Expert: Connie - 12/20/2006

Question
Hello
Thanks for setting up this as it really helps me!
1) my right pointe shoe squeaks? Though my left doesnt. I do not want to bash
them because i want them to last as long as i can!
2)What can i do to keep going over the the top of my pointe shoes?
3) My pointe shoes bagg at the back near my heel.. what can i do to stop this?
The drawstrings are tight and so are the ribbons

Exrta info
My pointe shoes are Bloch Serenade 4 C
I got them fitted by a proffesional
I am 13 and been on pointe for 4 months
I wiegh 6.5 stone 42kg
I am 5 ft
thank you so very very much
Yours faithfully
Grace E-W-H


Answer
All right.

1) Don't worry too much about the squeaking.  And, you don't have to 'bash' them to get them to mold to your feet, but it does help if you bend the shank a little.  They will break in on their own after a while.
2) Do you have extremely high arches?   My friend with high arches used to have the problem of going over her shoes.  This is a bit of a strength issue; the stronger your feet are feet the less of a problem you'll have,remember, you've only been on pointe for four months, so your feet will not be extremely strong yet. Pay attention to the releve's and strengthening exercises in class, and make sure the pointe work you're doing is not above your level.  If you don't have high arches it may be that your shoe is not perfect.  Each shoe is made individually by hand, and so the box may be slanted and push you over your foot a bit.  Have your teacher take a look at your shoe.
3) Does the heel bag when you're standing flat or when you're on pointe?  If only when on point don't worry about it, but if the heel bags when you're standing flat in first position, then the shoe may be too big or wide for you.
Remember, many dancers spend years looking for the perfect pointe shoe for them, so don't be afraid to try different pointe shoes if you don't like these.
And, just out of curiosity, where did you go to get your pointe shoes fitted?  I'm always looking for good places to find shoes. :)