Quite a number of Swing Dancers have reported suffering from injuries because they wore the wrong shoes on stage; do you have such an experience or know someone who does?
It is no surprise that such unpalatable news is prevalent. Nonetheless, a more significant proportion of people are doing well, mesmerizing audiences on the stage.
How do they do it?
They use the right shoes – ALWAYS!
Swing dancing involves a high level of physical energy. This dance type requires fast-bouncy movements and swift turns.
Such pace requires footwear that will allow you to perform the spins, dips, tricks, and turns without missing a beat.
As such, we have worked hard to help you make the perfect choice of shoes by conducting a thorough market audit of the 7 best shoes for Swing dancing in 2022.
Our research confirms Tic-Tac-Toes Women’s Swing as the top market leader because it passed the strict quality parameters we used in the market analysis.
With the Tic-Tac-Toes Women’s Swing leading the pack, what makes this set of seven awesome Swing shoes set the pace for others?
Let’s take a look below.
Best Shoes for Swing Dancing
| Name | Price | Made of | Sole |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tic-Tac-Toes Women's Swing | Check Price | Leather | Leather |
| Wood8 Men's Two Tone Wingtips Oxfords Dress Shoes | Check Price | Synthetic | Rubber |
| NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes | Check Price | Leather | Leather |
| So Danca CH95 Men's Man-Made Leather Swing Dance Shoe | Check Price | Leather | Leather |
| GP 50 Shades of Swing Dance Dress Shoes | Check Price | Satin | Suede |
| Jig Foo Women's Pumps Dance Shoes | Check Price | Leather | Suede |
| Jig Foo Men's Tap Shoes with 1" Heel | Check Price | Leather | Suede |
1. Tic-Tac-Toes Women’s Swing
The Tic-Tac-Toes is a brand from Gloversville in New York, known for producing quality men and women shoes in a regular, narrow, and wide width to fit all foot shape.
The upperparts and the soles are manufactured from leather so they can stretch and mold to the shape of your foot to make you comfortable.
The use of soft pure leather means you can wear the shoes for a long time, considering that leather is durable.
With its asymmetrical top strap and slide buckle, you can make adjustments to the fitting as you desire.
Top Features
- 100% Leather upper
- 11/4” heels
- Leather sole
- Cushioned Vikofoam insole
- Soft tricot lining
Pros
- Use of ½” rubber cushioning to absorb shock and impact
- It has a top-lift part that promotes slip-resistance and stability
- Presence of anti-bacterial properties to prevent sweat that can cause blisters and friction
- It is available in five colors to match your dancing outfits
- It is a comfortable shoe for Swing dancing, perfect the older
Cons
- The size runs large
- The heel cup has sharp edges
Tic-Tac-Toes Women’s Swing has a proprietary HHH thick weight suede to give Swing dancers the feel and lasting shoe life they yearn for.
The use of a durable top coating made with urethane reduces scuffing and makes it easy to clean.
Though the heels look attractive, it is functional for gliding and traction purposes and will serve you well when dancing the Lindy Hop or other Swing dance styles.
2. Wood8 Men’s Two Tone Wingtips Oxfords Dress Shoes
A favorite among Swing dancers is the two-tone shoe. This masterpiece of a shoe comes with a vintage and classic look, no matter the style or variation it is presented.
It is a multi-faceted and versatile shoe considering that it is stylish, unique, and functional; which means you can put it on as part of a casual or formal outfit to indoor or outdoor parties, etc.
This is a pair of shoes that you can wear with a range of outfits such as navy pants, dress pants, as well as shirts, slacks, and tuxedo.
The use of padded insole and lining makes it comfortable, and you can wear it for long hours when Swing dancing.
Top Features
- 0.75” heel
- Black and white color upper
- Synthetic material
- Wingtips perforated oxford
- Lightly padded insole
- Detailed stitches
Pros
- It is a versatile footwear
- Detail stitches to enhance aesthetics and durability
- Low heels for comfortability and balance
- Exceptional quality at an affordable price
Cons
- It is not suitable for wide feet
- The sole is slick on the floor
- It has an unpleasant smell
If you have 50’s themed party to attend, Wood8 Men’s Two-Tone Wingtips Oxfords Perforated Lace-up Dress Shoes is a befitting choice to make you the center of attraction.
