Tips for Breaking in New Women’s Tap Shoes
Tap dancing is a fun and energising dance form; the right pair of shoes can make all the difference. However, breaking in a new pair of tap shoes can be daunting, but it’s crucial for achieving comfort and better performance.
This article provides tips for breaking into new womens tap shoes to ensure maximum comfort and performance.
- Wear Shoes Around the House: When you first receive your new tap shoes, it can be tempting to wear them immediately to your next dance class or performance. However, it’s essential to take your time and break them in gradually to avoid any unnecessary discomfort or blisters. A helpful tip to break in your new shoes is to wear them indoors on a carpet or cushioned surface. Doing so will gradually soften the leather and loosen the taps. To get used to your new shoes, it’s best to start wearing them for shorter periods and gradually increase the duration over time.
- Stretch Your Shoes: If your new shoes feel tight or uncomfortable, stretching them can effectively break them in. You can use a shoe stretcher or simply wear thick socks and walk around in your shoes for a few hours each day. To achieve a comfortable fit, wearing your leather shoes to loosen them up and conform to the shape of your feet is recommended. But be mindful not to overstretch them, as this may result in losing their original shape and fit inadequately.
- Use Moisture: Moisture is another effective way to soften the leather on your new shoes. Dampen a cloth or sponge and rub it over the leather, paying particular attention to tight or uncomfortable areas. To make the leather more flexible, it is recommended to apply a softening agent. However, it is important to allow the shoes to fully dry before wearing them to prevent any harm to the leather. After applying moisture and a softening agent, it’s essential to break in your dance shoes gradually to allow the leather to mould to your feet’s shape.
- Use Heel Grips: Heel grips are small adhesive pads that can be added to the inside of your shoes to help prevent slipping and sliding. To prevent blisters, they can reduce the friction between your foot and the shoe. Heel grips come in various materials, including foam and gel, so choose the best one. Positioning them correctly in the shoe is essential to avoid any discomfort.
- Wear Your Shoes to Class: Once your tap shoes feel more comfortable, it’s time to start wearing them to class. However, it’s essential to gradually ease into it to avoid discomfort or injury. Start by wearing your new shoes for the first 10-15 minutes of class and gradually increase the time as your feet adjust. Remember to take breaks if you feel discomfort and listen to your body.
Breaking in new womens tap shoes is a method that requires patience and dedication. By following these tips, you can ensure your shoes are comfortable and ready for maximum performance. Remember to progress slowly and listen to your body, as pushing yourself too hard can cause unnecessary discomfort and injury. Also don’t forget about proper care and maintenance, such as regular cleaning and conditioning as it will prolong the lifespan of your dance shoes and keep them in optimal condition for your performances.
