How to prepare for your first pointe fitting
Your first pointe shoes are such a milestone! You’ve worked hard for so long in your ballet classes and dutifully done your demi-pointe exercises. Then the magical time comes when you get to the OK from your ballet teacher to make your pointe fitting appointment!
We love being part of this journey with you. Fitting a ‘first timer’ is a joy. We’ve put together this checklist for you so you can come well prepared to your very first fitting!
Make sure your ballet teacher has given you the OK for your first fit – they may ask you to get a pre-pointe physio assessment done first
Check with your teacher if they have any recommendations or requests for you that they would like us to accommodate
Give us a call on 4322 8179 (Gosford) or 9063 0623 (Asquith) to book your appointment time – we recommend that you allow half an hour for your fitting. When making your appointment, we’ll ask you your street shoe size, what dance studio you’re with and what recommendations your teacher has given
Let your teacher know when you’re coming in. They may like to accompany you (and they’re more than welcome to come along)
Trim your toenails the night before – when we stand en pointe, all our weight is carried on the tips of our toes, if your toenails are too long this can cause unnecessary pain and discomfort and will make your fitting harder
Wear your convertible ballet tights so we can do your measurements easily on bare feet before you slip your tights on for shoes!
Don’t forget your phone! We love when you tag us in your fitting photos on facebook and instagram! You’ve worked so hard to get to this point in your dance journey – it’s important to record it!
Once we’ve done your fitting and found the perfect shoes for your feet, we’ll show you how to sew your ribbons and elastics into place, how to take good care of your shoes, toe pads and spacers (if you need them), and how to attach your protective suede patches on the tips (thank goodness we don’t have to darn pointe shoes these days)! Be sure to pick yourself up a stitch kit while you’re in store too! It comes with waxed cotton, extra strong needles and a little ‘how to’ guide for sewing ribbons.
As always, if you have questions about pointe shoes, fittings, or ribbon sewing. Pop in store and ask any of our friendly staff! We’re always happy to give advice!
Happy dancing,
Alisa
