Posts Tagged ‘footwear’

How to Choose Tap Shoes

Sunday, August 9th, 2009

Tap dancers utilize their shoes to demonstrate their skill through routines and the sound that flows from their shoes. Tap dancing classes can be taken by anyone who wants to learn a new skill whether it be for fun or exercise. So how do you choose the right tap shoes? If you are new to tap dancing you must know the basics so you know how to choose tap shoes.

Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Sound is one important factor when it comes to tap dancing. There are three different types of shoes to choose from which are teletone, duotone and supertone. Each shoe has a different amount of screws, which are adjustable in order to produce a different sound. The most common tap shoe is the teletone as it has three screws on each shoe. Play around with each type to find which sound you prefer.

  2. Step 2
  3. style  is another factor when it comes to finding the perfect tap shoe. Tap shoes are made from three materials, which are leather, plastic, and canvas. Mary Janes tend to be the female tap dancers favorite while the black-tie oxfords tend to be the male tap dancers favorite. Nowadays, tap shoes come in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes.
  4. Step 3

    Comfort is another important factor as you will be on your feet, obviously. The soles of tap shoes come in two forms, either split or full. If you choose split you will have more flexibility whereas if you choose full you will have limited flexibility. Heels are typically an inch or more. Tap dance shoes can be purchased for $40 to $100. New tap dancers should purchase their shoes in person and wear the footwear they will wear while dancing. This will ensure a proper fit and you’ll be on your way to a new expression.

 

Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Sound is one important factor when it comes to tap dancing. There are three different types of shoes to choose from which are teletone, duotone and supertone. Each shoe has a different amount of screws, which are adjustable in order to produce a different sound. The most common tap shoe is the teletone as it has three screws on each shoe. Play around with each type to find which sound you prefer.

  2. Step 2

    Style  is another factor when it comes to finding the perfect tap shoe. Tap shoes are made from three materials, which are leather, plastic, and canvas. Mary Janes tend to be the female tap dancers favorite while the black-tie oxfords tend to be the male tap dancers favorite. Nowadays, tap shoes come in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes.

  3. Step 3

    Comfort is another important factor as you will be on your feet, obviously. The soles of tap shoes come in two forms, either split or full. If you choose split you will have more flexibility whereas if you choose full you will have limited flexibility. Heels are typically an inch or more. Tap dance shoes can be purchased for $40 to $100. New tap dancers should purchase their shoes in person and wear the footwear they will wear while dancing. This will ensure a proper fit and you’ll be on your way to a new expression

MORE ON HOW TO CHOOSE TAP SHOES:

You can’t tap without the shoes. Picking the right pair of tap shoes can be just as important as the moves you make. With so many different styles and options to choose from, making your selection can be just as difficult as getting the rhythm right. Follow these steps to make the decision a little easier.

 

Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Choose a style. There are several different styles of tap shoes to choose from. Low heel and Cuban tap shoes are the most common and leather or canvas materials are the popular choices as they are durable yet flexible. You can choose from many different stitching patterns and colors.

  2. Step 2

    Accessorize. Shoes can come with toe or heel taps already attached. You have the option of buying these pre-made or attaching these yourself or at a shoe repair shop. There are many different accessories available (see resources) so you can customize your choice.

  3. Step 3

    Shop around. As with any purchase, check a few different competitors before making your final choice. Compare different prices and check there is a refund policy or gaurentee

  4. Step 4

    Check the fit. Especially if buying tap shoes for the first time, it is important to try them on. Your tap shoes should be comfortable and fairly snug but without pinching. Wear the same socks and stockings that you will when dancing and try flexing your feet and moving a few steps to check the fit.

  5. Step 5

    Consider a back up. If you tap several times a week or more your shoes will inevitably become worn. Having a basic pair of good value ‘two tie’ shoes can be great for regular practice and will allow you to invest in some high quality toe tappers for special events that will last a long time.