Pointe is ballet done in a special pair of shoes called pointe, or toe shoes, that allows the dancer to stand on her toes. Because pointe is such a physically demanding art form, an audition is required to progress to pointe. No beginner will be allowed to try this dance form. You must have sufficient experience in ballet first.

Shoes

Pointe shoes are essential to point dancing. Because it is potentially such a dangerous art, it is critical that at least the first time you buy pointe shoes, you go to a reputable dealer and get properly fitted. One such dealer is The Dancewear House located in Hallowell, ME.

No two pointe shoes are alike. Many have different box shapes, different shank strengths, and many offer other specific benefits to the individual dancer. This is why it is so important to be fitted at least the first time you buy shoes. As you become used to pointe dancing and the shoes, you can start to choose which shoe fits your foot and dance style best. Below are some examples of toe shoes. On the left is a v-shaped box. On the right is a more boxy shape. Both are made by Bloch.

         

Ribbons

Ribbons have their own section because there is a special way to attach ribbons to pointe shoes. Dancers can use either just ribbons, or a combination  of ribbons and elastic. Here is a good website that demonstrates the correct way to attach your ribbons and elastic to your toe shoe. 

       

Toe Pads

There are many different kind of toe pads a dancer can use. Two of the most common kinds are lambs wool and gel. Different type of toe pads can also be used in combination with each other, if the dancer chooses.

Below, left to right, are: covered gel, foam rubber, gel, lambs wool toe pads, loose lambs wool.

 

Clothing

Traditional ballet clothing includes tights, leotard and ballet skirt. The Language of Dance studio requires tights be worn when dancing on pointe because without them, one does not have the correct feel in the shoes. Also, tights aid in the prevention of sores on the feet due to the shoes rubbing on them constantly. Leotards and ballet skirts are not mandatory however. If you choose not to wear a leotard and ballet skirt you may wear modest shorts and a shirt, or close fitting stretch pants. The stretch pants must conform to the muscles in the leg for the instructor to be able to see if you are doing certain dance moves correctly.

Dancers can get leotards with no sleeves, short sleeves, three quarter sleeves and long sleeves and they come in a variety of colors. These are some of the varieties you can find on the Discount Dance Supply website.

 

Here is an example classic ballet tights.

 

There is also a lot of variety in ballet skirts. Below are some different styles, patterns and lengths.