BREAKING IN THE SHOE

Pointe shoes should not be worn at home without the teacher's permission.

Brand new pointe shoes are unsuitable for wearing. Some "breaking in" must be done before the shoes can be worn comfortably. For new students, the "breaking in" should be done by or under the supervision of the teacher.

1. The box of the shoe needs to be "smashed" or flattened to help it conform to the shape of the foot. The shoe can be placed in the hinge side of a sturdy door -- between the door and its frame. The door is then gently pulled shut so as to flatten and widen the box. Another method is to lay the shoes on the floor and step on top of the box with the heel of your foot.

2. Bend the stiff, flat shank at the place where it will conform to the shape of your arch. This should be done at the very back of the shank -- NOT IN THE MIDDLE! To make it flexible, it is sometimes necessary to bend the shank back and forth several times until it bends easily.

3. Try on each shoe. If it gaps around the side of the foot, adjust the drawstring for a snug fit. Be careful not to pull too tightly. Tie the strings in a square knot, cut off ends to about 1 inch, and tuck them inside.

4. Put the shoes on, tying the ribbons correctly. Walk around on as high a demi-pointe as possible. This will be difficult and painful at first. But increased flexibility in that area of the shoe will make it much more comfortable to work in.

CAUTION: This last step in breaking in the shoes is very important but should not be attempted at home without the teacher's permission.