The anatomy and materials that make up a tap shoe are designed to provide the perfect tap sound while accommodating the tap dancer. Although there are many different variations of the tap shoe, common tap shoe components are listed below.
Heel
Tap shoes have a heel on the rear of the shoe. The heel can vary greatly in height depending on dancer preferences, shoe style and dance style. For example, theatrical performers may wear a tap shoe with a higher heel when playing a feminine character. Tap shoe heels are commonly made up of wood or stacked leather to provide stability for the dancer. Heels are usually one or more inches high.
Toe Box
The toe box is located on the front of the tap shoe, and it works to cover and protect the dancer’s toes. The toe box is made of thick material which reinforces the toes and allows dancers to facilitate quick, powerful movements with the front of their feet. The toe box helps contribute to the full, deep sound made when dancing.
Topline
The topline of a tap shoe is the edge that runs along the opening of the shoe. Like the heel, the topline can vary depending on the style of the tap shoe and preference of the dancer. For example, a lower topline means the shoe will not come up as high, allowing for more ankle flexibility. A higher topline will keep the ankle more stable.
Taps
The taps are often the most well-known component of a tap shoe, as it provides the sound associated with tap dancing. A single tap shoe consists of two taps, which are the metal pieces located under the heel and under the toes. The taps are responsible for the depth and pitch of the sound made when tap dancing. Taps range in quality, thickness and materials, but are often made up of some type of metal. Bloch offers different taps formulated from composite alloy to create a distinct, rich sound. While we sell tap shoes with taps included, you can also buy taps separately. If you’re wondering how to put taps on shoes, our taps come with nails and screws included.