subject: Buy The Right Tap Shoes [print this page] If youre reading this article then youre probably looking for a new pair of tap shoes. Theres loads of choice out there so this article should help you pick out a pair which fulfil all of your tap dancing requirements.
Firstly, lets take a look at what makes a tap shoe different from other types of dance shoes. Theyre designed specifically for tap and have metal plates mounted to the bottom of the heel and toe called taps. When struck against a hard surface, they make the lound rhythmic tapping sound that is synonymous with this style of dance.
Just like any pair of dance shoes, your tap shoes should provide you with a comfortable fit. No matter how stylish they look, nor how superior the quality of the tapping sound they make, an ill-fitting pair are simply no use because they will inhibit your dancing ability. A pair of well fitting tap shoes will provide a snug fit to your foot but wont be too tight. If they move around a little, its best to try the next size down as the feet work very hard when learning to tap dance so any movement of the shoe on the foot can create very uncomfortable blisters.
The style you choose is largely down to personal preference though for men its much easier. Women, however, need to consider heel height. A higher heel may have more style but also makes learning to tap dance more difficult for beginners so remember to consider your ability. Its recommended to begin learning with a pair of fairly flat tap shoes and then advance to a heeled pair when your ability improves. Another important element of the style is the fabric. Most have a leather upper which softens with use, is long lasting and durable. A cheaper alternative is PVC. This will not soften and wont last as long as ever but is a good alternative if youre just starting out and you dont want to spend too much money.
Finally, you mustnt forget the taps! Tap shoes wont make that all important tapping sound without them. Sometimes, they will come with both the toe taps and heel taps pre-attached; this is certainly usually the case for tap shoes designed for beginners. However, its more likely that the toe taps will be attached but you will have to attach the heel taps. The most popular taps are called Teletone Taps which include a sounding board which can be adjusted by slightly turning the screws which hold them to the shoe. Adjusting the sounding boards adjusts the type of tapping sound which is made by the tap shoe and enables the dancer to ensure their shoe makes a tapping sound to fit the character of their performance.
by: I. Evans
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