When it comes to ballet classes and performances, there is arguably no accessory more emblematic than the pointe shoe. Also known as toe shoes, this special footwear is worn exclusively by trained ballet dancers. Learn more about these shoes, including how to find the perfect pair. 

What Are They?

Ballet slippers, or non-pointe shoes, were invented in the 1730s by French dancer Marie Camargo who performed for the Paris Opéra Ballet. She removed the heels from her dancing shoes, which allowed her to leap through the air and perform other ballet moves not possible with heeled footwear. Italian dancer Amalia Brugnoli created pointe shoes in 1823 to perform in Armand Vestris’ La Fée et le Chevalie, resulting in en pointe dancing for the first time. Brugnoli’s shoes were square-toed and covered in satin, like today’s pointe shoes, and quickly set a new standard for ballet dancing. 

As pointe shoes evolved, they featured stiff toe boxes consisting of flour paste, newspaper, and pasteboard with cardboard insoles and leather reinforcements. Dancers were able to balance themselves on their toes for extended periods and perform numerous pirouettes, or full body turns, at a time. Other en pointe moves include the grand adage, or lifting the legs to the front, back, and sides via controlled, slow movements. The sauter is another challenging move where the ballet dancer jumps from the plié position and therefore has extended legs and pointed toes.

How Can You Find the Ideal Pair?

To obtain the perfect pair of pointe shoes for ballet classes, first ensure that your feet are blister-free and your toenails are trimmed for fitting purposes. You’ll also want to put your ballet tights and toe pads on before trying the shoes, otherwise you will not get a realistic fit and might end up with shoes that are too big. 

Once the shoes are on and properly tied, perform pliés in 1st or 2nd position, then go on pointe. You should not experience toe curling, squeezing sensations, or slipping in any ballet position. If you do, try shoes that are a ½ size bigger or smaller, depending on your issue(s). Your shoes should feel snug but comfortable, allowing your toes to flatten instead of clench. 

Ballet classes are among the numerous dance lessons available at New Hampshire Academie of Dance. Based in Londonderry, this studio provides dance instruction to individuals aged 18 months and up, offering a modern setting to study both traditional and contemporary styles. Call (603) 432-4041 or visit the website today for more information about ballet classes. Like the studio on Facebook for the latest updates.