Understand the different equipment materials/ Consider durability and maintenance:
As a dancer, I've had trouble finding a compromise between a durable pair of pointe shoes that don't break too quickly, and at the same time that are suitable for the ballet or rehearsal I'm going to dance. For example, for a technical class, pas de deux in classical ballet, I'd need a fairly rigid pair of pointe shoes that would support and enhance my foot, whereas for a neoclassical ballet, I'd need much softer pointe shoes to feel the shoe on my feet and facilitate rapid execution. It’s all a question of the materials used in the shoe, and wear. The newer the shoe, the stiffer it will be (more glue in the shoe to hold the sole and the box together), and the more the shoe wears, the softer the materials become and the less they hold the foot. It also depends on the brands, which don't use the same types of materials, so durability also varies according to these criteria. Often, to make a pair of pointe shoes last, I alternate between several pairs a day and sometimes change brands and models depending on comfort and my needs. Otherwise, I'd have to change pairs every two days and that's a huge cost indeed.
Try before you buy:
It's obvious that you have to try out your equipment to make sure it fits before you wear it for training. Personally, I always try out my pointe shoes before buying them, even if I always use the same ones because the brand I mainly use (Freed) is handmade, so sometimes depending on the manufacturing conditions, the materials may change or be softer or stiffer than usual (the cardboard may swell, the glue may not be as effective... which completely changes the appearance and shape of the shoe). It's very important for me to find the same sensations and qualities that I need in my ballet shoes every time! The same goes for all the other elements I use, mainly leotards, skirts and slippers. It's essential to feel good and comfortable in what you're wearing so that it's not the equipment that affects your performance.