Jazzercise is a type of fitness training that involves kickboxing, pilates, and dance. It has gained a lot of popularity in recent years as it is a great way to stay fit, boost immunity, reduce stress, and improve vascular health. Unlike other fitness regimens, jazzercise works your whole body.
Before enrolling in a jazzercise class, you must ensure you have the appropriate gear. A comfortable pair of shoes that can keep up with your class’s demands is extremely important. Wearing regular sneakers to your jazzercise class is like wearing high heels to go trekking. You will not be able to enjoy your routine and will also risk injuring your feet.
In this article, we talk about the features to look for when purchasing a jazzercise shoe. We will also list the best jazzercise shoes available in the market.
What is Jazzercise?
Jazzercise is a fun workout that features a combination of yoga, boxing, strength training, and pilates. Generally, a jazzercise routine is choreographed to fast-paced jazz music. This form of dancing was founded by Judi Shepherd Misset in the late 1960s. Misset was a dance teacher who realized that her students were desperately trying to get fit. She wanted to come up with a fun dance routine that would help them do so, and that’s how jazzercise was born. Most jazzercise classes begin with a warm-up and end with a cool-down. You can expect to work your whole body when enrolling for a jazzercise class as most jazzercise routines involve weight lifting, kickboxing, planking, and dancing.
How to choose the Right shoes for jazz exercise?
To get the most out of your jazz routine, here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing a pair of jazz shoes.
Material:
The first and foremost thing to look for when buying jazzercise shoes is the fabric of the shoe. There are different kinds available in the market. However, choosing a shoe made from leather or textile will ensure that your feet remain dry and sweat-free. You also want to ensure that the shoe you invest in is durable and long-lasting. Shoes made from textile, canvas, and leather are extremely durable and can last for a couple of years.
Moisture Wicking Capability:
Another crucial thing to keep in mind when purchasing a pair of jazzercise shoes is its moisture-wicking ability. During a jazzercise routine, you will sweat a lot. If the shoe does not absorb this sweat, then you can develop fungal or bacterial infections on your feet. Shoes with Dri-Lex lining systems are an excellent investment because this lining wicks up sweat and prevents mildew and odor from developing inside the shoe.
Sole:
The next most important feature of your jazzercise shoe is its sole. The shoe of your choice must provide excellent grip and traction as indoor studios generally have slippery floors. Look for a shoe that features a split sole as this will increase the flexibility of the shoe and allow you to bend your foot with ease.
Weight:
Another important factor to bear in mind when choosing a pair of jazzercise shoes is the weight of the shoe. The heavier the shoe, the faster your feet will tire. Pick a shoe that fits comfortably and has lightweight padding. A lightweight shoe is a key to enjoying your jazzercise routine.
Design:
The design of a jazzercise shoe is as crucial as any other aspect of the shoe. Shoes with rubber outsoles will protect your feet against impact. Look for a shoe that has a pivot point or boxed toe as this will allow you to perform toe stands and move swiftly. Shoes with a lace-up or velcro closure are an ideal choice as this will allow you to adjust the fit of the shoe
Sizing:
Last but not least, your jazzercise shoe must fit like a sock. Ill-fitting shoes can cause serious injury. When purchasing jazzercise shoes off the internet, ensure to check the sizing charts available. Measure your feet carefully and then refer to the sizing charts provided by the brand. A well-fitted shoe is crucial to enjoying your jazzercise routine as this will hold your feet in place when performing lateral dance moves.
Listed below are the best shoes for jazzercise (updated for 2022).
Ryka Women’s Influence Cross-Training Shoe
Ryka is one of the best jazzercise shoe manufacturers. If you’re looking to purchase a pair of shoes that has already proved itself on the dance floor, then this is the one for you. It has been designed to take the shape of your feet and provide a sock-like fit.
These jazzercise shoes have been made from textile and feature a lace-up closure. They come with a pivot point that is located on the underside of the shoe. They also have an anatomical insole, that provides extra arch and heel support to its user.
For even more comfort and flexibility, this shoe features a flex foil and direct fuse layers. The High Impact N-Gage EVA Energy Return midsole of the shoe grips the feet and the lace-up closure of the shoe helps hold the feet in place.
Apart from this, the shoe also has a split sole that features a footprint design. This will provide excellent traction and grip regardless of the terrain. To further assist with this the shoe has a heel stabilizer to keep you steady on your feet.
This sleek and stylish jazzercise shoe is available in 12 different colors, including black, green, sleet, steel, white, and pink. They come in sizes starting from US 5 to US 11. An extra-wide option of the same is also available.
