What do you guys think of dance sneakers?
I’ve had dance shoes since September and I’ve worn them so much that they’re becoming impossible to brush and extremely slippery.
Plus I will need something to dance with when the outdoor dance floor opens up in the spring at the Old Port in Montreal.
http://www.ekclothing.com/details.php?id=cvfsn&file=tab_details/dance_sneaker_details.txt&cat=SH
Marco 5:30 pm on January 31, 2009 Permalink |
I have a pair of Capizzio dance sneakers that basically look like the same thing.
I wear them to dance classes and practice on the kitchen floor with them.
For whatever reason, I still always wear my black dress shoes (leather soled) when I go out dancing.
I think that the dance sneakers look funny with the cutout middle. When I feel like I have “arrived” with my footwork -as in I no longer would be embarrassed if someone were focusing on my feet- I will then treat myself with some white dance shoes. Those “flys” look pretty nice. Don’t know about that “Sancho” shoe, it may be a little too fashion forward for me.
(PS Go Wings!)
Anthony Persaud 7:28 pm on January 31, 2009 Permalink |
I would recommend against them. I used to wear them (BLOCH), and I realize they screwed up my spins. On further analysis (since I’m an engineer), it is mainly caused by two things:
1) The higher elevation of your foot, affects your center of balance. Think of the difference between a top heavy Jeep compared to a low-level Civic (or Porche). Also, the additional height may cause you to trip on the tips of your shoes more often compared to other types of dance shoes (ex. Jazz Shoes)
2) The rubbery sole adds too much friction on the floor, when doing footwork and spinning compared to other types of shoes. You want something on the bottom that is suede. Also, spinning with rubber shoes will cause more long term damage on your knees than using suede.
I would HIGHLY recommend giving the Gabellini shoes a try – they are fantastic! I really love the white-leather shoe with the black stripe. Always goes well with my blue or black jeans. You can contact him about the return policy incase you don’t like them – but really give them a try. (No, this is not a shameless plug).
Lastly, if you are not planning on doing a lot of footwork, are willing to spend a little more and want to look a lot more styled with your clothing (like someone from the LA salsa scene) – you might want to consider a pair of Aldos shoes (though this is for advanced dancers only).
http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/men/shoes/dress-fashion/71574837-elrod
Daniel Ellis 7:42 pm on January 31, 2009 Permalink |
I agree with Anthony about the disadvantages of sneakers. However, on most occasions, I don’t use suede shoes: I use a jazz shoe with an EVA sole (which is a plastic like material). This gives just a little more grip than suede, but still allows you to turn easily, and it is not damaged by bad floors like a suede bottom is.
Example here: http://zeta.zappos.com/product/7251906/color/3
donv69 7:51 pm on January 31, 2009 Permalink |
I already have a nice pair of Ecco shoes with leather bottom.
http://www.eccocanada.com/montreal.html
The problem is that I keep tripping over them because of the long toe. Plus it really hurts the ladies on a crowded floor. What I like about salsa shoes and runner is that they fit tighter around the feet and the toe is rounded.
But I know what you’re talking about. I’ll see about finding something with a shorter toe.
Thanks
hooknc 10:03 am on February 1, 2009 Permalink |
http://www.dancestore.com/MENS-SHOES/products/4/
I’ve bought several pairs of the retro-sneaker above and have loved them. I have even worn them outside for dancing. HOWEVER, the sole will be eatten up quickly. Also, the suede bottom doesn’t last long on these shoes either. But the swing dancers I guess like this trait and for me I’ve never really seen the difference before or after the suede is gone.
I also own a pair of the Captoe shoes. Best shoes I’ve ever bought for dancing.
PS: The raised dance sneakers look effeminate.
tommrod 12:37 pm on February 1, 2009 Permalink |
have you guys tried out the converse all stars or the classic adidas?
once the sole is a little worn they’re pretty good… adn they look awesome with jeans.
hooknc 1:10 pm on February 1, 2009 Permalink |
I forgot to mention with the dance sneakers from Aris Allen you’ll need some insoles.
I bought these:
http://www.rei.com/product/724381
And absolutely love them.
donv69 1:23 pm on February 1, 2009 Permalink |
I think these are the ones you are referring to.
http://www.shopadidas.ca/catalogservlet?categoryId=2276353&productId=457949
I thought about that, too.
tommrod 10:42 pm on February 1, 2009 Permalink |
@donv69:
i actually had these in mind
http://www.shopadidas.ca/catalogservlet?categoryId=2283265&productId=653689
80′s flavor
Gerard 9:57 am on February 4, 2009 Permalink |
well when i dance im usually wearing my diesel or puma they are comfortable and i have no problem with them lol.
Tina 6:43 am on March 20, 2009 Permalink |
they suck!
Don Vaillancourt 6:15 pm on September 15, 2009 Permalink |
Took me a while to find this post. whew. Anyway, I recently bought a pair of Jinga shoes. They’re the best shoes I have ever had. Super thin sole. I find them much more comfortable and responsive than the Balos and I can wear them outside and in.
Gdlead 3:46 pm on September 25, 2009 Permalink |
I wore the dance sneakers for 4 years . My teacher had advised not to as it handicaps your dancing
I was not convinced until one night I wore them to dance in as opposed to lessons .Forget it . You care not connected or grounded to the floor and you can only spin on one part of the sneaker . Spend the money get a expensive pair of Italian dance shoes . THey are the best and you can resole them after the soles wear out . I am a gold level international dancer .