This year has been very interesting for hip-hop fans. Just when you thought people are out of moves or probably on a long hiatus, Dababy ‘bopped’ on Broadway. The song really hit hard and got many of us jigging to it. It was a real smasher.
A few months later, Drake decided to teach us how to Toosie slide. In a way, Drake was giving as a shortcut to MJ’s Moonwalk dance. It is the simplest way to moonwalking. Try following along to Michael Jackson’s original banger and you’ll flop. Terribly (sorry). That guy was way on top of his game (RIP Legend).
Most Hip hop moves are intricate. No doubt about that, except for beginner-friendly versions like Benny Walk, Mop dance, and Cityrock.
If you are a die-hard hip-hop lover, then we are sure you are trying your level best to perfect the latest viral dance moves. But before you can dab, Toosie slide, B-boy, Futsal Shuffle, or Jaywalk, first you need to stock your shoe rack. Yes, that matters a heck lot.
Here is the problem; despite their magical flips and glides, Chris Brown, Usher, Jason Derulo, and other high-octane hip hop dancers rarely wear dancing shoes. Most of what you see on their feet is a fashion statement-a very costly product that probably is miles out of your budget.
But worry less. In this article, we are going to dangle before you some of the best shoes for dancing hip-hop. We are footwear specialists ourselves and badass dancers (please don’t ask for a challenge haha). So be sure our recommendations are spot on.
Tight on time? Here is our finest recommendation; Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker. This kicker comes from a pro dancemaker and caters fully to comfort while conveniently offering flex points and spin spots for those who turn a lot while dancing.
Alright. It’s time to boogie. Kindly crank that volume up.
Best Shoes for Dancing Hip Hop: Buyer Guide
Here is a collection of the best hip hop dance shoes your friend hasn’t told you about yet:
1. Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker
Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker is designed for dancers who do plenty of turning and shuffling. This is because the outsole conveniently includes flex points, spin spots, and a non-sticky sole. The split design of the outsole promotes better arch support and foot stability.
Crafted from lightweight and breathable fabrics, this shoe’ core mission is to see you ace your dance lessons. It’s not heavy and rarely does it come off thanks to the sturdy lacing. You can swerve, slide, bop and spin without bumping into any issues.
When it comes to comfort, this hip hop dancing shoe gives you all. One hunnid. From the padded tops to the cushy Achilles notch, this feet whip aims at having you freestyling to pro-level status (we see you Jabbawockeez). Thanks to the flat boxed toe, now you can flawlessly and painlessly execute the heel toe-dance.
If you are one of those guys with unique feet shapes, do not trip. Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker has a contoured footbed. Such a footbed assumes the shape of your feet for an impeccable fit. Oh, and guess what; this shoe is great for Zumba classes, pretty dope, don’t you think? For longevity, use it during dance sessions on the dance floor, not outside.
Top features
- 100% man made material
- Lace closure
- Padded tongue, collar, and Achilles notch
- Flat, boxed toe
- Mesh upper
- Contoured EVA footbed
- Split outsole
- PU non-marking sole with built-in flex points
- Comes with an extra lace set
PROS:
- Maximum arch support
- Contoured footbed provides a great fit
- Ultra-comfy (almost like walking on air)
- A flat toe box will allow you to perform toe stunts
- Capezio DS11 goes easy on your banks
- Moderately versatile dancing shoe
CONS:
- The sole starts to rip off at the split edges
To dance better you need freedom and Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker provides that. It doesn’t stick to the surface and the support is inarguably great. This is strictly a dancing shoe that can hold up well in Zumba classes too.
2. Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline
When it comes to dancing shoes, simple will always tramp complex. One such kicker is Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline. Almost all of us at some point wore Converse Chuck Taylors and we know they rock.
Chuck Taylor knows no bounds. You can boogie in this shoe, exit the dance class and head over to the beach for a walk, back home and take it to school the next day and it would still fit the occasion. Like jeep Wranglers, this minimalistic beast is meant for adventures.
There are several reasons why Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline qualifies as one of the best shoes for dancing hip hop. First, it’s a lightweight design. You can execute all sorts of acrobatic moves and the show will still hold together. It’s so light that it doesn’t get in the way.
Secondly, its ports a sturdy fabric and reinforced rubber towards the toe end for withstanding the turmoils of dancing. Thirdly, it’s entirely flat and this zero-drop design allows you to perform on a more energetic level like Jason Derulo. Man, that guy spins like crazy.
