hey guys! this is my first year of pointe and i have already lost both my big toenails!! i'm currently wearing gaynor mindens and they're just not working for my feet. i'm not quite sure if i need a bigger box, or a bigger size or something else. any past experiences and advice would be appreciated!!!!!

Dancin Babe - it is definitely a problem if you have lost your big toe nails. There is something wrong either with the style/size of the shoe - or with how you are using your shoes, or how you are caring for your feet.<P>First of all you really need to try your shoes on before you buy them and get them fitted properly. Some people buy them from a catalogue - and this is definitely something that I do not recommend. Shoes need to be fitted EVERY TIME. Every pair of shoes are different even if they are the same size and style. And, feet change over time too.<P>Then once you have bought the shoes, be sure to take them in BEFORE you wear them to show to your teacher and have her check them to make sure the fit is correct.<P>Then make sure you take care of your feet. Keeping your toe nails trimmed is essential. Here is a thread you might want to read:<P><A HREF=../../../ubb/Forum19/HTML/000008.html><B>FEET - TOOLS OF THE TRADE</B></A><P><BR><p>[This message has been edited by Basheva (edited June 02, 2001).]