: Many professionals maintain a rotation of 2–3 pairs at once. This allows each pair to fully dry out between uses, which significantly extends the lifespan of the natural paste and materials. Sizing & Professional Fitting Pointe Shoe Guide – BLOCH Dance US
: In a landmark move for the industry, Gaynor Minden became the first major brand to launch a , offering built-in brown shades to eliminate the need for dancers to "pancake" (manually dye) their shoes to match their skin tone. Essential Maintenance & Preparation Tips 2017 Pointe Shoe Collection
: Using shellac or specialized glues inside the toe box or on the shank can reinforce "soft spots," helping the shoes last through intense rehearsals or humid conditions. : Many professionals maintain a rotation of 2–3
Dancers in 2017 increasingly utilized specific customization techniques to extend shoe life and improve performance: Essential Maintenance & Preparation Tips : Using shellac