Finding the Right Pointe Shoe: it all depends on the right pointe shoe fitter

Abstract

Finding the Right Pointe Shoe It all depends on the right relationship—the one dancers should have with an experienced pointe shoe fitter! by Stacie Overmyer For a ballet student, the much-anticipated day of her first pointe shoe fitting is full of excitement and passionate hope for what her future as a ballerina may hold. On this day a dancer’s dedication has paid off, and she is now ready to graduate to the next level of dancing, en pointe. A dancer’s ballet teacher must first grant permission to begin this journey and may make recommendations regarding what brand and style of shoe would be best to try at a first fitting. As a skilled ballet dancer who has worked alongside two highly respected fitters in Southern California, I have learned that it is most critical that each student be fitted for her shoes by an experienced and knowledgeable professional. This is true not only for her first fitting, but for all of her consecutive fittings as well. Yes! It is that important! When fitted by a professional, both parents and dancers should walk out of the store confidently, knowing that you are leaving with shoes that are the best fit. Based on my dancing and pointe shoe fitting experience, I will provide some guidelines about how to find a highly skilled, “fairytale” fitter. This is someone who will help dancers find the perfect fit, or as many dancers call it, “the shoe.” Understanding the importance of finding the best pointe shoe fitter will benefit a dancer beginning with her very first pair of shoes and throughout her many years as a ballerina. Finding “Your” Fitter: What to Look For Researching some general information about pointe shoes should be on the top of your list before venturing out to purchase your first pair of shoes. Although there is much to learn about the construction and different brands, it’s advisable to learn just the basics and leave the specifics to the fitter. Educate yourself on the different brands of pointe shoes that are most common for students. Your research will undoubtedly reveal brands such as Bloch, Grishko, Russian Pointe, Suffolk, and Freed. Of course there are other brands, but these are a good start! Familiarizing yourself with these names will help you when exploring the different fitters in your area. It is important to choose a fitter that not only maintains an abundant inventory of pointe shoes, including sizes, brands, and models, but who is also well versed in fitting each style. (This is when your prior research will come in handy!) Choosing a retailer with a small inventory or only a few brands can be disadvantageous. Although the fitter may be skilled in fitting the brands they have, there is a risk of being sold what’s available in their inventory instead of what’s best for you. On the other hand, stores with vast inventories and more employees may have fitters that are only generally educated on how a pointe shoe should fit, but not all of them may be experienced professionals. Knowledgeable fitters look beyond the basic foot shape, length, and width. Their fittings involve a deeper understanding of the foot and should include discussing toe shape, width, and