CriticalDance Forum

I have very high arches and have trouble with shoes dying too quickly.

I've tried plenty of shoes (including Gaynors which I hated) and found that Grishko 2007s are my shoe, however they die fairly easy. My last pair died after only 4 classes.

I had been using the medium shank, due to my dancewear retailer, but do you think a hard shank or a 3/4 shank will last longest?

I recommend the harder shank definitely. You still want to be able to roll through your feet and not only pop and down from relevé.

It sounds too like you may be one of those lucky persons whose feet are lovely yet go through shoes quickly, so as expensive as it is, you may just have to plan [$] for having many pairs around. Most manufacturers will give you a deep discount if you custom order six or more pair at a time.

You too may wish to seek the advise of your pointe shoe fitter, if you haven't done so already.

Best wishes with your pointe work and for happy dancing!

Don't forget to take care of your pointe shoes by letting them air properly after use, and apply Jet Glue to help them last longer...