The Importance of Proper Tap Dance Shoes

When it comes to tap dance, the right footwear is not just a luxury—it's a necessity. These shoes are specifically designed to enhance your dancing technique by providing the right amount of support and flexibility. Unlike regular shoes, they come equipped with metal plates on the heels and toes, allowing dancers to create crisp, clear sounds that are essential for this style of dance. Proper footwear also help prevent common foot injuries such as blisters, sprains, and stress fractures by offering the correct amount of cushioning and arch support.

Wearing tap dance shoes instead of regular shoes offers numerous benefits. These shoes are designed to promote correct posture and alignment, which is crucial for maintaining balance and executing precise movements. Their structure encourages dancers to stay on the balls of their feet, improving rhythm and timing. This helps dancers perform with greater confidence and accuracy, ensuring that every step resonates with the intended sound.

How to Choose the Right Tap Dance Shoes

Choosing the right pair of shoes is essential for both beginners and advanced dancers. For those just starting, it's important to find an option that provides comfort and stability. Beginners should look for shoes with a slightly thicker sole for added support, while advanced dancers might prefer a thinner sole for more flexibility and control.

Consider factors such as the type of material (leather vs. synthetic), the shape of the toe box, and the quality of the taps themselves. Proper fit and sizing are also crucial; shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort, while shoes that are too loose can lead to improper technique and potential injury. Always try on your tap shoes with the same type of socks or tights you plan to wear during practice or performances to ensure the best fit.

How to Break in New Tap Dance Shoes

Breaking in new tap dance shoes can be a bit of a challenge, but it's essential for achieving the perfect fit. One technique for softening and molding the shoe material is to wear them around the house with thick socks to stretch out tight areas. You can also gently bend the shoes with your hands to help loosen them up. For particularly tight spots, consider using a shoe stretcher or applying a bit of rubbing alcohol to soften the leather.

When breaking in your tap shoes, avoid common mistakes such as rushing the process or attempting to break them in during a performance. Take your time to gradually mold them to your feet, ensuring they provide both comfort and support. With the right approach, they will soon feel like an extension of your body, allowing you to dance with ease and confidence.

At Attitude Australia, we offer a wide selection of tap dance shoes designed to meet the needs of every dancer, whether you're just starting or are an experienced performer. Shopping online is easy, and we deliver anywhere in Australia, so you can get the perfect pair of tap shoes delivered right to your door.

FAQ's

What shoes do you wear for tap dance?

For this type of dance, you wear specialized shoes that are designed with metal plates, known as taps, attached to the heel and toe. The taps create a distinctive sound when they strike the floor, which is essential for the rhythm and style of tap dance. Unlike regular shoes, tap dance shoes provide the necessary support, flexibility, and sound quality needed for tap dance performances and practice.

What is a tap dance shoe?

A tap dance shoe is a type of footwear specifically designed for tap dancing. It features metal taps on the heel and toe that produce clear, resonant sounds with each step. The shoe's construction is tailored to enhance a dancer's performance by offering a snug fit, proper support, and the flexibility required for various tap dance styles. Tap shoes are available in different materials, such as leather and synthetic options, and come in various styles, including low-heel and high-heel versions, depending on the dancer's preference and the style of tap dance they are performing.

What are the best beginner tap shoes?

The best option is the one that offers comfort, durability, and good sound quality. For beginners, it's important to choose shoes with a slightly thicker sole for added support, as this helps with balance and stability during practice. Leather tap shoes are often recommended for their durability and ability to mould to the shape of your foot over time. The brand Capezio is a popular choice for beginners because they offer high-quality tap shoes that are both comfortable and affordable. Make sure to choose a pair that fits well and provides the right amount of flexibility, allowing you to learn and improve your tap dance technique with ease.