Dancing is a visual performing art that needs rigorous practice to mesmerize the audience. One has to ace the moves and expressions to be spectacular on stage, but the flexibility in moves comes from a proper pair of dance shoes. And with the evolution of various dance forms, different types of dance shoes have come into existence to help dancers perform with comfort and ease. So, let’s look into various styles of dancing shoes that suit various dance forms.
1. Ballroom Shoes
A pair of ballroom shoes are necessary to give a perfect start to ballroom dancing. Ballroom shoes are available for men as well as women, and they can differ for classical dance or Latin dance. Generally, girls dance shoes have higher heels than men’s shoes.
Ballroom shoes can vary in the material used, color, and style. However, Latin ballroom dancing mandates that women’s shoes be open-toed and strappy. The heels will assist in providing better balance to the dancers as the toes will help in leading the dance moves. Aesthetically, it improves the overall appearance of dancers as it gives an elongated look to the legs.
2. Jazz Shoes
Attending jazz classes can be exciting. But the basic requirement for these classes is a good pair of jazz shoes. Not just for jazz classes, but these shoes can also be used for musical theatre and lyrical dance. So, while attending the first few classes, wear socks under your shoes until the material of the shoes stretches. Meanwhile, wearing tight shoes can cause blisters on the dancer’s feet that can hamper the performance. Hence, it is advisable to get well-fitting girls’ dance shoes that will amplify the dance moves, turns, and kicks while performing jazz.
3. Pointe Shoes
Dancers have used ballet shoes to perform pointe work for decades. Anna Pavlova has impacted the evolution of modern pointe shoes. An extra leather sole was used in her shoes to flatten the toe area that resembled a box. Often referred to as toe shoes, pointe shoes help dancers master their toe movements while performing at the ball. Meanwhile, the toes and ankles undergo tremendous pressure while performing the pointe work and the toe pads in the pointe shoe provide some comfort and protection to the dancer’s toes.
4. Tap Shoes
Tap dance is another dance form that requires special dance shoes called tap shoes. Experienced dancers generally wear tap shoes with high heels. The shoes come with a split sole or full sole, and the dancer can choose either of them based on comfort. As such, highly trained tap dancers use split-sole shoes that help them to create more double-tapping and clicks per beat. Besides, selecting the shoes based on screws and the soundboard should be considered to sync the dance with the striking tap sounds.
5. Character Shoes
Generally worn for performance, these are the most suitable dance shoes for musical theatre performances. These performances involve songs, dialogues, acting, and dancing. Though these are not as attractive as ballroom shoes, they work great if one is inclined to learn and master the technique and choreography. Not just for dance performances, they can also be used as dress shoes.
Before learning the dancing techniques, a dancer should get a good pair of dancing shoes, which can help in mastering the steps and moves. Meanwhile, opting for stylish shoes without compromising on comfort can help dancers create a magical performance on stage. So, consider trial footwear before investing in a good pair of dance shoes.