Behind the Box: The Countries Crafting the World's Best Pointe Shoes

When it comes to ballet, few items are as iconic and essential as the pointe shoe. Dancers around the world rely on the craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation that each pair brings. But have you ever wondered where your favorite pointe shoes actually come from? Here, we explore the fascinating origins and current manufacturing details of the world’s leading pointe shoe brands.

Nikolay / Grishko (Russia)

Originally known globally as Grishko, this Russian powerhouse rebranded to Nikolay in the international market due to trademark disputes. Still handcrafted in Moscow, Nikolay shoes are revered for their precision and durability, blending Russian ballet tradition with modern innovation.

Bloch (Australia)

Founded in Sydney in the 1930s, Bloch has become a global leader in dancewear. While its headquarters remain in Australia, its pointe shoes are meticulously handcrafted in Thailand. Known for comfort and wide availability, Bloch strikes a balance between mass production and quality.

Capezio (USA)

With roots dating back to 1887 in New York City, Capezio is a cornerstone of American dance history. Though once produced entirely in the U.S., most Capezio pointe shoes are now manufactured in Thailand or China to keep pace with global demand.

Gaynor Minden (USA)

A relative newcomer compared to some legacy brands, Gaynor Minden launched in 1993 and revolutionized pointe shoes with their use of modern materials. Designed in New York, their shoes were originally made in Massachusetts, but since 2020 have been manufactured in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Despite the move, their high-tech internal components remain U.S.-sourced.

Freed of London (UK)

Handcrafted in London since the 1920s, Freed remains one of the few brands still entirely made in the UK. Their commitment to craftsmanship is evident in their use of individual "makers" who hand-build each shoe with personalized attention.

Russian Pointe (USA, owned by Bloch)

Founded in Chicago in 1998, Russian Pointe quickly gained a loyal following among serious ballet dancers. Originally sourcing their shoes from Grishko in Russia, RP was acquired by Bloch in 2024. With new ownership comes the potential for expanded reach and innovation, while still honoring its Eastern European roots.

Suffolk (USA)

Based in Texas, Suffolk is known for engineering pointe shoes that blend comfort and performance. Interestingly, while the brand is American, the shoes themselves are handcrafted in the UK, maintaining high standards of British shoemaking.

Mirella (Australia, Brand)

Originally an independent Australian label, Mirella is now owned by Bloch. Their pointe shoes are produced in Thailand, benefiting from Bloch’s extensive manufacturing infrastructure.

R-Class (Russia)

An independent Russian manufacturer, R-Class has gained a niche following for their traditional craftsmanship. They have also been known to supply rebranded shoes to other labels.

Energetiks (Australia)

Australian-designed and globally distributed, Energetiks pointe shoes are made with a mix of locally developed design and overseas manufacturing, primarily in China and Thailand.

So Danca (Brazil)

Headquartered in Brazil, So Danca produces most of its shoes locally but also utilizes manufacturing in China for certain product lines. They are known for combining flexibility with affordability.

Wear Moi (France)

A French favorite, Wear Moi's pointe shoes are handmade in Tunisia. The brand offers a blend of European design and Mediterranean craftsmanship.

Sansha (France)

Originally founded in France, Sansha now manufactures its pointe shoes primarily in China. The brand is recognized for its accessibility and affordability.

Final Pointe

Understanding where your pointe shoes come from isn’t just trivia – it can inform your purchasing decisions, align with your values, and deepen your appreciation for the artistry beneath your feet. Whether you favor the tradition of London-made Freed or the innovation of Gaynor Minden, every pair has a story to tell.

So next time you step into relevé, know that your shoes have traveled a long way – from the hands of artisans around the globe to the stage beneath your toes.