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Demi Pointe Shoe Guide





NOTE: This list provides only a start to your pointe shoe search. Just because a certain style is not listed under a category, doesn’t mean that it does not have that particular feature. I compiled this list from different catalogs, so I only listed what those catalogs decided to write about. For more information on styles, links to pointe shoe maker's pages are located HERE. Also keep in mind that since going to college I haven't had a chance to update and include the latest styles that came out the past year or so. Good luck!
Flexible Shank
3/4 Shank
Hard Shank
Carbon Fiber Shank
Enhanced Arch/Pre-Arched
Low-Profile Arch
Low Vamp
High Vamp
Broad Platform and/or Box
Tapered Box
Tapered Heel
Reinforced Box
Flexible Box
Strong Platform/Toe
Flexible Wings or Wingless
Reinforced Wings
Silent Toe/Quiet Shoe
Lateral Balance
Suede Sole
Suede Toe

Flexible Shank

3/4 Shank

This type of shank makes it easier for a dancer to pointe their foot in the shoe and highlights the dancers arch.

Hard Shank

 Keep in mind that some brands come in different shank strengths and most can be ordered with a stronger shank.

Carbon Fiber Shank

 This type of shank can withstand thousands of bendings without alteration.

Enhanced Arch/Pre-Arched

Low-Profile Arch

Low Vamp

 This type of vamp is good for short toes allowing for an easier roll through demi-pointe.

High Vamp

 This type of vamp is good for long toes providing extra support in the metatarsal area.

Broad Platform and/or Box

 This type of box is good for people with a broader toe configuration (wide feet or toes of even length). It also provides an excellent base for balancing on pointe.

Tapered Box

 This type of box is good for people with narrow feet, 2nd toe longer than the first, or toes that taper off (big toe is the longest and each toe gets shorter).

Tapered Heel

 This type of heel is good for people with a narrower heel than forefoot (which most people have). It helps the heel of the shoe stay on when dancing.

Reinforced Box

Soft/Flexible Box

 This type of shoe aids in the articulation of the feet and comfort on demi-pointe.

Strong Platform/Toe

Flexible Wings or Wingless

 This type of shoe is good for people who have big or little toe joints that protrude from the foot. They also aid in the articulation of the feet and comfort on demi-pointe.

Reinforced Wings

Silent Toe/Quiet Shoe

Lateral Balance

 These shoes help prevent rocking when you are balancing on a flat foot.

Suede Sole

 This type of shoe helps prevent slippage when balancing or performing skills on a flat floot.

Suede Toe

 This style of shoe helps prevent slippage when on pointe, but can make it hard to turn due to increased friction.



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