work before pointe work is attempted.
Peers- It is important for the students and parents to understand that the guidelines listed above are minimum age and technique requirements. Since students develop at different rates, it is unlikely that an entire class of students would be ready to attempt pointe work at the same time. Most students who require further work on posture, strength, or special problems will eventually be able to join their classmates on pointe. In a few classes, after careful consideration of the student's physique and foot structure, the teacher may deem it best for the student that she not attempt pointe work at all.
Glossary of Pointe Shoe Terms
1. binding- the fabric channel through which the drawstring runs.
2. box- the stiff toe cup that encases the toes.
3. box liner- the soft fabric that lines the inside of the box.
4. outer sole- the bottom part of the shoe, usually made of synthetic or leather, which is in contact with the floor when the dancer stands in the normal flat position.
5. platform- the part of the pointe shoe on which the dancer stands en pointe.
6. quarter- the part of the shoe covering the sides and heel of the foot.
7. shank- the stiff insole that provides support.
8. sock liner- the soft fabric that lies directly underneath the foot and runs the length of the shoe.
9. throat- the opening of the shoe nearest the toes.
10. vamp- the part of the shoe that covers the tops of the toes and the foot.
2. box- the stiff toe cup that encases the toes.
3. box liner- the soft fabric that lines the inside of the box.
4. outer sole- the bottom part of the shoe, usually made of synthetic or leather, which is in contact with the floor when the dancer stands in the normal flat position.
5. platform- the part of the pointe shoe on which the dancer stands en pointe.
6. quarter- the part of the shoe covering the sides and heel of the foot.
7. shank- the stiff insole that provides support.
8. sock liner- the soft fabric that lies directly underneath the foot and runs the length of the shoe.
9. throat- the opening of the shoe nearest the toes.
10. vamp- the part of the shoe that covers the tops of the toes and the foot.
Pointe Shoe Selection
Most of the pain associated with pointe shoes is the direct result of ill-fitting shoes. Shoes that are too long or too wide will allow the floor to slip and slide inside, causing blisters to form on the tops of the toes. Shoes that are too short or too narrow may squeeze the toes and joints together and not allow them to work properly. Unfortunately, most salespeople in dancewear stores are not experienced ballet dancers with years of experience wearing pointe shoes. While their intentions are good, their level of expertise may be inadequate. There are several different brands and styles of pointe shoes be personally fitted in the store by the student's pointe teacher. If this is not possible to arrange, and until the student is advanced enough to fit herself, the new shoes should be taken to class and tried on for the teacher's approval before any ribbons or elastics are sewn on. Most dance supply stores will exchange pointe shoes for a different size if they are unworn and unsewn.
Correct Fit
The student should wear tights when trying on her shoes. The correct fit is so precise that wearing socks of even a slightly different thickness than tights could result in purchasing an incorrect size. Pointe shoes are sized differently than street shoes and each brand has its own method of sizing. A good, snug fit will feel just that -- snug. Correctly fitted pointe shoes will not slip on and off as easily as street shoes or ballet slippers. Due to the shorter wearing time, shorter life, and frequent replacement of pointe shoes, the snug fit does not endanger healthy, growing feet. Modern pointe shoes are still individually handmade by specially trained and experienced cobblers. There is NO right or left shoe designation in new pointe shoes. Either shoes may be worn on either foot. Each shoe should be tried on and evaluated in the following ways:
1. No wrinkles should be visible in the box area of the shoe either while standing flat or on pointe. Their presence probable indicates that the shoe and/or box is too narrow.
2. You should not be able to slip your finger between the edge of the box and the top of your foot when the foot is flat or pointe. If you can, the shoe is probably too wide.
3. Pointe shoes should fit like a glove on pointe. Because most feet are shorter in length when stretched (pointed) than when standing flat, a correct fitting shoe on pointe will feel very snug on flat.
To check the length, place the foot on pointe. The heel of the shoe should lie smoothly over the heel of the foot. If you can pinch any material together, the shoe is too long. Another indicator of a "too-long" shoe is the feeling the dancer may have, as she rises on pointe, that her toes are slipping down slightly into the box of the shoe. This is a sure sign that blisters will form. There should be little or no room inside to wiggle the toes. It may be necessary to try on up to a dozen or more pairs of shoes before determining which pair fits best.
1. No wrinkles should be visible in the box area of the shoe either while standing flat or on pointe. Their presence probable indicates that the shoe and/or box is too narrow.
2. You should not be able to slip your finger between the edge of the box and the top of your foot when the foot is flat or pointe. If you can, the shoe is probably too wide.
3. Pointe shoes should fit like a glove on pointe. Because most feet are shorter in length when stretched (pointed) than when standing flat, a correct fitting shoe on pointe will feel very snug on flat.
To check the length, place the foot on pointe. The heel of the shoe should lie smoothly over the heel of the foot. If you can pinch any material together, the shoe is too long. Another indicator of a "too-long" shoe is the feeling the dancer may have, as she rises on pointe, that her toes are slipping down slightly into the box of the shoe. This is a sure sign that blisters will form. There should be little or no room inside to wiggle the toes. It may be necessary to try on up to a dozen or more pairs of shoes before determining which pair fits best.
