Finding Your Rhythm: How to Choose the Right Tap Shoe
When it comes to the world of dance, selecting the right tap shoe is crucial to your performance and comfort on the dance floor. Tap shoes come in various styles, each offering unique features and advantages. In this guide, we will help you navigate through the options and considerations for choosing the best tap shoes both for beginners and advanced tappers. We'll explore the classic Oxford, the elegant Mary-Jane, the comfortable Flex-style, and the versatile Jazz-style tap shoes, and also delve into the choice between leather and synthetic materials.
Tap Shoe Styles
1. Oxford Style
The Oxford tap shoe is a timeless classic. It features a low, lace-up design with a firm, flat sole, and a small heel. Oxfords are highly versatile and suitable for beginners and experienced tap dancers alike. Here are some key points to consider when choosing Oxford style tap shoes:
- Durability: Oxford tap shoes are often made of durable materials, providing long-lasting support and comfort.
- Classic Look: Their traditional design makes them a popular choice for various dance styles, including jazz and ballet.
- Support: The lace-up design offers a snug fit and excellent ankle support, promoting stability during your routines.
Dancewear Corner's top selling Oxford tap shoe: Bloch S0313L "Jason Samuel Smith" Lace Up Tap Shoes
2. Mary-Jane Style
Mary-Jane tap shoes are known for their elegance and feminine touch. These shoes have a strap across the instep, often secured with a buckle or snap button. Advanced dancers favor the elevated heel height of these tap shoes for executing intricate footwork. The increased heel encourages pivoting, turns, and spins. Here's what you should consider when looking at Mary-Jane tap shoes:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Mary-Jane tap shoes are favored for their stylish appearance, making them ideal for performances and recitals.
- Comfort: The strap across the instep offers a secure fit while allowing for easy adjustments.
- Versatility: Mary-Jane shoes are suitable for various dance styles and offer a balance between style and functionality.
Dancewear Corner's top selling Mary-Jane style tap shoe: Capezio 356C Child Shuffle Tap Shoe.
3. Jazz Style
Jazz tap shoes are a popular choice among professional tap dancers due to their unique design. These shoes combine the features of a classic jazz shoe with tap plates, allowing for smoother and more fluid movements. Consider the following when exploring Jazz-style tap shoes:
- Artistic Freedom: The slip-on design of Jazz tap shoes enables more freedom of movement and expression.
- Lightweight: They are often lightweight and provide enhanced flexibility.
- Sound Quality: These shoes allow for nuanced, complex sounds, making them suitable for advanced tappers.
Dancewear Corner's top selling Jazz-style tap shoe: So Danca TA05 Lace Up Tap Shoe.
4. Flex Style
Flex tap shoes combine elements of flexibility and traditional tap shoe design. The key feature of a flex tap shoe is its split sole construction, which allows for greater flexibility and articulation of the foot. Here's what to consider when it comes to Flex tap shoes:
- Comfort and Support: They offer greater comfort and support with extra cushioning.
- Enhanced Articulation: The flexible sole allows for better foot movement and control.
- Versatility: Suitable for both beginners and experienced dancers in various dance styles.
- Injury Prevention: The cushioning and support can reduce the risk of foot and ankle injuries.
Dancewear Corner's top selling Flex-style tap shoe: Bloch S0388L Adult "Tap Flex" Lace Up Tap Shoes.
Leather vs. Synthetic Materials
The choice of material for your tap shoes is another essential consideration. Both leather and synthetic materials have their own set of advantages and disadvantages:
1. Leather
- Durability: Leather tap shoes are known for their durability and longevity. They can withstand rigorous use and maintain their shape over time.
- Comfort: Leather molds to your feet over time, offering a personalized fit and superior comfort. Generally, leather tap shoes are easier to break in compared to synthetic tap shoes.
- Sound Quality: Leather tap shoes are favored for their superior sound quality, producing clear, resonant taps.
2. Synthetic
- Affordability: Synthetic tap shoes are often more budget-friendly than leather alternatives, making them a practical choice for beginners.
- Low Maintenance: Synthetic materials are easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal care.
- Vegan-Friendly: For those who prefer cruelty-free options, synthetic tap shoes are a suitable choice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tap shoe for you involves considering your dance style, personal preferences, and the materials that suit your needs. Whether you opt for the classic Oxford, the elegant Mary-Jane, or the versatile Jazz-style tap shoes, ensure that they offer the right balance of style, comfort, and performance. Additionally, the choice between leather and synthetic materials comes down to your budget and ethical concerns.
Remember that finding the perfect tap shoe is a personal journey, and trying different styles and materials can help you determine which one suits you best. Invest in a high-quality pair that meets your unique needs, and you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of tap dance.