Expert: treivilo - 11/4/2009

Question
My 12 year old daughter just started en pointe, but we're having some problems with her very high arches.  She has Grishko shoes (size 3.5 4X H).  She's comfortable, but her teacher says she is too far forward - or perhaps her arch bends to far forward.  I have added criss-cross elastic straps, from side heel across top of arch to front side (as advised by the pointe shoe store). And they have recommended a vamp elastic as well.  What do you think we should do?  Should I tape her feet with athletic tape instead? (or in addition?)

Answer
Good Morning,

Her teacher's right, adding a vamp elastic may help her in keeping the right position while wearing her pointe shoes.

What I usually recommend also is to wear everyday shoes with reinforces soles, to force the foot to become stronger and avoid her going over her pointe shoes.

Regards

Olivier