Pros:
- Available in half sizes
- Has an anatomical insole
- Extremely breathable shoe
- Has been designed to take a woman’s foot
- Supports users who suffer from plantar fasciitis
Cons:
- The toe region of the shoe is extremely narrow
- Sizes run small
Capezio Women’s DS11 Fierce Dansneaker
If you’re looking for a shoe that will give you the feeling that you’re dancing on clouds, then this is the shoe for you. Made from Nappa PU leather and featuring a padded tongue and collar, it is one of the most comfortable shoes available in the market.
Capezio Dansneakers come with patented flex points that will help you spin with ease. The Achilles notch and split sole of the shoe make it more flexible than other dance shoes available in the market.
Apart from that, this shoe also features a tech mesh upper that helps keep the shoe dry and sweat-free. The padded tongue and collar of the shoe offer additional support to its user. The forepart spin spot of the shoe provides comfort both on and off the dance floor.
This shoe comes with a contoured cushioned footbed. This means that this shoe has been designed to provide the right type of support to your foot. The removable EVA footbed has been designed to take the shape of your feet and protect it against impact.
With more than 130 years of shoemaking experience, Capezio has been known for designing lightweight shoes. This particular jazzercise shoe has been manufactured using high-quality lightweight material. The padded linings located inside the shoe will keep your feet comfortable at all times.
What’s more, is that these shoes have a boxed-toe design. This allows its wearer to perform toe stands. It also protects the toes from injury and is ideal if you want to learn other kinds of dances such as ballet.
The Capezio Women’s Dansneaker is available in three attractive colors – white, black, and royal blue. It runs in sizes starting from US 3 to US 14. Half sizes are also available.
Pros:
- Has a superior arch support
- EVA footbed absorbs shocks and provides a sock-like fit
- Available in half sizes
- Has a split sole
Cons:
- The extra-wide option is unavailable
- Sizes tend to run on the smaller side
Bloch Dance Women’s Boost DRT Suede and Mesh Split Sole Dance Sneaker
If you’re looking for a jazzercise shoe that is trusted by dancers all over the world, then this is the one for you. Made from leather and textile this shoe, this shoe is extremely durable. It features a rubber sole and a ¾ inch platform.
This lightweight shoe has a man-made insole that features 4PS Air Cushioning. This means that this shoe is four times more comfortable than your regular pair of sneakers.
Apart from this the shoe also features a compression-molded sock liner that takes the shape of the foot and provides a sock-like fit to its wearer. The shoe has been lined using a Dri-Lex lining system. This kind of lining wicks up moisture and does not wrinkle easily.
Bloch Women’s Dance Sneakers come with a suede heel grip and a DRT cushioned heel that provides maximum comfort to its wearer. The four-part high-density man-made outsole increases the flexibility of the shoe.
This shoe also comes with a built-in arch support system. It has a spin spot located on the underside of the shoe that helps its user to turn and twist with ease.
This stylish jazzercise shoe has been launched in two vibrant colors – pink and black. They run in sizes starting from US 4 to US 15 and are available in half sizes.
Pros:
- Has a Dri-Lex lining that keeps the shoe dry
- The outsole allows for 360-degree turns and spins
- Has 4PS Air Cushioning
- Available in half sizes
- Is extremely lightweight
- Made from high-quality, long-lasting materials
Cons:
- Available in only two colors
- Sizes tend to run small
PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 WN’s FM Cross-Trainer Shoe
If you’re looking for a sleek and stylish sneaker that will keep you comfortable both on and off the dancefloor, then this shoe is the one for you. The Puma Cross-Trainer Shoe has been designed for high-impact activities and is therefore extremely shock and abrasion-resistant.
What sets this shoe apart is that its midfoot saddle is extremely soft and comfortable. The EVA footbed located inside the shoe absorbs shocks and protects the feet from soreness and injury. This also makes the shoe extremely form-fitting.
At first glance, this shoe may appear chunky and heavy. However, you will be surprised to note that they are the exact opposite of it. They have been made using high-quality leather, which is extremely lightweight and breathable.
These jazzercise shoes are extremely versatile and can be used for other sporting activities such as CrossFit Training and Strength Training. They are available in four attractive colors- black, white, pink, and beetroot purple. They run in sizes starting from US 5.5 to US 11.
