Tap Shoes – Choose The Best Pair
Whatever your age, learning to tap dance is a great way to keep fit, meet new people and most of all have fun! In order to create that distinctive tapping sound you will need to purchase a pair of tap shoes. These are characterised by metal plates and the heel and toe called “taps”. Here are a few top tips to choosing the right pair for you.
One of the most important elements of the tap shoe is the sound. This percussive sound is produced by the motion of the toe and heel taps making contact with the floor. The three main types of sounds are teletone, duotone and superton – out of these teletone are the most popular. Some tap shoes are available with the toe taps pre-attached using rivets. If you ever need to change these type of taps, you will require an experienced cobbler though they’re a strong fastener and usually very reliable. However, most taps are attached with screws which you can tighten and loosen to adjust the sound they make.
More important than the sound your tap shoes make is the fit they provide your foot. Without a well fitting pair, the way they look and sound will become insignificant because your ability as a dancer will become inhibited. Your tap shoes should have a snug fit without being too tight. If your feet are still growing, allowing for growing room should be done with caution because any movement of your shoes on your feet creates a high possibility of causing blisters, discomfort and even further damage. When trying on a pair of tap shoes, it’s a good idea to move around in them a little and remember that they may need to be broken in before any dancing.
The price of your tap shoes will no doubt influence which pair you go for. If you’re just starting out then there’s no need to spend a fortune, as there are a wide range of high quality tap shoes available from recognised brands such as Capezio, Dance Gear and Bloch at very reasonable prices.
It’s a good idea to visit a local dance shop to ensure you get the best fit but if you’re looking for the best price then you may be better off looking online. The internet offers a wide range of dance shops where you can purchase dance shoes. It’s a good idea to shop around because prices can vary. Be sure to take into account the cost of postage, returns policy and terms and conditions to ensure you get the best possible service!
About the Author
Dance Gear Direct are experts in providing dance wear with over 30 years experience. For more information about our extensive range of tap shoes please visit our website www.dancegeardirect.co.uk.
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