Bloch®'s "Sonata MKII" ¾ shank pointe shoe is for beginners through professionals and features a tapered heel for a snug fit. The platform is wide and tall, which makes it a good balancing shoe. Other features include a slightly shorter box to allow for an easier demi-pointe. The box also contains a cushion within the pleats to cut down on noise and a sponge inside the toe at the platform for extra comfort and protection. **Four improvements to the original "Sonata": 1. Streamlined satin upper, sides of the satin upper have been lowered to reveal more of the dancers foot enhancing aesthetic, providing a more modern, streamlined look as well as reducing bunching of satin when on pointe. 2. New generation insole is virtually unbreakable creating harder wearing, longer life, better value for money, lighter, moulds quicker to the sole of a dancers arch giving greater support when on pointe. Also forces the shoe to sit flatter on stage reducing rocking and enhancing stability. 3. Longer wing puff: reduces creasing and bunching of satin when on pointe. 4.Additional padding under pleating makes these shoes quieter by cushions impact on stage reducing noise. (Size 3 smaller than street)