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/