Tying Your First Pair of Pointe Shoes
Step 1: Put your foot in the pointe shoe. Your foot should be under the elastic strap. Take the ribbons and pull them up straight so they are side by side. One of the ribbons should be slightly shorter than the other.
Step 2: Take the long ribbon and cross it over the front of the ankle and hold it tight. Then take the short ribbon and cross it over the long ribbon across the ankle. Both ribbons should be tight across the ankle but still flat and not folding into the ankle, wrinkling, or twisting.
Step 3: Now take the long ribbon and continue around the ankle again so it loops back to the inside of the ankle and there is only a small section left. Allow the shorter ribbon to meet it at the inside of the ankle.
Step 4: Tie the ribbons together in a small knot. You should probably double knot it to ensure it doesn't come undone while dancing. Then tuck the knot under the ribbon so the knot is hidden. Now stand and go on pointe. If your ribbons are loose you'll need to retie them and make them tighter. If the ribbons cut into your ankles then they're too tight and you'll need to loosen them.
Step 2: Take the long ribbon and cross it over the front of the ankle and hold it tight. Then take the short ribbon and cross it over the long ribbon across the ankle. Both ribbons should be tight across the ankle but still flat and not folding into the ankle, wrinkling, or twisting.
Step 3: Now take the long ribbon and continue around the ankle again so it loops back to the inside of the ankle and there is only a small section left. Allow the shorter ribbon to meet it at the inside of the ankle.
Step 4: Tie the ribbons together in a small knot. You should probably double knot it to ensure it doesn't come undone while dancing. Then tuck the knot under the ribbon so the knot is hidden. Now stand and go on pointe. If your ribbons are loose you'll need to retie them and make them tighter. If the ribbons cut into your ankles then they're too tight and you'll need to loosen them.
Breaking In Pointe Shoes:
Pointe shoes should not be worn at home without the teacher's permission:
Brand new pointe shoes are unsuitable for wearing. Some "breaking in" must be done before the shoes can be worn comfortably. For new students, the "breaking in" should be done by or under the supervision of the teacher.
1. The box of the shoe needs to be "smashed" or flattened to help it conform to the shape of the foot. The shoe can be placed in the hinge of a sturdy door -- between the door and its frame. The door is to be GENTLY pulled shut so as to flatten and widen the box. Another method is to lay the shoes on the floor and step on top of the box with the heel of your feet.
2. Bend the stiff, flat shank at the place where it will conform to shape of your arch. This should be done at the very back of the shank -- NOT IN THE MIDDLE! To make it flexible, it is sometimes necessary to bend the shanks back and forth several times until it bends easy.
3. Try on each shoe. If it gaps around the side of the foot, adjust the drawstring for a snug fit. Be careful not to pull too tightly. Tie the strings in a square knot, cut off ends to about one inch, and tuck them inside.
4. Put the shoes on, tying the ribbons correctly (too learn how to tie your pointe shoes go to our section Tying Your First Pair of Pointe Shoes). Walk around on as high a demi-pointe as possible. This will be difficult and maybe painful at first. But increased flexibility in that area of the shoe will make it more comfortable to work in later on.
CAUTION: This last step in breaking in the shoes is very important but should not be attempted at home without the teacher's permission.
Brand new pointe shoes are unsuitable for wearing. Some "breaking in" must be done before the shoes can be worn comfortably. For new students, the "breaking in" should be done by or under the supervision of the teacher.
1. The box of the shoe needs to be "smashed" or flattened to help it conform to the shape of the foot. The shoe can be placed in the hinge of a sturdy door -- between the door and its frame. The door is to be GENTLY pulled shut so as to flatten and widen the box. Another method is to lay the shoes on the floor and step on top of the box with the heel of your feet.
2. Bend the stiff, flat shank at the place where it will conform to shape of your arch. This should be done at the very back of the shank -- NOT IN THE MIDDLE! To make it flexible, it is sometimes necessary to bend the shanks back and forth several times until it bends easy.
3. Try on each shoe. If it gaps around the side of the foot, adjust the drawstring for a snug fit. Be careful not to pull too tightly. Tie the strings in a square knot, cut off ends to about one inch, and tuck them inside.
4. Put the shoes on, tying the ribbons correctly (too learn how to tie your pointe shoes go to our section Tying Your First Pair of Pointe Shoes). Walk around on as high a demi-pointe as possible. This will be difficult and maybe painful at first. But increased flexibility in that area of the shoe will make it more comfortable to work in later on.
CAUTION: This last step in breaking in the shoes is very important but should not be attempted at home without the teacher's permission.
