Imagine a sound – a rhythmic, percussive beat that seems to explode from the dancer’s feet. That’s the magic of tap dance! But what makes that amazing sound possible? It all starts with the shoes. Have you ever watched a tap dancer and wondered how they create those intricate rhythms and sharp clacks? It’s not just skill; it’s the secret weapon: tap shoes!
Choosing the right tap shoes can feel like a dance in itself. There are so many types, so many brands, and what even *is* a “full sole” versus a “split sole”? It can be confusing, and the wrong shoes can make learning harder and even lead to frustration. You want shoes that feel good, sound great, and help you express your unique style, but finding them can be a real challenge.
In this post, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll explore the different parts of a tap shoe, what makes them unique, and how to pick the perfect pair for your feet and your dancing goals. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about finding tap shoes that will have you tapping with joy and confidence!
Our Top 5 Tap Dance Shoes Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Tap Dance Shoes Detailed Reviews
1. Linodes PU Leather Lace Up Tap Shoe Dance Shoes for Women and Men’s Dance Shoes-Black-9M
Rating: 8.7/10
Step into the rhythm with the Linodes PU Leather Lace Up Tap Shoe Dance Shoes. These black tap shoes, available in size 9M for both women and men, offer a classic look and feel for dancers of all levels. Crafted with quality materials, they are designed to help you make some noise on the dance floor.
What We Like:
- The upper is made of good quality PU leather. This makes the shoes look nice and feel sturdy.
- The classic lace-up style lets you adjust the fit easily. You can make them snug or a little looser to feel comfortable.
- The taps are screwed on securely. This means they will stay put and make clear tapping sounds.
- The heel is about 1 inch high. This is a good height for tap dancing.
- The outsole is flexible and has a rubber patch. This helps you grip the floor and prevents slipping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The lining is synthetic. Some dancers might prefer a softer, more breathable material for long practice sessions.
- The size information is given as heel to toe length in centimeters (259cm). It would be more helpful to have standard US or UK shoe sizing alongside this measurement to make choosing the right fit even simpler.
These Linodes tap shoes are a solid choice for dancers looking for a reliable and stylish option. They offer good value and essential features for hitting the stage or practicing your steps.
2. Stelle Tap Shoes for Girls Toddler Boys PU Leather Dance Shoes(Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid)(Black
Rating: 8.9/10
Step into the spotlight with Stelle Tap Shoes, designed for young dancers of all ages! These black PU leather tap shoes offer a perfect blend of style, comfort, and sound, making them ideal for practice and performance. With options for toddlers to big kids, Stelle ensures every dancer can find their perfect fit.
What We Like:
- Versatile Styles: Choose from classic black or elegant black with a rhinestone buckle, plus tan options, allowing kids to express their unique dance style.
- Comfortable Design: High-quality PU leather is easy to clean. A rounded toe prevents pinching, and a padded heel collar protects against chafing. Cushioned insoles provide great shock absorption.
- Excellent Sound: The shoes feature a manufactured sole for great traction and a non-slip grip. Thick iron plates are screwed into the soundboards for durable, beautiful tapping sounds.
- Easy On and Off: Hook-and-loop straps make these shoes a breeze for kids to put on and take off themselves, eliminating tripping hazards from laces.
- Wide Size Range: Available for toddlers through big kids (size 7 to 3), these shoes fit true to size.
What Could Be Improved:
- The floral rhinestone buckle option is only available in black, limiting color choices for that specific style.
- While the PU leather is easy to clean, some parents might prefer a more breathable material for extended wear.
Stelle Tap Shoes are a fantastic choice for budding dancers, offering both performance quality and kid-friendly features. They provide the confidence and comfort young performers need to shine on stage.
3. Linodes Unisex PU Leather Slip On Tap Shoe Dance Shoes for Women and Men’s Dance Shoes-Black-6M
Rating: 8.8/10
Step up your dance game with the Linodes Unisex PU Leather Slip On Tap Shoe Dance Shoes. These shoes are designed for both women and men and come in a classic black color. The size 6M is perfect for a comfortable fit. They are easy to wear and take off.
What We Like:
- The upper part of the shoe is made from good quality PU leather.
- It has a synthetic lining that feels nice inside.
- Putting them on and taking them off is a breeze thanks to the slip-on style and elastic bands.
- The taps are screwed onto a sound board, which helps create clear tap sounds.
- The heel is about 1 inch high, giving you a little lift.