Pros:
- Is an extremely lightweight shoe
- Is a form-fitting shoe that holds the feet in place
- Available in half sizes
- An extra-wide option of the same is also available for users with wider feet
- This shoe can also be used for other sporting activities such as CrossFit Training and Strength Training
Cons:
- The shoe has a stiff sole
- Poor arch support
Ryka Women’s Devotion Xt Mid Cross Trainer
It is hard to get a jazzercise shoe that is perfect in all aspects. However, this innovative shoe is not only stylish but also extremely comfortable. This shoe comes with superior ankle support and breathable mesh and is among the most supportive jazzercise shoes available on the market.
The unique design of this shoe is what draws your attention. The shoe has a lace-up closure and an ankle strap made from velcro. Therefore, if you’re looking for a fashionable shoe that allows you to customize the fit of the shoe, then this is the one for you.
Apart from this, the Ryka XT Mid Cross Trainer also has a heel and midfoot lockdown webbing system that will hold your feet in place. This quality also prevents your ankle from twisting when performing tricky dance steps.
What’s more, is that the sole of the shoe has an Achilles comfort cushion that ensures its wearer lands softly after jumps. This further reduces the pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. This shoe can be worn by people who suffer from plantar fasciitis and knee injuries.
Furthermore the inner of this shoe is extremely spacious and can easily fit an orthotic insert. The sole also has a supportive circle that takes the pressure of the ball of the foot during spins and turns, and this also allows its user to glide with control.
These affordable shoes are available in six vibrant color combinations, including ink blue, sleek, black, and grey. They are true to size and start from size US 5 to US 11. If you’re someone who has wider feet, then opt for an extra-wide option of this shoe.
Pros:
- Has a midfoot lockdown webbing system that holds feet in place
- The ankle strap provides extra support to the ankle
- Has a supportive circle that takes the pressure of the ball of the foot
- Has an Achilles comfort cushion
Cons:
- After repeated use, the velcro straps located on the shoe tend to loosen
- The Toe region is extremely narrow
NIKE Women’s Flex Supreme TR 5 Cross-Training Shoe
If you’re looking for a shoe that has been designed to meet all your dance requirements, then this is the one for you. Made from textile, this shoe is extremely lightweight and breathable. It is one of the most promising jazzercise shoes currently available.
The design of this shoe is what first catches our attention. Flywire cables situated in the front of the shoe hold the feet in place, and the rubber sole of the shoe absorbs shocks.
Apart from this, the shoe also comes with foam pods that have been placed on both sides of the inner heel. This prevents the heel from slipping when performing tricky routines. It also amps up the comfort of the shoe.
The outsole of the shoe features a hexagonal pattern that enhances flexibility and allows for 360-degree turns. The upper layer of this shoe offers its wearer soft and comfortable support, and the lower layer of the shoe doubles as an outsole and provides durable cushioning.
This comfortable and sleek jazzercise shoe has been launched in three vibrant and attractive colours – black, white, and wolf grey. They run in sizes from US 6.5 to US 11. When purchasing this shoe, make sure you measure your feet and refer to the sizing chart provided.
Pros:
- Foam pods protect the heel
- Has a shock-absorbent sole
- Has a dual-density foam
- Breathable and lightweight shoe
- Has fly-wire cables that deliver a customized fit
Cons:
- Available in a low range of sizes
- Are not suitable for users with wider feet
- The back ankle area rises high and can be uncomfortable for some users
Under Armour Men’s Micro G Assert 7 Sneaker
If you’re looking for a sneaker that can deliver the perfect combination of flexibility and support, then this is the one for you. This lightweight shoe is made from a combination of textile and synthetic. It has durable overlays located on the outside that locks the midfoot in and assists with stability.
The inner of this jazzercise shoe is even more impressive. It features a synthetic sole and an EVA sock liner that provides step-in comfort to its wearer. This liner also wicks up moisture and sweat immediately, keeping the shoe dry and free from smelly odors.
Apart from this, the shoe also has a one-piece Micro-G foam midsole, which is much thinner than any other midsole available in the market. This sole delivers superior underfoot cushioning to its user. This midsole is both firm and responsive and will help you get into the groove.
The best part of this shoe is that it comes in extra wide sizing and is therefore perfect for dancers and athletes with wider feet. The inside of the shoe is spacious and can easily fit an orthotic insole. It has a good lug system that will provide excellent traction regardless of the terrain.
These durable shoes are long-lasting and great value for money. They are available in seven different colour combinations, including black, steel grey, midnight navy, charcoal grey, and white. They are extremely versatile and are available in sizes from US 7 to US 15.
