Brand Comparison
Capezio vs Freed of London
Capezio and Freed of London sit at different ends of the pointe shoe world. Capezio is the accessible, widely available American brand many students start in. Freed is a handmade British tradition, softer and quieter, with a strong Royal Ballet association.
The key difference
The core difference is construction: Freed shoes are handmade and softer, which some dancers love for feel but which can break down faster, while Capezio is more about accessibility and value.
Which one to pick
Capezio
Lean Capezio if you want something affordable, easy to find, and simple to reorder for student use.
Freed of London
Lean Freed of London if you want a soft, quiet, handmade shoe and are willing to work through a more patient fitting.
Bottom line
These two serve pretty different dancers, so it really comes down to the feel you want underfoot and what your level calls for. A good fitting will tell you fast which one your foot agrees with.
Finding your fit
No comparison beats trying both on. Use this as a shortlist, then let a fitter match the model to your foot. Our complete pointe shoe fitting guide walks through the whole process, and you can read the full brand guides for Capezio and Freed of London.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Freed pointe shoes have a maker's mark?
Each Freed shoe is handmade and carries a maker's mark so you can reorder from the same craftsperson. That consistency is a big part of the appeal, though maker-to-maker variation means fittings take some patience.
Do Freed shoes last as long as Capezio?
It depends on the model, but Freed's softer construction can break down faster. Capezio durability also varies by model, so talk through your usage with a fitter.