Tap shoes are special shoes designed specifically for tap dancers. Metal plates are usually fitted to the areas of the sole beneath the ball of the foot and the heel, and the shoes are usually made of leather or a similar material. As a result, each step taps against the floor, earning the shoes their name.
Tap dancers make percussive noises that are directly related to their footwork and movement speed while dancing. As a result, tap dancers are frequently mistaken for musicians as well as dancers. Tap shoes can be considered both musical instruments and footwear, according to this logic.
Flat shoes with a lace-up top or a strap that fits over the top of the foot are common tap shoes. Male and female dancers can both wear lace-up shoes. Those with straps are typically only for women. Tap plates can be added to character shoes, which are high-heeled women’s shoes worn on stage. When a female tap dancer needs to dance in a particularly feminine costume, this is done.
Tap shoes must be worn while dancing on a hard surface such as wood or linoleum in order to make their percussive noises. Tap dancing on concrete is not recommended because the texture of the surface can cause deep scratches in the shoes’ metal plates. Furthermore, the density of concrete can cause pain in the dancer’s feet and legs. Tap dancers who perform outside frequently bring a small, portable platform to dance on for these reasons.
Tap shoes are usually made of black leather as standard issue. Leather, on the other hand, can be stained with color or painted with patterns for various costumes. They’re even embellished with sequins, glitter, and metallic paint in some cases. Fabric can also be used to cover the shoes.
Tap dancing is a common component of dance programs for children and teenagers. Proper footwear is required for a successful learning experience in a tap dancing class. Most dancewear stores sell tap shoes for young children and teenagers. Some dance schools and programs go above and beyond to help their students by selling necessary footwear on site or providing order forms that can be completed on the spot.