Ballet shoe guide
Demi-Pointe Shoes
The bridge between soft shoes and pointe.
What are demi-pointe ballet shoes?
Demi-pointe (or pre-pointe) shoes look like pointe shoes but have no supportive shank. They build the strength and articulation a dancer needs before going en pointe, and are used for at least three to six months by most syllabuses.
Who they're for
Pre-pointe students — usually 11+ with a teacher's approval and at least two ballet classes a week.
Materials and construction
Satin upper, shaped box with no shank, suede sole. Ribbons and elastic sewn by the dancer.
How to fit them
Fit as you would a pointe shoe — snug at the toe with no space at the heel. Get fitted in person the first time.
Top picks
Our current UK picks. Prices in GBP; links go to trusted retailers.
Demi-Pointe Trainer
£28–£45The workshop demi-pointe used by most UK vocational schools.
Best for: Pre-pointe strengthening
Frequently asked
Related ballet shoes
Ballet Flats (Soft Ballet Shoes)
The everyday soft shoe every dancer starts in.
Split-Sole Ballet Shoes
Two suede pads under the ball and heel for a stronger arch line.
Full-Sole Ballet Shoes
One continuous suede sole — the traditional exam shoe.
Canvas Ballet Shoes
Breathable, washable and gentle on the purse.