Understanding Our Different Pointe Shoe Brands

For ballet dancers, the choice of pointe shoes is a critical decision. The right pair can make a world of difference in terms of comfort, support, and performance. Four well-known brands that have been favored by ballerinas around the world are Nikolay, Bloch, Suffolk, and Gaynor Minden. Each of these brands offers various styles and models to cater to the unique needs of dancers. In this blog post, we'll delve into the differences between these brands and their various offerings, keeping in mind that the most important factor in choosing the perfect pointe shoes is your individual foot shape, which makes a proper fitting session essential.

Nikolay:

Nikolay, a Russian brand also known as Grishko, is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and is a top choice for many professional dancers. Their pointe shoes are handmade, ensuring a high level of quality and precision. Nikolay offers a wide range of models and styles, each designed to cater to different foot types and dancing needs. From the 3007, suited for those with narrow feet, to the 2007 Pro, with enhanced arch support, Nikolay provides a variety of options to choose from.

While Nikolay offers a range from narrow to wide widths, the brand is often preferred by dancers with narrow feet. Nikolay is known for offering pointe shoe models that cater to a narrower foot shape. Start by trying on the standard width, and if you feel excessive pressure on your toes or if your foot is slipping inside the shoe, consider switching to a different width. Nikolay's sizing chart is usually accurate, but don't hesitate to consult with a professional fitter for fine-tuning. Keep in mind that some Nikolay models may run a bit larger or smaller, so it's wise to have your measurements taken to ensure a precise fit.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically 2.5-3 sizes below street shoe.

Bloch:

Bloch, a globally recognized brand originally from Australia, is trusted by dancers of all levels. Their pointe shoes are known for their durability and comfort. Bloch offers a variety of styles, such as the European Balance, Heritage, and the new Etu - each crafted to provide different levels of support, balance, and flexibility. Whether you need a shoe with a wide platform or a low profile vamp, Bloch has you covered.

When fitting Bloch pointe shoes, consider the width, which comes in options like A, B, C, and D, catering to different foot shapes. If you're unsure about the width, a common guideline is to start with a medium (B) width and adjust from there. Bloch's sizing chart is usually reliable, but don't skip the fitting session with a professional to make certain you're wearing the right size, especially if you have specific fitting concerns.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically 2 sizes below street shoe.

Suffolk:

Suffolk, an American brand, focuses on handcrafting pointe shoes that are tailored to dancers' individual needs. They offer a variety of models like Solo, Stellar, and Spotlight, designed for different levels of experience. Suffolk is highly praised for its innovative design features, such as their patented 'Wings' that provide additional support and stability for the dancers.

Suffolk is well-known for offering pointe shoe models that are particularly accommodating for dancers with wider feet. They provide a variety of widths, including options for medium and wide feet. While they do offer some options for narrow feet as well, many dancers with wider foot shapes find Suffolk to be an excellent choice due to their dedication to creating pointe shoes that provide ample room and support. Suffolk pointe shoes tend to be consistent with their sizing chart, but as individual preferences may vary, ensure your fitter takes the time to make any necessary adjustments for the perfect fit.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically 2-2.5 sizes below street shoe.

Gaynor Minden:

Gaynor Minden is known for its unique approach to pointe shoe design. Unlike traditional shoes, Gaynor Minden uses advanced materials, such as elastomers and plastics, for their shanks, making the shoes more durable and less prone to wear and tear. Their styles include the Lyra and the Europa. Gaynor Minden's innovative technology provides exceptional longevity and support, making them a favorite among dancers who want to extend the life of their shoes.

Gaynor Minden utilizes a unique sizing system, which is based on a combination of your street shoe size and your desired width. The sizing chart and the guidance of a professional fitter are especially crucial for Gaynor Minden, as their innovative design may require a different approach than traditional pointe shoes.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically 1-1.5 sizes above street shoe.

So Danca:

So Danca pointe shoes stand out among other brands due to their meticulous craftsmanship, innovative design, and commitment to individualized comfort. Renowned for their exceptional attention to detail, So Danca combines traditional ballet shoe expertise with modern technology to create pointe shoes that provide optimal support and durability. The brand's emphasis on both form and function ensures that dancers not only achieve the desired aesthetic on stage but also experience unparalleled comfort and performance during rehearsals and performances.

So Danca's Claudia is recognized for its tapered box, accommodating dancers with narrower feet. It is often favored for its sleek and streamlined appearance, providing a polished look on stage.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically 2.5-3 sizes below street shoe.

Capezio:

Capezio pointe shoes distinguish themselves from other brands through a legacy of excellence in dancewear dating back to 1887. What sets Capezio apart is its focus on advanced technology and materials, resulting in pointe shoes that offer exceptional durability and support. The brand's dedication to ergonomic design ensures that dancers experience a harmonious balance between grace and functionality. Capezio also caters to a wide range of foot shapes and preferences, offering a diverse selection of styles, shank strengths, and box shapes. Whether a dancer is a seasoned professional or a student, Capezio's commitment to quality craftsmanship and customization makes their pointe shoes stand out as a reliable choice for those seeking performance excellence in the world of dance.

The Capezio Tiffany pointe shoe excels in this area. It features a sturdy box and shank that provide excellent support and stability, allowing dancers to execute their movements with precision and grace. The shoe's durable construction ensures that it can withstand the demands of rigorous training and performances.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Capezio sizing varies from style to style.

Russian Pointe:

Russian Pointe brand pointe shoes distinguish themselves with a unique combination of artistry, innovation, and a commitment to meeting the diverse needs of dancers. Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship, Russian Pointe shoes often feature elegant design elements that enhance the aesthetic appeal of a dancer's performance. The brand's emphasis on personalization ensures that each dancer can find the perfect fit for optimal comfort and performance. Russian Pointe's dedication to both tradition and modernity, along with their attention to detail, has made them a preferred choice for dancers seeking a blend of beauty and functionality in their pointe shoes.

One of the key features of the Baroque pointe shoe is its innovative box design. The shoe has a slightly tapered box that provides a snug fit and excellent support for the dancer's toes. This design helps to prevent injuries and allows for better balance and stability.

Dancewear Corner Pro Tip: Sizing is typically true to size or half a size below street shoe.

The Importance of Fitting

It's crucial to remember that every dancer's feet are unique. The differences in arch height, toe length, and width can significantly impact your choice of pointe shoes. That's why a professional fitting session with an experienced fitter is indispensable. At Dancewear Corner, we will assess your feet and help you find the brand and style that best suits your individual requirements. The perfect fit will not only enhance your comfort and performance but also reduce the risk of injuries and discomfort.

Conclusion

In the world of ballet, pointe shoes are more than just footwear; they are an extension of a dancer's artistry. Brands like Nikolay, Bloch, Suffolk, and Gaynor Minden have spent years perfecting their craft to provide a wide array of choices to meet the unique needs of dancers. Remember that while understanding the differences between these brands is crucial, the most important aspect of choosing the perfect pointe shoe is the fitting process. Trust the expertise of a professional fitter to help you find the ideal pair that will support your individual dancing journey.