Experience on Pointe
-How It Should Feel-
Pointe shoes will feel very different from ballet slippers or street shoes. The snug fit allows little, if any, room to wiggle the toes. They will feel very constricted at first, less so as the shoes break in. A little numbness in the toes is also normal. Dancers soon become accustomed to these discomforts, which are experienced t some degree with each new pair of shoes they wear. At first, there is the uncomfortable sensation of feeling the end of the shank, which stops in the middle of the heel of the foot. Balance is also somewhat difficult at first because the shank is narrower than the sole of the foot. Strong ankles is a lessening of depth in demi-plié. This happens because the ribbons constrict the ankle joint and the snug shoe prevents the foot from spreading out as it does in ballet slippers or barefoot. When standing on pointe, the foot should be placed so that the instep is fully stretched and the toes form perpendicular angle with the floor. A straight line can be drawn through the center of the hip, knee, ankle and big toe joints (when viewed from the side). From the front, a straight line can be drawn through the hip, knee, and ankle joints through the box of the shoe, on or between the second and third toes. The entire flat surface of the tip of the box should touch the floor. The dancer's weight should be lifted out of the shoes allowed to "sink down" into the shoe. This inhibits her dancing, creates undue stress and pain in the joints of the foot, and causes shoes to wear out faster.
Pointe shoes will feel very different from ballet slippers or street shoes. The snug fit allows little, if any, room to wiggle the toes. They will feel very constricted at first, less so as the shoes break in. A little numbness in the toes is also normal. Dancers soon become accustomed to these discomforts, which are experienced t some degree with each new pair of shoes they wear. At first, there is the uncomfortable sensation of feeling the end of the shank, which stops in the middle of the heel of the foot. Balance is also somewhat difficult at first because the shank is narrower than the sole of the foot. Strong ankles is a lessening of depth in demi-plié. This happens because the ribbons constrict the ankle joint and the snug shoe prevents the foot from spreading out as it does in ballet slippers or barefoot. When standing on pointe, the foot should be placed so that the instep is fully stretched and the toes form perpendicular angle with the floor. A straight line can be drawn through the center of the hip, knee, ankle and big toe joints (when viewed from the side). From the front, a straight line can be drawn through the hip, knee, and ankle joints through the box of the shoe, on or between the second and third toes. The entire flat surface of the tip of the box should touch the floor. The dancer's weight should be lifted out of the shoes allowed to "sink down" into the shoe. This inhibits her dancing, creates undue stress and pain in the joints of the foot, and causes shoes to wear out faster.
Correct & Incorrect Positions of Pointe:
For proper placement on pointe, a dancer with a high instep and/or very flexible metatarsal joints may be required to actually flex her toes a bit while still fully stretching her insteps.
Shoe Life!
The life of a pointe shoe can vary from one hour (for a professional dance dancing an extremely demanding role in rehearsal or performance) to one year (for a beginning student). The beginning student may outgrow her first pointe shoes before they wear out because the first 6-12 months of pointe work is done very slowly and carefully and does no put much strain on the pointe shoe. As the pointe technique becomes more demanding, the shoes will usually wear out before they are outgrown. The initial wear and tear on shoes can include: the satin gets dirty (it doesn't stay shiny pink forever), the satin of the shoe tip tears and must be cut off (this is really an advantage since the rougher canvas underneath provides better traction then the slippery satin), the canvas insole, which covers the inside shank, comes unglued and bunches up, causing discomfort (when loose, just pull it out) the side seams of the shoe pull apart slightly the nails in the shank loosen and fall out. None of these things will prevent or hinder dancing. A more serious concern is that the box and tip of the shoe will get progressively softer until they do not adequately support and protect the toes. While this is a natural result of perspiration dissolving the glue that makes the box stiff, the dancer can delay this softening by stuffing the boxes with tissue or newspaper each time she takes them off. This also helps the shoes retain their shape. Because pointe shoes should be allowed to dry out thoroughly between wearings, a mesh, drawstring bag, which allows good airflow is ideal for carrying them. Young pointe students should replace their shoes before they become too soft. Advanced dancers sometimes wear their shoes a few times after they are really too soft for pointe work, in order to strengthen their feet. Once the shoes have become too soft wear on pointe, shoes can be worn in place of ballet slippers for classes or rehearsals.
Wear & Tear:
No matter what precautions are taken, a dancer is going to experience some wear and tear of her feet due to pointe work. Except for callouses, all of the following injuries are cased by ill-fitting shoes, long strenuous classes or rehearsals, improper placement on pointe cause by muscles that are overly tired too weak to hold the foot in proper alignment, or through a teacher's oversight. In general, it can be very helpful to elevate tired, slightly red, and swollen feet after a strenuous workout. Soaking them in cool or ice water will also help reproduce any swelling.
Uneven Toe Length: If the second toe is longer then the big toe, it maybe necessary to build up the length of the big toe in order to help relieve the pressure placed on the weaker and longer second toe. This can be done by placing one or two foam rubber corn pads on the tip of the big toe, inside the tights. Another suggestion is to tear up a soft, porous sponge and place a few of the pieces in the toe of the shoe before putting it on the foot.
