This is possibly the most exciting day in a young dancers life, so to make this experience run smoothly and achieve a successful outcome we have some suggestions when preparing for the fitting of your first pair of pointe shoes.

Discuss with your ballet teacher as to whether you are ready to go onto pointe, some teachers will advise the student to undertake a Pre-Pointe assessment with a dance related physiotherapist.

Your teacher may also have a preference for toe protection to be worn inside your pointe shoes, your Bloch store will have a variety of suitable products on hand for your fitting.

It is advised to call your store to make an appointment for your fitting, this will help avoid waiting time and for the store to be suitably staffed, especially during busy periods in the dance calendar.

Wear comfortable clothing as you will be asked to plié and rise during your fitting. It is also important for your fitter to see your bare feet at the start of your fitting, so either wear convertible tights or use the ballet socks provided in store.

Allow enough time for your fitting, this would be between 30 - 40 mins and it is important for the student to be able to communicate with their pointe fitter as this conversation and any feedback between them is essential in achieving the best fit possible. It is beneficial for all concerned should the teacher be able to attend this special fitting of the student's first pair of pointe shoes.

Enjoy your dancing!

Find your nearest Bloch Store to make an appointment for your first pointe shoe fitting.

Written by Sallyanne, member of the Bloch Team for 20 years, who looks after the custom pointe shoes for professional dancers around the world.