Step into the world of Irish dance with confidence and style. Our comprehensive guide to the top Irish dancing heavy shoe picks is here to help you make an informed decision to elevate your performance and ensure lasting comfort.
As a passionate Irish dancer, you understand the importance of finding the perfect pair of heavy shoes, also known as hard shoes, to complement your skills and showcase your talent. With their fiberglass heels and tips, these specialized shoes create the striking percussive sounds that make Irish dance so captivating and unique.
Choosing the ideal heavy shoe can be challenging with various brands, styles, and designs available. That’s where we come in. Our expertly curated list of top picks will guide you through the best options, catering to dancers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
So, without further ado, let’s explore our top selections and discover the ultimate heavy shoe for you.
What are Irish Dancing Heavy Shoes?
What exactly makes up an Irish dancer’s footwear? It’s a unique type of shoe that incorporates fiberglass instead of traditional metal taps.
These shoes are commonly referred to as Irish Dancing Heavy Shoes, Hard Shoes, Jig Shoes, Treble Shoes, or Heavies.
The evolution of these shoes has continued over time, with different manufacturers developing their own styles and designs. The current style is a heavy leather shoe with a fiberglass tip on the toe and heel, which produces a loud clicking sound when danced on hard surfaces.
This distinctive feature sets Irish dancing apart from other forms of dance that use metal taps on their shoes.
Why are heavy shoes important in Irish dancing?
Wearing these specialized shoes, with their hard soles and sturdy construction, ensures that the dancer’s feet can keep up with the fast-paced, intricate movements of this beloved cultural dance form.
Irish dancing shoes are designed to produce a distinct sound when hitting the floor. However, the importance of these shoes lies not only in their ability to make sound but also in the benefits they offer dancers.
The advantages of wearing heavy Irish dancing shoes include supporting dancers’ ankles and feet, making it easier to maintain balance while executing complex footwork. Additionally, these shoes help reduce the risk of injury by absorbing shock and impact from each step.
A pair of well-made, heavy shoes can last a long time with proper care and maintenance, making them a cost-effective investment for serious Irish dancers. With all these benefits considered, it’s clear how important heavy shoes are in ensuring that dancers perform at their best while protecting themselves from potential harm.
Factors to Consider When Buying Irish Dancing Heavy Shoes
As you delve deeper into the realm of Irish dancing heavy shoes, you must be aware of the critical factors that can influence your choice. This section will highlight the key aspects to consider, helping you find the perfect pair to elevate your performance and ensure lasting comfort.
These are some of the important factors;
Material (leather, synthetic)
The preferred choice for the substance used in these shoes is often a high-quality animal hide or alternative material. The leather vs. synthetic debate has been an ongoing discussion in the world of heavy Irish dancing shoes. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages, meaning choosing which is best suited for you is challenging.
Here are some pros and cons of each material that can help you make a more informed decision:
Leather
- Pros: Breathable, Durable, Comfortable
- Cons: Expensive, Requires High Maintenance
Synthetic
- Pros: Affordable, Low Maintenance, Water-Resistant
- Cons: Not as breathable as leather, May not last as long as leather
Ultimately, the choice between leather and synthetic will come down to personal preference and budget. Investing in a good pair of heavy Irish dancing shoes can significantly improve your performance and comfort on stage. Choose wisely.
Heel type (standard, championship, liberty)
There are a few different heel options available for your new Irish dance shoes, including standard, championship, and liberty styles.
Standard heels are great for beginners or those who prefer a lower and wider heel.
Championship heels offer a slightly higher and narrower heel, providing more control during complex footwork.
Liberty heels are the most recent addition to the market and offer dancers ultimate flexibility with their unique design that allows for both pointed-toe work and flat-footed moves.
Many manufacturers also offer customizable heel heights and widths if you’re looking for even more options for your heavy shoes. This can be especially helpful if you have specific needs due to an injury or body type.
Don’t forget to try on various heel types before making your final decision—comfort is key when it comes to dancing.
With all these options at your fingertips, you’re sure to find the perfect pair of Irish dance shoes to help you shine on stage.
Sole type (full sole, split sole)
Get ready to step up your game with the different sole options available for your new Irish dance shoes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right sole type can make all the difference in your performance.
The two main options are full soles and split soles, each with benefits and drawbacks. A full sole is a solid piece of leather covering the entire bottom of the shoe. The full sole provides maximum stability and support, making maintaining proper form and balance easier during complex footwork.
However, some dancers find that full soles can be less comfortable than split soles because they restrict flexibility in the foot. On the other hand, split soles have a break in the middle of the shoe, allowing for an increased range of motion in the arches and toes. The split sole design can help improve your overall comfort level while dancing but may impact your performance if you struggle with balance or need extra support.
