Finding the right pointe shoes involves more than choosing your usual shoe size. Different brands and models vary in shape, width, profile, vamp, shank and overall fit, so a fitting gives you the opportunity to compare different options and discuss how they feel with an experienced fitter.
4Dance offers specialist pointe shoe fittings at our shop in Byfleet, Surrey, for dancers looking for their first pair as well as those returning for another fitting.
During your appointment, you can try options from the multi-brand pointe shoe range available through 4Dance and work with the fitter to identify shoes that are appropriate to explore further.
If you already know the model and size you need, you can also browse our pointe shoe range online.
What Happens at a Pointe Shoe Fitting?
A fitting is an individual process rather than simply matching a dancer to a standard shoe size.
During the appointment, the fitter can look at factors such as your feet, current shoes where relevant, previous fitting experience and how different models feel when tried on.
You may try several different pointe shoes before identifying an appropriate option. The aim is to compare the available choices carefully rather than assuming that a particular brand or model will suit every dancer.
For a first pair of pointe shoes, your ballet teacher should remain your first point of reference about when you are ready to begin pointe work.
If this is your first appointment, our first pointe shoe fitting guide explains what to expect and what you may want to bring with you.
Preparing for Your Appointment
If you already wear pointe shoes, bring your current pair with you where possible, along with the padding or accessories you normally use.
For a first fitting, bring any useful guidance your teacher has given you and wear or bring suitable dance tights so the fitter can see how different shoes sit and feel.
You do not need to arrive knowing which brand or model you want. The purpose of the appointment is to compare suitable options rather than select a shoe purely by brand or appearance.
Book a Pointe Shoe Fitting at 4Dance
Pointe shoe fittings are available at the 4Dance shop in Byfleet, Surrey.
4Dance Byfleet
13 High Road
Byfleet
Surrey
KT14 7QH
You can also view the 4Dance Byfleet shop information before your visit for current store details.
Group Pointe Shoe Fittings
4Dance also offers group pointe shoe fittings at external locations.
A member of the 4Dance team can travel to a dance school, studio or other suitable venue with a pop-up selection of pointe shoes, allowing dancers to be fitted away from the Byfleet shop.
This can be useful for dance schools or groups that would like several dancers to be fitted during the same visit.
If you are interested in arranging a group fitting, contact 4Dance to discuss the location, number of dancers and practical arrangements.
Pointe Shoe Fitting FAQs
Do I need a pointe shoe fitting for my first pair?
For a first pair of pointe shoes, 4Dance recommends following your ballet teacher’s guidance and having the shoes professionally fitted. Pointe shoes vary considerably between brands and models, so a fitting gives you the opportunity to try different options rather than choosing by shoe size or appearance alone.
What should I bring to a pointe shoe fitting?
If you already wear pointe shoes, bring your current pair with you where possible, along with any padding or accessories you normally use. For a first fitting, bring any useful guidance from your ballet teacher and wear or bring suitable dance tights.
Can I book another fitting if my current pointe shoes no longer feel right?
Yes. A repeat fitting can be useful if your current shoes no longer feel suitable, your feet or training have changed, or you would like to compare different models. You do not need to stay with the same brand or model simply because you have worn it before.
Where are 4Dance pointe shoe fittings held?
Pointe shoe fittings take place at the 4Dance shop in Byfleet, Surrey:
4Dance
13 High Road
Byfleet
Surrey
KT14 7QH
Use the booking option on this page to arrange your appointment.
Do I need to know which pointe shoe brand I want before my fitting?
No. You do not need to arrive with a particular brand or model in mind. Different pointe shoes have different shapes and characteristics, and the fitting gives you the opportunity to compare suitable options with an experienced fitter.
Does 4Dance offer group pointe shoe fittings?
Yes. A member of the 4Dance team can travel to a dance school, studio or other suitable location with a pop-up selection of pointe shoes for group fittings. Contact 4Dance to discuss your location, number of dancers and the practical arrangements for a visit.