Expert: Connie - 11/16/2009

Question
Dear Connie,
My dream has come true... My teacher is putting me en pointe! I'm the only one in my class who's going en pointe already..!

Im 15 years old and I've only danced for ½ year, but my teacher (and all the other students) say that I dance as if I've done much much longer. She says that my dancing is good enough, and  I am able to stand on the tips on my toes (with no pointe shoes) for 1 minut.

Well, I just wanted to ask if you would recommend any specific labels of pointe shoes for a beginner and padding.

Thanks for answering all my questions :)

Mathilde

PS: I'm the one who send you the picture, where I asked if I was too big ;)

Answer
If your teacher thinks you're ready it sounds like you're good to go!  I would first ask if your teacher would be willing to accompany you to try on shoes.  She would be of great help.  If not, I would go to a store with a wide selection.  My recommendation for padding would be "Ouch Pouches" but you may want less padding, like lambs wool, or even just a paper towel.  Also, putting athletic tape on your toes will help prevent blisters.  As a beginner, you may want to get a fairly soft shoe, like Chacotts or Freeds.  Russian Pointes and Grishkos are probably not the best choice for you right now.  

Good luck and have fun!