It has been said that it takes two to tango, and this is especially true when it comes to purchasing hip-hop dancing shoes. If you have been putting in hours of practice but are wearing regular sneakers or gym shoes, you won’t be light on your feet, and chances are your routine and form will be affected. Hip hop shoes to a hip-hop dancer are as essential as pointe shoes are to a ballet dancer.
Hip Hop dancing shoes have been curated, keeping in mind the feet of the dancer. Most shoes come with extra cushioning and support to protect the knees against impact and injury after performing jumps and tricks. They have additional protection at the toe area to assist its wearer in performing toe stands and are usually abrasion-resistant, so they don’t wear out quickly. It is essential that the shoe’s sole, particularly in the heel region, can absorb shocks. The shoe should deliver a balanced combination of grip and slide so that the dancer can move and glide with ease.
Wearing regular sneakers to a hip-hop dance-off or practice is like wearing heels for a trek. You can injure your feet, and you’ll never be able to enjoy your routine fully. If you’re looking for a good pair of hip-hop dancing shoes, then you’re in the right place; we have put together a list of the best pairs of hip-hop dancing shoes that will leave you feeling like you’re dancing on air!
We have made this list after research of 44 hours, in which we read more than 203 reviews, looked for 22 brands, and reviewed 20 awesome shoes.
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Here is List of Best Shoes For Dancing Hip Hop for Men & Women in 2023
Nike Men’s Air Force 1 Low Sneaker
If you’re an avid sneakerhead, then you probably need no introduction to these bad boys. The Nike Air Force Low Sneakers are essential to every hip hop dancer’s wardrobe. They were first introduced in 1982 and since then have been a hit in the streets.
Made from leather, these classic sneakers are classic and will never go out of fashion. The shoe’s low design protects it from soil adhesion, and the rippled leather edges give the shoe a cleaner look that highlights its refined details. The sole of the shoe provides maximum cushioning and comfort and protects against impact when performing floor tricks or jump steps.
The shoe is available in a wide range of colors like white, black, maroon, red, and blue. They also come in multi-color options that are uber trendy and cool. They are available from US 5 till US 9. They are also available in women’s sizing.
What sets this show apart is its iconic and scientific design. The shoe features leather and fabric uppers that have been carefully positioned to provide its wearer with support and durability that will easily last for a lifetime. The shoe also has perforated inserts that will keep the shoe breathable and sweat-free.
What we love (Benefits):
- Long-lasting shoes
- Has a leather and fabric upper
- Perforated inserts keep shows breathable and sweat-free
- Has a cushioned sole for maximum comfort
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Available in a low range of sizes
- Does not have arch support
Our Rating: 5/5
Bloch Dance Women’s Boost DRT Suede and Mesh Split Sole Dance Sneaker
If you’re looking for a pair of professional sneakers that are super lightweight and designed to fit a dancers’ arch, then these are the sneakers for you. Made from leather and textile and featuring a lightweight mesh upper, these platform kicks feature a rubber sole that will help absorb shocks and keep you dancing in the streets.
The variable lacing system of the shoe provides optimum comfort for its wearer. The shoe also features a Dri-Lex lining system. This ensures the inside of the shoe is breathable and odor resistant. This lining wicks up moisture and prevents mildew from developing inside the shoe.
The sneaker features a split, non-marking outsole that provides an exceptional range of movement and support to the dancers’ feet. The shoe’s compression-molded sock liner takes the shape of the foot and prevents feet from tiring easily.
What’s more, is that the shoe comes with built-in elevation support and an air cushion to absorb shocks and allow for 360-degree turns. The shoe comes in two attractive colors, pink and black, and is available in sizes US 4 to US 16. Half sizes are also available.
