Pointe shoes are traditionally made from a combination of packed layers of fabric, paper and cardboard, hardened by glue (often referred to as paste). The external materials used are combinations of satin, leather for the sole and cotton or elastic pointe shoes. Some modern shoes are made with plastic for durability. We recommend watching videos from reputable companies such as Freed or Bloch on how shoes are made.

The generally recognized age to safely begin pointe is at least 11 years old. The bones of the feet do not fully develop and harden until approximately 13-15 years old. A dancer must be strong enough to protect the bones before they are fully developed. Beginning pointe too early can permanently damage immature bones. Beginning younger than 11 requires a strong foundation and safety-conscious support system of teachers and family.

We do not sell pointe shoes to children under the age of 10 unless a teacher is involved in the fitting to ensure the dancer’s safety.

Absolutely! If pointe shoes are not correctly fitted to the foot, it is likely that the dancer will experience some sort of injury. Pointe shoes should be fit snugly and according to the individual shape and strength of the foot. It is very important for dancers who are purchasing their first pair of pointe shoes, and truly any subsequent pairs, to go to a store with trained fitters who will help to fit the dancer’s individual needs. We always recommend to have the student’s teacher check the shoes before they are sewn or worn in class to make sure they are a good fit for what the teacher wants for the dancer.

We do not accept walk-in fittings so please be sure to make an appointment. We offer both in person and virtual appointments.

Moisture is a pointe shoe’s worst enemy. The dancer should always remove any accessories from inside their pointe shoes immediately after wear. Once removed, store your shoes and accessories in a mesh bag to allow them to properly dry out. Do not stuff the shoes inside one another, this will not allow the shoes to dry out properly and can misshape the box. Pointe shoes can take up to 48 hours to fully dry.

While you want to be sure to keep all moisture away from your shoes, be sure to wash your accessories regularly. Wash pads and any other accessories, by hand, with warm water and soap and let air dry for a minimum of 24 hours. Store any gel exposed products in body-safe powder. Bring all accessories to each fitting so we can help you determine if it is time to replace them.

Pointe shoes, on average, are only intended for 12-24 hours of use. This can vary depending on several factors including how often they are worn, for how long, what type of pointe work you are doing, and the age of the dancer. For example, a young dancer with shorter lessons may outgrow their shoes before fully wearing them out. An older student can require two or more pairs of shoes per term – but again, it all depends on the number and intensity of classes taken.

Rotating the shoes from one foot to the other can help them to wear more evenly. If you are a more advanced student or professional dancer dancing multiple days a week, it is advisable to alternate multiple pairs of shoes enabling one pair to dry out completely between wears. If you are unsure if it is time for a new shoe, reach out to a teacher or a fitter.

Younger dancers may need to replace pointe shoes more often as they are likely to outgrow them. A pointe shoe that is too big will not support the foot en pointe. With pointe shoes that are too big, you will experience movement in the shoe, causing friction, pain, and blisters. Pointe shoes should always fit correctly. It is incredibly important that you never buy a shoe without being properly fit, regardless of if the fitting takes place at NM Dancewear or another store. We are always here to answer any questions you may have.

Looped or connected stretch ribbon is becoming increasingly popular amongst pointe dancers and teachers. With a continuous piece of ribbon, sewing and tying is much easier and there is no worry of the ribbon coming undone during class or performance. Additionally, it makes it much easier to quickly put on and take off your shoes. We recommend this video for instruction on how to measure, sew, and put on shoes with this method.