It glams up your whole look and finishes without dominating your outfits.
You will make a buzz whenever you are on the dance floor with this fabulous pair of shoes creatively designed for Swing dancing.
Six-count or eight-count rhythm, this is the perfect shoe for you.
3. NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes
Every dancer wants a shoe that can serve many dance styles without spending a whole lot of money filling up their wardrobe with different dance shoes.
That is exactly what this pair offers!
The excellent artistry put into making Nleahershoe shows through from toe to heel.
The quality of materials used ensures that you get that confident and smooth feel required for spins and swings.
Nleahershoe has a lightweight and anti-slip outsole feature that promotes free movement, the perfect shoe to prevent swollen feet due to slips and falls.
Your toes, ankles, and lower back will thank you for making this choice.
Top Features
- 1” heel
- Premium leather
- Perforated front upper
- Lightweight and suede outsole
- Anti-slip sole
- Lace-up frontal
- Sole cushioning
Pros
- The air holes allow your feet to breath
- The soles glide effortlessly on the dance floor
- It is easy to slip on and off the feet
- It stretches with constant use
- It guarantees a much better floor feel
- It comes in sizes suitable for wide feet
- It is a good deal for its price
Cons
- Short laces
- It is not recommended for long hours of dancing
- Tight toe box
NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes for Men Salsa, Tango, Ballroom, and Viennese Waltz highlights the length of your leg, making you look sleek and graceful in your stride.
Beginners and professionals will find this to be one of the best shoes for Swing dancing, given that it is comfortable and flexible on the feet.
4. So Danca CH95 Men’s Man-Made Leather Swing Dance Shoe
Are you in need of Swing dance shoes that guarantee you freedom of movement, comfort, and durability?
Look no further than So Danca character shoe suitable for professionals and neophytes.
So Danca has cushion lining to give support and protect the feet from impact when making spins and turns.
This superb pair is designed for practicality, even though super stylish and elegant.
No wonder it serves well as a Swing dancing shoes for wide and medium feet because you can adjust the laces as you desire to get the right fit.
Top Features
- 1” heel PU upper
- Soft
- Human-made leather
- Foam comfort lining
- Leather sole
- Rubber heel
- Lace frontal
Pros
- Cushioned insoles to absorb shocks
- The use of cushioned lining to support the foot
- Rubber soles help to prevent slipping while dancing
Cons
- None
The So Danca CH95 Men’s Man-Made Leather Swing Shoe is 100% perfect in all areas analyzed; no wonder it is highly sought-after in the Swing dancing world.
5. GP 50 Shades of Swing Dance Dress Shoes
The Gold Pigeon is Google’s number 1 brand as far as the manufacturing of ballroom dance shoes is concerned.
That says a lot about its products!
With four different designs on offer, this brand makes shows that will serve you well for practice, competitive events, other dance styles, events, and wedding parties.
All four are classic designers’ shoes that are suitable as everyday shoes or, of course, for outdoors, thanks to the sole stopper.
It is glamorous and made from comfortable and flexible materials that guarantee a smooth feel.
Top Features
- 100% handmade
- Suede outsole
- High-quality leather
- Satin material
- Cushioned insole
- Easy release buckle
- Frontal lace-up
Pros
- Suede outsole to prevent friction on the dance floor
- Cushioned insole helps to absorb shock
- It is a multi-dance-style shoe
- It has a black-and-white patterned design
- The adjustable clip/hook provides an excellent fit
- The flexible and lightweight nature makes it comfortable while dancing
- With the application of a sole stopper, you can wear it as a street shoe
Cons
- It is restrictive in colors
- Irregular sizing
Since this is a high-quality and pricey shoe brand, professionals who want to highlight their appearance on the dance floor with a classy look from head to toe will love it best.
Investing in the different designs of the 50 Shades of Swing Dance Dress Shoes is worth it since you can change to different styles between dance routines.
It is categorized among the best Swing and all-round dance shoes of 2022, thanks to its unique features and value.
6. Jig Foo Women’s Pumps Dance Shoe
Known for professionalism and excellence, the Jig Foo brand always produces quality footwear, which people adore all over the world.
Given its low heel, Swing dancers find it comfortable and convenient off and on the dance floor.
Its distinctive array of colors allows you to pick a matching pair for your dance ensembles easily.
