If The Shoe Fits - A Guide To Dance Shoes

TAP - Tap shoes should fit snugly, as the leather will stretch with time.  Comfort is also very important when purchasing tap shoes.  Be sure to bring the socks or tights you will be wearing in class when you are tap shoe shopping.  Heeled tap shoes are a more difficult to tap in, so I would not recommend them for beginners.  A strong leather sole tap shoe with a toe box is typically the best, as it supports the toes and foot.

JAZZ-  Jazz shoes should fit a bit snugger than normal street shoes, but not uncomfortably so.  Jazz shoes come in split sole, sneaker, and full sole shoes.  Split sole are best for beginners as feet are not strong enough to point through a sneaker or full shoe.  Buying split sole jazz shoes allows for the dancer to strengthen and point feet without any cheats or tricks.

BALLET- Ballet slippers should fit snugly, without the toes curling underneath.  Leather or canvas slippers are available and mainly depend on preference, leather is better for strengthening feet.  Overall, slippers should fit like a comfortable glove and elastics should be sewn own according to the individual's foot.

POINTE - Pointe shoes require the most time and money to purchase.  Pointe shoes can be dangerous, especially for beginners, and should be fitted by a professional and worn only by those technically ready and who posses the strength required.  Dancers should wear tights when trying on pointe shoes, as the fabric of socks would make a great difference in the fit.  Finding the perfect pointe shoe is very difficult and takes lots of trial and error. Just be sure to have the shoe fit professionally and break your shoes in properly. Below is a link to a video demonstrating the break in process.

Pointe Shoe Break in Video