The Pleaser Aspire range is the most commonly cited comfortable option, thanks to its higher-than-usual platform and comfort width footbed. For a full comparison across all levels, see our guide to the most comfortable pole dancing shoes.
Most beginners do best starting at 7 inches. The larger platform on a 7-inch shoe sits your foot at a more comfortable angle than a 6-inch heel, and models like the Pleaser SKY-308 have a D-shaped heel for extra lateral stability. See our full guide to best pole dancing shoes for beginners.
Most pole classes are done barefoot or in grip socks. Pole-specific heels are worn for heels classes and choreography, and become useful once you start working on spins and floor transitions. Purpose-built pole shoes have a platform sole that supports balance in a way regular heels do not.
Pleaser sandals generally run true to size. Pleaser boots and Ellie Shoes tend to run small, so most buyers size up by half a size. Hella Heels follow standard sizing but use Australian sizing, which differs slightly from UK sizing.