Lastly, Chuck Taylors are always trendy-year after year. They are and (have always been) the top footwear choice among millennials and Generation Z.
Top features
- Lace closure
- Fabric topping
- Rubber outsole
- Reinforced toe end
PROS:
- Seriously lightweight for complete flexing
- Flat shaped for better contact with the ground
- Surprisingly well endowed to handle stains involved in dancing
- Extremely versatile
- It exists in budget options
CONS:
- Lacks premium comfort
- No superior arch support
There is probably no move Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline can handle. Whether you are shuffling, bopping, or B-girling, this shoe will do just fine. Somehow, it’s one of the suitable dancing shoes that exist in a cheap pricing package and in multiple smashing colors.
3. Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker
Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker is designed for those who are bold enough to stand for something. Those who understand that it takes time and effort to reap the best results. And as you struggle to make your star shine brighter, this shoe will always be there for you.
This shell toe’s almost indestructible design is suitable for high-octane hip hop dancing styles. Styles that would otherwise rip apart a wookie shoe in seconds. The leather top and stitching will hold together even after years of torture on dance pitches.
Like Chucks, this sneaker gives you lightweight protection but in a more durable and much adorable package. You can B-boy, choreograph some funk moves and up rock for hours without pain or discomfort. The toe box is wide and sports a reinforced capsule for additional support and protection.
Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker features lightweight padding. So those doing all sorts of wild flips will appreciate the ample padding on the footbed and sideways. The small vents on the sides take care of air circulation so you can look and stay cool. Thanks to the simple design, you would still look wavy in this pair-with or without socks.
Top features
- Leather top
- A wider, reinforced toe box
- Lace closure
- Multiple color choices
- Shell toe casual sneaker
- Superstar logo
PROS:
- Lightweight design
- None sticky outsole that promotes fluid moves
- Breathable and comfortable
- Affordable pricing
- True to size
- Reinforced wide toe box for toe stunts
CONS:
- The quality may have dipped a little
Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker serves as a great replacement to Chuck Taylors and other minimalist shoes with zero to mild cushioning. The shoe boasts of a timeless design that will keep you looking dapper all through. You wanna know something cool? This pair drops in a wide price range for your convenience.
4. Puma Men’s Roma Basic sneaker
There are shoes made strictly for dancing and by a dance-oriented brand. There is also another group of shoes that don’t come from dance brands but scream “hey, I can spin like crazy”. These usually include Nike, Adidas, and Puma. The one Puma product that commands respect and attention on the dance floor is Puma Men’s Roma Basic sneaker.
Boasting of a vibrant laid-back retro-styling, this sneaker is a show stopper. It brings along unmatched flexibility and the kind of comfort that makes you want to go on and on. All the points that receive an impact (i.e heel, footbed, and arch points) are optimally padded for comfort.
Besides being an art, dance is a sport too-one with a lot of physical activities. Puma Men’s Roma Basic sneaker comes in an ever-ready synthetic leather that can not only withstand abuse but allows for breathability as well. During those thunderous landings, you will appreciate the thickened sole which also happens to offer sufficient traction without sticking on the surface. Isn’t that great?
Top features
- Synthetic leather
- T-toe construction
- Cushioned midsole
- Arch support
- Padded tongue
- Lace-up vamp
PROS:
- Designed to keep the internal cool
- Amazing aesthetics
- Reliable traction and flexibility
- Optimally cushioned
- Reasonable pricing
CONS:
- Narrow construction
Puma Men’s Roma Basic sneaker is held in high regard among sneakerheads (most of whom happen to be hip hop dancers). It combines a few bits of all the important elements from style, comfort to flexibility. A lot of previous reviewers were also motivated by the shoe’s reasonable pricing range.
5. Nike Men’s Air Max 90
We know you want to feel or look like Chris Breezy, Drake, or Kida The Great. That’s why we had to include Nike Men’s Air Max 90-the dopest sneaker money can buy. Hit the dance floor and those ‘Lil’ competitors of yours in sleazy sneakers will give you some space.
Air Max 90 is an absolute charmer and it packs a good number of exceptional features. Amongst those is the massive lightweight padding from the collar, tongue, and all the way to the footbed. The midsole is pretty pronounced to absorb all the impact involved when doing SpongeBob dance or any other super-charged dances.
