By: PS4Y

Defining the differences between a traditional material pointe shoe and one that was developed with man made materials isn't something that the average ballet student worries about. They don't care too much about WHY the shoes work-just that they DO. But considering the direct impact small changes in materials can have on their dancing, maybe they should be made more aware of what goes in their pointe shoes. If there is something available that could help achieve better technique or foot health, who wouldn't want to know about it?

A survey was given to students and professional dancers, pointe makers, retailers, and professional fitters. All the dance professionals provided intelligent and knowledgeable responses on a wide variety of concerns they had on both methods of shoe making. Some of these individuals were strongly opposed to one method, while others were more lenient and swayed toward the "grey" area of the issue.

The one common thread in everyone's response was, "Use it if it works for you." There is no real Right or Wrong. Each dancer must evaluate what the strengths and weaknesses are in their technique and performance. If you find a shoe that suits your needs, then go with it. But, if you're constantly finding fault in the pointe shoe, maybe it's time you did a little research about why the shoe performs as it does. Most pointe makers are willing to special order pointes for dancers made out of slightly different materials in the box or shank. That leads us right back to the validity of scrutinizing the materials used to make pointe shoes. If something works better for you -why not use it?

One can just wear the shoe and it will mold to the foot properly.
The designs and method have withstood the test of time.
More support than "high tech."
Can be easily modified to fit the foot quicker. (water, alchohol, etc.)
Good for beginners.
Production costs are less expensive.
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it!"
The breakdown process makes it easier to go from pointe to demi pointe to flat, one of the most important factors in ballet technique.
When the shoe starts taking the shape of the foot, it means every dancer's foot will take on a different look.
Fabric and glue absorb sweat and allow the foot to breathe.

Cons of "Traditional Paste Method Pointes"

Shanks crack
Doesn't last long, shoe breaks in quicker.
Unevenly breaking in can cause the platform to not be level. Increases the likelyhood of ankle injuries.
Paste wears out. Becomes hard and brittle on usold stock. Bad shelf life in retail stores.
Strength of the shoe is limited by the paste and glues.
People are looking for "new and improved."
Lack of shock-absorption can increase the risk of stress fractures.

---

Pros of "Hi-Tech Method Pointes"

Easier to "break in" than paste shoes.
Lasts longer.
Longer shelf life in the retail stores.
Can be molded with heat.
More strength options.
Can alter the shoe when it becomes worn down.

Cons of "Hi-Tech Method Pointes"

Takes too long to reshape shanks.
Expensive
Does not mold to the foot naturally.
Not suited for many different foot types.
The foot is always working against the shoe.
Since the shoe is a mold for the foot and doesn't allow the foot to mold to the shoe, it tends to make all feet look alike.(especially on pointe)
Using plastics does not allow the foot to breathe, causing problems to the dancer's foot.
The contrast in feeling between high tech shoes and a paste shoe can frustrate some dancers.
There doesn't seem to be a demi pointe in high tech shoes. You're either up or down, with no inbetween.

---

Those dance professionals we surveyed who clung to the "grey" area suggested that perhaps a hybrid shoe would be the future of the pointe industry; a mix of both elements that would eliminate the problems associated with a completely man-made shoe or one with only synthetic material. Pointe makers have played with this idea for decades now. But only a few have managed to make it work. Some have suggested that a traditional pointe was better for beginning students and a hybrid shoe would be more beneficial for the advanced student.

No matter what the future holds for the dance industry, there can be no doubt that science and the inventive minds of dedicated individuals everywhere will bring endless change and creativity to the footwear.

By: PS4Y Staff--Angel
© 2001 PointeShoes4You, PS4Y
No reproduction without permission.

<---Back To The Article List