What we love (Benefits):
- They are super lightweight
- Has a Dri-Lex Lining system
- Features great arch elevated support
- Has a compression-molded sock liner
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Has a narrow toe box
- Sizes tend to run on the smaller side
Our Rating: 4.9/5
Adidas Originals Men’s Super Star Sneaker
These classic round toe sneakers have a leather upper, cushioned footbed, and rubber outsole. These shoes have recently become Instagram famous and rightly so. Driven by innovation, these shoes have been made from coated leather to easily last a lifetime.
The shoe features an abrasion-resistant upper that increases the durability of the shoe and a tongue in collar design for a superior fit. The toe of the shoe has an iconic shell design that protects the toes from injury and impact and allows you to spin effortlessly.
The design of the shoe is unmistakable. Made from full-grain leather, the shoe features the brand’s three-stripe design on the side of the shoe. They are versatile and can be easily paired with jeans or casual wear.
These shoes are available in a variety of colors like black, pink, metallic, grey, and gold and generally feature a white base with stripes in the color of your choice; however, black, red, and grey options are also available Sizes start from US 4 to US 20.
What we love (Benefits):
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Sleek and stylish design
- Made from full-grain leather
- Has an iconic toe shell design that protects feet
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Fit may be narrow for users who have wide feet
- The shoe is not as breathable and may be unsuitable for hot weather
Our Rating: 4.8/5
Nike Women’s Free TR 8 Sneaker
If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that can provide maximum comfort during all and any kind of sporting activities and particularly during hip hop practices, then these are the shoes for you.
Made from textile, this shoe features a mesh outer that keeps the shoe breathable and dry. The shoe’s increased breathability will also prevent odors and mildew from forming inside the shoe keeping your feet safe and dry.
The shoe sole is exceptionally lightweight, and the soft foam of the midsole of the shoe provides extra cushioning and support. The shoe’s bootie construction provides a glove-like fit to its wearer, and the flywire design on the upper of the shoe holds the foot.
This hip hop dancing shoe has been carefully designed to provide maximum grip and support and has grooves that grip the ground on the shoe’s underside. What’s more, is that this shoe comes with rubber pods for extra grip and traction during slide steps. The flattened heel of the shoe provides a wider surface area to help keep you steady on your feet.
This practical hip hop dancing shoe is available in a wide variety of colors, including burgundy, sand, Fuschia, white, blue, black, and orange. They come in sizes starting from US 5 to US 11.
What we love (Benefits):
- Has cushioned support to protect feet
- Flat heel allows for greater grip
- Has a lightweight sole
- The outer mesh keeps the shoe breathable
- Available in half sizes
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Not waterproof or water-resistant shoes
- Sizes run on the smaller side
Our Rating: 4.8/5
Reebok Women’s Guresu 1.0 Sneaker
If you want a shoe that will let you dance your heart out without injuring or tiring your feet out, then this is the one for you. It has a bootie construction and midfoot gore support that holds your feet in place while you move to the beats.
Made from textile and synthetic, these hip hop dancing shoes have a shaft that measures low-top from the arch. It has an EVA midsole, which is a sole that has been made using ethylene vinyl acetate. This foam-like material evenly distributes weight and provides flexibility to its user. This sole also absorbs shocks during lands after jumps.
These comfortable shoes feature a rubber outsole and ortholite inner liner. This sock liner helps absorb impact, therefore, protecting your ankles and knees; it also wicks up moisture keeping the shoe dry and protecting your feet from fungal infections. When it comes to comfort, this shoe is unbeatable and is great value for money.
These shoes have been designed to take the shape of a woman’s foot and fit like a sock. They are available in a wide range of colors such as black, white, pink, plum, maroon, mist, and sand.
They come in sizes from US 5 to US 12 and are also available in half sizes.
What we love (Benefits):
- EVA midsole distributes weight and increases flexibility
- Ortholite sock makes the shoe extremely comfortable
- Available in half sizes
- The shoe comes in a wide range of sizes
- Has an attractive, modern design
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- For wearers with narrow feet, an insert may be required
- Stiff material may be hard for some users to slip-on
Our Rating: 4.8/5
Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker
If you are looking for a fierce sneaker that lets you spin with ease and effortlessly get into the grove, then these are the hip hop dancing shoes for you. These shoes feature a split sole that increases the shoe’s durability and an arch support system for maximum support for the dancer.
