R-Class AD19 Astra Pointe Shoes - Soft Shank

R-Class, world-renowned makers of hand-crafted pointe shoes for more than thirty years, is now offering their shoes directly in the U.S. Crafted with precision and passion, these pointe shoes are designed to elevate your performance and provide dancers with unparalleled comfort and support. The R-Class Astra Pointe Shoes are part of the R-Class Adaptiv Collection. These represent the best of both worlds in a pointe shoe. They are handmade with traditional R-Class shanks and unparalleled craftsmanship, but also feature modern technology. An innovative plastic piece in the platform not only improves the longevity of the shoe, but it also maintains the shape and corners of the shoe and allows the dancer to be placed firmly in the center of the platform. The shank is adhered to the plastic piece, allowing for effective and proper roll through and engagement of the intrinsic muscles. Adaptiv models also feature a stretch satin heel for a streamlined and elegant fit with no gapping, as well as a new Adaptiv glue that molds and forms to the foot for superior comfort. Astra has a broad box with a shallow crown. It is designed with a U-Cut vamp and includes an elastic drawstring. This model of Astra includes the Soft shank, which allows for greater articulation and flexibility. It is best suited for dancers that either have very strong feet that require little support from the shoe, or for dancers that have tighter ankles, often beginners, that need help getting over the platform.