Expert: Jennifer - 7/20/2004

Question
Hi! I am a 16 year old dancer who is about to perform my first solo en pointe. I am having a little bit of a problem with my shoe padding, however. I have tried ouch pouches, and I don't like them, although I can live with them if i have to. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Sarah

Answer
Hello, Sarah!

If you have been rehearsing with ouch pouches, then you should definately perform with ouch pouches. It's fine if you want to try something new, but wait until after your performance! A change in padding will change the way your shoes feel, and you dont want to have to adjust to that so close to a performance. So I think you should grit your teeth and bear it until you've gotten through your performance, and then you can start experimenting with new types.

Further than that, I can't really help you because you have not told me *why* you are not happy with ouch pouches. If you write back with more specific information, hopefully I can help you. Good luck with your performance!