Uneven Toe Length: If the second toe is longer then the big toe, it maybe necessary to build up the length of the big toe in order to help relieve the pressure placed on the weaker and longer second toe. This can be done by placing one or two foam rubber corn pads on the tip of the big toe, inside the tights. Another suggestion is to tear up a soft, porous sponge and place a few of the pieces in the toe of the shoe before putting it on the foot.
Blisters: Blisters occur when tender skin is rubbed back and forth against the inside of the shoe. Most blisters caused by pointe work pop open and sometimes bleed before the dancer experiences much pain. But once the raw skin is exposed, the pain of dancing with an open blister is extreme. It is better to stop dancing and tend to the blister than risk worsening or infecting the area. If any of the dead skin remains on the open blister, cut it off with sterile scissors. Cover the blister with merthiolate or rubbing alcohol. Both of these sting like crazy for a few seconds, but they are most effective at drying up and hardening the exposed skin. Expose the healing blister to fresh air whenever possible. If you must dance in pointe shoes again before the blister has healed, cut a piece of moleskin a little larger than the size of blister. Place the outside ring on the toe around the blister and secure with adhesive tape. If needed use two layers of moleskin. A product called Second Skin, which is a layer of gel between two very thin layers of cellophane-like film, can be placed right on the open blister. Then use the moleskin donut and tape to secure it in place. If one toe consistently gets blisters, it is advisable to wrap the healed toe in adhesive tape before each wearing. This should prevent a new blister from forming.
Callouses: Callouses, which toughen the skin, are not necessarily attractive, but are essential to keeping the foot blister free. These usually occur on the knuckles of the toes an on the Achilles tendon where the shoe rubs the heel. The skin in these areas may redden and be tender immediately after pointe work, but will harden later. Because these callouses help prevent new blisters from forming, don't remove them with a pumice stone.
Corns: Corns are the result of abnormal pressure from ill-fitting shoes and can be quite painful. Hard corns on the top of the toes may respond to commercial medications or may need to be taken care by a doctor. Soft corns, which develop between the toes, may respond to separating the toes with cotton or a commercial toe spacer.
Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails occurs when the edge of the toenail grows down into the soft skin of the toes. This can best be alleviated by trimming the toenail straight across without rounding the corners. If pain occurs, soak the feet in warm water and place a thin bit of alcohol-soaked cotton under the edge of the nail. Repeat this several times daily until the nail grows out over the skin. If the area becomes infected, see a doctor immediately.
Bruised Toenails: Two painful conditions result from improper toenail length. If the toenail is too long, it will extend beyond the toe itself, and the pressure of pointe work will bruise the live cells of the nail bed causing the nail to grow out purple. If the nail is too short, the skin at the tip of the toe will pull way from the nail, causing pain. To insure that toenails are the proper length, cut them straight across (helping prevent ingrown toenails), so that when pressing the tip of your toe, your finger barely touches the end of the nail. The pain of a severely bruised toenail can relieved if doctor's care is received within 24 hours of the injury. Before the accumulation of blood in the nail bed dries, a doctor can drill a tiny hole through the nail and release the pressure. (This sounds HORRIBLE, but it really isn't. The pain of a badly bruised nail is much worse!) If a doctor cannot be seen before the blood has dried, however, the dancer will have to endure several days of pain as the nail bed heals. Once the pain is gone, it is fine to continue dancing on pointe -- even if the toenail is purple. Sometimes only a part of the nail will grow out in a purple color. If most or all of the nail is purple, the whole nail will eventually fall off. Don't worry. This is neither painful (It's happened to me.) nor prevents dancing (I danced perfectly without the nail!).
Bunions: Bunions are inflamed joints of the big toe caused by undue pressure on that area. Care should be taken to see that the pointe shoes (and street shoes) are wide enough across the metatarsal joints, and that the foot is placed properly on pointe with the toes exactly perpendicular to the floor. To help relieve the pain, a toe spacer can be worn between the big and second toes. This properly positions the big toe and prevents it from being crushed into the other toes at an angle. If you do not wish to buy a toe spacer or need it immediately a toe spacer can be made out of a one-inch of paper towel which is folded up in a small rectangle and held together between the toes with adhesive tape.
Callouses: Callouses, which toughen the skin, are not necessarily attractive, but are essential to keeping the foot blister free. These usually occur on the knuckles of the toes an on the Achilles tendon where the shoe rubs the heel. The skin in these areas may redden and be tender immediately after pointe work, but will harden later. Because these callouses help prevent new blisters from forming, don't remove them with a pumice stone.
Corns: Corns are the result of abnormal pressure from ill-fitting shoes and can be quite painful. Hard corns on the top of the toes may respond to commercial medications or may need to be taken care by a doctor. Soft corns, which develop between the toes, may respond to separating the toes with cotton or a commercial toe spacer.
Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails occurs when the edge of the toenail grows down into the soft skin of the toes. This can best be alleviated by trimming the toenail straight across without rounding the corners. If pain occurs, soak the feet in warm water and place a thin bit of alcohol-soaked cotton under the edge of the nail. Repeat this several times daily until the nail grows out over the skin. If the area becomes infected, see a doctor immediately.
