It used to be a real challenge to find good Swing Dance Shoes. Fast forward to today, and the swing dance scene is booming with options! Over the last few years, the landscape has completely transformed, making it easier than ever to find the perfect footwear to enhance your swing dance experience.
Now, there are numerous companies dedicated to creating vintage-inspired shoes specifically for swing dancing. What’s even better is that many of these businesses are owned and run by Lindy Hoppers themselves, ensuring they understand the needs of dancers. While many brands focus on women’s styles, fantastic options are also available for men. Brands like Saint Savoy offer a range of men’s swing dance shoes, and SAF Shoes, a Canadian company, provides excellent unisex choices that are highly regarded in the community.
For women specifically looking for dance shoe inspiration and recommendations, there’s a vibrant Facebook group dedicated to the topic:
👉 Swing Dance Shoes Hunt: “Women’s Sizes & Styles”
One important thing to consider when choosing swing dance shoes is the heel height. While heels can add elegance and style, especially for dances like Balboa or for dressier events, flats often reign supreme when you’re aiming for high-energy dancing. If you’re heading to a venue like Dovercourt House and plan on really getting into your Lindy Hop, flat swing dance shoes will likely be your best friend, offering greater stability and allowing you to dance with more intensity and freedom.
These are my current go-to dance shoes when I want to dance hard – comfortable and stylish enough to wear even beyond the dance floor:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B0wJjoBgEAm/
Personally, I frequently choose Saint Savoy shoes and Balboa Zin for dancing. For everyday wear when I’m not dancing, I love Charlie Stone and Remix shoes for their vintage aesthetic and comfort.
The following list showcases brands popular among swing dancers, compiled in February 2020, but for the most current recommendations, always check the dedicated Facebook group mentioned above.
Woman modeling Saint Savoy Riviera high heel swing dance shoes at the International Lindy Hop Championships fashion show.
Shoes Made for Swing Dancers, by Swing Dancers
These brands are specifically designed with the needs of swing dancers in mind, often by dancers themselves, ensuring features crucial for swing dancing like suede soles and comfortable fit.
Dancer wearing Saint Savoy West flat swing dance shoes at a swing dance event.
Shoes Popular with Swing Dancers (Not Exclusively for Dance)
These options might not be solely designed for dance but are favored by swing dancers for their style, comfort, and suitability for social dancing.
General Dance Shoes (Not Swing Specific)
While not exclusively for swing, general dance shoes can also work, especially for practice or if you are exploring different dance styles.
Don’t forget to explore this insightful blog post on iLindy.com about Women’s Swing Dance Shoes for more in-depth information.
As a passionate advocate for Saint Savoy shoes, here’s a quick unboxing video to give you a closer look at their offerings:
With such an incredible array of swing dance shoes available today, we’re definitely spoiled for choice! It’s a wonderful problem to have. Happy swing dancing and happy shoe shopping!
