How To Sew Elastics on Pointe Shoes

Some dancers use elastics as well as ribbons to keep their pointe shoes from slipping off their heels. Pointe shoe elastic tends to be wider and more heavy-duty than soft ballet shoe elastic or there is a mesh elastic which some dancers feel is more discreet.

• Sew the elastics a thumb’s width in from the back seam, this will prevent any rubbing on your achilles tendon.

• The elastic should be angled slightly away from the seam. It is a good idea to sew one side first and carefully measure the length needed to hold the heel of the shoe firmly to your foot without too much tension.

• For dancers with a very high arch you may feel that you get extra security and support by using two pieces of elastic per shoe and crisscrossing them over your instep.