First-time pointe shoe fittings often take the longest, so we ask that you arrive at least one hour before we close; you can expect the fitting to take between 30-60 minutes. It is a good idea to make an appointment for your first-time pointe shoe fitting; please call or email the store with your name, age, and preferred date/time to book a fitting (604-733-6116 or sales@thedanceshop.ca). 

Pointe shoes must fit as precisely as possible on the foot to avoid unnecessary pain and/or injury and cannot be fit with growing room. Often, teachers will accompany their students to their first-time pointe shoe fitting to approve the fit of the shoes.

Before Your Fitting

We highly recommend that you have at least 3 years of ballet training before beginning pointe work. You will need to find out from your instructor what kind of padding you will be allowed to wear inside your pointe shoes as it will effect the fitting process. The fitter will need to see your toes during the fitting, so please ensure that your tights are convertible if you choose to wear tights to the fitting. We recommend that you cut your toenails before your fitting as going “en pointe” with long toenails will cause unnecessary pain and discomfort.

After Your Fitting

We highly recommend that you show your instructor your first pair of pointe shoes as they may need to approve the fit before you go “en pointe”. Pointe shoes may be returned or exchanged within 14 days, in brand new condition with the original receipt; please do not sew your ribbons and elastics before your teacher has approved of the fit of the shoe. If you or your instructor has any concerns about the fit of your first pair of pointe shoes, we encourage you to return to our store for a re-fitting.