When you want to flex, glide, and slide, this beast’s waffle sole doesn’t get in your way. On top of that, the stitched overlays and TPU accents all through the shoe ensure you got total support and protection. If you have always dreamed of owning a Nike Air model, this kick is a fairly inexpensive way to do that. Like Vans, this sneaker comes in a wide range of colors for a team that wishes to achieve uniformity.
Top features
- Lace closure
- Low-top design
- Rubber waffle outsole
- TPU accents
- Flex grooves
PROS:
- Unbelievable cushioning and flexibility
- A retro-styling for a timeless appeal
- It’s got flex grooves that bend along with your foot
- Lightweight cushioning
- Multiple cool colors
CONS:
- A little drop in quality
Nike Men’s Air Max 90 is an ultimate dancing partner. From the cleanliness, versatility to a timeless design, it’s a classic grab for lovers of trendy fashion-particularly the Nikes. This a much-loved shoe that you too will come to adore. While it’s great for anyone, it’s massively recommended for those who are already good at dancing.
6. K-Swiss Women’s VN Fashion Sneaker
Dancers can actually wear any shoe as long as it meets all the core requirements-comfort and lightweight. However, newbie hip hop dancers who are still struggling with various moves would be better off with K-Swiss Women’s VN Fashion Sneaker
This fashion sneaker bear minimalist looks with a flat sole, mild padding, and heel support. Basically, this gear is stripped down so beginner dancers carry less weight. This way, they can flip, jump, slide, pop and lock with minimum obstructions. A newcomer who goes for bulky shoes and boots is seriously joking. Such kicks are ideal for advanced dancers who have no problem executing graceful moves.
K-Swiss Women’s VN Fashion Sneaker synthetic leather is gentle on the feet yet tough enough. So yes, it will withstand being strained and not rip apart while you are entertaining the crowds. The shoe comes in black and white colors with a few different-colored decorations on the eyelet and logo.
Top features
- Leather topping
- Rubber outsole
- EVA & CMEVA heel cup
- EVA midsole
- Lace closure
PROS:
- An all-time classic design
- Indisputably versatile
- Lightweight cushioning
- Relaxed minimalist design
- A wide price range for more options
- Durable leather top
CONS:
- The quality may have dipped with time
K-Swiss Women’s VN Fashion Sneaker falls into a group of shoes no one is afraid to recommend. Reinforced heel cup, padded tongue, and collar and superior leather upper are just a few of its amazing features. Above all, its combination of being lightweight and comfortable is what appeals to fast time hip hop dancers.
7. Vans Authentic
Vans are some of the best hip hop dance shoes you’ll ever come across. The reason is simple; they are magnificent looking, lightweight, and pop up in unlimited color choices. If you are a Vans lover (we saw Chris Brown show off some of his), then here is a worthy contender; Van Authentic.
Like its name, this shoe stays true to its purpose. It’s so simple and so lightweight that you even forget you have kickers on. And that barefoot experience is what you need especially when conjuring up some mind-boggling moves.
So yes, the selling point of Van Authentic is its lack of many bells and whistles. The upper fabric is thin albeit being so strong. As you land, the thick sole, which reinforces the toe front, will absorb much of the impact involved. Thanks to being super flat, you’ll have the best contact with the ground which makes dancing easier.
Also read: Are Vans Shoes Good for Lifting?
Top features
- Canvas top
- Rubber sole
- Lace design
- Unlimited color choices
PROS:
- Sturdy canvas upper
- Flat outsole for better contact with the floor
- Extremely versatile
- Simple and stylish
- Encouraging price point
- Comes in both men and women models
- Refreshingly lightweight
CONS:
- Not impressively comfortable
- Some people have complained about weak stitching
- No arch support
If you are just starting out your dance lessons, Van Authentic should be among your collections. Even though looking beginner-friendly, even expert trainers roll back to it every once in awhile as a way to unwind their feet. This shoe also happens to be among the top-rated cheapest shoes for dancing hip hop.
Things To Consider While Buying Shoes For Hip Hop Dancing
Hip hop dancing is both a sport and an art. One that involves a lot of intricate moves. The contortions and spins that your feet go through are unimaginable. This is why you must pay attention to hip hop dancing shoes before buying them. Here are all the things you need to keep at the back of your mind:
Comfort
It goes without saying that good hip hop dancing shoes must be comfortable. Even the simplest hip hop moves are accompanied by heavy impacts. If you keep landing on the floor for hours on poorly padded shoes, be sure not to be able to dance for the next few days.
