Jazz dancing is gaining popularity as it is an exciting and fun dance style to engage in. If you have recently started jazz classes, you will no doubt already have a pair of jazz shoes. If not, then you should go out and buy a pair as they are really important for you to be able to successfully and safely execute all the twists, turns, jumps, and twists required by jazz dancing.
Here are some interesting facts about jazz shoes:
Jazz shoes are not designed for outdoor use
Like any other style of dance shoes, jazz shoes are specifically designed for use in a dance studio. Split sole jazz shoes usually have a very thin sole that is made of suede that is not suitable for outdoor use. This is because suede soles are easily damaged by abrasive surfaces such as asphalt or concrete that are used in pavements. In addition to this, the split soles are designed to support only the toes and heels to allow optimal flexibility for the dancer’s foot. This means there is little to no sole under the arch, which is not ideal for walking. Even if you’re wearing full-soled shoes, it’s best to resist the urge to walk to and from dance class in them, as they will pick up sand and dirt that can damage the dance floor.
Jazz shoes are available in various designs
When it comes to choosing jazz shoes, they are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and fabrics. The main fabrics available are leather and canvas. Leather is usually the most expensive option, but it is also the most difficult to carry, which is why it is the most recommended. It will also mold to the shape of your foot over time, making leather ones very comfortable and also very attractive to look at. Canvas is also relatively strong, but shoes made from this fabric are not as easy to care for as leather. This is because canvas cannot be cleaned in the same way as leather, which means it can be easily marked or stained. It is also difficult to remove any residue that can be collected from the studio floor. However, on the other hand, it is light and comfortable and offers a cheaper alternative to leather.
It can be with laces or without laces
Jazz shoes are also available with laces or without laces. It’s worth a try both to find out which style you prefer and to find out which ones offer the best fit. Some dancers find that the laces can rub a bit or dig into the foot, which is why they prefer slip-on shoes. However, this is by no means consensus, so it really depends on your own personal choice.
Offer a snug fit
As with any other type of dance shoe, it is very important that jazz shoes offer a good fit. It may be in style to wear your casual sneakers with the laces as loosely as possible, but with jazz shoes, functionality must prevail over style. They should fit snugly without being so tight that the toes are tight inside. This will allow them to provide the necessary support for your foot and at the same time allow enough flexibility to perform your dance successfully.