Choosing a Russian Pointe Shank: Case Studies Part 2

In our original Choosing a Russian Pointe Shank, we presented a detailed explanation of the factors that go into choosing the perfect shank for an individual dancer. In three case studies, real dancers' feet were analyzed for shank choice.

In this article we offer two more fascinating case studies from Russian Pointe Dance Boutique's fitting experts.

case study 4

Dancer #4

This dancer has strong ankles and a moderately flexible foot. The arch is relatively low, with its apex fairly low on the foot (toward the midpoint of the sole).

Shank suggestions A shank longer than Medium would probably be too long to allow full expression of the arch. The dancer has enough strength in the ankles to hold herself on pointe with moderate support. Because the arch's angle is not very strong, a pre-arched model would help her reach full pointe and highlight the curve of her foot. Recommendation: Medium or Medium Flexible shank in a pre-arched model.

Dancer #5 (right foot)

This dancer presents an interesting challenge. Her right and left feet are so different that they almost appear to belong to different dancers! The feet must be examined separately.

The right foot is very flexible throughout the ankle, arch and toes. The apex of the arch is clearly defined and high on the foot (toward the heel).

Shank suggestions A Standard Series shank would provide stability behind the flexible toes. A pre-arched model would conform best to the arch shape, reducing stress on the shoe and foot on pointe. A Medium or Medium Hard shank might match the placement of the arch.

Dancer #5 (left foot)

case study 5-left

The left foot is noticeably less flexible, especially in the ankle and toes. The arch has some flexibility, but the degree is much less than the right foot's. The apex of the arch is lower (close to the sole's midpoint).

Shank suggestions For the left foot, a Flexible shank would enhance the less-flexible toes. The Medium Hard shank suggested for the right foot would be too long for this foot's arch shape. Best for this foot would likely be Medium Flexible, or possibly a shorter (MS or S) shank in the Standard series, if the dancer had the strength to bend the shank in demi-pointe. Like the right foot, the left would benefit from a pre-arched model - in this case, to help the dancer reach full pointe.

Dancer #5: Conclusions

When the two feet have noticeably different shapes, it's best to cater to the foot that has greater needs. In this case, the left foot is weaker and less flexible and could not handle some of the choices that might be appropriate for the right foot. Although the right foot's arch shape might suggest a longer shank, it has enough strength to handle the shorter shank recommended for the left foot. Recommendation: Medium Flexible or Medium Soft shank, depending on her technical needs and strength on pointe. Both feet would benefit from a pre-arched model, for different reasons.

Russian Pointe Shanks

Standard Series (Classic and Polette Collections)
The stiffer layer of these shanks is solid throughout its length. This gives firmer support behind the toes, for the dancer who breaks her shoes low or wants maximum support for higher-impact movements such as springing to pointe or repeated releves and turns.

Flexible Series (Classic and Polette Collections)
With Russian Pointe's unique cutout design of the stiffer layer behind the toes, these shanks allow more flexibility through demi-pointe.

Next-generation (Jewels and Spotlight Collections)
Next-generation shanks provide more pliability throughout the shank, for enhanced conformity to the arch. Standard shanks are solid throughout; flexible shanks feature the same cutout construction as original Flexible shanks.

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