Shoes for Hip Hop Dance classes
The thing that matters the most for hip hop dance is not the dance art itself. It is the choice of shoes for hip hop dance classes. The right pair of shoes can make all the difference with their quality and safety. Hip hop is an energetic dance form that requires agility, precise footwork, and balance. So, the shoe that you wear needs to support these movements while offering the required level of cushioning, durability, and flexibility.
We have been through tens of shoes for hip hop dance class if not hundreds. With our knowledge about these shoes, we will tell you what to look for in shoes for hip hop dance classes. We will also tell you about the types of shoes for hip hop dance classes.
CTA: For kids that are interested in learning hip hop dance, having the right shoes is important but the right dance class also matters. Melodica Music Academy offers hip hop dance classes for kids. These classes are designed to help them develop skills while having fun and staying safe.
Read: Hip Hop Dance Classes for Beginners
Features To Look For In Hip Hop Shoes For Dance Classes
You need to look into many factors before choosing the right type of hip hop dance shoes. To better understand this, we have listed these features below.
1. The Grip and Traction
A good pair of these shoes must offer a good grip on the floor to facilitate dance movements like spinning and sliding. Rubber outsoles are the most commonly used for grip and traction. The traction is also increased if the shoe is designed with a multidirectional tread pattern underneath.
2. Flexibility
Stiff shoes tend to limit a dancer’s movements for intricate footwork. On the other hand, an overly flexible one affects the stability of intense dance moves. The ideal shoe would be made of lightweight materials like synthetic fabrics or mesh that provide flexibility. The midsole must also be flexible to allow easier leaps, jumps, and fast directional changes. You need to look for shoes with flex grooves or segmented soles for a dynamic movement range.
3. Cushioning and Shock Absorption
Hip hop dance is truly brutal for feet, especially when the dancing involves stomping and jumping. You need to have proper cushioning to absorb the shock of these actions. This reduces the overall stain on knees, ankles, and feet. The EVA foam insoles or any other shock-absorbent material is the most common choice for hip hop dance shoes. As for the midsoles, look for ones that have air or gel pockets; adding to the shock absorption of the shoes.
4. Breathable
Hip Hop can be a physically draining dance form and dancers tend to sweat profusely, especially from their feet. A hip hop dance shoe with a perforated or mesh fabric will keep your feet dry and cool. Having hip hop dance shoes with proper ventilation prevents the build-up of foot odor, blisters, and other issues caused by moisture build-up.
5. Lightweight Design
For any hip hop dance aspirants who wish for swift movements across the floor, a lightweight design is ideal. Heavy shoes will make it hard to slow down or prevent quick footwork. Many shoes for hip hop classes feature a low-profile midsole that reduces their weight for cushioning, support, and agility.
CTA: If you are searching for dance classes in Dubai, Melodica Music Academy offers the best ones with professional dance instructors. Structured courses under the right guidance and fun loving environment make learning easier and quicker.
Read: Tips on How to Dance Hip Hop Dance
Different Types Of Hip Hop Dance Shoes
There are a variety of Hip Hop dance shoes but we have only selected the top 4 for you. These are the ones that all the hip hop aspiring artists and professionals use alike.
1. Sneakers
Sneakers are the downright most optimal choice for hip hop dance classes. The reason is they offer the best sole comfort while remaining durable and stylish for a long time. There are major brands like Nike, Adidas, and Puma. These brands tend to manufacture sneakers that are used specifically for dancing. The design of their shoes is lightweight with flexible soles and cushioned midsoles. The construct of these sneakers makes them ideal for various hip hop dancing styles like locking, popping, and breakdancing. Always look for sneakers that have a flat rubber sole with non-marking rubber. This kind of sole offers better traction to reduce scuffing on the floors. The reinforced ankle supports in these sneakers add stability for dancers.
2. High Tops
If you are looking for shoes that offer ankle support during dancing, High Tops are the optimal choice. For any hip hop dance artist who performs high-impact tricks or movements, these shoes are the ideal choice. With their extended collar, the ankle remains stabilized which reduces the risk of injuries. Keep in mind, that these high tops are a bit heavier compared to other types of shoes and not suited for those that require agility in their moves. Most of these high tops are made to have extra padding with shock-absorbing soles. This makes them a perfect choice for studio and street-style hip hop dancing. These shoes are available in variety of retro stylish looks, which feel appealing for dancers looking to match their footwear and outfits.
3. Dance Sneakers
This shoe type for hip hop dance classes is designed for dancing styles with a combination of support, grip, and flexibility. These shoes have a split sole that allows for flexibility and articulation in your foot. With this split sole, you as a dancer can point your toe in the right direction to execute footwork including jumps and spins. These shoes have a lightweight construction design in breathable materials with an arch support. If you are an aspiring hip hop artist, this shoe will be able to offer that need for adaptability with complex choreography movements.
4. Street Shoes
Many dancers are known to wear simple & casual shoes for hip hop dance classes. They are mostly dancers who are focused more on street-style or urban-style dance classes. Their shoes offer them a much more relaxed fit but they do lack the support and cushioning of sneakers and hip tops. These street shoes are a right fit for less high-performing dance routines but they are still not recommended for beginners.
Our Final Say
No matter the dancer’s level; beginner or advanced dancer; learning aspects like design, grip, flexibility, and breathability, will help you choose the right hip hop dance shoes. There are plenty of shoe types to meet your design and style preferences.
CTA: Melodica Music Academy offers hip hop dance classes in Dubai for all levels of students. We will make sure that you are equipped with the right footwear to increase your dance potential while staying safe.
