Finding Your Dance Feet in the Concrete Jungle: A Guide to NYC Dance Shoe Shopping
So, you wanna boogie down in the Big Apple, huh? Good for you! But before you start cha-cha-ing your way through the city, you're gonna need some proper footwear. Let's talk about where to find the perfect pair of dance shoes in NYC.
Don't Step on Any Toes (or Shoes)
NYC is a dance mecca, and with that comes a plethora of places to buy dance shoes. But with so many options, it can feel like trying to find a needle in a haystack (or a cha-cha slide in a waltz competition). Fear not, aspiring Fred Astaires and Ginger Rogers, I've got your back.
The Big Guns:
- Capezio: This place is like the Hogwarts of dancewear. It's got everything from ballet slippers to tap shoes. The staff is usually pretty knowledgeable, but be prepared to fight through a crowd of wannabe ballerinas.
- Bloch: Another big name in the dance world, Bloch offers a wide range of shoes for all dance styles. Their stores are typically less crowded than Capezio, so you might have a better chance of actually trying on shoes.
The Boutiques:
If you're looking for something a bit more unique, check out some of the smaller dancewear boutiques scattered around the city. These places often carry harder-to-find styles and brands. Plus, you're more likely to get personalized attention from the staff.
Online Shopping:
I know, I know. You're in NYC, the city that never sleeps, why would you shop online? But hear me out. Some online retailers offer a wider selection and better prices than brick-and-mortar stores. Just make sure to check the return policy before you buy.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Pair
- Know Your Style: Are you a ballet bunny, a jazz jazzer, or a hip-hop hoedown hero? Knowing your dance style will help you narrow down your shoe options.
- Try Before You Buy: Dance shoes should fit like a glove, not a clown shoe. Whenever possible, try on shoes before you buy them.
- Break Them In Slowly: New dance shoes can be tough on your feet. Start with short practice sessions and gradually increase the wear time.
How To...
- How to choose the right dance shoe size? Dance shoes often fit differently than regular shoes. It's best to get fitted by a professional.
- How to break in dance shoes? Wear them around the house with thick socks for a few days before hitting the dance floor.
- How to clean dance shoes? Check the care instructions on the shoe. Most dance shoes can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.
- How to store dance shoes? Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- How to know if dance shoes are worn out? Look for signs of wear and tear, such as worn-out soles or ripped uppers.