Made from Nappa PU Leather, these shoes feature a tech-mesh upper and a padded tongue-in collar design. These features when combined together, make the shoe extra long-lasting and durable.
The shoe also has a PU outsole that comes with a built-in patented flex point. This lets the wearer turn, twist, and spin with ease. The footbed of the shoe is contoured and cushioned and has an EVA sole, which absorbs impact, thereby protecting the knee caps, heel, and ankle.
These shoes are super lightweight and come with a boxed toe, making toe stands and jumping easier, and are super supportive when performing high-impact dance moves. The shoe also comes with a split sole and stretch-insert that increases the shoe’s lifespan and durability, which makes it better than the previous model.
Made from high-quality material and modern technology, this shoe is a notch above the rest and is available in sizes from US 3 to US 14. They come in half sizes as well, so rest assured you will find a shoe that fits like a glove when purchasing from this brand. The shoe comes in black and white and is available in color options like black and red, and black and blue.
What we love (Benefits):
- Has a PU patterned insole with patented flex points
- Has a split sole and arch support
- Available in half sizes
- Boxed toe allows users to point their toes with ease
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Shoe runs one size smaller than street shoe sizes
- Synthetic laces tend to unravel
Our Rating: 4.7/5
Sansha Salsette 1 Jazz Sneaker
These stylish kicks are made from 100% mesh and suede measures approximately ½ inch from the heel. This mesh and suede material combination ensures the shoe is breathable. The lace-up design gives its user to adjust the shoe for a custom fit.
What sets this hip hop dancing shoe apart is that it comes with a suede sole shoe. A suede sole will deliver to its wearer the perfect balance of grip and slide. The shoe’s quick-drying and breathable fabric will prevent the shoe from becoming moldy and developing a stench.
When purchasing this shoe, customers are cautioned to check the size conversion chart before choosing. This shoe is appropriate for all kinds of dances like hip hop, jazz, flamenco, ballroom, and tap. The company has been curating shoes for dancers for decades together, so rest assured your shoe needs are well taken care of when purchasing this product.
These sneakers are available in four colors – red, purple, grey, and black. They run in sizes from US 2 to US 15 and are available in a few half sizes.
What we love (Benefits):
- Suede sole delivers good grip and slide
- The shoe is made from breathable and quick-drying fabric
- Can be used for a wide variety of dances
- Attractive design
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Sizing needs to be checked
- Toe region of the shoe is very narrow
Our Rating: 4.65/5
SAGUARO Women’s Mesh Jazz Shoes Lady Girls Modern Split-Sole Dance Sneakers
If you’re looking for a super-lightweight sneaker that can be worn for all sporting activities from your daily morning walks to your even hip hop dance practice sessions, then these are the ones for you.
The upper of the shoe is made from synthetic leather and mesh and features a split sole that is high in density and abrasive resistance. This makes the shoe extra long-lasting and allows the wearer to rotate the foot with ease.
The draping cutting on the arch portion of the shoe gives its wearer a great close fit feel. This hip hop dancing shoe is extremely lightweight and will not tire your feet out easily. The sole of the shoe absorbs shocks and provides a bounce to its wearer.
The shoe’s rubber sole provides excellent traction and grip regardless of the terrain you are performing on. The shoe is available in four block colors – red, black, white, and pink and features a lace-up design for a glove-like fit. The shoe ranges in sizes from US 3 to US 9 and is an extremely affordable pair of shoes.
What we love (Benefits):
- The shoe is very lightweight
- It is a versatile shoe that can be used for a variety of sporting activities
- Rubber sole provides great traction
- Lace-up design gives a glove-like fit
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Comes in a low range of sizes
- Laces tend to come out easily
Our Rating: 4.6/5
Pastry POP Tart Grid Sneaker
With a cushioned footbed, excellent rubber traction, and padded tongue in collar this shoe have been designed for professional dancers. It has a bold retro design and is made using high-quality materials.