Bruised Toenails: Two painful conditions result from improper toenail length. If the toenail is too long, it will extend beyond the toe itself, and the pressure of pointe work will bruise the live cells of the nail bed causing the nail to grow out purple. If the nail is too short, the skin at the tip of the toe will pull way from the nail, causing pain. To insure that toenails are the proper length, cut them straight across (helping prevent ingrown toenails), so that when pressing the tip of your toe, your finger barely touches the end of the nail. The pain of a severely bruised toenail can relieved if doctor's care is received within 24 hours of the injury. Before the accumulation of blood in the nail bed dries, a doctor can drill a tiny hole through the nail and release the pressure. (This sounds HORRIBLE, but it really isn't. The pain of a badly bruised nail is much worse!) If a doctor cannot be seen before the blood has dried, however, the dancer will have to endure several days of pain as the nail bed heals. Once the pain is gone, it is fine to continue dancing on pointe -- even if the toenail is purple. Sometimes only a part of the nail will grow out in a purple color. If most or all of the nail is purple, the whole nail will eventually fall off. Don't worry. This is neither painful (It's happened to me.) nor prevents dancing (I danced perfectly without the nail!).
Bunions: Bunions are inflamed joints of the big toe caused by undue pressure on that area. Care should be taken to see that the pointe shoes (and street shoes) are wide enough across the metatarsal joints, and that the foot is placed properly on pointe with the toes exactly perpendicular to the floor. To help relieve the pain, a toe spacer can be worn between the big and second toes. This properly positions the big toe and prevents it from being crushed into the other toes at an angle. If you do not wish to buy a toe spacer or need it immediately a toe spacer can be made out of a one-inch of paper towel which is folded up in a small rectangle and held together between the toes with adhesive tape.
Toe Protection!
Toe Pads: here are several different forms of protecting your toes while en pointe. The major one, most common, is the toe pad. Toe pads go over all of your toes to keep them covered while your dancing. This type of protection is the most common and are sold in every dance store! There are several different types of toe pads...different brands, colors, sizes, types and so much more. My personal favorite brand is the Bunheads brand but they are many more. Toe pads can vary in color like the ones shown in the photos below they also can be sold in nude to match your skin tone. There is also many types and styles of toe pads. Some include: cloth toe pads, gel toe pads, even lambs wool toe pads! (Lambs wool is a type of cotton.) You also don't have to worry about have too little or big feet because toe pads are even sold in different sizes to fit your feet perfectly!
Lambs Wool: Another protection for your feet is lambs wool. Lambs wool is basically a cotton ball but made to put inside of your pointe shoes and reuse more than once. Like I said earlier there is lambs wool toe pads but if you wish to not use toe pads you can use lambs wool!
Toe Caps: Another common protection if you do not wish to use toe pads is toe caps. Toe caps are basically an "individual toe pad". Instead of covering all of your toes they only cover one toe. Some toe caps go all around the toe including the top but others only go around the toe and not over. This type of toe protection is also pretty common. My favorite toe caps are the Bunheads Big Tip which are the ones shown in the slideshow below. These are sold on (www.discountdance.com).
Toe Spacers: This next thing we are going to talk about is not necessarily to cover and protect your feet but to help them. Do you have a large gap in between your toes? Well then this might help..! They are called toe spacers. You basically put them in between your toes that have a large gap. This is because some dancers find it uncomfortable to dance en pointe because of the gap in between their toes. This is the purpose for the toe spacer! (Spacers are shown in the slide show below.)
Toe Tape: The last protection for dancers en pointe is your basic toe tape! Toe tape is just what it sounds like.. tape for your toes! Toe tape is usually used for beginners on pointe but can also be used for anybody. Toe tape is just like tape -- sticky! You wrap it around your toes and your good to go! There is several different types of toe tape. The is the cloth type, squishy type, and paper type! The most recommended one is probably the cloth or squishy tape. This is because the paper type sometimes falls off because of the sweat in your feet and then rubs against your toes which is quite painful! (A good brand of toe tape is Bunheads!)
Note: Too learn about protection to put on your blister go to our Wear & Tear section and find the area where it talks about blisters. (The common thing to put on blisters is moleskin and Second Skin.)
Lambs Wool: Another protection for your feet is lambs wool. Lambs wool is basically a cotton ball but made to put inside of your pointe shoes and reuse more than once. Like I said earlier there is lambs wool toe pads but if you wish to not use toe pads you can use lambs wool!
Toe Caps: Another common protection if you do not wish to use toe pads is toe caps. Toe caps are basically an "individual toe pad". Instead of covering all of your toes they only cover one toe. Some toe caps go all around the toe including the top but others only go around the toe and not over. This type of toe protection is also pretty common. My favorite toe caps are the Bunheads Big Tip which are the ones shown in the slideshow below. These are sold on (www.discountdance.com).
Toe Spacers: This next thing we are going to talk about is not necessarily to cover and protect your feet but to help them. Do you have a large gap in between your toes? Well then this might help..! They are called toe spacers. You basically put them in between your toes that have a large gap. This is because some dancers find it uncomfortable to dance en pointe because of the gap in between their toes. This is the purpose for the toe spacer! (Spacers are shown in the slide show below.)
