Expert: Connie - 7/12/2010

Question
QUESTION: if i wear a size 8 1/2  or 9 what size of pointe shoes should i get?

 thanks,
 blake

ANSWER: Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question.  Different brands of pointe shoes have different sizes.  In Russians, an 8.5 is a 39 but in Freeds an 8.5 is a 6. Most manufacturer's websites contain this information, and you can also see a professional pointe shoe fitter at a dance store who will help you.  If you know what brand of shoes you want, I could try to give you a more specific answer.  Good Luck!

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thank you soo much for answering and the brand i want is bloch. i also have a have more of an nearow foot so would that affect what size i wear? o one more question ( i might add like 6 more)even though i have every strong ankles and legs would my weight affect the way i dance. i have built big but im not heavy looking.but most of it is muscle since i do gymnastics.

   thanks again :),
      Blake

ANSWER: If you have a narrow foot you'll have to get a narrower width shoe.  Take a look at this conversion chart to figure out exactly what size you'll need. http://www.tutu.com/dwear_ptsh_szcht.html
Weight can affect the way you dance, but  usually it is not too much of an issue.  If you are overweight it could put added strain on your joints, but it sounds like you just have a muscular build, which should be completely fine.  Enjoy your dancing!

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QUESTION: haha i will :) i would like to ask you if you know of any place near springfeild or urbana ohio that sells pointe ballet shoes? i would also like to ask if you know how to keep your shoe from rubbing your tiets and makeing a hole? thanks so much again you have been a big help!!

         thanks!,
         Blake

Answer
I don't know of any store in that area, I'm sorry.  I'm sure if you search online you could find one.  Also, I've never had my pointe shoes make a hole in my tights.  Often tights wear out just because they're old.  Sometimes clear nail polish can stop runs in tights, but often you just have to buy new ones.