Choosing the right tap dance shoes is an important part of your overall dance experience. The right shoes can help you feel more comfortable and confident while you're dancing, and they can also enhance your performance by providing better sound and support. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to choose the right tap dance shoes for your style.
Step 1: Determine Your Dance Style
The first step in choosing the right tap dance shoes is to determine your dance style. Different styles of tap dance may require different types of shoes, so it's important to know what you'll be using your shoes for before you start shopping. Some common styles of tap dance include:
- Jazz tap
- Soft shoe
- Rhythm tap
- Hoofing
Step 2: Consider Your Foot Shape and Size
Next, you'll want to consider your foot shape and size. Different tap dance shoes may fit differently, so it's important to choose a shoe that will be comfortable and supportive for your feet. Some things to consider include:
- The width of your foot
- The length of your foot
- Any specific foot issues or concerns you may have (e.g. flat feet, high arches, etc.)
Step 3: Choose the Right Sole
The sole of the tap dance shoe is an important factor to consider, as it can affect the sound and feel of your dancing. There are two main types of soles to choose from:
- Leather sole: This is a traditional choice for tap dance shoes, as it provides a good balance of flexibility and support. It also tends to be quieter than other types of soles.
- Rubber or plastic sole: These soles are more durable and provide a louder sound, but they may be less flexible and comfortable than leather.
Step 4: Select the Right Tap
The tap is the metal plate on the bottom of the shoe that produces the sound when you strike it against a hard surface. There are two main types of taps to choose from:
- Fixed tap: This type of tap is permanently attached to the sole of the shoe. It provides a consistent sound and is easy to maintain.
- Lace-up tap: This type of tap is attached to the sole of the shoe with a lace, which allows you to adjust the tightness of the tap. This can be useful if you want to change the sound of your taps or if you have a wider foot.
Step 5: Try on Different Brands and Styles
Finally, it's important to try on different brands and styles of tap dance shoes to find the one that feels the most comfortable and supportive for your feet. Some things to consider when trying on shoes include:
- The fit of the shoe: Make sure the shoe fits snugly but not too tightly, and that there is enough room for your toes to move freely.
- The support of the shoe: Look for a shoe that provides good arch support and a stable heel.
- The sound of the shoe: Listen to the sound of the taps and make sure it's the type of sound you want for your dancing.
By following these steps, you can choose the right tap dance shoes for your style and enjoy a more comfortable and enjoyable dance experience.
