Tap
Shoes
Due
to the large amount of enquiries regarding shoes we
receive, we though it very much worth repeating this
article from DANCE magazine. Many thanks go to David
Wilkinson of Roynon Dancewear for supplying photographs
and much of the information and knowledge herein.
Tap
shoes are available in a variety of materials, heel
heights and styles. Some are more suited to certain
circumstances than others and this should help clarify
current thinking.
It
is essential, especially for younger children, that
the shoes are light, flexible and properly fitted. If
shoes are oversized the toe tap will be in front of
the toes causing discomfort and ungainliness.
 |
 |
 |
| Tap
Sneakers |
Jazz
Taps |
Oxfords |
 |
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| Split
Sole |
Three
Heel Heights |
•
Materials
Canvas: As the upper on tap shoes,
this tends to be the most flexible, even from
the start. These are also the least expensive shoes.
Plastic Uppers (PU): These are the
least flexible and this will not improve
with wear.
Leather: The most costly option but
long lasting and flexibility and comfort improves with
age.
•
Heel Heights
Low: Essential for all younger children
and also suitable for many teenagers
and adults.
Cuban: Usually a 3.5cm heel popular
with older students and adults.
New Yorker: Approximately 5cm shaped
heel, normally used for show work and not considered
suitable for Tap examination work.
•
Style
Tie Tap: Has an open front with a two hole
lacing. It is important that the two sides do not touch
when new or they will soon overlap with use.
Oxford: These have a fully laced front
and come with the option of Low or Cuban heel.
Jazz Taps: All leather specialist shoes
with fully laced fronts and a medium heel (between Low
and Cuban). They are usually fitted with the more expensive
tele-tone taps and have a rubber sole insert for comfort.
Teachers may find these comfortable.
Split Sole: Jazz taps with flexible
and unsupported insteps. More suited to advanced dancers.
Tap Sneaker: Jazz trainers with taps
attached. These are fashionable items suitable for show
numbers but not for classwork or examinations.
Black Leather Low Heel shoe: with a
strap across the foot.
•
Taps
Most shoes come with a fitted toe tap only, a heel tap
is normally added. Senior students may feel the need
to have more specialised taps fitted, this can be done
by your local cobbler. They comprise a hollow back aluminium
alloy tap with a fibre soundboard. Tap screws should
be secure enough to give clear, light tone but there
should be no audible 'jingle'.
•
Width Fitting
Most of the manufacturers supply tap shoes in one width
so you may need to try different makes to suit your
foot type.
•
Boys
There is a choice of low heeled Oxford in canvas, plastic
upper or leather. Then Jazz Taps and/or Split Soles.
•
Recommendations
Many schools specify in their uniform list which type
of shoes should be purchased. Otherwise low heeled canvas
tie taps are the most economic option for young children
whose feet outgrow the shoes before they become broken
in.
Heel
heights should be advised by the teacher with safety
and ability in mind.
Jazz
Taps can often be too heavy for young children
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