Women’s Athletic Dance Shoes

Styles of Women’s Athletic Dance Shoes

Most women’s athletic dance shoes are based on the look of a sneaker. The difference is that they will have a high arch and very supple mid-sole for demi-pointe work and maximum flexibility. The shoes tend to incorporate more mesh than other athletic shoes to allow for greater ventilation and overall comfort.

Shoes used for practice or belly dancing tend to have a two-piece split sole, a sturdy heel and elasticized instep for arch exposure.

Shoes designed specifically for cheerleading will look the most like an ordinary sneaker but are more lightweight. The mid-sole has extra cushioning and is molded to offer extra support and take a lot of pressure.

Shopping for Women’s Athletic Dance Shoes

As with any shoe that’s going to be getting a tough workout, you want to shop carefully and be sure of a good fit. If you decide to save money by shopping online, be sure you go through a source like Zappos where you know you can do a free exchange or return, should that be necessary.

Good athletic dance shoes to consider include:

• The Nike Shox MC. Nike says this an excellent shoe for a fitness dancer looking for stability, an articulated fit and responsive cushioning. The insole is removable. The body consists of a synthetic mesh upper and a rubber sole. Nike advises that the shoe runs small and you should order a half size up.

• Bloch Boost DRT Mesh Sneaker. The shoe incorporates a high arch and super-lightweight materials to ensure maximum performance. The variable lacing system provides support and a custom fit. The split polyurethane mid-sole is well-cushioned and combined with a 4-part polyurethane outsole for enhanced flexibility and the correct amount of slide. A high density polyurethane pivot point allows for 360-degree movement while the air-cushioned heel allows for maximum shock absorption and comfort.

• Capezio Fierce Dansneaker. Capezio shoes are considered the first and last word in dance footwear, so you know you’re getting quality when you choose this shoe. The Dansneaker features lightweight construction, a split sole, mesh and synthetic leather upper, patented arch support and a non-marking polyurethane outsole with patented built-in flex points. Capezio also makes Dansneakers in canvas for an even lighter feel. The shoes are lined in terrycloth and the split sole is enhanced with a spin spot and flat box toe. The tongue and collar are padded.

• Capezio Pedini. Perfect for practice, especially for Latin dancing, or for precision work like belly dance, the Pedini is a soft leather shoe with a 3/4-inch Cuban EVA heel. It has a patented two-piece split-sole design, elasticized instep and suede sole patch.

• Freed of London Urban Trainer. This shoe features an elastic cross strap that hugs the foot and maintains stability through every turn. The upper and arch are made of ventilated mesh and the leather is perforated for extra ventilation. The split rubber sole will absorb shock and has a spin spot on the ball of the foot.

• Leo’s Team NRG Dance Sneaker. Good for group dance and cheerleading, and featuring twelve color chips to match a team’s color, this sneaker has a full leather upper and ventilated toe. The split-sole design has a reinforced sole seam for durability and flexibility. There is a finger notch in the heel for confident lifts, a smooth spin circle and flex grooves on the sole for quick turns. The padded collar has the Achilles cut out to allow for a fully articulated pointe and the mesh tongue pocket hides laces for a clean look.

Remember, the right footwear enhances your performance, so take your time in shopping to choose your perfect shoe.