Representing a fusion of numerous cultural dances, tap dancing has become one of the most competitive dances across the globe ever since its invention in the 1800s. It would not be an exaggeration to state that this art is not lost on Gen Z or millennials but it is gaining more popularity.
Apart from being a fun activity, it is also a great activity which can be superb exercise. But just like sport or dance, it has its own requirements. One of them is to wear specific kinds of shoes. Tap shoes typically feature metal plates on the sole and heel of the shoe, which create a special click sound on contact with a hard surface
Now, picking out these shoes can be a pretty hectic task as the internet is loaded with brands that claim to make the best tap shoes for professionals but finding the right one can be pretty challenging.
That is why we are here. We have gone through thorough research to pick out 8 of the best tap shoes that are available in the market.
They have got almost everything that you should look for in shoes. So, without wasting any further time, let’s get right into business, shall we?
Features that best professional tap shoes
Now, before we get into the list of best shoes for tap dancing, there are numerous features that you should bear in mind before making any decision. Some of them are listed below.
Durability
One of the things that you should look for in shoes is durability. You need to know that the product that you are investing in would provide a long-term solution rather than a temporary and short-term benefit.
Fit
It is of great significance that you pick shoes that provide just the right fit for the wearer. Dancers prefer footwear that is neither too loose nor too tight and that is the kind that you should be looking for.
Materials
The materials used in the manufacturing of the shoes would determine their quality and functionality. You simply can not expect a shoe that is made with low-quality material to provide superior features to the wearer. So, it is of great significance that you pick shoes that are designed with premium materials.
List of Best Tap Shoes For Professionals
For men
Bloch Dance Men’s Tap-Flex Leather Tap Shoe – Men’s professional tap shoes
Linodes Unisex PU Leather Slip-On Tap Shoe Dance Shoes – Best professional tap shoes
Miller & Ben Tap Shoes; Jazz-Tap Master; All Black Professional Tap Shoes – Best tap shoes
For women
Bloch Women’s Chloé and Maud Dance Shoe – Best tap shoes for wide feet
Capezio Women’s Mary Jane Tap Shoe – Professional tap shoes
Theatricals Adult Lace Up Tap Shoes T9500 – women’s professional tap shoes
Bloch Dance Women’s Sync Tap Shoe – Professional tap shoes for cheap
Capezio Women’s 657 Manhattan Xtreme Tap Shoe – Best tap shoes for adults
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For men
Bloch Dance Men’s Tap-Flex Leather Tap Shoe – Men’s professional tap shoes
- Full leather split sole allows the...
- Non-slip pro balance rubber pad next to...
- Notched collar at heel to relieve...
Product details
- Package Dimensions: 12.8 x 6.7 x 4.3 inches; 13.2 Ounces
- Item model number: S0388M
- Department: Men’s
- Date First Available: November 6, 2014
- Manufacturer: Bloch
The first product on our list is one of the most supportive shoes that you would find on the list. These shoes are equipped with a full leather split sole which offers the dancer greater liberty of movement whilst maintaining support.
The Non-slip pro balance rubber pad with the front toe tap provides a grip of superior level to the wearer which ensures that these shoes remain slip-resistant.
Furthermore, there is a notched collar at the heel which reduces pressure on the Achilles tendon. The strong heel counters just the right amount of heel support which is much needed if you are a tap dancer.
Why is it recommended?
These shoes are known for the arch support that they provide to the wearers. They offer just the right amount of toe protection to the wearer.
Now, if you are one of those people that have a special foot condition then these shoes are the right fit for you as they are made with sufficient support which is one of the things that people look for in shoes if they have foot deformity.
Linodes Unisex PU Leather Slip-On Tap Shoe Dance Shoes – Best professional tap shoes
- The upper material is high quality PU...
- Slip on style. The shoe is easy to put...
- Sound board screwed on taps; Heel...
Product details
- Package Dimensions: 10.9 x 7.4 x 3.6 inches; 1.25 Pounds
- Department: Unisex-adult
- Date First Available: January 3, 2020
- Manufacturer: Linodes
Now, the next product on our list of best professional tap shoes is a product that is just as impressive as the one mentioned above.
These shoes have gained massive popularity among tap dancers over the last few years mainly because of the fact that they offer unprecedented features to their customers.
If we take a look at the features of these shoes then we would know that the upper of the shoes is made with high-quality PU leather whereas the lining material is synthetic. These materials allow for abrasion resistance and flexibility. These also make shoes resistant to wear and tear.
This leaves little to no room over the fact these shoes are one of the most comfortable ones in the market today.
Why is it recommended?
These shoes are equipped with a flexible outsole with a non-skid rubber patch which ensures traction of superior quality as well as freedom of movement to the wearer which is much needed in tap dancing.
Now, these tap dance shoes have a slip-on design which makes them easy to put on and off which is another thing that almost every tap dancer looks for in shoes.
