A pointe shoe is a specialized type of footwear designed for ballet dancers. It allows them to dance on the tips of their toes, a technique known as "pointe work." These shoes are typically made of a stiff box at the front, which supports the toes, and a soft fabric upper that fits snugly around the foot. Pointe shoes come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different foot types and preferences. Dancers often break in their shoes to achieve a better fit and flexibility. Proper fitting and care are essential for both performance and injury prevention in ballet.