If you want to find some shoes, Amazon has a good selection, free shipping and returns depends on the seller. "Pleaser" is a good brand that can take a lot of abuse.

If you have trouble finding a local pole dance studio or a support group online, what about a trusted friend to be your cheerleader? Someone your comfortable around who won’t judge, get jealous, and help you through the bloopers?

My hubby has been great for constructive criticism, and has helped spot me, and has been patient watching the youtube videos, (even when I know he’s not interested). I think its very important for you to be comfortable with this "pole partner" because sometimes we overestimate our physical abilities when we feel pressure to succeed…just my opinion though.