The durability of these shoes is unmatched which explains why they are one of the top-rated tap shoes on Amazon and widely regarded as the best tap dance shoes in the world, yeah you read that right.
Also Read: Best Shoes For Cutting Grass
Miller & Ben Tap Shoes; Jazz-Tap Master Tap Shoes – Best tap shoes
- High-end, all leather, unisex...
- Designed by Avi Miller & Ofer Ben -...
- Price Includes Taps (Installed) and...
Product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Package Dimensions: 14 x 8 x 5 inches; 2.2 Pounds
- Item model number: 01P_JTM-All_Black-34_R
- Department: Unisex-adult
- Date First Available: May 23, 2020
- Manufacturer: The Miller & Ben Tap Shoes Factory
The third product on our list is a perfect blend of comfortability and stability. These Miller and Ben tap shoes have almost everything that your ideal tap shoes should have.
These shoes are designed by Avi Miller and Ofer Ben who are two of the world’s renowned dancers.
If we take a look at the features that these shoes offer to their wearers then we would know that the upper is made of leather which is durable and tear-resistant. Hence, it leaves little to no room for any kind of doubt over the quality of these shoes.
Why is it recommended?
The sole is also made of leather. The entire sole is made of a double layer. Now, the heel of these shoes is made of compressed wood and leather that ensures superior heel support to the wearer.
These shoes provide just the right fit for the wearer. This is one of the qualities that tap dancers look for in shoes.
Now, many new shoes have this problem that they are difficult to break into. However, that would not be the case with these shoes as they are easy to break and provide instant comfort and support to the wearer.
As these shoes offer such qualities that ensure the longevity of the shoes, they are best for any type of dancer.
For women
Also Read: Best Shoes For Hip Hop Dance Class
Bloch Women’s Chloé and Maud Dance Shoe – Best tap shoes for wide feet
- Extremely comfortable shoe that is very...
- Featuring the Bloch Mega tap with a huge...
- A rich tone in the toe and deep tone in...
Product details
- Package Dimensions: 11.9 x 6.2 x 3.4 inches; 12 Ounces
- Item model number: S0327L
- Department: Women’s
- Date First Available: February 22, 2018
- Manufacturer: BLOBW
Now that we are done with the men’s product, it is time for the ladies. So, without wasting any time let’s jump straight to the point. These Bloch shoes are widely regarded as one of the if not the best shoes for tap dancers.
These shoes are made of leather and are imported which leaves no room for any kind of doubt over their quality. They feature Bloch Mega tap with a big metal content and great audio engineering. All these substances allow for maximum comfort and high durability of the shoes.
These shoes are available in a wide range of sizes and two color options which makes them ideal for people who may have different foot types, sizes, or preferences.
Why is it recommended?
Another great feature of adding these shoes to your cart is that they are equipped with a rich tone in the toe and deep tone in the heel which is great news for tap dancers.
These shoes come with an option of removable Chloe and Maud heart-shaped charm which gives them a great look.
Now, many people complain about the sizing of these shoes. So, here is a little tip for you. Always start with 1/2 to 1 size larger than street shoes.
So, order these and take your dancing moves to the next level.
Capezio Women’s Mary Jane Tap Shoe – Professional tap shoes
- Dance shoe featuring adjustable Mary...
- Removable clip-on bow at toe
- Shock-absorbing foam insole
Product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Product Dimensions: 12.1 x 6.2 x 3.9 inches; 8.2 Ounces
- Item model number: Mary Jane
- Department: Women’s
- Date First Available: July 8, 2009
- Manufacturer: Capezio
Onto the next product that has been pretty well-received by customers from across the globe. These shoes are equipped with pre-attached Tele Tone toe and heel taps mounted on fiberboard. These materials help in giving strength and flexibility to the shoes. Such shoes give out a loud sound during tapping.
Another great feature of these shoes is that they are equipped with minimal toe springs as well as a micro rubber outsole which enhances their strength and flexibility.
Furthermore, the foam insole in these shoes provides shock absorbency as well as great comfort to the wearer.
Why is it recommended?
The cotton sock lining and hung lining on these shoes add to the support provided to the wearer. Whereas, the scored rubber non-skid pad adds to the protection as well as support in the shoes.
The non-slip heel counter of these shoes is made of wide leather, cotton lined, and buckle strap closure. These features make these shoes comfortable and stable as well as easy to put on and off which are one of the things that people look for in shoes.
Moreover, the harder micro rubber heel matches the shoe color which gives them a trendy and classy look making these shoes one of the best in the market.
Theatricals Adult Lace Up Tap Shoes T9500 – Women’s professional tap shoes
- Classic oxford full-sole lace-up tap...
- Screwed on taps with sound board
- Features heel counter, non-skid rubber...
