Cardio is an ideal activity that can improve the overall quality of life by keeping your body healthy. It is also a great way to burn calories and stay active.
Dances like Zumba and hip-hop can be great exercise. However, the key to getting all those benefits is wearing the best dance shoes to prevent your feet from hurting. That’s because good dance shoes provide the support and comfort needed for an overall pleasant experience.
In this post, we rounded up ten best dance shoes that provide support and cushion. The best pair for you will allow you to enjoy Zumba and hip-hop and show off your skills.
10 Best Dancing Shoes for 2024
There are many brands that claim their sneakers to be ideal for cardio and movement. However, not all shoes are made equal.
Keep scrolling for our top ten picks that can change cardio for you. The Loom Sneakers topped our list because of their superior design and comfort.
1. Loom Waterproof Sneakers
The Loom Waterproof Sneakers have the perfect cushioning system to maximize comfort. In addition, they feature a sleek and lightweight design and some of the most advanced features, making them the top one on our list.
These flexible sneakers are made from Merino wool, giving a comfortable and breathable environment to your feet. In addition, the sneakers have a lightweight design and perfect cushioning to keep your feet from getting tired.
They are made durable to survive wear and tear during outdoor activities. Plus, the moisture-wicking material and antimicrobial properties keep your feet fresh even after a long session.
The shoes also have non-marking rubber soles that provide excellent traction. They come in two colors, black and white, that will go with every workout outfit.
Pros
- Merino Wool construction
- Lightweight and flexible design
- Perfect cushioning for maximum comfort
- Antibacterial properties to prevent foot odor
- Cruelty-free
- Waterproof
Con
- Limited color options
2. Adidas Originals Women’s Superstar Shoe
The Adidas Originals for women are classic, trendy, and ideal for showing off freestyle skills. They are supportive and adaptive, making them suitable for Zumba, hip-hop, and even everyday wear.
These dance shoes feature a shell-toe look with a classic rubber shell toe which keeps your feet protected. Along with the smooth leather upper, they increase the durability of the shoes.
Plus, they have a breathable mesh lining so your feet won’t feel sweaty during vigorous workouts. The rubber cupsole gives the right amount of traction and good arch support, especially useful for flat feet.
The sneakers also have synthetic bold leather stripes, which give them a classic and original design. They come in three different colors to go with every look.
Pros
- Durable leather upper
- Good traction
- Rubber shell toe
- Breathable lining
- Classic design
Con
- Not true to size
You may also like: 10 Best Athletic Shoes to Wear With Jeans
3. Bloch Omnia Knitted Sneakers
The Bloch Omnia Sneakers are lightweight, breathable, and provide adequate support. They are perfect for Zumba and any workout, thanks to their support.
The padded footbed and insole keep your feet in place and secure. The internal and external heels also provide a snug fit, while the outsole is lightweight to keep your feet feeling burden-free.
The double knitted toe bumper adds to the durability and protects your feet during tough moves. Plus, the lightweight sole will keep your feet feeling light and burden-free.
These knitted sneakers come in four different colors, including black and white.
Pros
- Lightweight construction
- Breathable design
- Fully knitted upper for support
- Padded footbed and insole
- Padded heel
Cons
- No support around the ankle
- Less supporting than other designs
4. Under Armour Micro G Assert 6 Running Shoe
The Under Armour Micro G shoes are made of light and supportive materials for better stability. They are a good option for Zumba and hip-hop dancing as they provide that little extra support you need to twist and turn.
These running shoes feature a breathable mesh design that we love. The supportive foam and leather overlays provide a secure fit for safe landings while you are in them.
These sneakers also have good rubber traction that covers high-impact areas. They come in different colors to fit different styles and moods.
Pros
- Adequate cushioning
- Leather overlay for stability
- Breathable mesh design
- Full-length EVA sock liner
- Good rubber traction
Con
- May run small in size
5. New Balance Comfort Pack Training Shoe
The New Balance Training Shoes can work perfectly with any cardio dance routine. They have an internal shank and shock absorber for the best support and comfort.
These dance shoes feature dual-density collar foam, where the soft foam provides cushioning, and the firm foam adds support. In addition, they have IMEVA midsoles that allow a snug fit.
These training shoes are made with 100% leather and rubber soles for better traction. They come in black and white colors, and the design is particularly suitable for wider feet.
Pros
- Internal shank and shock absorption
- Dual-density collar foam
- Leather construction
- Rubber soles for better traction
- Suitable for bigger feet
Con
- Limited color options
6. Zumba Fitness Women’s Z-Kickz II-W
The Zumba Fitness Z-Kickz II have cushioning and a rubber sole with excellent grip that is needed for dancing and fitness workouts. They also have a padded collar to keep the feet secure and provide a solid grip to the ankles.
The Z-Kickz II dance shoes feature a durable synthetic and fabric construction with a classic lace-up design. They also have a breathable mesh upper that keeps the feet happy.
