Dancing en pointe is a dream come true for most dancers, pointe shoes are stunning and those who dance in them look otherworldly- ethereal and graceful. Some young dancers often come to us with their fears, misconceptions or myths about pointe shoes. Below we have taken 8 common myths regarding pointe shoes, uncovering the truth with some handy tips.
Myth- Pointe shoes are made of wood.
Truth- Well, that would really hurt if they were. Pointe shoes may be hard, but they are definitely not made of wood. In general pointe shoes are hand made using a variety of materials- layers of fabric and glue, coated in satin with a hard leather sole. When the glue has dried the shoe becomes harder providing the dancer with the support needed to dance en pointe. Whilst they may be hard the materials are pliable and that allows dancers to work through their demi pointe.
Myth- You have to break your shoes in before you wear them.
Truth- We know you've seen the Tik Toks where you watch the professional break in and manipulate their pointe shoes. It is a habit they have developed out of the necessity for needing to soften their pointe shoes before going on stage. Softened shoes tend to be more comfortable and quieter, however the danger comes when dancers think that "breaking in" literally means breaking you shoes. Taking to hammering them against walls, doors and other inanimate objects.
Pointe shoes are made of layers of fabric and glue allowing for the box and shank to provide your feet with the needed support to allow you to dance on pointe. Pointe shoes are a delicate balance of being both supple and flexible as well as incredibly strong, because of this your pointe shoes will naturally soften and "break in" from the minute you put them on, and when you have been fitted correctly and work through your demi pointe there is no real benefit to pre breaking your shoes. Weakening your shoes prior to wear will only shorten their lifespan, and whilst ultimately it is your decision, you will require new shoes far more frequently.
Myth- As soon as I turn 12, I'm ready for pointe.
Truth- When you go onto pointe is not necessarily age dependent, however a certain level of maturity is needed before going on to pointe. It mostly depends on the technique, strength, number of classes being taken and the approval of a teacher, physiotherapist or doctor. Students younger than 12 can go into pointe shoes as long as they have the control over their body required to dance en pointe. Every human is different and you should never be discouraged if your friend gets their pointe shoes before you, rather work hard, never give up and prove to your teacher that you are ready too.
Myth- Pointe shoes are extremely painful and damage your feet and toes.
Truth- It's really about taking care of your feet both inside and outside of the shoe. These days we have the benefit of so many styles of shoes as well as accessories, so allow us to customise the fit of the shoe to your specific foot. If the shoes are fitted correctly with the correct accessories there is no reason why the shoes should cause a severe amount of pain or cause damage to your feet and toes. In saying that some discomfort can be normal and managing these issues is important. Blisters or bunions can have a variety of causes and can be managed by things like dancers dots, blister pads or bunion guards. Pressure on the toes can be alleviated by products like big tips, jelly tips or pinky pads. Magnesium flakes or an ice soak are a great way to end a long day of dance and take any lingering pain out of your feet.
Remember professional ballerinas make pointe work look easy, but they have been doing this for years and have put in blood sweat and tears to get where they are. It is a new sensation and while it may not be easy and pain free to begin with you will get used to the feel of pointe shoes and it will get easier as you go.
Myth- My friend wears 'x' style of pointe shoes, so I want to wear those, too.
Truth- Finding the right brand and style is an extremely individualised decision. A particular shoe will not fit the same of you as it does on your friend. Each dancer's anatomy is different and you will have different needs from your pointe shoe. We highly recommend chatting with one of our professional fitters in store, as they will be able to use their education and knowledge to help find the shoe that is right for you.
Myth- Men can't/don't do pointe work.
Truth- Whilst pointe work began as an exclusively female endeavour these days more and more men are going onto pointe shoes. It is a great way for boys and men to strengthen their technique and become stronger dancers. There are even companies that are now exclusively made up of male dancers dancing en pointe.
Myth- One pair of pointe shoes will last me all year.
Truth- There is no timeline for pointe shoes that will fit one dancer. Generally it is expected that pointe shoes will last anywhere from hours to months. A first pair of pointe shoes may last between 6-12 months, but this all depends on the anatomy of the dancer, their strength and how much time they spend in them per week. You can extend the life of pointe shoes by using products such as jet glue. Airing out your shoes regularly will ensure that moisture does not build up in the shoes and using deodorising pouches will keep them smelling fresh. Paying attention to your shoes is essential, when a shoe becomes to soft or 'dead' it can be dangerous to dance on as they aren't able to support your feet and ankles correctly and can lead to injury. If you are unsure chat to your teachers and they will be able to tell you if it's time for a new pair.
Myth- Anyone can go en pointe- no strength or training needed- because the shoe holds you up.
Truth- Yes, pointe shoes are designed to encase and support you ankles, feet and toes. they're magic devices that can hold you in place without the effort. The technique, the strength, the core work required to dance en pointe is significant. You need to work hard in your ballet classes to build up each of there elements that will then translate to achieving your dreams of dancing en pointe.
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