Pointe shoe
Channel: the aleatoric learning channel
Date: 16/12/2021

A pointe shoe; is a type of shoe worn by ballet dancers when performing pointe work. Most pointe shoe manufacturers produce more than one model of shoe, with each model offering a different fit, as well as custom fitted shoes. The exterior of a pointe shoe is covered with fabric, thus concealing the box and other internal structural elements and lending an aesthetically pleasing look to the shoe. For most pointe shoes, the sole is constructed from a piece of leather that is attached to the shoe with adhesive and reinforced by stitching along its edges. A demi-pointe shoe, which is also variously called a break-down, pre-pointe, or a soft-block shoe, shares many characteristics with pointe shoes. Its outer appearance resembles that of a pointe shoe and it has a toe box, although the box is softer and the wings are typically not as deep as those found on pointe shoes. Demi-pointe shoes are secured to the feet with ribbons and elastic band in identical fashion to pointe shoes. Unlike pointe shoes demi-pointe shoes have no shank and, as a result, they do not provide the support necessary for proper pointe work. Traditional pointe shoes are usually manufactured using a method known as turnshoe, in which each shoe is initially assembled inside-out on a last and then turned right-side-out before finishing. Some ballerinas have custom-made lasts that replicate the shapes of their own feet; these may be supplied to a pointe shoe manufacturer for the purpose of manufacturing custom shoes. A dancer may experience discomfort while wearing a pointe shoe even after the shoe has been broken in. Fit: Well fitting pointe shoes encourage proper technique, which in turn leads to longer shoe life.