The shoe has a boot-like high top design that rises to the ankles, which will hold the ankle in place and prevent it from injury especially when performing moves like knee drop and other old school dance party moves. The sleek design of the shoe will make you want to lace it up the first chance you get!
This shoe’s upper features durable perforated panels that make the shoe breathable and keep it dry even during the sweatiest of performances. The rubber outsole of the shoe is flexible and provides excellent grip and traction to the wearer. It has a memory foam bed for maximum comfort and support.
The shoe’s inner sole is a memory foam that takes the shape of the feet and will provide a glove-like fit to its wearer. The shoe features a metal ringlet design that makes it stand out and is available in block colors such as black, white, and charcoal. It is available in sizes from US 5 to US 13.
What we love (Benefits):
- Sleek and bold design
- Has memory foam for utmost comfort
- Metal ringlet design sets it apart from other shoes
- Has perforated panels that keep the shoe breathable and dry
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Half sizes are unavailable
- Sizes tend to run on the larger side
- Some users found the heel area hard
Our Rating: 4.6/5
Van Authentic
When it comes to dancing shoes, Vans is a brand that is widely known and popular. They have been manufacturing shoes for sporting and dancing activities since 1966.
This shoe features the classic and iconic Vans design featuring a rubber sole and canvas upper. The flat sole provides the dancer with a good feel of the ground and increased balance.
These canvas shoes have a snug lace-up closure that lets its wearer adjust the shoe for a perfect fit. The shoe’s low-top design is both simple and stylish, and the canvas makes the shoe easy to clean and wash. The shoe design is also extremely versatile and can be easily paired with other items in your wardrobe.
The sole of the shoe is made from rubber and provides excellent traction and grip to its wearer. The rubber also runs alongside the shoe base, so rest assured your feet and toes will be protected against impact and shock.
When it comes to picking an appropriate color of the shoe, you are spoilt for choice. The shoe comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, Hawaiian floral, deep orchid, port royale, dry rose, and desert sage. These shoes come in sizes from US 3 to US 17 and are available in half sizes.
What we love (Benefits):
- Canvas upper is easy to clean
- The shoe is extremely breathable
- Wide range of colors and sizes
- Rubber sole provides excellent traction and grip
Keep in mind (Drawbacks):
- Shoes are not true to sizes
- Are not as long-lasting as other hip hop dancing shoes
Our Rating: 4.9=5/5
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The bottom line:
When it comes to picking a perfect pair of hip-hop dancing shoes, you want a pair that will deliver the perfect combination of grip and slide. It is extremely important that the shoe can absorb impact and is abrasion resistant as you would not want to wear out both the shoe and your feet. That’s why we believe that Nike Men’s Air Force 1 Low Sneaker makes for the perfect pair of hip hop dancing shoes. Not only do they last a lifetime, they are also extremely versatile and great at absorbing impact after jumps. The shoe’s rippled leather edges prevent the shoe from picking up dirt and gives you a polished look at all times. The cushioned comfort of the shoe gives its wearer extra bounce and protection.
Brandon R. Katz is a registered professional nurse who has been instrumental in providing us with an informed opinion on the medical aspects of footwear. He graduated from NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and currently provides his services at a non-federal long-term care hospital in Brooklyn, NY.
Brandon proves to be the champion in the group of expert writers with his in-depth knowledge in foot health, how to take care of it adequately, and what shoes, socks, or insoles will be supreme for you. He has previously worked with hospitals where he has foreseen both inpatient and outpatient departments and has been a practicing nurse since 2009.
Brandon hails from Jersey City, NY, and has a loving family of four with a small popper called Rozo. His decision to become a nurse arises from the desire to be in the position of helping and rehabilitating people.
