Article: Once you have found a good beginner's pointe class, go to the store and buy your pointe shoes. Talk to a salesperson at the store and ask for assistance. Make sure that your pointe shoes fit your feet snugly. They should make your feet look long and thin. If you have soft arches, make sure that the shoe you get has a soft shank. Some good shoes for people with soft arches are Capezio, Mirella, and Bloch Sonata. If you have strong arches, you should try Grishko and Russian Pointe. Don't buy the shoes online. Pointe shoes are extremely hard to fit, and you should take at least a half hour with the salesperson to find the right fit. Don't try to purchase shoes in a larger size, expecting that you will grow into them. The shoes should fit perfectly and be slightly difficult to put on. Once you have found a good pair of pointe shoes, go and check with your instructor. Do whatever your instructor says. If you need to go get different ones, go get different ones. Your instructor's discretion is the most important information you can get for your safety and comfort. If possible, have your teacher come with you to buy your first pair. Break in the shoes correctly. A good way to break in your pointe shoes is to use your hands and roll through the arch. Try to break them in with your hands first, at home, before you wear them into the studio. Normally your teacher will show you how to sew them, but if he/she does not, then look up videos on YouTube. Note: some brands, such as Gaynor Mindens, do not require breaking in. Do research before attempting any type of method on your shoes. As important as it is to break in the shoes, don't overdo it until you are experienced with pointe shoes. Never break in your shoes sickled or it is just a wasted pair of pointe shoes. Don't use gel pads for beginning with. You need to feel the floor. Instead, use a thin foam, wool, or fabric padding.

What is a summary?
Purchase the correct shoes. Listen to your instructor. Prepare your pointe shoes for dancing.