Thread: dance shoes for bunions and fallen arches (flat feet)

What do you wear for practice and performance? I'm ready to admit that continuing to dance barefoot is making my bunions worse. I wear custom arch supports for all my other footwear. Any recommendations? Please post pictures and/or web links.

First, before you purchase any orthotics or whatnot, please read "Pain Free" by Pete Egoscue. You will rethink what you need on your feet.

I'm a ballroom dancer. I have wide feet with issues, and I have students who need adjustable shoes for bunions and for space for orthotics etc... These are my new favorite... I don't necessarily think you should get them from this supplier, it was just the first page I found that I could copy the link to post... I buy mine directly from Very Fine, but I think having adjustable shoes is a great option.
Ballroom Dance Shoes, Salsa Shoes & Dancewear: Dance Shoes Store

You might consider ghillies, which are the shoes typically worn for Scottish Highland and Irish dancing. If you search Discount Dance Supply - Dancewear at discount prices including pointe shoes, leotards, ballet slippers and much more. for the word "ghillies" you'll see a few choices. These can hold an orthotic if you have one you want to use.

I have seen dancers perform in boots and athletic shoes that could hold an orthotic, but that works better with an industrial tribal style than something glam and froofy. One option would be to talk to a shoemaker who is a licensed orthotist about having custom sandals or modified ballet slippers made. You might also discuss this with the doctor who prescribed your orthotic. If you're currently wearing big, corky heel cups with arches or full composite innersoles, they may be able to switch you to lower-profile fiberglass inserts that would work better in ballet slippers or ghillies.