classwear and shoes

Class wear: For any dance class most studios prefer a black and pink tights. Sometimes colored leotards can be worn (mostly by younger dancers). For jazz and tap classes however, black tights are sometimes worn. Pink tights are usually worn for a ballet class because they allow you to see the muscles in the legs. Skirts are also used during ballet classes. Leg warmers are used during warm-up and in-between routines so that the muscles get cold and the dancer doesn't get hurt.

Jazz shoes: There are many different types of jazz shoes. Most jazz shoes come in colors such as white, tan, and black. They may be laced, button up, or slip on. They come in all different styles and brands, but they all serve the same purpose which is to make your dancing easier and look better.

Tap shoes: Like all the other dace shoes, tap shoes come in all different styles. They all have metal plates on the bottom of the shoes, which is where the noise comes from. Tap shoes are mostly black, tan , or white. The only time they would be a different color is if you are performing a special piece. A tap shoe is what tap is all about. Without the shoe, there would be no sound.

Ballet shoes: The difference between ballet and pointe is the shoes. Ballet shoes do not have the box at the toe of the shoe like pointe shoes do. Girls wear pink ballet shoes and boys wear black or white (depending on the studio). Like jazz shoes, ballet shoes are worn to help you turn and move around easier. They allow you to do everything on demi-pointe rather than all the way up on your toes. You should always tie the draw string and tuck it in so that it can not be seen.

Pointe shoes: These are made of layers of satin, paper, and a course material (burlap), all glued together. New shoes feel stiff, hard, and have no left and right. It takes time and care to break them in and make them confirm to your feet. You need to feel as if you shoes are a second skin. The ribbons on the shoes should be tied neatly and tight enough so that your ankle is supported, but loose enough to be free to move.