How to Make the Most Out of Your R-Class Pointe Shoe Fitting

When you book an R-Class pointe shoe fitting, you’re not just trying on shoes — you’re stepping into a handcrafted fitting system designed around precision, structure, and performance.

Unlike mass-produced pointe shoes, R-Class shoes are built using traditional Russian construction techniques with modern refinements. That means details matter — and preparation makes all the difference.

Here’s how to make the most of your R-Class fitting experience.

1. Come Prepared (Your Old Shoes Tell a Story)

Bring:
  • Your current pointe shoes (even if they’re dead)
  • Your usual padding
  • Convertible tights
  • Hair secured and ready to move
Your wear pattern shows:
  • Where you break your shank
  • If you’re knuckling
  • If you’re sinking
  • Whether your box is too wide or too narrow
A great R-Class fitting starts with analyzing what your old shoes did — and didn’t — do for you.

2. Understand the R-Class Difference

R-Class shoes are known for:
  • Pre-arched shanks
  • Sculpted heels
  • Stable platforms
  • Clean, lifted lines
  • Structured yet pliable paste
Many dancers transitioning from brands like Bloch or Capezio immediately notice the difference in how supported and lifted they feel.

The goal isn’t just comfort — it’s placement.
When the shoe works with your foot mechanics, everything looks cleaner.

3. Communicate Like a Professional

During your fitting, avoid vague feedback like:
"It feels off."
Instead say:
  • “I feel like I’m sinking into the box.”
  • “I can’t get fully over the platform.”
  • “The heel is slipping.”
  • “I feel pushed back.”
R-Class offers multiple box shapes, vamp lengths, and shank strengths. Precise feedback helps your fitter dial in the exact combination your foot needs.

4. Don’t Automatically Choose the Hardest Shank

There’s a misconception that stronger dancers need the hardest shank.
In reality:
  • Too hard = difficulty getting over
  • Too soft = instability and sinking
  • Correct strength = support without fighting the shoe
R-Class offers a wide range of shank options designed to support articulation while maintaining stability.

The right shoe should allow you to roll through demi-pointe smoothly and arrive fully over the platform without gripping.

5. Test the Shoe Like You’re in Class

During your R-Class fitting:
  • Plié in second
  • Relevé to full pointe
  • Balance without gripping
  • Try sous-sus
  • Roll down slowly
If you can feel lift and stability without clawing your toes, you’re close.

6. Think About Longevity

R-Class paste and construction are designed for durability and consistent break-in.
Ask yourself:
  • Does this shoe support me today?
  • Will it support me through rehearsals?
  • Does it maintain alignment when I’m tired?
The best R-Class model will feel supportive in center, strong in allegro, and stable in balances.

7. Know What “Right” Feels Like

The correct R-Class pointe shoe should feel:
  • Lifted
  • Supported
  • Stable
  • Aligned
  • Effortless
Many dancers say the moment they find their R-Class match, they feel instantly more centered and over their box.

That’s the goal.

Happy Dancing!