Product details
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Product Dimensions: 12.3 x 8 x 4 inches; 1.41 Pounds
- Item model number: T9500
- Department: Women’s
- Date First Available: February 15, 2012
If you are looking for nice, trendy shoes that have all the ingredients that tap shoes should have then there is no better option for you than these Theatricals adult tap shoes for women.
They are loaded with unique features that make them stand out from the rest. For starters, they are made of PU leather which is very durable. Moreover, they have classic oxford full-sole lace-ups which makes them easy to put on and off.
Now, these shoes are constructed by keeping the comfort of the wearers in mind.
That is why they are equipped with heel counters, non-skid rubber patches for safety, and cushioned sock lining which are one of the things that provide the wearer with the comfort of a superior level.
Why is it recommended?
Now, if you are a regular buyer of tap shoes then you would be familiar that they do not come at an affordable price. However, that would not be the case if you add these shoes to your cart.
Many people complain about the sizing of these shoes as they say that they come in small sizes.
That is why we would recommend you to go up 1 size up than the street shoe if you are a woman. For men or children, we would recommend them to go 2 up.
Now, you can dance well with the relaxation factors integrated into these shoes.
Bloch Dance Women’s Sync Tap Shoe – Professional tap shoes for cheap
- Full leather upper with reinforced...
- New and improved MEGA taps with superior...
- Pro balance rubber pad attached under...
Product details
- Product Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches; 1.55 Pounds
- Item model number: S0321L
- Department: Women’s
- Date First Available: April 18, 2016
- Manufacturer: Bloch
Guess which product is the next one on our list? Yeah, you guessed it right. It is none other than a Bloch. We just can not get enough of them.
This is because they never compromise on quality and always produce footwear that goes well with the needs of the customers. Simple. This product is no different.
They are made of leather and have full leather upper with reinforced eyelets which enhances the support as well as comfort provided to the wearer making them one of the best women’s professional tap shoes available.
The MEGA taps with superior acoustical sound which is soothing to hear and enhances dance performance.
Whereas, the Pro balance rubber pad attached under the ball of the foot provides traction of a superior level to the wearer and makes these shoes slip-resistant.
Why is it recommended?
These shoes are equipped with cushioned insoles that provide shock absorbency of a superior level to the wearer.
Another standout feature of these shoes is that they are equipped with larger taps which provide perfect fitting in the toe and also allow superior sound in the heels.
Although these shoes are available in just two color options, the variety in sizes is unmatched which is one of the things that dancers look for in shoes.
So, what are you waiting for? Give these shoes a shot and take your dance game to the next level.
Also Read: Best Zumba Shoes
Capezio Women’s 657 Manhattan Xtreme Tap Shoe – Best tap shoes for adults
- Mary jane tap shoe featuring...
- Pre-attached TeleTone toe and Duo Tone...
- Sizing is equivalent to street shoe size
Product details
- Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 7.2 x 4.1 inches; 1.2 Pounds
- Item model number: Manhattan Xtreme
- Department: Women’s
- Date First Available: July 9, 2009
- Manufacturer: Capezio
The last product on our list is another Capezio. These leather tap shoes are one of the most comfortable and supportive shoes that you would find in the market.
They are equipped with a leather-wrapped contoured heel in mid-height with a leather top lift which not only enhances the comfortability of the shoes but also makes them supportive.
Another great benefit of adding these shoes to your cart is that they are equipped with pre-attached TeleTone toe and Duo Tone heel taps mounted on a spring steel soundboard which provides toe protection of a superior level to the wearer.
Why is it recommended?
The full leather lining not only adds to the look of the shoes but also makes them comfortable.
Now, in most of the shoes above you would have noticed one similarity. That was that they were required to go up one size at least.
However, that would not be the case if you give these shoes a shot as they are known for providing the wearer with a great fit which makes them one of the most desired shoes in the market.
If you wanna dance that’ll be appreciated, then these shoes can really help you out.
Bottom Line
Whether you are a heavy hitter or an intricate stylist, you need to have a standard shoe that will assist you in delivering better dance moves. Not only the shoe you select is stylish but also it must be integrated with the necessary comfort elements. In this way, the chances of getting injured are avoided.
You should pay special attention when you are browsing for shoes for tap dancing. Make sure that the product that you are buying has all the right ingredients that make a top shoe.
Neglecting this would not only affect your performance but would also put your health under scrutiny. We hope that you went through our list and thoroughly read the pros and cons of each product. The ball is in your court now.
Make a decision that goes well with your needs and take your dancing performance to the next level. We would also recommend you to consult your physician or doctor before making any decision as they know your condition better than anyone else.
Now, most of our readers ask us to pick one product from the lot that stands out.
Although we do not recommend this and advise everyone to go through the list themselves. In case you’re in a hurry, we would advise you to give Bloch Dance Men’s Tap-Flex Leather Tap Shoe a chance.
Good Luck with your Decision!
Last update on 2024-07-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API