Toe Tape: The last protection for dancers en pointe is your basic toe tape! Toe tape is just what it sounds like.. tape for your toes! Toe tape is usually used for beginners on pointe but can also be used for anybody. Toe tape is just like tape -- sticky! You wrap it around your toes and your good to go! There is several different types of toe tape. The is the cloth type, squishy type, and paper type! The most recommended one is probably the cloth or squishy tape. This is because the paper type sometimes falls off because of the sweat in your feet and then rubs against your toes which is quite painful! (A good brand of toe tape is Bunheads!)
Note: Too learn about protection to put on your blister go to our Wear & Tear section and find the area where it talks about blisters. (The common thing to put on blisters is moleskin and Second Skin.)
Brands of Pointe Shoes & About Them!
Find out the description of your pointe shoes! If your pointe shoes were not listed we apologize for the inconvenience. Enjoy (:
Grishko Shoes:
Grishko Nova- U-shaped medium vamp, wider platform, longer flexible side wings, quieter toe
Grishko 2007- lightweight, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Pro Quiet 2007- noise-reducing strip on platform and pleats, special glue for extra box elasticity, lightweight, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Maya-3/4 length shank, lighter box wings, V-shaped medium vamp, medium platform, slightly tapered box, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Elite- for dancers with short, even-length toes and extra wide feet, square shape, U-shaped short vamp, broad platform, wide heel, supportive full-length shank
Grishko Ulanova- slightly tapered box, medium platform, V-shaped medium vamp, full-length shank, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko ProFlex- silent, pliability, extreme flexibility arch, special glue gives the box elasticity, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length pliable shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Fouette ProFlex- silent, slightly tapered box, medium platform, full-length shank, V-shaped medium vamp, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Triumph: broad platform, anti-slip leather extra-flat sole, lower heel, 3/4 length shank, U-shaped medium vamp, very slightly tapered box, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Bloch Shoes:
Bloch Balance European: heel seam cushion, wide toe box, elastic binding
Bloch Serenade: wide square toe platform, regular or hard shank
Bloch Serenade MKll: wide square toe platform, regular shank, new generation insole, longer wing puff, additional padding under pleating to reduce noise
Bloch Aspiration- built for students, hard supportive box, full shank designed to flex at 3/4 position
Bloch Alpha- skived 3/4 outsole design for maximum bend at arch, without compromising support, insole designed with 2.5MM red board just above outsole cut, larger box, generous platform, low noise pasting method
Bloch Axiom- U-shaped vamp, red board and leather board shanks, padded heel counter, low profile box, angled seeming decreases bagginess
Bloch Sonata- high and wide toe platform, arch support under toe section of heel, 3/4 skived shank
Bloch B Morph- made by applying direct heat to shoes, work to liking by bending or walking gently around the studio, place in fridge overnight and paste will set hard like a new pair of shoes
Bloch Amelie- gently curved sides on the box that encourage the foot into correct alignment
Bloch Suprima- tapered platform
Bloch Heritage- Russian inspired, lightweight, V-shaped vamp, larger platform
Freed Shoes:
Freed Classic- quiet, deep vamp
Freed Classic Professional- soft 3/4 shank, pitched and angled platform, flexible demi-pointe, elastic drawstring. contoured side, lower back, long vamp, stronger box made from biodegradable material
Freed Studio Classic Pro- hard 3/4 shank, pitched and angled platform, flexible demi-pointe, elastic drawstring. contoured side, lower back, long vamp, stronger box made from biodegradable material
Freed Wing Block- V-cut deep vamp
Freed Studio- strong platform, V-shaped vamp, wing block, suede sock lining
Freed Studio ll- strong platform, V-shaped vamp, wing block, suede sock lining, wider platform, slightly flatter profile
Freed Studio Professional- maximum support, V-shape vamp, elastic drawstring, shock absorbing layer in the block, newly designed insole with all the advantages of a 3/4 cut insole
Russian Pointe Shoes:
Russian Pointe Rubin- lightweight, quiet pointe, wide pleatless toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, pre-arched, medium vamp, minimal break-in, best suited to the less full foot, square to slightly tapered toes
Russian Pointe Muse- extra-wide toe platform, pre-arched, medium vamp, best suited to toes of the same length or a broad toe structure
Russian Pointe Entrada- medium toe platform, high crown, V-shaped medium vamp, no drawstring, pre-arched, best suited to diamond foot shape with moderate fullness, moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Lumina- stable toe platform, low crown, slightly more room in heel, pre-arched, minimal break in, medium vamp, best suited for even length toes and shallow to slightly full feet
Russia Pointe Almaz- lightweight, quiet, pleatless toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, medium toe platform, fuller heel shape, medium vamp, best suited to the less full foot with moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Sapfir- lightweight, quiet, pleatless medium toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, fuller heel shaped, pre arched, medium vamp, best suited to the less full foot with moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Encore- low crown, moderately tapered box, medium platform, tapered shape from metatarsal area to heel, pre arched, medium vamp, best suited to tapered toes and shallow to slightly full feet