Ultimately, trying on both types of shoes and seeing which one feels best for you before making a final decision is essential.
Full Sole vs Split Sole: Which is Right For You?
- Full Soles: Maximum stability and support
- Split Soles: Greater range of motion in arches and toes
- Comfort Level: Full soles provide more structure but may be less comfortable; split soles offer more flexibility but may need more support.
Taps (loudness, durability)
As you select the perfect Irish dance shoe, pay attention to the importance of considering the taps. The tap is one of the essential parts of an Irish dancer’s heavy shoe that produces sound when striking against a hard surface.
Irish dance taps are usually made of fiberglass or resin and are attached to the hard shoe soles. They are designed to produce distinct sounds when struck against the floor, creating rhythmic patterns and percussive effects characteristic of Irish dance.
When choosing your taps, you must balance between loudness and sound quality. For example, taps made from fiberglass have a very different sound to those made from resin.
Caring for your Taps
Regular maintenance of your taps is crucial to ensure they last longer and produce better-quality sounds. Make sure to clean them after every use, replace worn-out taps immediately, and store them in a dry place until the next time you use them. Doing so allows you to retain the loudness and sound quality your shoes produce for an extended period.
Arch support and flexibility
Pay attention to the importance of considering arch support and flexibility when selecting your perfect Irish dance shoe.
While taps are crucial for producing a loud sound and maintaining durability, arch support and flexibility are just as important for comfort during long hours of practice or performances.
The right amount of arch support can prevent foot fatigue, while proper flexibility allows you to execute intricate footwork more easily. Custom shoes may offer the best solution for balancing comfort and performance. Custom-made shoes provide individualized arch support that caters to your unique foot shape and size, ensuring maximum comfort without sacrificing performance.
However, if custom shoes are not within budget, many off-the-shelf brands offer varying degrees of arch support and flexibility options at different price points. Ultimately, finding the right balance between brand vs. price depends on personal preference and budget constraints.
Sizing and fit
Now that you understand the importance of arch support and flexibility in Irish dancing heavy shoes, let’s address sizing and fit. Finding a shoe that fits your foot perfectly is crucial to avoid discomfort or potential injuries during performances.
Here are some tips for finding the right fit and customization:
- Measure your feet: Before purchasing a pair of heavy shoes, measure both feet to determine their length and width. It’s not unusual to have feet of differing sizes. The exact size will be helpful, particularly if you are considering getting custom-made shoes.
- Address common sizing issues: Some dancers may have wider or narrower feet than average, making it challenging to find suitable footwear. Look for brands that offer options for different widths and sizes.
- Find the right shoe brand: Every brand has its own unique style and fit preferences, so it’s essential to try on several pairs before making a purchase decision. Some popular Irish dancing shoe brands include Rutherford Shoes, Antonio Pacelli, Fays Shoes, Hullachan Pro, and more.
Remember that heavy Irish dancing shoes have no one-size-fits-all solution for sizing and fit customization. Instead, take the time to measure your feet correctly, address any common sizing issues, and try on various shoe brands until you find the perfect match for optimal performance during dances.
Reviews
Ultralight by Fays Irish Dancing Shoes
Are you looking for a lightweight yet durable option for your next Irish dance competition? Look no further than the Ultra Light Fays Irish Dancing Shoes. These shoes, made with 100% calf leather, provide flexibility and durability.
The Fays Hi-Tech Heels give you sharp sound and strength, while the molded click heels make heel clicks easier. The Millennium Tip gives excellent, sharp sound, and the flattened toe provides extra support and balance during toe stands.
These shoes are the lightest in Fay’s range and come in various sizes with standard or wide-fitting options. You can even choose an ankle strap in black or white. In addition, these shoes will impress with reduced heel stiffeners to avoid blisters and more lightweight and flexible materials for toe stands.
The Ultra Light Fays Irish Dancing Shoes are worth considering if you want a high-quality dancing shoe.
Product Specs:
- Made with 100% calf leather
- Fays Hi-Tech Heels
- Molded click heels
- Millennium Tip
- Flattened toe
- Standard or Wide fitting options
- Available in various sizes
- Ankle strap options: Black, White
- Reduced heel stiffeners
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Flexible materials
- Excellent sound quality
- Durable construction
Cons:
- May require breaking in before comfortable use
ULTRA-LITE Jig Shoes – Irish Dance Hard Shoe by Rutherford
You’ll love the Ultra-LITE Jig Shoes by Rutherford, with Soundblaster Heels and Tips if you’re an advanced dancer looking for a lightweight, flexible option to help you perform at your best. Rutherford Products, a trusted Irish dance community name, makes these shoes.
They’ve been designed with the latest technology to give you unparalleled comfort and flexibility.
