Before Your First Pointe Shoe Fitting

Before your first pointe shoe fitting:

1. Be sure you cut your toenails so that they reach only to the tips of your toes. Cut them straight across and only slightly round the corners.
2. Know the size and width of your street shoe. This information will help give the fitter a good starting point for sizing you.

Note: It is wise to go for your fitting after a dance class because during the day, your feet expand some.

At the Fitting:

1. The fitter will want to see your bare feet before she begins to fit you. Although tights are worn for the fitting, a good fitter will observe your toes and the shape of your foot first before making any recommendations. (Be sure to bring your tights with you unless you're planning to buy a pair there.)
2. Know the size and width of your street shoe. This information will give the fitter a good starting pointe for sizing you.
3. Do not be concerned if you seem to be trying on pointe shoes 1-3 times shorter or a size wider than your regular shoe. Pointe shoes should fit your feet like gloves do your hands.

Do They Fit?

1. Demi-plie in the shoe and make sure your arch has room for expansion.
2. Releve in the shoe. If the shoe slides off easily, try going down a size in length.
3. Pointe shoes should hold your toes snugly, but not so snugly that they are bunched together or bent.
4. There shouldn't be any excess room between the drawstring and the top of the foot or at the heel.
5. The vamp should be long enough to cover the joint at the base of your big toe.
6. When you stand in releve, you should only be able to pinch one thumb's width of satin.

Do not dance in your shoes before they have been seen on your feet by your teacher. Wait for your teacher's approval before you sew on your ribbons. Shoes that don't fit correctly cannot be returned if they have gotten dirty or have been altered in any way.