To get started with claquettes, choose a well-fitting leather lace-up shoe with taps already screwed in under the toe and heel: it is the most versatile model for learning the first steps. The sound comes from the taps, the comfort and support come from the shoe, and both matter equally.
How do claquette shoes work?
A claquette shoe is a closed shoe with two metal plates attached underneath, called taps: one under the ball of the foot and one under the heel. It is the contact of these taps with the floor that produces the sound, whether on a shuffle, a flap, or a time step.
Taps are generally screwed in. This fastening allows you to adjust them: a very tight tap produces a dry sound, while a slightly loose tap resonates more. The screws naturally loosen with the tapping, which is part of the normal life of the shoe. However, a tap that moves when you walk must be tightened.
The metal also plays a role: steel gives a brighter sound, while aluminum gives a softer sound, sometimes preferred for practicing. The sole and heel of the shoe influence the resonance, which is why a careful construction is important even for a first model.
The main claquette models
The lace-up model (Oxford style)
The classic, worn by both men and women. The laces allow you to precisely tighten the instep, which prevents the heel from lifting during tapping. It is the best choice for getting started, whether in tap jazz or musical theater claquettes.
The strap model (Mary Jane style)
A strap across the instep, often with a small heel. Very common in children's classes and in more "Broadway" styles. The support depends heavily on the strap: it must hold the foot without cutting off circulation.
The higher heel model
Some stage and musical theater dancers prefer a more pronounced heel for the line. Balance is more demanding: reserved for dancers who already have a solid technique.
| Model | Support | For whom |
|---|---|---|
| Lace-up, flat heel | Very good, adjustable | Beginners, adults, men and women |
| Strap, small heel | Good if the strap is adjusted | Children, dancers, musical theater style |
| Higher heel | More demanding | Experienced dancers, stage |
Material and sole: what really matters
Leather molds to the foot, breathes, and lasts over time. Synthetic models cost less and are sufficient for testing the activity for a few months, but they deform faster if you practice a lot.
The sole must remain firm enough to transmit the tap to the metal, without being so stiff that it prevents the foot from rolling. Bend the shoe by hand: it should flex under the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the arch. Also check that the taps are flat, with no gap between the metal and the sole, and that the screw heads do not protrude.
What size to choose for claquettes
A claquette shoe must be fitted, not tight. The heel should not lift when you rise onto your demi-pointe, and the toes must be able to move without touching the tip. A foot that slips in the shoe makes the sounds less crisp and fatigues the ankle.
- Measure your foot at the end of the day, standing up, with the socks you will wear in class.
- For a child, avoid taking two sizes up "so they can grow into them": the foot will float and the sounds will become muddy.
- Between two sizes, a lace-up model is easier to adjust than a strap model.
Our dance shoe size guide details how to measure your foot. You can also send your foot length in centimeters to contact@dansezo.fr: we will advise you free of charge on the European size to choose.
Getting off to a good start: your first few weeks
The first classes revolve around a few basic steps: the shuffle (front then back tap with the ball of the foot), the flap, the ball change, then the time step. For these exercises, a simple and stable shoe is better than a sophisticated model.
Find out about the floor in your studio. Claquettes are practiced on parquet or a suitable dance floor; some schools prohibit taps on their fragile floors outside of the dedicated class. At home, a simple plywood board placed on a rug allows you to practice without damaging the tiles or disturbing the neighbors.
Maintaining your claquette shoes
- Check the screws on the taps regularly with a small screwdriver. Tighten them a quarter turn, without forcing, so as not to damage the screw hole in the sole.
- Do not walk outside with them: asphalt scratches the taps and water damages the sole.
- Let the shoe air dry after class, then condition the leather from time to time to prevent it from cracking at the creases.
- Carry the pair in a fabric bag to protect the rest of your bag from the metal.
To learn more about leather care, see our guide on maintaining your dance shoes.
Our claquette shoes
Find our models in the claquette shoes collection: check the closure type and heel height on each product page. If you also practice modern jazz or urban dances, take a look at our dance sneakers; for your children's other classes, see our children's dance shoes. Delivery is free from €50 on purchases in mainland France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, and Switzerland, and an automatic 10% discount applies from 2 pairs of shoes.
Frequently asked questions
What claquette shoe to choose when you are starting out?
A leather lace-up model, flat heel, with taps already screwed in. The laces ensure good instep support and the shoe is suitable for most styles taught in class. You will change models later if your style evolves.
How to adjust the sound of a claquette shoe?
By adjusting the tightness of the screws on the taps. A well-tightened tap produces a crisper sound, while a slightly loose tap resonates more. However, a tap that moves when you walk must be tightened, without forcing the screw.
Can you do claquettes with regular shoes?
For a first trial class, shoes with hard leather soles can work, but they do not produce the sound of taps. Screwing taps onto a dress shoe is possible at a cobbler, with results that vary depending on the sole. A real pair of claquettes remains more comfortable for practicing every week.
Should you take your usual size in claquettes?
Generally yes, with a fitted fit: the heel should not lift and the toes should not touch the tip. Sizes vary by model, so measure your foot in centimeters and compare it to the chart for the chosen model.