Women’s dancing shoes are designed to provide both style and support for fluid movement on the dance floor. However, breaking in new womens tap shoes is essential for dancers of all levels. Wearing shoes that fit well and are comfortably broken-in can greatly improve performance, minimize the chance of injuries, and prolong the lifespan of the footwear. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you break into your new footwear like a pro.
Choose the Right Fit
Before breaking in your tap shoes, ensure they fit correctly. They should be snug but not too tight, allowing for minimal foot movement inside the shoe. Remember, leather ones will stretch slightly with use, so a snug fit initially is acceptable. Avoid the ones that pinch or leave no room for your toes to move, leading to discomfort and injuries.
Wear Them Around the House
Start by wearing them around the house for short periods. This will help the material mold to the shape of your feet without the added pressure of dancing. Opt for thicker socks to shield your feet while expediting the stretching procedure. Gradually increase the time you spend wearing them each day.
Use a Shoe Stretcher
Consider using a shoe stretcher if your tap shoes are particularly tight in certain areas. These stretchers can help widen them slightly and make them more comfortable. Focus on stretching areas that feel tight, but be careful not to overstretch and damage the footwear.
Soften the Leather
Leather softening techniques can also help break in these footwear. Applying a leather conditioner can make the material more pliable and comfortable. Another method involves gently heating them with a hairdryer for a few minutes and then wearing them with thick socks. The heat helps the leather stretch and mold to your feet more easily.
Practice Basic Steps
Once your shoes feel slightly more comfortable, start practicing basic tap steps. Simple exercises like shuffles, flaps, and ball changes can help them begin to conform to your feet’ movements. This stage is crucial for breaking in the shoe’s sole, making it more flexible for intricate tap routines.
Use Moleskin for Problem Areas
If you notice any areas that rub or cause blisters, apply moleskin to those spots inside your shoes. Moleskin is a soft fabric with an adhesive back that can be cut to size and placed inside the footwear to prevent friction. This tip proves particularly beneficial for regions such as the rear of the heel or the edges of the toe box.
Incorporate Stretching Exercises
Integrating foot and ankle stretching exercises into your routine can aid in breaking in your tap shoes and enhance your foot health and flexibility. Stretching exercises can help the muscles and ligaments in your feet adapt to the snug fit of new ones more comfortably. Incorporate daily stretching routines like toe points, ankle circles, and towel scrunches to enhance flexibility and mitigate the likelihood of injuries.
Take it Slow
Wearing your new shoes for an extended dancing session too soon can lead to discomfort and even injuries. Gradually increase your wearing time and intensity of dance steps to allow your feet and the footwear to adjust to each other.
Conclusion
Breaking in new womens tap shoes is essential to ensure maximum comfort and performance. By following these tips, you can accelerate the process and make them more comfortable to dance in. Patience and gradual progress are key to breaking in your tap shoes without damaging them or hurting your feet. With the right approach, your new tap shoes will soon feel like a natural extension of your body, allowing you to tap dance easily and confidently.
