How to Pick Swing Dance Shoes

Get out and get hopping to that old swing rhythm. Swing dancing, also known as the Lindy Hop, is a vibrant partners dance that takes joy in moving your body to the jazz and swing music with a lot of twists and turns and spin outs. Because your feet will really be slipping and sliding with this form of dance, proper swing dance shoes are a must to avoid injuring your knees. Read on to learn how to pick swing dance shoes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Look for a shoe that has maneuverability. The shoe must fit close to the foot. If you have any extra length or width on the outside of your foot, you will catch on your foot as you slide and spin. Also get a shoe that is lightweight for easier spins and fancy footwork. Most swing dance shoes have soles designed so you can feel the floor as you slide.

2. Try the shoe on. To dance many hours, you'll need a shoe that is comfortable. Feel for good cushioning on the inside. Good arch support is a plus, though you can have insole support added. Test to see if the shoe slides well.

3. Go for style. If you have the whole retro swing zoot suit going on, your shoes must follow. There are many varieties to choose from in men's and women's style. Wing tips and ruggcutters, of course, are a classic. Then there are captoes, wedgies and balmorals. Even standard bowling shoes have found their way onto the swing dance floor for their slick soles, though they aren't as easy to spin in. And for those who like the look of a sneaker, there are specially made swing dance sneakers with that wonderful slipability.

Resources

• Selection of Swing Dance Shoes