Capezio Shoes:
Capezio Studio- quieter, long lasting, hardest toe box by Capezio, elasticized binding, available in two shank strengths #5.5 shank and the harder #7.5 shank
Capezio Glisse- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, broad toe box, medium length vamp, round shaped throat, wider platform, #3 leather board shank skived to #1
Capezio Aria- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, broad toe box, medium vamp, low sides and heel, wide platform, #3 leather board shank carved to zero
Capezio Tiffany- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered and slightly tapered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, medium vamp, low sides, round shaped throat, wide and high platform, and leather outer board shank 3/4 skived to zero
Capezio Contempra- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered and slightly tapered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, medium length vamp, slight V-shaped throat moderate platform, and skived #2 leather board shank
Mirella Shoes:
Mirella Whisper Satin- quiet, lightweight, flexible shank at heel, and a built-in toe tap for extra comfort
Mirella Whisper Matte- mate satin, quiet, lightweight, flexible shank at heel, build-in toe pad for extra comfort
Mirella Advanced- light, short opened U-shaped vamp, low cut sides, gently curved suede outsole, large platform
Other Shoes:
Gaynor Minden GMP: impact reduction, shock absorption, unbreakable shank
Suffolk Solo: medium profile, strong stable box, low U-shape vamp, slightly tapered box
Chacott Veronese ll- molding wingless box, lightweight, tapered V-shape shoe, minimal break-in time
Sansha Recital- removable shank, low crown, large platform, attached elastic, deadens noise while running on demi-pointe
Gamba G97- flexible wings, flat outer sole edge, high vamp, wide platform, blunt cut 3/4 shank
Wear Moi LaPointe- square or tapered toe box, U-shaped throat, vamp height based on shank strength, platform widths and heights vary with size
Grishko Shoes:
Grishko Nova- U-shaped medium vamp, wider platform, longer flexible side wings, quieter toe
Grishko 2007- lightweight, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Pro Quiet 2007- noise-reducing strip on platform and pleats, special glue for extra box elasticity, lightweight, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Maya-3/4 length shank, lighter box wings, V-shaped medium vamp, medium platform, slightly tapered box, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Elite- for dancers with short, even-length toes and extra wide feet, square shape, U-shaped short vamp, broad platform, wide heel, supportive full-length shank
Grishko Ulanova- slightly tapered box, medium platform, V-shaped medium vamp, full-length shank, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko ProFlex- silent, pliability, extreme flexibility arch, special glue gives the box elasticity, tapered box, medium platform, U-shaped medium vamp, 3/4 length pliable shank, suede sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Fouette ProFlex- silent, slightly tapered box, medium platform, full-length shank, V-shaped medium vamp, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Grishko Triumph: broad platform, anti-slip leather extra-flat sole, lower heel, 3/4 length shank, U-shaped medium vamp, very slightly tapered box, leather sole, cotton drawstring
Bloch Shoes:
Bloch Balance European: heel seam cushion, wide toe box, elastic binding
Bloch Serenade: wide square toe platform, regular or hard shank
Bloch Serenade MKll: wide square toe platform, regular shank, new generation insole, longer wing puff, additional padding under pleating to reduce noise
Bloch Aspiration- built for students, hard supportive box, full shank designed to flex at 3/4 position
Bloch Alpha- skived 3/4 outsole design for maximum bend at arch, without compromising support, insole designed with 2.5MM red board just above outsole cut, larger box, generous platform, low noise pasting method
Bloch Axiom- U-shaped vamp, red board and leather board shanks, padded heel counter, low profile box, angled seeming decreases bagginess
Bloch Sonata- high and wide toe platform, arch support under toe section of heel, 3/4 skived shank
Bloch B Morph- made by applying direct heat to shoes, work to liking by bending or walking gently around the studio, place in fridge overnight and paste will set hard like a new pair of shoes
Bloch Amelie- gently curved sides on the box that encourage the foot into correct alignment
Bloch Suprima- tapered platform
Bloch Heritage- Russian inspired, lightweight, V-shaped vamp, larger platform
Freed Shoes:
Freed Classic- quiet, deep vamp
Freed Classic Professional- soft 3/4 shank, pitched and angled platform, flexible demi-pointe, elastic drawstring. contoured side, lower back, long vamp, stronger box made from biodegradable material
Freed Studio Classic Pro- hard 3/4 shank, pitched and angled platform, flexible demi-pointe, elastic drawstring. contoured side, lower back, long vamp, stronger box made from biodegradable material
Freed Wing Block- V-cut deep vamp
Freed Studio- strong platform, V-shaped vamp, wing block, suede sock lining
Freed Studio ll- strong platform, V-shaped vamp, wing block, suede sock lining, wider platform, slightly flatter profile
Freed Studio Professional- maximum support, V-shape vamp, elastic drawstring, shock absorbing layer in the block, newly designed insole with all the advantages of a 3/4 cut insole
