The Wrong Pointe Shoe Can...
· Cause pain, bruised toenails, or even bunions.
· Be challenging to pad correctly.
· Twist in the shank.
· Allow the dancer to sink down into her shoes.
· Force all weight on the big toes.
· Prevent the dancer from getting over her box.
· Force the dancer to stand sickled or pronated.
Tips to have a successful pointe shoe fitting:
1. Please wear something comfortable that you are able to move freely in.
2. Convertible tights are helpful-do not wear full footed tights as we will need to examine your bare feet.
3. Make sure your toenails are neatly clipped (DO NOT CUT THEM the day before or the day of your appointment) & your feet are clean.
4. If you have had a pair of pointe shoes before please bring your most recent pair, this will help us in finding a new pair and also to look at your habits en pointe.
5. Please also bring any padding & spacers that you would normally wear as this will affect the fit of the shoe.
6. Allow ample time - at least an hour.
Pardon me while I get on my soapbox...I've gotten several
calls to fit girls younger than 9 for pointe shoes. Yes, pointe shoes, not
ballet shoes - "for fun so she can dance on her toes!" There is a
huge difference between pointe shoes and ballet shoes.
Did you know that
1. if the growth plate isn't mature, there is potential for
injury?
2. many years of ballet training is needed before even considering moving to pointe?
Please be aware, that I will never fit anyone for pointe shoes that young. Pointe shoes are not for dress up. I take the health and safety of dancers above profit.
Here's a more detailed article about when is the right time for starting pointe - please share with those you know who are unfamiliar with pointe shoes.
https://dancer.com/ball…/in-the-studio/when-to-start-pointe/
You come into the store looking for a pair of ballet shoes. We ask: “Full sole or split sole?” You are stumped by that question. We thought we’d help explain the difference between the two…
First, a little ballet shoe background: Ballet shoes are often referred to as ballet slippers, which is really a misnomer. There is a big difference between true ballet shoes and those marketed as ballet slippers. Typically ballet slippers, those sold in big box stores, are just that, slippers you’d wear around the house as bedroom slippers. But those sold in specialty/dance stores are the “true” ballet slippers –lightweight shoes designed specifically for ballet dancing.
So what is the difference between full sole and split sole? And which one is right for you? Keep in mind that your school/instructor may have a preference so always refer to your studio/instructor’s requirements when shopping for your ballet shoes or any dance shoe. But what follows is a general “rule of thumb” to help you determine which type if right for you….
The simple construction of a FULL-SOLE BALLET SHOE often makes it a little less expensive than most split-sole shoes. The full-sole covers from the toe to heel. The full sole is a little stiff, so it’s going to be a little bit harder to point; this could be good because it’ll also strengthen your foot. A good shoe for the beginner ballet dancer.
In contrast, the SPLIT-SOLE BALLET SHOE has two pieces of material in the sole: one piece from the arch to the toes, and one piece from the arch to the heel. The seam created where these two pieces connect at the arch of the foot makes the split sole more form-fitting than the full sole. The split sole is very popular because the split accentuates the natural lines of the foot. With the split sole, you can really feel your foot working and you’re doing all the work yourself.
As with any dance shoe, you should always be “fit” to ensure the correct sizing. Sizing does not follow street shoes sizing at all. And it is typically different on nearly every single ballet shoe. For example, your favorite manufacturer’s leather split sole may have different sizing than their canvas split sole. So be sure to visit a specialty/dance store, like ours to ensure the proper fit!
Originally part of our "Studio of the Month" informational flyer - January 2012 (HSPA winner!)
There are so many leotard styles available (we covered those specifics in a previous “Studio of the Month” flyer) but this month, we’d like to focus on choosing the best leotard for your body type. Your studio may or may not have a dress code so please be aware that these leotard suggestions may not be appropriate choices for your studio.
Camisole Leotards – especially those with adjustable straps are suitable for still growing “tweens”. If you don’t have to worry about how a leotard fits, you can certainly focus more on your dance steps!
Halter Leotards – are great for dancers with long necks and narrow shoulders.
Princess Seamed Leotards – look great on short torsos as they help to elongate the body and create a sliming vertical line.
Cap Sleeve Leotards – can add width to small shoulders and create a great frame for a dancer’s face.
Three-Quarter Sleeve Leotards or Long Sleeve Leotards – draw attention to a dancer with long arms.
Pinch Front and Fashion Bodice Detailed Leotards – very subtly draw eyes upwards making them perfect for dancers who feel more confident about their upper torso.
Collared and turtleneck leotards – have a more sporty feel to them and tend to be great for dancers with a contemporary edge.
When looking for new leotards, be aware that your regular clothes size will differ from dancewear sizing. Many of the major dancewear companies have their own sizing charts and those charts will differ from style to style within the company. The best way to get the right fit is to try the leotard on. Do a few stretches with your arms raised, noting any gaps in material or slipping of shoulder straps. Squat down, as in a plié, and check for pinching or gaping around the legs. Try several to insure the best fit.
(Originally part of our "Studio of the Month" series - December 2011)
