I admit to buying all my dancewear online. I can order exactly what I want, in the size and color I want. The local store is always "out" of anything I inquire about. When I was in NYC, I had the glorious experience of being fitted for technique shoes by a total professional. The size was nothing like I would have expected, but those suckers fit great. Online stores can't provide that level of service.
I guess my point is that a local store should be able to compete with online stores, but only if they provide the extra service that justifies the extra price they have to charge for a brick and mortar storefront. My local stores don't measure up.[/i]