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Tap Shoes

Tap shoes are shoes made specifically for tap dancing. They are, in fact, the main ingredient besides skill that goes into the art of tap dancing. Without the shoes, there cannot be any tapping.

Tap shoes can be differentiated from other shoes made for dancing in that they have a partial metal sole attached to the toe and heel area on the existing sole. This partial metal sole is what allows the tap shoes to make the "tapping" sound that the style of dance is known for. The metal partial cannot be taken off so, tap shoes should only be worn when dancing. Tap shoes can be bought with or without laces in multiple styles. The shoes themselves are very flexible allowing the shoe to move as one with the foot. Tap shoes that are used primarily for practice and not performance are usually made in very plain, solid colors such as pink, tan and black. Tap shoes used as part of a costume can be made into any style and design to complement the outfit itself. Tap shoes are meant to fit securely around the feet, as the tap shoe is the primary element in this particular style of dance.