The use of lightweight and synthetic leather makes it conform to the shape of your feet and provides that light feel while dancing.
This is indeed a top Swing dance shoe.
Top Features
- 1.6” Cuban heel
- Metal shank
- Eva insole
- Quick-release buckle (clip, hook or fastener)
- Ox suede sole
Pros
- With the buckles, you can move around without feeling it will fling off your feet
- You can adjust the straps to your size and fit
- It is a versatile dance shoe great for Salsa, Ballroom dancing, etc
- It has the right heel height for older dancers and beginners
- The metal shank fixed to the heel provides the proper arch protection
- Eva insole offers the right support and stability for the feet
- Use of thick suede sole to make it wear resistance
- Good quality for its price
Cons
- It is not recommended for wide feet
- Low-quality straps and buckle
- Not enough padding in the footbed
- It has a squeaky sound
Jig Foo Women’s Pumps Dance Shoe makes use of American Street size as a measurement standard for medium width feet, which will stretch with use.
It has an attractive design and color, which will draw attention to your feet when on stage or at a theme party.
If you love low heels with a closed toe, this comes recommended for Swing dancing, since it is wearable for long hours of dancing and spins very well.
7. Jig Foo Men’s Tap Shoes with 1″ Heel
Elegance and quality are not compromised in this pair of men’s Swing shoes from Jig Foo.
They have a reputation to keep positive, after all!
Made with black leather, it is light and comfortable on the feet, making it the right pair of shoes for this kind of dance.
Since the heel is low, you will be flexible on your feet and can move as swiftly as you want since you have the necessary balance and support.
The frontal lace adds to its stylishness. You can adjust this lace to fit your feet perfectly.
Top Features
- 1” heel
- Black leather
- Suede and human-made sole
Pros
- The sole suede help to provide traction and guide against falls that may injure the sciatica
- The lightweight materials used for manufacturing makes it flexible and comfortable on the feet
- Although it is pricey, it is of excellent quality
- Presence of an amplifier in the heel to produce great sound
- It has a comfortable fit in the toe area
Cons
- Irregular sizing
- Small tap metal piece
Apart from serving as one of the greatest Swing dancing shoes, Jig Foo Men’s Tap Shoes with 1″ Heel is great for Tap dancing, ChaChaCha, Rumba, Samba, Salsa, Latin, Tango, Quickstep and Viennese waltz.
You can buy it in silver, gold, and black to have different choices of color in your wardrobe to match your outfits.
This is a shoe that you can put on as a dress shoe, both for indoor and outdoor occasions.
Things to Consider When Buying Shoes for Swing Dancing
Style
There are different styles of Swing shoes to choose depending on your present status as a professional or beginner, the intensity of your Swing dance session, and your finances also.
While some Swing shoes are made with suede, others are leather.
Nonetheless, others can have between 1″-3″ heels or a flat bottom, with thicker or Cuban heels.
Whereas there are different styles for women, like the Heeled character shoes, two-tone oxford, peep-toe sandals, T-strap 20’s shoe, etc., the men can dazzle on the stage in saddle shoes, lace-up dance oxfords, character shoes, canvas style pumps, white-wingtip dance shoes, etc.
You can opt for the one that fits the image you want to project on stage while thrilling your audience.
Fit
Wearing the right size of Swing shoes will make you comfortable and exude extra confidence while performing your routine.
Buying lace-up or strappy Swing shoes with an adjustable buckle will give you the right fit and feel.
Related to that, having the right fit will help you to stay focused on getting your moves right since there is no worry about your shoe slipping off during a fast number.
Putting on a loose shoe puts you at risk of twisting your ankle while dancing.
When shopping for your Swing shoes, do consult a professional fitter to help you with the right size, shape, and pattern that will suit your feet and dance style.
Staying comfortable for hours will depend on factors like the right size and snugly fit.
Comfort
As always, comfort on the dance floor is a crucial consideration before you can think of wowing or thrilling your audience.
The right Swing shoes should have a cushioned insole, foam-padded footbed, and cushioned lining, which all combine to make the feet comfortable at all times.
A comfortable and flexible shoe will not restrict your movement, and this explains why the finest manufacturers use high-quality soft leather.
For a newbie Swing dancer – and even professionals, wearing a low heel Swing shoe makes you more comfortable and energetic when spinning.
