Pointe shoes are specialized footwear designed for ballet dancers to perform on the tips of their toes. They have a stiffened toe box, which provides support and allows dancers to balance on the front of their feet. The shoes are typically made of satin, leather, or canvas and are fitted to the dancer's foot for optimal comfort and performance. Dancers wear pointe shoes during advanced ballet classes and performances. The shoes come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different foot types. Proper fitting and breaking in are essential to ensure safety and prevent injuries while dancing en pointe.