Are you looking to buy the perfect pair of dance shoes for your little one? With so many options out there, it can take time to figure out where to start. But fear not! It's time to put on those happy feet and choose the right pair of shoes for your little dancer!

As parents, we want nothing but the best for our little ones, and getting them the right gear is one of the best ways to support their passion. In this blog post, we will break down the key factors you should consider when selecting the perfect pair of dance shoes to ensure they are comfortable, safe, and, most importantly, happy while dancing!

Style and Type of Dance

The type of dance your child will be performing should determine the style of dance shoe you choose. Ballet shoes, for instance, are quite different from jazz shoes or tap shoes. Ballet shoes are soft and flexible, while tap shoes have a hard sole to create the sound of taps. Jazz shoes, on the other hand, have a split sole that allows for flexibility while also providing support.

It is important to keep in mind what type of dance they are doing - you don't want to give a ballet dancer shoes appropriate for Jazz or vice versa. A child who may be learning all styles of dancing should look at a crossover shoe that can usually handle most types. For specific shoes used during performances, here are some examples:

• Ballet requires special ballet slippers because the feet need to slide and rotate easily while protecting them from injury. 
• Jazz needs thick-soled leather oxfords with a smooth sliding surface on the sole, small heel taps, and flexible fronts that allow shock absorption for rapid directional changes without impairing the ability to stop suddenly, which is necessary for stopping specific movements such as toe stands. 
• On the other hand, tap shoes are very much like Jazz shoes, with the key difference of having a different bottom to make the tapping sound you hear. 
• Lastly, hip hop mostly concerns freestyle movement, so sneakers are a good option because they offer good cushion, ensuring safety during the entire practice or performance session. The aesthetic value of the sneakers is also a plus!

Support and Comfort

Dance shoes should provide adequate support and comfort to prevent injuries and promote good posture. Wearing shoes that you are most comfortable with can make all the difference, like being able to perform longer and making sure your feet stay happy and healthy in the long run.

The material of shoes can affect how soft or firm they are and provide different levels of cushioning. Look for shoes with a cushioned insole and arch support to protect your child's feet and prevent strain on their joints. It should also fit correctly, as poorly fitting shoes may cause blisters and injuries. 

Breathability is an equally important aspect that needs to be considered; this helps avoid making feet sweaty and uncomfortable while wearing them for a longer duration. Additionally, one must make sure the tightness isn't a problem when selecting shoes - overly tight sneakers could lead to discomfort later on in terms of the blood circulation being affected, thereby reducing foot movement functionality over time.

Some dance shoes come with straps or laces for extra support and to keep the shoes in place during performances.

Cost and Durability

Dance shoes can be expensive, so it's important to invest in a durable pair that will last. Look for shoes with a strong sole and high-quality material that won't wear down quickly. While cost may be a factor, it's important to remember that investing in a quality pair of shoes can save money in the long run as they require less maintenance than cheaper options, and you won't have to replace shoes frequently. Additionally, having a good pair of shoes will ensure you have better control over your movements on stage or during practice sessions. 

And don't forget to do your research! It would be best to look at reviews from other dancers who have used the same shoe before making your purchase to ensure you get the most value out of your buck.

Design and Fun Value

And most importantly, don't forget to take into consideration what your kid would like. After all, they are the ones who are going to be wearing the pair of shoes. At their age, rather than praising function, they are much more likely to favour shoes if they like how it looks.

Wearing shoes that they are proud to flaunt will encourage them to wear them more. They will be more eager and have a more fun time practising dance. It's a win-win!

There's a right fit for everyone.

Like Prince Charming finding whom the glass slipper belongs to, you will surely find the perfect pair of shoes for your little dancer by keeping the factors listed above in mind. 

If you have bought a pair of shoes already, let us ask. Did they love it? And if they did, care to try it out in our studio?

If you are still undecided, ask us for our opinion. Trust us, we have seen a variety of shoes used by our students, and what's more, we understand. We're dancers too! Call us at 0422939749, and let's take those shoes out for a spin!