Russian Pointe Shoes:
Russian Pointe Rubin- lightweight, quiet pointe, wide pleatless toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, pre-arched, medium vamp, minimal break-in, best suited to the less full foot, square to slightly tapered toes
Russian Pointe Muse- extra-wide toe platform, pre-arched, medium vamp, best suited to toes of the same length or a broad toe structure
Russian Pointe Entrada- medium toe platform, high crown, V-shaped medium vamp, no drawstring, pre-arched, best suited to diamond foot shape with moderate fullness, moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Lumina- stable toe platform, low crown, slightly more room in heel, pre-arched, minimal break in, medium vamp, best suited for even length toes and shallow to slightly full feet
Russia Pointe Almaz- lightweight, quiet, pleatless toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, medium toe platform, fuller heel shape, medium vamp, best suited to the less full foot with moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Sapfir- lightweight, quiet, pleatless medium toe platform, non-slip leather sole, low crown, fuller heel shaped, pre arched, medium vamp, best suited to the less full foot with moderately tapered toes
Russian Pointe Encore- low crown, moderately tapered box, medium platform, tapered shape from metatarsal area to heel, pre arched, medium vamp, best suited to tapered toes and shallow to slightly full feet
Capezio Shoes:
Capezio Studio- quieter, long lasting, hardest toe box by Capezio, elasticized binding, available in two shank strengths #5.5 shank and the harder #7.5 shank
Capezio Glisse- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, broad toe box, medium length vamp, round shaped throat, wider platform, #3 leather board shank skived to #1
Capezio Aria- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, broad toe box, medium vamp, low sides and heel, wide platform, #3 leather board shank carved to zero
Capezio Tiffany- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered and slightly tapered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, medium vamp, low sides, round shaped throat, wide and high platform, and leather outer board shank 3/4 skived to zero
Capezio Contempra- flattened crown, shorter sole, "quiet toe" pleating, feathered and slightly tapered toe box, graduated shank and sole, pre-molded shank, medium length vamp, slight V-shaped throat moderate platform, and skived #2 leather board shank
Mirella Shoes:
Mirella Whisper Satin- quiet, lightweight, flexible shank at heel, and a built-in toe tap for extra comfort
Mirella Whisper Matte- mate satin, quiet, lightweight, flexible shank at heel, build-in toe pad for extra comfort
Mirella Advanced- light, short opened U-shaped vamp, low cut sides, gently curved suede outsole, large platform
Other Shoes:
Gaynor Minden GMP: impact reduction, shock absorption, unbreakable shank
Suffolk Solo: medium profile, strong stable box, low U-shape vamp, slightly tapered box
Chacott Veronese ll- molding wingless box, lightweight, tapered V-shape shoe, minimal break-in time
Sansha Recital- removable shank, low crown, large platform, attached elastic, deadens noise while running on demi-pointe
Gamba G97- flexible wings, flat outer sole edge, high vamp, wide platform, blunt cut 3/4 shank
Wear Moi LaPointe- square or tapered toe box, U-shaped throat, vamp height based on shank strength, platform widths and heights vary with size
How To Store, & Keep Pointe Shoes Clean!
Store: A great place to store pointe shoes is in a drawstring, mesh bag. This a good place because since the bag is mesh it allows air to go into the bag and let the pointe shoes get some air. Its important that pointe shoes get air because if not the sweat will dry in the shoe and the pointe shoe will get a HORRIBLE smell. They sell these types of bags in any local dance store!
Clean: A good way to keep new pointe shoes or newly painted pointe shoes clean is to use pointe shoe covers! Pointe shoe covers go over the pointe shoe and mold to the shape of the shoe. You can even dance in them because they have a grip on the platform and sole area. These are made so while you are dancing your pointe shoes won't get dirty with the floor or stage. They will keep them looking clean and brand new!
Calamine & Paint Pointe Shoes!
Calamine: To calamine your pointe shoes here are some things your going to need: pointe shoes, calamine lotion, and cotton ball or a makeup pad. First, get your cotton ball and apply a small amount of calamine onto it. Next, get the cotton ball and dab the pointe shoe making sure the paint is smooth with no clumps or spots. You should dab but if its not working properly for you then you may rub the calamine on lightly, NOT hard! Then, once your pointe shoes are completely done being calamined let them dry for a few hours until you dance in them. Finally, your pointe shoes are calamined and your ready to dance with your pretty, new, calamined pointe shoes!
Paint: Painting your pointe shoes is similar yet different to calamining pointe shoes depending on how you do it. There is two ways to paint pointe shoes. The first way is to use actual paint and paint them the same way you would calamine pointe shoes. The second way is to spray paint them. Which works just as well as hand painting them. Although when you paint pointe shoes the ribbons tend to get a little nasty! The ribbons become hard and very difficult to tie. So many people find it helpful to remove the old ribbons and go to a craft store and buy ribbon from there that already dyed the color of the pointe shoe. Then they re-sew the new ribbons back on and your ready to go!