Before You Buy Jazz Shoes

Teachers often have a preference for a particular shoe. Some teachers prefer their students to dance in bare or socked feet, while others require a particular jazz shoe. Some teachers allow gymnastic shoes or soft ballet slippers. Check with your dance teacher before you start shopping.

Jazz shoes are available in leather or canvas, depending on which is more comfortable for you. Keep in mind that the prices for leather and canvas shoes may vary a great deal, with leather being more expensive. You may want to consider leather, however, if you want to get the most life out of your shoes, as they will usually hold up longer than canvas.

Dancers may choose form a variety of jazz shoes: the jazz shoe, the jazz sandal, the jazz sandal-shoe, the jazz sneaker, or the dancer trainer shoe. Wearing the right jazz shoes is very important. Make sure they have good arch support and lots of spring. Be certain that you are able to flex your feet in the shoes. Some jazz shoes have split-soles, meaning the shoe is capable of bending, allowing for more flexibility. Finally, make sure you can turn easily in the shoes.

Make sure your jazz shoes fit properly to avoid foot problems. Try on several sizes to make sure the fit is neither to loose nor too tight. Take your time to really make a good choice. Also, check the store's return policy in case you need to return them.

The following three companies make both jazz shoes and jazz sneakers:

• Award
• Bloch
• Capezio