You have just spent good money on a new pair of platform heels for pole dancing and the last thing you want is to scuff them up in the first week. Whether you are doing floor work, spinning, or just walking to the studio, the platform and toe area take a beating.
The good news is that protecting your pole dancing shoes does not have to cost much. This guide covers five methods, from a quick sock fix to sewn lycra sleeves to ready-made protectors, so you can pick what suits your budget and skill level.
5 ways to protect your pole dancing shoes
The methods below are listed roughly in order of simplicity. Our personal favourite is Method 2, the lycra tube, but the sock method is hard to beat when you need something fast.
Method 1: Use a pair of socks (quickest and cheapest)
This is the easiest method and costs nothing if you already own a pair of ankle socks. It is also the best option for protecting shoes while they are in storage or if you forget your proper protectors.
- Take a pair of short ankle socks.
- Pull one sock over each shoe, covering the platform and sides.
- Cut the toe out of each sock so you can walk on the sole without slipping.
- Fold the top of the sock down so it sits just above the edge of the shoe and does not interfere with your toes.
The main limitation is that socks are not very durable and will look a bit rough. They are best for storage and casual use rather than performance. Browse ankle socks on Amazon UK or Amazon US.
Method 2: Sewn lycra tube protectors (our favourite)
This method gives you a neat, fitted sleeve that slips over the platform of your shoes. It looks much tidier than socks and you can make them in any colour or print to match your costume. You need basic sewing skills and a small piece of lycra or scuba fabric.
- Measure the circumference of the platform at its widest point and the length of the platform.
- Cut a rectangle of lycra fabric slightly smaller than the circumference measurement (lycra stretches, so a snug cut is better).
- Sew the short edges together to form a tube, wrong sides facing out.
- Turn the tube right side out and pull it over the platform of your shoe.
Once you have the hang of it you can make several pairs in different colours and patterns. Lycra and scuba fabric are inexpensive and widely available. Browse lycra fabric on Amazon UK or Amazon US.
Method 3: Lycra and vinyl protectors (most durable DIY option)
This method adds a layer of sturdy vinyl to the underside of your lycra sleeve, which makes the protector more hard-wearing. You need lycra fabric, wide elastic, and clear or coloured vinyl. It takes more time to make but the result lasts longer than a plain lycra tube.
The basic construction is the same as the lycra tube above, but with a vinyl panel sewn onto the contact areas for extra protection. This is a good option if you do a lot of floor work or if your floor surface is rough.
Supplies you need: lycra or scuba fabric, clear or coloured vinyl, and wide elastic. All are available from craft and fabric shops or online.
Method 4: Kinesiology tape
Kinesiology tape is a quick way to protect specific areas of a shoe without any sewing. Cut strips to size and apply them over the parts that get scuffed, usually the toe box and the sides of the platform.
Tape comes in a wide range of colours so you can use it as a decorative touch as well as protection. The main downside is that when you remove it, it can leave adhesive residue on the shoe surface. Use this method for shoes you do not mind getting a little sticky, or as a very short-term fix. Browse kinesiology tape on Amazon UK or Amazon US.
Method 5: Buy ready-made pole shoe protectors
If you would rather not make your own, there are plenty of ready-made platform protectors available online. These are pre-sewn lycra or fabric sleeves designed specifically for pole dancing shoes, so the fit and finish are usually better than DIY versions.
They are available in a huge range of colours and prints, and many sellers offer custom sizing. Search for “pole dancing shoe protectors” or “Pleaser shoe covers” on Etsy or Amazon to see what is available.
Browse pole shoe protectors on Amazon UK or Amazon US.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to protect my pole dancing shoes?
You do not have to, but platform heels can get scuffed quickly, particularly during floor work. If you have paid a lot for your shoes, a pair of fabric protectors is a small investment that can significantly extend how good they look.
What part of the shoe needs the most protection?
The platform sole and the toe box take the most impact during floor routines. The sides of the upper can also get scuffed if you work on a rough floor surface. A lycra sleeve protects the platform; tape or vinyl can cover the toe area.
Can I wash lycra pole shoe protectors?
Yes. Hand wash them in cool water with a gentle detergent and leave them to air dry. Do not tumble dry as this can cause the lycra to shrink or lose its stretch.
Will kinesiology tape damage my Pleasers?
It can leave a sticky residue when removed, particularly on patent or PVC surfaces. If you want to keep your shoes in pristine condition, stick to fabric protectors rather than adhesive tape.
How do I store pole dancing shoes to protect them?
Pull a pair of ankle socks over the platforms before putting them in a shoe bag or box. This stops the heels and platforms from scratching each other in storage.