When the time comes to buy ballet slippers, making the right choice is crucial. Poorly fitting slippers are uncomfortable and make it more difficult to learn to dance. Whether you’re looking for demi-pointe (soft slippers) or pointe shoes with hard tips for dancing “en pointe,” here are a few tips to help you make an informed choice.
The demi-pointe
The best demi-pointe or half-pointe shoes are made of resilient leather, but there are also more-flexible and less-expensive canvas slippers. Either is fitted with a drawstring and comes with elastics (that you may have to sew on yourself). They are generally available in three widths: narrow, medium or wide.
- The size. Demi-pointe shoes must conform to the foot without impeding flexibility. The foot should be well supported and the toes should neither float inside the slipper nor be too tight. Canvas slippers tend to stretch slightly with use.
- The sole. Demi-pointes are available in a full sole or split sole, where the sole is made in two sections to free the arch. Full soles provide better support and are recommended for beginners. More experienced dancers choose split soles for greater freedom of movement.
Pointe shoes
Pointe shoes must be chosen carefully because making the wrong choice can cause pain to the toes. Never buy used ballet slippers. Pointes mould themselves to the shape of the dancer’s foot and therefore may not be suitable for another dancer.
- The size. When standing with your feet flat on the floor, your toes should just touch the inside tips of the shoes. If you plan to wear toe pads, you should wear them while trying on the pointes to ensure a proper fit.
- The box. The box (reinforced part) is chosen according to the foot’s build. The box is either narrow, medium or wide, and its shape varies from square to triangular. For example, if your big toe hurts when you're on pointes, the box is too narrow, whereas if your toes are compressed, it’s too triangular.
- The sole. Strong feet require a hard sole, while beginners need a more flexible sole. On pointes, the sole should bend slightly, following the arch of the foot.
- The upper. This is the part of the shoe that covers the toes. It must cover them completely. If it’s too short, it prevents you from going on pointes correctly. If it’s too long, it won’t allow you to go from pointes to half-pointes.
Take your time
Remember that when you buy ballet slippers, especially pointes, they really need to be tried on. That’s why ordering a pair online is a risky undertaking, unless they’re fully returnable and refundable.
In a shop, try on several pairs to ensure that you make the proper choice. Do a few dance steps to see if they’re comfortable. The sales clerk may know her job well, but you have the last say in the matter.
