Choosing the right Irish dance shoes is crucial for any dancer, regardless of their skill level or experience. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of Irish dance shoes available and how to choose the right pair for your specific needs.
Types of Irish Dance Shoes
There are two main types of Irish dance shoes: hard shoes and soft shoes.
Hard Shoes
Hard shoes are used for heavier, faster dance styles such as the hornpipe, treble jig, and reel. They are typically made of fiberglass or plastic and have a hard, flat sole. Hard shoes come in different levels of hardness, with harder shoes providing more sound and less flexibility.
Soft Shoes
Soft shoes are used for lighter, more intricate dance styles such as the jig, slip jig, and light two-step. They are typically made of leather or suede and have a soft, flexible sole. Soft shoes come in different styles, including ghillies and pumps.
Choosing the Right Shoes for Your Dance Style
When choosing Irish dance shoes, it's important to consider the type of dance you will be performing. If you will be performing heavier, faster dance styles, hard shoes are the best choice. If you will be performing lighter, more intricate dance styles, soft shoes are the best choice.
Choosing the Right Shoes for Different Surfaces
It's also important to consider the surface you will be dancing on. If you will be dancing on a hard surface, such as a wooden floor, hard shoes are the best choice. If you will be dancing on a softer surface, such as a stage with a marley floor, soft shoes may be more appropriate.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Irish dance shoes can make a big difference in your performance. By considering the type of dance you will be performing and the surface you will be dancing on, you can choose the right shoes to help you perform at your best.