The Ultra-LITE Jig Shoes, made from super soft leather, require virtually no break-in time. They’re perfect for competitions or performances where you need to hit the stage running. They feature an ultra-light black suede sole that allows for easy flexibility and Rutherford’s world-famous Soundblaster Heels and Tips, which are both loud and light.
These shoes are available in narrow, regular, and plus-wide sizes, ensuring everyone can find a perfect pair. With their Ultra-LITE Flexibility 1Heel Technology, these shoes offer great value for money and will become your go-to choice for all your Irish dancing needs.
Product Specs:
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ULTRA-LITE Jig Shoes with Soundblaster Heels and Tips
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Super Soft Leather
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Ultra-Lite Black Suede Sole
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World Famous Rutherford Soundblaster Heels and Tips
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Choice of Champion
Pros:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to move on stage
- Virtually no break-in period is required
- Available in different sizes
Cons:
- Additional charge for larger sizes
Antonio Pacelli Essential Jig Shoe – Irish Dance Hard Shoe
Now that you’ve learned about Ultra-LITE Jig Shoes, it’s time to explore another popular option for Irish dance hard shoes: the Antonio Pacelli Essential Jig Shoe.
These shoes are designed for beginners and intermediate-level dancers but are also teacher-approved for competitive dancing and Feiseanna. With a black suede sole and smooth leather uppers, these shoes strike a balance between flexibility and structure; they’re more flexible than the Superflexi range but less flexible than the Ultraflexi range.
One of the standout features of the Antonio Pacelli Essential Jig Shoe is its Leinster tips and shaped Leinster heels. These elements ensure that your feet stay firmly planted on the ground while you dance, allowing maximum control over your movements. Additionally, each heel’s a curved edge on the inside to make heel clicks easier.
The standard fitting means that these shoes will work well for most people, though it’s worth noting that you may need to size up by a half or a full size if you have wider feet or want a more comfortable fit.
Product Specs:
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Available in black or white straps
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Suitable for beginners and intermediate-level dancers
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Black suede sole and smooth leather uppers
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More flexible than Superflexi but less flexible than Ultraflexi range
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Fitted with Leinster tips and shaped Leinster heels
Pros:
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Teacher approved competitive dancing and Feisanna
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Standard fitting suitable for most people
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Curved inside edge on the heel makes heel clicks easier
Cons:
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Foot measurement size chart does not indicate the length of the shoe
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You may need to size up 1/2 to 1 full size for a more comfortable fit or wider foot
Corr’s Champion Irish Dance Hard Shoe
You’ll love the innovative design and unbeatable sound of the Corrs Champion Irish Dance Hard Shoe.
The Super-Shank arch support provides unparalleled comfort, while the fully padded insole adds an extra cushioning layer. In addition, the green Champion Tip produces an incredible sound that will make you stand out during performances.
Latex padding throughout the shoe provides added support, and adjustable straps and a heel counter ensure a secure fit for every dancer. The breathable inner lining keeps your feet cool during extended practices or performances, while the soft yet durable leather can withstand even the most demanding dances.
There’s a perfect fit for everyone, with sizes available from 2.5 to 12.0 (including wide sizes). However, we recommend always confirming your sizing with the manufacturer, as sizes can vary.
Product Specs:
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Split-sole hard shoe
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Super-Shank arch support
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Fully padded in-sock
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Green Champion Tip for unbeatable sound
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Latex padding throughout
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Adjustable straps and heel counter for a secure fit
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Breathable inside lining for comfort
Pros:
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Unbeatable sound quality
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Excellent arch support and cushioning
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Durable yet comfortable leather
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Wide range of sizes is available
Cons:
-
Double-check your sizing
Hullachan Prestige Jig Shoe
Are you looking for a comfortable and secure fit in your Irish dance shoes? The Hullachan Prestige Jig Shoe is an excellent option, with features that will enhance your performance.
A redesigned toe shape adds elegance and streamlines the shoe’s appearance, combining flexibility, responsiveness, and exceptional comfort.
The shoe’s padded ankle collar provides comfort and security, preventing sore heels during the breaking-in period. Despite its numerous support and comfort features, the Prestige remains lightweight, allowing dancers to dance for hours without feeling weighed down.
The clever dual-layer insoles offer shock absorption and comfort, safeguarding dancers’ joints and making the shoe a joy to wear. The Concorde Lite heels are also 30% lighter and create a louder sound, thanks to an internal echo chamber.
Product Specs:
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High-grade leather upper
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Lightweight
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Breathable inner lining
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Concord Lite Heels
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Padded ankle collar
Pros:
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Comfortable fit
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Lightweight
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Lighter heels with enhanced sound
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Neat and tidy appearance
Cons:
-
Double-check your sizing
How to Care for Your Irish Dancing Heavy Shoes
Knowing how to correctly care for your heavy shoes is essential to keep them in top condition.
