There is no specific way to do the Lindy Hop Shoes dance, but many different shoes are used to increase the difficulty of the exercise. Some dancers use high-quality, custom-made shoes, while others prefer cheaper, off-the-shelf options. Whether someone chooses high-quality or budget-friendly shoes depends on their dance style and preferences. Finding a good pair of dance shoes is a matter of trial and error for most people.
Made by Lindy Hoppers = Made with Love
As someone who tries to be an educated consumer, spending your money wisely is important. For example, I would rather support a shoe or clothing company run by Lindy Hopper than a public company because I want them to be successful.
I want people making attire for “us” to be supported by “us.” Ya, feel me? On top of that, they get it — they know how the Lindy Hop community dresses, what it’s like to spend a night dancing up a storm, and how important a killer pair of dance shoes are.
That’s why I need to shout out to Saint Savoy shoes and the owner and designer, Rani Patricia. I love Rani’s eye for design, she puts a ton of love and cares into her shoes, and she’s a Lindy Hopper (just like you and me). Her exceptional shoes come in some of the most stunningly beautiful colors.
Of all of the shoe companies in our community, Rani is making some of the most high-quality heels in the world of dance today and deeply cares about the happiness of her customers.
Flats vs. Heels
There’s no “right way” to do this, as it all comes down to what best makes you feel fabulous, but there are recommended times for flats vs. heels.
When I train or compete, I’m in flats.
I need to be able to pound on my feet over and over again while I’m working on my rhythm or training my jazz, and I don’t want to spend time thinking about how I’m connecting to the floor.
When I compete, I do so in flats because it’s what I’ve spent my time training in, and I need to feel grounded and stable while my adrenaline is up.
That said, there’s nothing like a gorgeous pair of heels, and competing in them is possible. Just check out two of my favorite Lindy Hop followers I see competing in heels: Sarah Breck and Jenn Runyan. They’re powerful, graceful, and clever.
As I’m sure you know, not all heels are created equal. In our community, we’re lucky to have amazing companies run by Lindy Hoppers, who understand what makes a great pair of heels.
Not only should they make you feel amazing when you put them on, but they also need to be comfortable. A perfect pair of heels must be supportive, durable, comfortable on my skin, and a “conversation starter.” If I wear a pair of heels, I want people to notice!
Perhaps you love the look of heels but feel too high or not sturdy. I felt the same way until better, more dance-friendly shoes were made.
Some great lower heels are 1.5 inches or lower, like the gorgeous Saint Savoy RIVIERA (available in several colors), which have a 3.5cm/1.38” heel. The height and construction of the shoe make it a fabulous choice to help you feel stable and fancy.
I also love the look of a higher shoe, like the Saint Savoy GRACE, which is a 6cm/2.36” heel. Not too high and is oh-so-gorgeous. My favorite is to pair these with black jeans – from casual to fancy at a moment’s notice.
Word to the Wise: The shoes you wear will make you feel and dance differently, so don’t be afraid to bring your shoes to class or practice so that you’re more comfortable on the division dance floor!
A different side of you comes out as you change your footwear. I feel like a completely different dancer in heels than in flats, and even I use different variations when dancing!
These Shoes are a Worthwhile Investment
There’s no question that good shoes are a necessary part of any hop player’s wardrobe. If you’re looking to invest in some great lindy hop shoes, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind.
First, it’s important to note that lindy hop is a high-energy activity, so your shoes will need to be able to handle the rough and tumble. Make sure your shoes are made with good quality materials – like leather or suede – so they last as long as you do.
History
In the early 1800s, a dance called Lindy Hop originated in the United States. The name comes from “lindy,” an English word meaning “little girl.” The dance is a faster, quicker dance that is also danced in penny loafers.
It has been popular ever since and can be found worldwide in the early 1940s to improve dancers’ performance stability.
Today, dancers still use these shoes worldwide, which is an important part of the style.
Advantages & Disadvantages
There are many advantages and disadvantages to wearing these shoes. A few of the most significant advantages include the following:
- They provide a unique, one-of-a-kind experience when trying new music styles.
- They can improve your foot circulation and help you stay cooler during summer.
- They’re perfect for people looking for comfortable, durable shoes daily.
- They provide an interesting and unique style you can wear with any outfit or style.
- The shoes are comfortable and provide an Aero Boost effect.
- They help improve balance and coordination.
- They provide a good workout for the feet.
- Disadvantages:
- Some people find them too short, so they must be worn up high.
- Others find them too thick and need to fit better on narrow feet.
Conclusion
Lindy hop shoes are a fun and easy way to show your support for the sport. They are perfect for when you want to show off your hops skills and have some extra fun. If you’re looking for a fun and stylish way to show your support, look no further than these shoes!
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