Back view of a “traditional” pointe shoe.
Top view of a “traditional” pointe shoe.
Irrespective of brand, pointe shoes are typically composed of the same parts. We have illustrated this section with pictures of Capezio Pavlowas:
- Most shoes have a stiff box – or block – made with layers of fabric, paper and glue (very much like papier-mâché), whose stiffness will vary depending on the shoe’s model, width and length.
- As the box extends over the toes, it encases them and gives them a supporting platform upon which the dancer stands.
- Halfway into the foot, the box’s upper layer of satin, leather and/or canvas forms the upperwhich is joined to the outer sole by a series of pleats.
- The area covering the toes is known as the vamp. The edge of the shoe can be lined with adrawstring to help adjust the foot.
- The inner shoe is lined with canvas.
- Underneath the shoe, a small thin leather sole allows for flexibility. Most models have a full sole, but some have split soles or soles combining leather and fibre to increase shoe pliability and improve foot articulation.
- Between the outer and the inner soles a hard spine made of leather or a more resilient synthetic material – the shank – forms the shoe’s core. A full shank runs the length of the sole. Ideally it should be hard yet supple and conform to the dancer’s arch.
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