Is a 3/4 shank good for a low instep? :confused:

I'm going to move this topic to "Student Questions", where I'm sure you'll get several wise and erudite answers.

<small>[ 21 August 2004, 04:02 AM: Message edited by: salzberg ]</small>

Hi. It could be and one of the best ways of finding out is going with your teacher (or someone who is really good at looking at and fitting pointe shoes) and trying on different brand and makes to see what works best for your feet. Fit is critical. Comfort too (believe it or not).

Many recommend taking out the "last" nail on the shank to get the shoe to be more supple and to conform better to the actual shape of your foot (among other reasons).

If you are concerned about your foot not looking as pointed as it actually is (as when wearing soft ballet slippers), it may be that what you need to do is to manipulate and slightly "alter" your shoes. My guess is that your shoes are not conforming to the shape of your feet. Taking out the last nail is just one of many things to try. A 3/4 shank can have a similar effect. You or your studio may want to consider getting Patricia Barker's video on pointe shoes. It has some great tips. Here's the link from PNB's web site:

http://www.pnb.org/giftshop/pointevideo.html

Good luck with pointe shoe fitting and have fun with your dancing!

I'll be curious to hear what our other readers have to say.