​How to Break In Irish Dancing Hard Shoes

Introduction
Breaking in new Irish dancing hard shoes can be a crucial step in your dancing journey. However, doing it wrong can lead to painful blisters and lost practice time. In this guide, we'll walk you through some essential do's and don'ts to ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience.

The Do's:

1. Prioritise Blister Prevention
Prevention is the key to success. Avoiding blisters should be your number one objective. Blisters can set you back weeks in practice time, so take every precaution to prevent them.
2. Invest in Blister Socks
Blister socks are a must-have. These specialized socks provide an extra layer of protection for your feet, reducing friction and minimizing the chances of developing blisters. Many advanced dancers swear by them, even when not breaking in new shoes.
3. Wear Poodle Socks
Poodle socks are thick and cushioned, providing added comfort and support for your feet. Avoid wearing thin socks, especially when breaking in new shoes, as they can leave you susceptible to blisters. Remember to always wear your poodle socks.
4. Warm Your Shoes
Before attempting to break in your hard shoes, warm them up by placing them on a radiator or inside a hot press. This softens the material, allowing it to mould to the shape of your feet more easily. Repeat this process several times for best results.
5. Wear Them Around the House
Put on your hard shoes while at home, even if you're not actively practicing. Engage in mundane tasks like watching TV or reading a book. The warmth from your feet will help the shoes adapt to your foot shape, making them increasingly comfortable over time.

The Don'ts:

1. Don't Be a Hero
Pushing through the pain during class may seem like a show of determination, but it's a sure-fire way to develop painful blisters. Remember, it's better to prevent blisters than to deal with the consequences later.
2. Don't Expect Shoes to Break Themselves In
New heavy shoes won't magically become comfortable on their own. You must put in the effort to break them in. Avoid the mistake of wearing them for just a few minutes in class and then asking to switch back to soft shoes. Take action and use the techniques mentioned above to properly break in your hard shoes.

Conclusion
Breaking in Irish dancing hard shoes is a crucial step in your dancing journey. By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience. Remember, prevention is key, so invest in blister socks, wear poodle socks, warm your shoes, and wear them around the house. Avoid pushing through pain and expecting the shoes to break in themselves. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to dancing comfortably and confidently in your hard shoes.