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How to Care for Dance Shoes

Every dancer and dance student knows she must take extra care of her body, but caring for her shoes is a must as well. Dance shoes can be expensive and those who dance regularly want their shoes to last as long as possible. Shoes specifically made for dancing, whether ballroom, ballet, jazz or tap, require care beyond that of regular street shoes. Treating your shoes well will help them last longer, allowing you to spend more time in the studio and on stage, and less time shopping for new shoes.

Things You'll Need

  • Dance shoes
  • Shoe-storage bags
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy at least two pairs of each type of dance shoe you use for class. Alternate wearing the pairs, especially if you dance every day. Your shoes will last longer if you let them dry out and rest every other day. The moisture from sweat will break down the materials of the shoe.

    • 2

      Put your shoes in a separate bag after class or performance. Don't throw them at the bottom of a gym bag, because they can lose their shape. You can find small bags with holes that give the shoes exposure to air. This will help them dry quicker after each use, and that will help them last longer.

    • 3

      When you're not using them, store your shoes in a cool, dry place. You can find special pouches filled with such materials as cedar chips to put into dance shoes. These can quickly absorb sweat and help your shoes keep their shape longer.

    • 4

      Wear your shoes in the studio only. Dance shoes are not built for streetwear and wearing them outside will shorten their lifespan. Many dance studios also forbid dancers to wear street shoes in the studio as part of a health concern; many dance forms require to be practiced in bare feet. Barefoot dancers can get infections from outside germs brought in form dance shoes worn outside. Dirt brought to the studio floor from outside can also ruin the look of new shoes.

Dancing Basics

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