Pointe Shoe Picks

March 22, 2017

Whether it’s your first pair or your 50th, picking out the right pointe shoes can be difficult. Dance Spirit talked to Victoria Lyman, owner of Allegro Dance Boutique in Evanston and Barrington, IL—the Joffrey Academy of Dance’s shop of choice—to get the lowdown on the latest shoes. These picks are comfortable, flexible and quieter than ever before. Finding your perfect pointe shoe just got a little bit easier!

Lyman says: “Your feet are always changing, so it’s important to make sure you’re fitted for shoes regularly.”


Grishko—Nova

Box narrows slightly, making it a good choice for dancers with tapered toes

Made with a new glue that reduces sound

 

 


Bloch Inc.—Hanna, S0109L

Lower heel means less bunched-up fabric on pointe

Soft shank helps you get all the way over your box

 

 


Gaynor Minden—Standard Pink Satin Sleek Heel

Elastic drawstring ties on the side of the foot, so it’s easy to hide

Lining wicks moisture and helps keep your shoes smelling fresh

Sleek heel and profile show off your pretty arches

 

 


Só Dança—Claudia, SD09

Softer shank lets you roll through demi-pointe more easily

Supportive wings

Wide platform helps with balance

 

 


Sansha—La Pointe No.3

Pre-darned platform—the work’s done for you!

High vamps, high sides and medium support make this shoe a good fit for feet of moderate strength and flexibility.

Hard shank will last through countless relevés

 


Mirella —Whisper, MS140

Plush lining + built-in toe pad = super-comfortable

Lightweight and quiet

 

 

 


Capezio —Studio Pointe, 1122

Available with a super-hard shank that’s good for dancers with strong feet

Elastic drawstrings and binding keep the shoe from slipping off your heel

 

 

 

Photography by Nathan Sayers.