These shoes also have grippy rubber soles to provide adequate traction to prevent any slips. They come in two vibrant colors that will add a pop of color to your workout outfits.
Pros
- Grippy rubber sole
- Breathable mesh design
- Padded collar for ankle support
- True to size
Cons
- Vibrant colors may not fit everyone's taste
- Available in medium width only
7. RYKA Women’s Vida RZX Cross-Training Shoe Sneaker
The RYKA Vida RZX pops out in our list due to its vibrant colors. However, these flexible sneakers are made for more than just a few twirls.
These sneakers have a sleek upper and a round toe for support and comfort. They also have a mesh design and synthetic overlays for added support.
The smooth lining and cushioning reduce the impact on your feet, and the ultra-flex forefoot adds to the flexibility. The shoes also have heel cushioning that allows smooth landing. Plus, the rubber outsole and pivot points make movement easy.
The Vida RZX comes in two color variations: mainly black but with a hint of vibrant pink and lime green.
Pros
- Breathable mesh design
- High impact heel cushioning
- Ultra-flex forefoot
- Synthetic overlays
- Vibrant color options
Cons
- Not as lightweight as other options
- Not enough cushioning
8. Adult Split-Sole Sneaker T8000
The Adult Split-Sole Sneakers are a mix of leather and breathable mesh, so they are durable and breathable at the same time. In addition, they are light and fit perfectly on the feet, which makes them a good option for cardio workouts.
These dance shoes feature split sole heels, padded collar, and Achilles support for superior comfort. It also has a comfortable insole and moderate arch support needed for dancing long hours.
These shoes come in classic black that will go with almost any workout outfit. They are great for spinning and ideal for narrow feet.
Pros
- Leather and mesh construction
- Padded collar
- Achilles support and spin spot
- Comfortable insole
- Lightweight and flexible
Cons
- Slippery on certain floors
- May run small in size
9. Reebok Guresu 2.0 Dance Shoe
The Reebok Guresu 2.0 Dance Sneaker Shoe is comfortable and provides adequate support during Zumba and hip-hop. They are made of synthetic and mesh which give them a stylish and unique look.
These dance shoes fit snugly on the feet, and the heel and arch support provide support during workouts. They also provide ankle support, and the rubber soles give excellent traction to prevent you from slipping.
Those who are not fans of high cushioned heels will like these flat shoes that are still very comfortable. They come in a variety of soft colors that can elevate any outfit.
Pros
- Synthetic and mesh design
- Snug fit
- Adequate arch and ankle support
- Good traction
- Various color options
Con
- May run wide in size
10. Sansha Salsette 1 Jazz Sneaker
The Sansha Salsette Jazz Sneaker features a leather and mesh design for comfort and breathability. They fit nicely and provide good support for comfortable movements.
These flexible sneakers are made from a quick-drying fabric, making them comfortable and suitable for wet weather. In addition, the split sole ensures that the shoe fits perfectly on the feet to feel like a custom fit.
They have rubber heels for good traction and padded cotton, and cushioned insoles for comfort. The suede upper makes it easier to slip them on.
These dance shoes are suitable for different dance styles, ranging from Zumba to hip-hop and even Salsa. They come in four different colors to choose from.
Pros
- Breathable and quick-drying fabric
- Padded cotton and cushioned insole
- Split sole for a snug fit
- Rubber heels provide good traction
- Versatile design
Cons
- Toe area not suitable for wide feet
- Lacks arch support
FAQ:
Q: How to Choose the Right Hip Hop Dance Shoes?
Ans: To choose the right hip hop dance shoes, consider shoes that enhance movement, fit snugly but not tightly, and match your dance style. Opt for materials like mesh, suede or leather for comfort and flexibility. Select between open or closed shoes based on dance requirements, and pick a heel type that supports your dance style and experience level. Keep in mind the cost, ensuring quality within your budget, and ensure the shoes complement your outfit.
Q: Can I Wear a Regular Sneaker for Hip Hop?
Ans: Regular sneakers can be used for hip hop dance, but they may not offer the optimal support and flexibility needed for intricate movements. Dance-specific sneakers, designed for the unique demands of hip hop, provide better traction, flexibility, and support, enhancing performance and reducing injury risk. For the best experience, choose lightweight, flexible sneakers with a cushioned insole.
Q: Should dance shoes be tight or loose?
Ans: Dance shoes should initially feel tight, as they are designed to stretch and mold to your foot, creating a second-skin feel. Extra room can lead to sliding and discomfort. The ideal fit is snug but not painful, with toes either flush or slightly back from the shoe's end. A gap larger than 1cm at the front indicates a need for a smaller size.
Conclusion
Zumba and hip-hop dancing involves a lot of stamping and jumping, which is why you need a pair of dance shoes that offer stability and comfort. The right shoes are the key to enjoying your cardio workout and getting the most out of each session.
Once you buy a trusty pair of sneakers, such as Loom Waterproof Sneakers, you will experience a difference in your workout results. This pair can also work as everyday sneakers with virtually any outfit.
