 Put your name on the bottom of your shoes. |
 Use a shoe horn to avoid damaging the heel. |
 A damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning. |
Looking after your Jig Shoes
Tricks of the trade
1. Always use a wax polish rather than a liquid polish as this stops the leather from drying out. A liquid polish can actually encourage drying and increase the chances of damaging the leather.
2. Use a preservative like 'Hide Food' to soften and preserve the shoe.
3. Do not soak shoes when cleaning, a damp cloth is sufficient. Do not store shoes in hot or dry areas as this will dry out the leather.
4. Always undo laces, before and after wearing shoes, as forcing you foot into a shoe that is laced up can damage the heel stiffener.
5. Use a shoe horn if you have difficulty putting on a shoe, as 'wiggling' your foot into a shoe will inevitably damage the shoe.
6. Always dance on appropriate surfaces, such as a sprung stage or dance hall. Dancing on surfaces such as concrete will not only damage the shoe, but also significantly increase the chance of personal injury.
7. Do not let other dancers wear your shoes, as everyone's feet are different.
8. Try to buy shoes, which have a leather insole as it helps the foot breathe and reduces perspiration which contains salt, which would otherwise dry out the shoe.
9. Put your name on the bottom of your shoes to reduce the chance of another dancer accidentally taking your shoes and stops them getting lost if submitted for repair.
10. Wear new shoes around the house before wearing them to a class or feis. You should spend at least 2 hours in your new shoes to break them in.
Source: Antonio Pacelli Technican