Pros:
- Available in extra wide options
- EVA sock liner makes the shoe extremely comfortable
- Has leather outlays at the toe region
- Good lug system
Cons:
- The shoe tends to squeak when walking on smooth surfaces
- Has a high ankle rise that can be a little uncomfortable
ASICS Women’s Gel-Fit Tempo 3 Cross-Trainer Shoe
If you’re looking for a sneaker that has been designed to withstand high impact training, then this is the one for you. Made from 100% synthetic fabric and featuring a rubber sole, these shoes are extremely durable and abrasion-resistant. What’s more, is that the mesh outlay of the shoe makes it extremely breathable and sweat-free.
The Asics Women’s Cross-Trainer shoes come with a rearfoot GEL cushioning system that attenuates shock during impact and protects the heel of its wearer. So you can rest assured that with these shoes on, you have nothing to worry about. This cushioning system also makes the transition into midstance a lot easier.
The great part of this shoe is that it has been constructed using seamless materials. Traditional stitching usually features a lot of stitches that most users find irritating and uncomfortable. These seams are also the cause for shoe bites and foot sores.
These comfortable and seamless shoes are available in four attractive colors – mid-grey, carbon, black, and diva pink. They come in sizes from US 5 to US 12. They are available in a few half sizes.
Pros:
- Has a rearfoot GEL cushioned system that protects the heel?
- Has been constructed using seamless material
- Attractive, sleek design
- Breathable and lightweight shoe
Cons:
- Available in a low range of sizes
- The narrow toe region of the shoe can be uncomfortable for users who have wider feet.
Bloch Dance Women’s Canvas Boost Split Sole Dance Sneaker
If you’re looking for durable and comfortable dance shoes, then simply place an order for the Bloch Dance Women’s Canvas Boost Sneakers. This shoe has been specifically designed to meet all your dance floor requirements.
When it comes to dancing, a split non-marking sole shoe is the most appropriate as this increases the flexibility of the shoe. The split sole of this shoe, along with its lightweight design, is what makes this particular shoe unique. Furthermore, the canvas outer of the shoe makes it extremely breathable, and the rubber sole of the shoe protects the feet against impact.
Apart from this, the shoe also has a lightweight man-made midsole that makes the shoe four times more comfortable than any other shoe available in the market. The under of the shoe features a four-part density man-made outsole that has a spin spot to assist with 360-degree turns.
What’s more, is that the inside of the shoe comes with a built-in arch support system. It is also lined using Dri-Lex lining. This type of lining wicks up moisture and prevents mildew and fungi from developing inside the shoe.
These canvas shoes are available in only one color, and that is black. They have a variable lacing system for optimum fit and support and are available in sizes from US 4 to US 12.5.
Pros:
- The split sole of the shoe increases the flexibility of the shoe
- Has a built-in arch support system
- The Dri-Lex lining keeps the shoe dry and odor-free
- The EVA sock liner located on the inside of the shoe increases cushioning and support of the shoe
Cons:
- Available in only one color
- Sizes tend to run a bit small
NIKE Women’s Flex 7 Cross-Training Shoe
When it comes to footwear, Nike is the most trusted brand available in the market. This particular Nike shoe is proof of its legacy. Made from leather and synthetic, this jazzercise shoe is extremely durable, versatile, and long-lasting.
Nike Women’s Flex 7 Cross-Training Shoe has a shaft that measures approximately low-top from the arch. The outer of this shoe has a mesh upper and cables at the forefront that provide a locked-down fit. This mesh design also ensures that the shoe is breathable and dry even after long practice sessions.
The insole of the shoe is just as impressive and is made from Injected Unit (IU) Sole material. This is a lightweight and flexible sole that gives a good bounce to its wearer. Apart from this, the shoe also features a padded sandwich mesh tongue that reduces lace pressure on the foot.
These comfortable and classy sneakers are available in four colors – black, pink, wolf grey, and taupe. It is available in sizes US 5 to US 8.5. So, if you’re looking for a shoe that is available in half sizes, make sure you check this one out.
Pros:
- Has a breathable mesh upper
- The cables in the forefront provide a sock-like fit
- Is an extremely lightweight and flexible shoe
- Sleek and stylish shoe
- Has a padded tongue and collar
- Moisture-wicking technology of the shoe helps keep it dry and sweat-free
Cons:
- Available in a low range of sizes
- Extra-wide options of the shoe are not available
Conclusion:
Each and every shoe mentioned in this article is unique in its own way. They are all extremely long-lasting and durable shoes. However, we strongly believe that the Ryka Women’s Influence Cross Training Shoe is a notch above the rest. It has been crafted using high-quality materials. It is about the sturdiest and most flexible shoes available in the market This article provides all the information you require when deciding on a jazzercise shoe so purchasing any of these high-quality shoes will be a great investment.