First and foremost, make sure to clean them after every use. Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris on the shoe’s surface. Use a damp cloth with mild soap and water for tougher stains or scuffs, but be sure not to saturate the leather.
When storing your heavy shoes, avoid keeping them in damp or humid areas, as this can cause damage to the leather and weaken the soles. Instead, store them in a cool and dry place with good ventilation. You can also stuff them with newspaper to help absorb any remaining moisture and maintain their shape.
Additionally, it’s important to establish a regular maintenance routine, which includes checking for loose stitches or worn-out soles that may need repair by a professional cobbler.
By following these cleaning tips, storage methods, and maintenance routines, you can prolong the life of your heavy shoes and ensure they’re always ready for your next performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Irish dancing in heavy shoes?
Discover the fascinating history of Irish dancing heavy shoes and how they’ve evolved to become an integral part of Irish culture.
The intricate design of these shoes has been carefully crafted to produce the distinctive sound that accompanies traditional Irish dance.
From simple leather soles to modern-day fiberglass heels, the evolution of heavy shoe design has allowed dancers to showcase their skills with greater precision and control.
But beyond their technical advancements lies a more profound cultural significance: heavy shoes are a symbol of pride for Irish dancers around the world, representing strength, endurance, and tradition.
So whether you’re a seasoned dancer or simply curious about this ancient art form, learning about the history behind these iconic shoes will surely deepen your appreciation for the rich heritage of Irish dance.
Can heavy shoes be worn for other types of dance or just for Irish dancing?
When it comes to dancing shoes, heavy shoes are typically associated with Irish dancing. However, they can also be worn for other types of dance, although jazz shoes are more commonly used for styles such as jazz and tap.
The pros of heavy shoes include their durability and support for high-impact movements and the distinctive sound they create on hard floors. On the other hand, the cons include their weight and potential discomfort after prolonged wear.
If you’re interested in trying heavy shoes for a different type of dance, consider their benefits and drawbacks compared to other options before making a decision.
Are there any health concerns associated with wearing heavy shoes for extended periods?
If you’re considering wearing heavy shoes for extended periods, you need to be aware of the potential impact on your foot health.
The recommended usage time for heavy shoes is typically around 2–3 hours per day to prevent potential injuries. However, prolonged use may lead to issues such as stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and other foot-related problems.
Listening to your body and taking breaks are crucial to minimize these injuries. Additionally, properly fitting shoes with adequate support can help alleviate some of the adverse effects on foot health associated with heavy shoe wear.
Are heavy shoes best suited for a specific type of flooring?
There are a few things to consider when it comes to heavy shoes and the type of flooring they work best on.
First, the best flooring options for heavy shoes are typically hard surfaces like wood or laminate, as opposed to soft surfaces like carpet or foam. Heavy shoes can cause damage over time to softer floors, while hard floors provide better durability.
Additionally, the type of flooring can impact sound quality; hard floors tend to produce a louder sound that carries farther, which is ideal for performances. So if you want your heavy shoes to last and sound their best, consider practicing on a hard surface like wood or laminate.
Are there specific techniques or exercises to help break in new Irish dancing shoes?
You’ve got a brand new pair of Irish dancing heavy shoes, and you’re ready to break them in. Well, first of all, congratulations on your purchase. Now, let’s get down to business.
One technique is to wear them around the house or during practice sessions before taking them out for performances. This will help mold the shoes to fit your feet while allowing you to adjust to their weight and flexibility.
Additionally, shoe maintenance is critical to ensuring longevity. Always keep your shoes dry and clean, as moisture can damage the leather and cause odors over time.
Stretching techniques can also be helpful when breaking in new shoes; try doing some calf stretches before putting them on, which will alleviate any potential discomfort from tightness in that area.
With these tips under your belt (or rather, on your feet), you can confidently and easily take control of your dancing experience.
Conclusion
Congratulations. You now know all about Irish dancing in heavy shoes. These shoes are essential to any Irish dancer’s gear and can make a huge difference in their performance. However, choosing the right pair of heavy shoes can be daunting whether you’re a beginner or an advanced dancer. But fear not; we’ve got you covered with our top picks.
On the one hand, classic brands like Rutherford and Hullachan offer sturdy and reliable options for dancers of all levels. On the other hand, newer brands like Fays and Antonio Pacelli have been gaining popularity for their innovative designs that prioritize comfort and flexibility without sacrificing durability. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and what works best for your dancing style.
Now that you know which heavy shoes to invest in, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. With regular cleaning and conditioning, these shoes will continue to support your feet through countless performances.
So go ahead and confidently stomp your way to success with your new heavy shoe knowledge.