- The bottom of the shoe is flexible and has a rubber patch to help you grip the floor and avoid slipping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The size information is given as “Heel to toe: 235cm.” This measurement might be confusing for some users, as centimeters are usually used for smaller measurements, and feet are typically measured in inches or shoe sizes. It would be more helpful to provide standard shoe sizing information.
- While PU leather is durable, some dancers might prefer real leather for a more traditional feel and potentially better breathability.
These tap shoes offer a great combination of style and function for dancers. They are a solid choice for anyone looking for affordable and easy-to-use tap shoes.
4. Stelle Tap Shoes for Girls Boys PU Leather Non-Slip Dance Shoes for Toddler/Little Kid/Big Kid(Black
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for your little one to tap their way to stardom with the Stelle Tap Shoes! These shoes are designed for comfort and sound, making them a fantastic choice for young dancers of all ages. Whether your child is just starting out or a seasoned performer, these tap shoes offer a great blend of quality and practicality.
What We Like:
- High-Quality Construction: Made with flexible PU leather and durable soles, these shoes are built for comfort and lasting wear. The padded heel collar and velvet insole provide extra support and shock absorption, keeping little feet happy during every dance session.
- Convenient Hook-And-Loop Strap: No more tripping over laces! The easy-to-use hook-and-loop strap makes these shoes a breeze for kids to put on and take off themselves, promoting independence and safety.
- Crisp, Clear Sound: The non-slip outsole and high-quality tap plates deliver a satisfying, clear tap sound with every step. This feature ensures dancers can hear their rhythm and feel confident in their performance.
- Multiple Unisex Color Options: Available in classic black with a glossy shine and tan with a matte finish, these shoes offer stylish choices for both boys and girls. They’re designed to look great with any dance outfit.
- Sizes for Every Dance: Stelle offers a wide range of sizes, from toddler to big kid, ensuring a perfect fit for dancers at every stage of their journey. It’s important to check the size chart to find the best match.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sole Durability: While the soles are durable, very active dancers might see some wear and tear over extended periods of intense practice.
- Material Stiffness (Initial Wear): Like many new leather shoes, there might be a slight stiffness in the initial wear that softens with use.
These Stelle tap shoes are a well-rounded option for young dancers, offering a great combination of comfort, sound, and convenience. They are a solid choice for any child ready to explore the world of tap dancing.
5. Dance Class MJ101 Beginning Tap Mary Jane (Little Kid/Big Kid)
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to tap your way to fun with the Dance Class MJ101 Beginning Tap Mary Jane! This shoe is designed for young dancers taking their first steps into the exciting world of tap. It features a classic Mary Jane look that’s both stylish and practical for any dance class, recital, or performance. Available in a versatile black color and a 12.5 M US Little Kid size, these shoes are built for comfort and great sound.
What We Like:
- The adjustable hook and loop closure makes it super easy for kids to get a snug and secure fit. This means their feet stay stable while they’re dancing.
- These shoes have high-quality taps on both the heel and the toe. They make a really clear, crisp sound with every step, which is exactly what you want in a tap shoe.
- The classic Mary Jane design is elegant and timeless. It looks great on both boys and girls, making it a fantastic choice for any young tap dancer.
- Dance Class shoes are made to fit securely for dancing. The brand offers a wide range of sizes, so you can find the right fit for your child.
What Could Be Improved:
- The sizing can be a bit snug for dancing. If your child doesn’t like a tight fit, you might need to order a size up.
The Dance Class MJ101 is a solid choice for beginner tap dancers. It offers a good balance of style, sound, and a secure fit for little feet.
Find Your Rhythm: The Ultimate Tap Dance Shoe Buying Guide
Tap dancing is all about making music with your feet! The right tap shoes help you do just that. They have metal taps on the bottom that make that awesome clackety sound. Picking the perfect pair can feel a little tricky at first, but this guide will help you find the shoes that will make you want to dance all day.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for tap shoes, keep these important things in mind:
- The Taps: This is the most important part!
- Sound: Good taps make a clear, sharp sound. Cheaper taps can sound dull or tinny. Listen to them if you can!
- Attachment: The taps should be screwed on tightly. This makes sure they stay put and sound their best. Look for taps that are flush with the sole so they don’t catch on anything.
- Sole: The bottom of the shoe.
- Flexibility: The sole needs to be a little flexible so you can point your toes and move easily.
- Grip: Some soles have a little grip to help you stay steady.
- Heel: The back of the shoe.
