You can’t call yourself a swing dancer without a pair of Aris Allen
Swing dancing originated in the 1920s-1950s, and is still among the most hip forms of dancing today. Swing dancing is popular among partners of all ages and can be performed to any style of music which “swings” – be that jazz, R&B, funk, blues, rock, hip hop, pop, or anything else. Swing dancing is a stationary dance form in that it doesn’t travel across the dance floor, which makes it great for crowded spaces. There are many forms of swing dancing including the Lindy Hop, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Jitterbug, and Jive.
Swing dancing is among the most fast-paced forms of couples dancing and can get pretty wild! During swing dancing partners are lifted off the ground, flipped, spun or swung (thus the name ‘swing dancing’). As you might imagine, this can get pretty rough on your shoes, and if you don’t wear the right kind of shoes, you can lose traction on the dance floor. That’s why swing dance shoes were invented!
Swing dance shoes aren’t interchangeable with other ballroom dance shoes; shoes swing dance partners wear need to have the right kinds of soles for all that swinging around. Perhaps the best known manufacturer of swing dance shoes is Aris Allen; Aris Allen and other makers of swing dance shoes, clothes and accessories focus on creating shoes with flexible soles which provide great traction. Usually swing dance shoe soles are made of hard leather or chrome leather (suede). The finish is smooth enough that you can slide and pivot on your shoes, but gives you enough of a grip that you won’t lose control. Flexibility helps you feel the dance floor through your shoes and enhances your foot work. An additional layer of rubber in the heel can provide shock absorption, protecting your feet from injury or strain.
Lindy Hop Shoes vs. West Coast Swing Dance Shoes
Lindy Hop shoes are made for men and women and come in a variety of styles with raised or flat heels. Many shoes for swing dancing are designed in a vintage style which reflects the historical roots of swing dancing for more retro fun. You’ll find swing dance shoes in every color you can imagine including black, black and white, gold, red, and blue. For the west coast dancer, there is no distinction for west coast swing dance shoes. You can get any pair of swing shoes at Aris Allen and they will fit into my swing dance styles.
Price Range
Shoes for swing dancers aren’t cheap (most swing dance shoes will run you about $60.00-$90.00), but they will outlast generic shoes on the dance floor and give you much better performance. Swing dancing in generic shoes can wear them out pretty quickly, and then you’ll be stuck replacing them – which doesn’t save money at all! You’ll be able to dance with comfort and grace with the right shoes, and your feet will be less susceptible to injury. You’ll be far less likely to take a spill, and your specialized shoes will withstand all sorts of wear and tear. You’ll be able to focus on improving your moves and having fun and not worry about what’s on your feet. There is a huge selection, so whatever your personal style you should have no problem finding a swing dance shoe that fits!
