Purchase soft ballet shoes if you are a beginning dancer or are not taking pointe classes. Try them on to make sure they fit snugly without being uncomfortable; they should hug your feet so your dance instructor can see how your feet move in them.
Purchase soft shoes with full soles to provide more arch support if you are a beginning dancer. Choose a shoe with a split sole which does not cover the entire bottom of the shoe if you are more experienced and need more flexibility.
Shop for pointe shoes in the afternoon when your feet have swelled from use to make sure the shoes will fit well during dance. Try the shoes on to be sure your toes reach the ends of the shoes without extra room at the end.
Check that there are no wrinkles in the box at the front of the shoe that surrounds your toes. Test to make sure you cannot insert a finger between the box and your foot. Choose a medium insole unless you have a high arch.
Go on pointe to make sure the shoes do not squeeze your toes and are comfortable. Always try shoes on both flat-footed and on pointe to ensure proper fit. Buy shoes that fit your feet well.