Breaking in Irish dance hard shoes is an essential process that helps improve the shoes’ fit, comfort, and overall performance. This process involves a few key steps, and by following them properly, you can enjoy a more comfortable and supportive dance experience. In this article, we’ll explore each step in detail, as well as some frequently asked questions about breaking in Irish dance hard shoes.
Step 1: Choosing the right shoes
The first step in breaking in Irish dance hard shoes is to choose the right shoes that fit properly and have good arch support and flexible soles. There are many types of Irish dance shoes available on the market, so it’s essential to find a pair that fits your foot type and dancing style. Look for shoes with soft leather, cushioned insoles, and flexible soles that provide proper support for your feet while allowing you to move freely on the dance floor.
Step 2: Wearing the shoes indoors
Once you’ve chosen the right shoes, it’s time to wear them indoors for a few days. This step is crucial because it allows the leather to stretch and molds to the shape of your foot. It also helps break in the soles of the shoes, making them more comfortable and responsive when worn on the dance floor. Be sure to wear the shoes around the house and practice simple movements like toe stands and heel raises to help stretch the leather and soles properly.
Step 3: Breaking in the sole
After wearing the shoes indoors for a few days, it’s time to break in the sole using a shoe tree or foam. A shoe tree is a piece of foam or cork that fits inside the shoe and helps stretch the leather and soles even further. Alternatively, you can use a piece of foam or a rolled-up towel to achieve similar results. Leave the shoe tree or foam inside the shoe for several hours or overnight to help break in the sole properly.
Step 4: Polishing the leather
Once your shoes are fully broken in, it’s time to polish the leather with a soft cloth or sponge. This step is essential because it helps protect the leather and give it a nice shine. Be careful not to over-polish, as this can cause the leather to become too slippery and difficult to dance on. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge and apply a small amount of polish to the shoes, focusing on the toe box and heel area.
Step 5: Repeating the process
Breaking in Irish dance hard shoes is an ongoing process that requires patience and persistence. Depending on your dancing style and the type of shoes you’re wearing, it may take several weeks or even months to fully break them in. However, by following these steps and repeating the process regularly, you can enjoy a more comfortable and supportive dance experience.
In conclusion, breaking in Irish dance hard shoes is an essential process that requires careful attention to detail and patience. By choosing the right shoes, wearing them indoors, breaking in the sole using a shoe tree or foam, polishing the leather, and repeating the process regularly, you can enjoy a more comfortable and supportive dance experience.
