How to Choose Your Pro Cheer Shoes for the Dance Auditions
One of the questions that you might ask in the process of getting ready for future auditions is this: “What pro cheer shoes should I wear?” Well, we don’t want you to come unprepared, and that is why we’re going to give you some useful tips on choosing the right audition pro cheer shoes. At the end of this post, you should be able to decide on the best pair that suits you -- and of course, the team you’re aiming for.
Research What the Team Requires (The Ultimate Rule!)
Before you assume anything about the footwear, head over to the squad’s “Auditions” section on their website. They usually indicate the specific shoes they require. Below is a screenshot of the NBA Warriors Dance Team auditions page where they indicate what pro cheer shoes to wear:
Here are some other dance teams and the kind of shoes that they require:
- NFL Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders - Any type of dance shoe or dance sneaker
- NFL Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders - Dance shoes (sneakers, jazz shoes, character shoes, etc.)
- NBA Washington Wizards Dance Team - Sneakers/dance shoes
Basically, you’re 100% safe as long as you always refer to the most recent dance team auditions page. Don’t miss this tip.
Jazz Shoes Are the Safest
If you are in doubt about what type of pro cheer shoes to wear to the tryouts, go for jazz shoes. Most veteran pro cheerleaders recommend them. Jazz shoes are ideal for dancing. And as you already know, auditions involve A LOT OF DANCING. This type of footwear is also great for various dance styles such as Hip-Hop and they allow you to move comfortably all throughout the tryouts. You can get a pair of jazz shoes from your local mall or online like Amazon.com.
Choose Nude Coloring
The last thing you’d want happening is to look different “in a bad way” because of your shoe color. Nude shoes are the way to go because they match any dance top or outfit, regardless of the style and color! Other advantages of wearing nude-colored jazz shoes are the following:
- They create longer looking legs
- They draw attention to your outfit
- They look good on anyone
Make Sure They Fit Snugly
It’s extremely important to choose a pair of pro cheer shoes that fit right. Check that there is ample space for your longest toe. Are you able to wiggle all your toes? Can you dance in your shoes without feeling any pain, pressure, or discomfort? If you pick a pair that doesn’t feel right even if it’s the most expensive or attractive, you’ll end up dancing awkwardly.
Keep It Simple
Do not wear shoes that have too much sparkle or metal fitting. These shoes can distract the judges and take their focus off the rest of your outfit and dance performance. Do not wear clear Lucite shoes with a platform; those are too “Las Vegas.” Aim for a simple pair of pro cheer shoes that also flatter you.
Final Thoughts
As with anything about the pro cheer auditions, preparation is essential. Purchase and practice dancing in your pair of shoes weeks before the tryouts - not the night before! I would also recommend that you carry an extra pair in case something goes wrong with the original pair. Come prepared in the right shoes and you’re sure to ace your performance.
Can you picture yourself dancing under the bright lights alongside gorgeous cheerleaders? Dream of cheering for the NFL or NBA?
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