When it comes to comfort, the material composition speaks a lot. Leather is cool and will last long but can be stiff and inflexible. If you want to go for leather, opt for the synthetic ones or suede and fabric combination.
You also need to ensure the collar, tongue, footbed and sometimes the heel is optimally padded. If you specialize in special moves that strain a particular section of the feet, then insist on a shoe that has padding on that specific area. For instance, those who do spins and turns must look for spin sports and flex points. If you do toe stunts, consider flat toe boxes that feature some sort of reinforcement.
Outsole design
Hip hop dancing outsoles need to have reliable traction but not too superior to stick on the ground. You need to slide, glide, and do some shuffling. All that means the outsole should not sport too much friction. If you have arch problems, then you need to consider a shoe that offers that. In case it’s too late and you’ve bought something uncomfortable, invest in a custom arch support insoles.
Fit
If you do some swirls, spins, and swerves in an oversize, poorly fitting shoe, it will fly away-probably into someone’s face. You don’t want that, do you? Almost every platform you are going to buy shoes from has a shoe sizing tool to help you pick the right size. Try to make use of them.
We know most of you are scared to make purchases online because you don’t want to end up with small or big shoes. It’s actually possible to make as many purchases as possible and not be disappointed. The trick to knowing what size will fit is to read previous customer reviews. If a majority of them say they went a half size up, you better do that too.
Style
You really cannot say “I got the juice” when your shoe lacks a fashion statement. Your dance shoe needs to have a profound effect not only on yourself but on others as well. And to do that, it has to be fashionable, stylish and downright colorful (that’s if you are into bold colors).
Style and design go hand in hand. There are some designs that sneakerheads revere such as mid-cuts and low tops. Just go with what you like as long as the shoe is lightweight, comfy, and attractive.
Cost
This is up to you. How much you want to spend depends on your savings and preferences. If you are just starting out and don’t have a lot on you, it’s understandable to want to focus on budget options. Just go back and check Chuck Taylor and some Adidas reviewed at the top; some go for as low as $30 bucks.
However, if you really love dancing or perform advanced moves like B-boying, you have no choice but to go for the best sneakers for dancing hip hop. High-end shoes strike the right balance between comfort, protection, and durability.
Frequently asked questions
How much do the best hip hop shoes cost?
The best shoes for dancing hip hop cost somewhere between $100 and $200. These kinds of shoes sport the best comfort, arch support, toe box protection, and last longer. But with good research, you can get some cheaper models like Chuck Taylors and Adidas that get the job done for less than 100 bucks.
Are Vans good for hip hop dancing?
Like Chuck Taylors, Vans are inexpensive and extremely lightweight. You can execute any intricate dancing styles in an almost barefoot experience. Furthermore, they exist in a wide number of colors and designs such that your whole dancing team can get a pair.
What are the best shoes for hip hop / urban dancing?
Any shoe that is lightweight and with a flat sole can do the magic. In this case, some of the options that rank higher would be Capezio Women’s DS11, Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker, Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline, Classic K-Swiss, Nike Airforce one, and Nike Free Runs and Adidas Rekord.
What are the best shoes for hip hop / urban dancing?
Any shoe that is lightweight and with a flat sole can do the magic. In this case, some of the options that rank higher would be Capezio Women’s DS11, Adidas Original Men’s Superstar Sneaker, Converse Women’s Chuck Taylor All Star Shoreline, Classic K-Swiss, Nike Airforce one, and Nike Free Runs and Adidas Rekord.
Wrap Up
You already have had a thorough look at the best shoes for dancing hip hop. Other worthwhile honorable mentions include Capezio Canvas Dance Sneaker, the ever-marvelous Pastry POP Tart Grid Adult Sneaker and Urban Groove Unisex Hip Hop Work Boot (if you can handle its weight and love boots).
So yeah, there are many shoes that you can jiggy in. All it takes is some practice and you’ll soon start to execute graceful moves. But before you chuck your wallet or credit card out, think first about your dancing style, where you dance from and your feet’s condition.
Hip hop dancers are cool kids and guys. Go for stylish and sparkling models so you can stand out too. If you love your dance shoes so much, that can boost your confidence which is needed when learning new moves for the first time.
Lastly, it’s better to have several pairs with varying levels of cushioning. This way, you’ll be able to know what works well for you. Now go rock the dance floor, won’t you?