Do Tap Shoes Run Small? Here is What I Found

For most of you who are in the process of buying tap shoes, I’m sure you’ve had the same question; “Do tap shoes run small?” Like many others, it is a question I have asked myself on more occasions than I care to remember.

Just like you, I have been to the same place, either in the shop or on the internet, and could not make up my mind about the size to take.

This is where most people fizzle out, yet this is the most essential aspect of the tap shoes; proper fit guarantees comfort and enhances performance. In order for you to get onto the dance floor without worrying about sizing up the tap shoe, let us go through the world of tap shoe sizing together.

Basic Tap Shoe Sizing

It’s apparent that tap shoes are not like any other ballet shoes which is why there is also an alternative to the same size chart.

And this can be a little confusing, especially for people who are new in the tap world. It can be helpful, too, to present the following simple table summarizing the main size recommendations:

Category	Suggested Sizing
Children	Same as or half size up from street shoe size
Women	Same as street shoe size to one size up
Men	1.5 to 2 sizes up from street shoe size

These guidelines are a great starting point, but remember, the right size depends on your foot’s unique shape and your comfort preferences.

Practical Tips for the Perfect Fit

Building Block Fit

Tap shoes have to fit well as they also have to be comfortable. To get clean taps, the shoe must tightly fit, enabling the taps to hit the ground in the hemisphere that a true tap dancer enjoys.

It is like making music on a perfect instrument, every clear and distinct note has to be where it is supposed to be. With free shoes, there is a risk of missed taps and the possibility of losing balance during turn sequences may even be posed too

Try Shoes in the Afternoon

Here’s a pro tip: Try on shoes in the afternoon because that is when feet are swollen. The reason is that feet swell during the day and by evening, the feet are at the bulkiest. Why do this? You spare yourself trying on shoes that look fine in the shop only to feel stuck in them during your evening classes

Wear Appropriate Gears

When wanting to buy tap shoes, it is wise to dress in socks or tights you wish to wear for dancing. It helps actual practice as much as any pre-practice would. This is an added restriction as normal practice would be to wear no socks if foot blistering is common practice.

Read: Capezio Adult Tic Tap Toe Lace-Up Tap Shoes Review

Assessing the Fit

Snug, Not Tight:

Tap shoes should be moderately snug but not too snug. Tight fitting helps so that the taps hit the floor more accurately, which helps make the distinct sounds very clear.

Tights should comfortably hug your foot without cramping your toes. Knees should have little wiggle room on the toes while still on the ground to prevent sliding or tripping off during the routines.

Walk Around:

Do not buy any shoes before walking Inside the shop for a few minutes to test fit.

Use the same technique to screen for taps as well as the sounding – make sure there is no soreness or any point of pressure in your foot. If the shoes tend to be the same size but are uncomfortable and painful, buy the next size but a different style.

Consider Your Current Needs:

If you are a beginner, there is no need to waste money on an expensive pro shoe. Try to find such a pair which feels comfortable and fits the feet. As you enhance in skills or stature, more sophisticated pairs which fit your style and what you can technical requirements will be bought.

Additional Tips for Parents: Ensuring the Right Tap Shoe Fit for Your Child

Children’s shoe sizes can be frustratingly complicated, especially concerning their tap shoes.

However, if you know what to do, then your kid is ready to hit the dance floor. Below are some helpful hints that will help search for your child’s ideal tapping shoes:

Sizing For Children

As for girls, it is possible to purchase boys’ tap shoes if several points are met. Usually, boys will be advised to buy tap shoes that are approximately half a size to a full size than their normal street shoes. This additional room permits their feet which are rapidly maturing only within a reasonable comfort level.

A good starting size for girls is the same size as their street shoes. The fit is critical to prevent the slip in the routine. Connaught explains that girls can and should look cute and be well-supported in their shoes, but still be able to tap free.

Planning for Growth Spurts

Children develop in size rapidly, and their feet do not remain behind either. It is sensible to cater to the inevitable growth spurts by giving their tap shoes some allowance for growth. 

Try inserting your thumb between the toe and the end of the shoe. This extra room is realistic in terms of how long the shoes will last with regards to growth pace, rather than structure/function in dance practice. 

Teachers advise special shoes with thicker soles and more internal reinforcement during intensive growth to be avoided as well, however, when the child is not performing. However, do not opt for oversized shoes as this can impede your child’s performance and might be a possible trip hazard.

FAQs on Do Tap Shoes Run Small?

1. Do tap shoes typically run small?

Yes, most high-heeled female tap shoes tend to be small as compared to normal street shoes. I request moving half a size or even full size sometimes based on the make.

2. Should I buy tap shoes the same size as my regular shoes?

It’s advisable to consider the sizing chart of the particular brand. Most dancers complain about some lack of room in the tap shoes hence the need to upsize.

3. Are tap shoes supposed to fit tightly?

There is a certain level of tightness that can be accepted for the tap shoes but extreme pain and sore toes should not be acceptable. There shouldn’t be excessive foot movement within the shoe so that taps can be done correctly.

4. How can I find the right size for my tap shoes?

Measure your feet and have a look at the relevant sizing chart of the brand in question. Some brands also recommend looking for one or two size bigger.

5. Are there differences in sizing between brands?

Yes, the number of sizes available in different tap shoe brands can also be different. Always have a look at a particular brand’s size chart for an accurate appraisal.

6. Can I stretch tap shoes if they are too tight?

Yes, it is possible to stretch your tap shoes by using shoe stretchers or by wearing them indoors along with some thick socks. However, it’s wiser to get the correct size right from the beginning.

7. Should children’s tap shoes be bought larger?

For kids, it is best to leave a little room for growth but not much. If shoes are oversized, they will find it hard to tap as it will be more difficult to control their feet.

Final Words 

Choosing the right size of tap shoes is undoubtedly the most critical part of the overall process. Some brands are on the smaller side, so it’s wise to try and fit the sizing chart and maybe even go a size up. You want them to fit firmly on the feet but not to the extent of discomfort. If you get the correct size then taps will not only be great but you will forget about them and concentrate on your dance!

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