You can be the best dancer in the world. But if you're not wearing the right pair of dance shoes, it's going to impact how you perform. Whether you're interested in hip hop shoes or ballet slippers, here are some features to look for to ensure you find footwear that's the perfect fit:

Size

Those dance sneakers might be super cute and stylish. But if they don't fit you like a glove, you're eventually going to grow to despise them and could actually end up hurting your feet. Just think of all the time you'll be spending in them dancing. If you're not comfortable -- and they're too tight, too loose, or simply don't fit right -- it's going to cause problems for you in the studio or on the stage.

Typically, dance shoes should fit tighter than regular street shoes in order to offer the proper amount of support and minimize the risk of injury. Also, most dance shoes oftentimes stretch, which is why you want to make sure the ones you do purchase provide a snug fit. If, however, you buy dance shoes that are too loose, you're going to slide around or move a lot in them, which can cause rubbing and blistering.

Finally, the heel of your dance shoe should fit securely, with no room for sliding. Otherwise, you could literally step out of your shoe while dancing.

Lightweight and flexible

If you have a heavy dance shoe, it's going to weigh you down. The best dance shoes, on the other hand, are made of lightweight materials that allow you to move freely and feel comfortable, all while still providing adequate support.

Also, look for dance shoes that have a flexible sole with special reinforcements in the ball of the foot and the heel. This is especially important for dance styles like hip hop. If you're a beginner, though, you should generally go with shoes that have a flat or small heel rubber sole. However, if you're more advanced, you can try the split sole dance shoes, which offer more flexibility because there's no sole in the middle of the foot.

Breathable

Besides being lightweight and flexible, dance shoes need to be breathable. Otherwise, your feet will become unbearably hot as you move. The best fabrics will allow your feet to stay cool and aerated, and also control moisture as you sweat. This is important, especially for dancers, since it prevents blisters from popping up.

The top choice is typically durable leather. Not only is it breathable, but it's also long lasting and can be broken in to fit the form of your foot. Canvas is another dance shoe material that's often used. Just look for canvas shoes with breathable mesh panels on the side.

When it comes to different dance shoes materials, it's important to also think about fit. That's because shoes made from leather, for instance, will stretch over time, while those made from canvas typically don't. 

Traction

Unless you want to be slipping and sliding around the dance floor, traction is important. Your dance shoes need to have the right amount of traction so your feet can grip the floor, yet still move and glide properly. Otherwise, if the soles grip the floor too much, you may end up straining or twisting a knee or an ankle when you're moving, or doing turns and spins. On the other end of the spectrum, when there isn't enough grip, you'll end up sliding around the floor, straining your muscles and possibly even falling in the process.

Style

Features like fit and materials are of prime of importance. But you still want shoes that look good while you're dancing and complement your dance clothes. While black, tan and pink are still classics, there are endless possibilities today in terms of design and colors. Just make sure the style you ultimately do buy complements the style of dancing you're doing.

A final note: Whether you buy leather ballet shoes or trendy dance sneakers, be sure to follow the proper care instructions so that your shoes last for as long as possible. Some dance shoe types require little to no maintenance; while others need specialized care, such as cleaning or polishing by hand. Also, only wear your dance shoes on the dance floor. If you wear them elsewhere, then they'll wear out quickly and you'll also damage the soles.

Ready to shop dance sneakers and shoes?

Just for Kix carries the styles and brands you're looking for, from hip hop shoes and combat boots to classic ballet and pointe slippers. But we're not just a place to buy dance shoes. We can actually guide you through the process, from finding your perfect fit and heel height, to locating shoes that are a match for your budget. In fact, we can help you find the exact right type of footwear you'll need for every performance and occasion.