Finally, the use of lightweight materials gives a feeling of lightness to the feet.
Sole
Both rubber and leather soles are practicable for Swing dancing shoes.
However, leather soles are preferable for smooth Swing styles, where you have to slide or spin on the floor as you have no fear of falling.
Rubber soles can grip the floor better as you move fast, considering that they stick more to the floor even though not too ideal for spinning.
Whether you are dancing a Balboa, Collegiate shag, Charleston, or Lindy Hop, the type of sole you have on will determine how perfect the execution will be.
You should also consider the type of flooring (waxed wooden floor or pavement) you will be dancing on before selecting your Swing shoe.
Support
The best shoes for Swing Dance must offer support to the feet of the dancer to prevent strain and sprain to the lower back, knee, ankle, and toes.
Spending a considerable amount of money on an ill-fitting pair of Swing shoes that will land you in the hospital for foot surgery is a waste of resources and time.
The appropriate Swing shoe should have a metal shank, which will give support to the arch and foot.
Having straps, lace, and buckle can also be an advantage for the fact that the shoe holds firm to the feet.
The presence of thick cushioned soles prevents you from hurting your feet when you jump or perform a fast-paced routine. These soles will absorb the impact.
Traction
To achieve traction on the dance floor, it is preferable to opt for Swing shoes made with rubber soles or leather suede soles, since they can grip the floor more effectively.
Whereas rubber sole shoes are sticky on the floor, leather suede soles have the right blend of slide and grip required when moving across the dance floor.
Note also that your heel selection will affect your traction level; lower heels give the right support when you are gliding across the floor, unlike high heels where you might not be able to control your movement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Do You Need a Swing Dance Shoe?
A. Swing dancing is fast-paced and demands high-energy.
The dance style involves flips, dips, twists, lifts, and swivel as well as choreographed swinging movements.
To get the most from the fun activity, you need to put on a proper pair of Swing dance shoes, which will help you perform these routines well.
To qualify as one of the best swing dance shoes, the pair must have a low heel or flat, leather lace-up or closed-toe, leather suede or rubber soles.
Such a combination will grip the floor properly, and you should then be able to spin and turn smoothly in them because they have the right support in place to keep you safe.
Q. Do You need Heels in Your Swing Shoes?
A. While heels will make you look elegant, it is advisable to do away with them during Swing dancing sessions to avoid heels spur injuries.
Since the dance is about motion and fast swinging of the leg, there is a possibility of stepping on your partner’s foot and injuring them.
Also, you might not be able to balance yourself on motion if your heels are high, leading to falls and sprained ankles, etc.
The ideal heel should be low, thick, and sturdy, or you can opt for a flat bottom shoe like the canvas style pump considering that safety should be a top priority.
Q. How Do You Make Your Swing Shoes Last Long?
A. Your Swing shoes are not wearable on the street as water, dirt, and rough surfaces will make them liable to spoil faster.
If you need to wear them outdoors, do use a sole stopper or heel protector.
Polishing your pure leather shoe is essential to prevent the leather from cracking.
To protect the soles from wearing out faster, especially suede sole, brush them to remove wax or dirt build-up.
Always remember to air them after use to prevent moisture from destroying them.
Keep them away from water.
Q. How Do You Know the Right Swing Shoe for You?
A. To get the best out of Swing dancing, you have to get the best Swing dancing shoe made to fit your feet and personality.
Going through recommendations and reviews like this will help you know the right brand to buy that will serve your purpose.
The shape of your feet, your experience level, age, and the number of hours you want to spend kicking out your feet are vital considerations too.
Conclusion
Being a top-notch Swing dancer is possible with the correct shoes at hand for the fact that it helps you ooze confidence.
Whether you want to display your Swing skills at a social Swing dancing, heats, or team formation, the right shoes for Swing dancing are a must-have.
Your shoe can serve as the secret weapon to outshine your competitor at an event, but that’s if you know the brand to stick to.
Such a realization will prevent all forms of trial-and-error gambling, which might have led to life-threatening injuries to your back and feet.
With the array of brands, styles, and designs, the deciding factor for you should be reliability, comfort, and quality.
Depending on your unique needs, this review on the 7 best shoes for Swing dancing in 2022 has got you covered.
So, go ahead, and you pick your choice among them.
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