Breaking in brand new pointe shoes is an essential step to ensure they are comfortable and supportive when dancing. However, it's important to break them in carefully to avoid damaging the shoes or compromising their support. Here’s the best way to do it:
Wear Them Around the House
- Start by wearing the shoes at home the night before first use: Walk around on flat feet for 15-30 minutes to begin softening the shoes gradually. This helps the shoes mold to the shape of your foot without putting too much strain on them right away.
Work Through Demi-Pointe
- Practice demi-pointe exercises: Stand in the shoes and slowly roll up to demi-pointe (half-pointe), then back down. Repeat this multiple times. This helps to gradually soften the shank (the sole) and box (the front part) without breaking them down too quickly.
Practice Basic Exercises
- Do Releves and Echappes: Practice basic exercises like relevés and échappés at the barre. This helps to naturally break in the shoes while you work through them in a controlled manner.
Avoid Over-Breaking
- Don’t Overdo It: Be cautious not to break in your pointe shoes too much before actually dancing in them. Over-softening can cause the shoes to lose their support, making them unsafe to use.
Customize to Your Foot
- Every Foot is Different: Remember that each dancer's feet are unique, so how you break in your shoes may differ. Listen to your feet and adjust your methods as needed.
Consult Your Teacher
- Get Advice: If you’re unsure, consult your dance teacher. They can provide guidance based on your specific shoes and foot type to ensure you’re breaking them in properly.
Breaking in pointe shoes is about gradually molding them to your foot’s shape while maintaining their structural integrity. With careful attention, you can ensure your shoes are comfortable, supportive, and ready for performance.
