Pole dancing is not only a fun and empowering form of fitness, but it’s also a highly technical art that demands the right gear to ensure safety, performance, and style. Among the essential items in a pole dancer’s toolkit are the shoes, which are designed to provide support, balance, and that extra touch of flair. However, if you have narrow feet, finding the perfect pair of pole dancing shoes can be a bit of a challenge. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about buying pole dancing shoes that fit snugly and comfortably on narrow feet.
Why Shoes Matter in Pole Dancing
Before diving into the specifics of shoes for narrow feet, it’s important to understand why proper pole dancing footwear matters. Pole dancing shoes, often referred to as “pleasers,” are typically high-heeled platform shoes that give the dancer more grip on the pole, allowing for smoother spins and transitions. The extra height also helps elongate the legs, creating beautiful lines in tricks and poses.
In addition to aesthetics, pole dancing shoes provide protection. The platform offers cushioning when landing jumps or practising floorwork, and the sturdy heel aids in balance and control during complex manoeuvres. This makes finding the right fit crucial to prevent discomfort, blisters, or even injury.
Common Challenges with Narrow Feet
If you have narrow feet, you might already be familiar with the struggles of finding shoes that fit well. With pole dancing shoes, these challenges are often magnified because of the specific demands of the sport. Common issues include:
- Slipping: Narrow feet tend to slip forward in shoes, which can be dangerous when dancing, as it affects balance and stability.
- Loose fit: A loose fit can lead to blisters and discomfort, especially around the heel or toe areas.
- Lack of support: Ill-fitting shoes may not provide adequate support for the arches or ankles, which is particularly important during pole dancing, where footwork is key to stability.
Luckily, there are solutions that can help narrow-footed dancers find the right pair without compromising comfort or performance.
Choosing the Right Size
When buying pole dancing shoes, start by choosing the correct size. Many pole shoes are sized differently from regular shoes, and because you’ll be dancing, climbing, and spinning in them, the fit needs to be spot on.
- Sizing down: Some dancers with narrow feet find that sizing down from their usual shoe size helps to achieve a snugger fit. However, this can sometimes compromise comfort, so try them on to ensure they aren’t too tight.
- Check width options: While most pole dancing shoes don’t come in specific width sizes, certain brands are known for being better suited to narrow feet. It’s worth checking reviews and asking fellow dancers for recommendations.
- Consider toe style: Open-toe designs can help avoid that pinching feeling, but make sure your toes don’t slip out too far. Closed-toe options may provide better security, though they can sometimes feel too roomy for narrow feet.
Best Brands for Narrow Feet
While many pole dancing shoes are designed with standard foot widths in mind, some brands and styles are better suited to those with narrower feet.
- Pleaser Shoes: One of the most popular brands in the pole dancing world, Pleaser offers a wide range of styles. While not all of their shoes are narrow, some designs tend to run smaller, making them a better option for narrow feet. Look for models with ankle straps or lace-ups to help secure the foot in place.
- Ellie Shoes: Another well-known brand in the pole dancing community, Ellie shoes often have a more snug fit compared to other brands, which can work well for narrow-footed dancers. Their shoes also feature adjustable straps, which help in achieving a better fit.
- Hella Heels: This brand is known for its stylish and sturdy pole dancing shoes, and many users with narrow feet have praised their fit. Their range includes various styles with extra support, such as boots, which can offer a more secure fit for narrow feet.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Fit
Even with the right brand and size, you might still need to make some adjustments to get the perfect fit for narrow feet. Here are some handy tips to ensure your pole dancing shoes fit like a glove:
- Use insoles: If your shoes feel a bit loose, adding gel insoles or heel grips can help fill up some of the extra space and provide more comfort. These are particularly useful for dancers with narrow heels who experience slipping.
- Opt for lace-up or strapped styles: Shoes with adjustable straps, buckles, or lace-ups give you more control over how tightly the shoe fits around your foot. Ankle straps are particularly useful for dancers with narrow feet, as they prevent the foot from sliding forward.
- Break them in gradually: Just like any other shoes, pole dancing shoes need some time to break in. Start by wearing them around the house or for short practice sessions. This will help mould the shoe to the shape of your foot, making them more comfortable in the long run.
- Avoid shoes that are too high too soon: If you’re new to pole dancing or heels in general, avoid going straight for ultra-high platforms. While higher heels can look fantastic, they can be harder to balance in if the shoe doesn’t fit well. Start with a lower heel and work your way up as you gain confidence and find a better-fitting shoe.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right pole dancing shoes for narrow feet doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of research and some adjustments, you can find a pair that not only looks stunning but also feels secure and comfortable. Remember, the key to finding the perfect fit is to pay attention to sizing, choose adjustable styles, and don’t be afraid to make use of accessories like insoles or heel grips.
Most importantly, the right shoes will enhance your performance, allowing you to feel confident and safe as you twirl, spin, and climb your way through your pole dancing routine. So, take your time in selecting the perfect pair and enjoy every moment on the pole with shoes that work for your narrow feet.