- Tap Placement: The heel tap is usually larger than the toe tap. Make sure it’s positioned well for balance.
- Height: Most beginner tap shoes have a low, sturdy heel. This is good for stability.
- Fit: This is super important!
- Snug but not tight: Your shoes should feel snug all around your foot. They shouldn’t pinch or rub anywhere.
- Room for socks: If you plan to wear tap socks or thin socks, make sure there’s a little extra room.
- No slipping: Your heel should not lift out of the shoe when you walk or dance.
Important Materials
The materials used in tap shoes affect how they feel and how long they last.
- Leather: Many good tap shoes are made of real leather.
- Pros: Leather is strong and molds to your foot over time. It breathes well, too.
- Cons: Leather can be more expensive. It might need some breaking in.
- Synthetic Materials (Faux Leather): These are often used in less expensive shoes.
- Pros: These are usually cheaper and can be easier to clean.
- Cons: They might not last as long as real leather. They may not be as comfortable or breathable.
- Rubber Soles: Some shoes have rubber soles for extra grip. This is helpful for beginners.
- Metal Taps: Usually made of aluminum or steel. Steel taps tend to make a louder, clearer sound.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make tap shoes great or not so great.
- Build Quality: How well the shoe is put together matters.
- Strong Stitching: Good shoes have strong stitching that won’t come undone easily.
- Secure Taps: Taps that are screwed on firmly and are flush with the sole are a sign of good quality.
- Reinforced Areas: Areas that get a lot of wear, like the toe and heel, should be well-made.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making high-quality dance shoes. Doing a little research on brands can help.
- Price: While not always true, more expensive shoes often use better materials and have better construction. However, you can find good quality at different price points.
- Care: How you take care of your shoes also affects their quality.
- Cleaning: Wiping them down after use keeps them looking nice.
- Drying: Letting them air dry if they get wet is important.
- Avoiding damage: Don’t wear tap shoes outside on rough surfaces like pavement. This will damage the taps and the soles.
User Experience and Use Cases
Tap shoes are for anyone who wants to tap dance!
- Beginners: For those just starting, comfortable shoes with good sound are key. A low heel and a snug fit help with balance and learning basic steps. Shoes with rubber soles can offer extra support.
- Intermediate/Advanced Dancers: As dancers get better, they might want shoes that offer more flexibility and a brighter, more responsive sound. Lighter shoes and different tap styles become important.
- Performance: For stage performances, shoes that look good and sound great are a must. They need to be durable enough for multiple shows.
- Practice: For everyday practice, comfort and durability are the main focus.
Tap Dance Shoe FAQs
Q: How should tap shoes fit?
A: Tap shoes should fit snugly, like a glove, but not be too tight. Your heel should not lift up when you walk. There should be a little room if you wear thin socks.
Q: What’s the difference between leather and synthetic tap shoes?
A: Leather tap shoes are usually more durable and comfortable because they mold to your foot. Synthetic shoes are often less expensive but may not last as long or feel as good.
Q: How do I know if the taps are good quality?
A: Good quality taps are screwed on tightly and are flush with the sole. They make a clear, sharp sound when you tap them.
Q: Can I wear my tap shoes outside?
A: No, you should not wear tap shoes outside on rough surfaces like concrete or pavement. This will damage the taps and the soles, and they won’t sound as good.
Q: How do I clean my tap shoes?
A: You can wipe them down with a damp cloth. For leather shoes, you might use a leather conditioner. Always let them air dry if they get wet.
Q: What kind of socks should I wear with tap shoes?
A: Many dancers wear thin tap socks or tights. Some prefer no socks at all. Avoid thick, bulky socks, as they can make the shoes too tight.
Q: How long do tap shoes usually last?
A: This depends on how often you wear them and how well you care for them. Good quality shoes, with proper care, can last for a year or more for regular dancers.
Q: Should I buy tap shoes that are a size bigger?
A: Generally, no. Tap shoes should fit true to size. If you plan to wear socks, make sure there’s a tiny bit of extra room, but they shouldn’t be intentionally ordered a size up.
Q: What makes a tap shoe sound good?
A: The quality of the metal taps and how they are attached to the shoe greatly affects the sound. Well-made, properly attached taps produce a clear, resonant sound.
Q: Are there different types of tap shoes for different styles of tap?
A: Yes, while basic tap shoes are good for beginners, more advanced dancers might look for shoes with different sole flexibility, heel types, and tap placements to suit specific tap styles like rhythm tap or Broadway tap.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.