Whether you’re a newbie trying a TikTok challenge or a dancer with years of experience to back you up, you might be on the hunt for footwear that’s going to up your shuffling game. What are the best shoes for shuffling, you wonder? Well, we’ve got you covered!
Shuffling’s been around for ages (90s kiddos probably know what we’re talking about), but the forgotten dance moves seem to have emerged with the rise of social media, a.k.a. TikTok. Seems as though everyone’s trying to shuffle these days and we’re here for it!
Shuffling consists of two main moves: the shuffle and the stomp. When you’re getting down and dirty with these moves, you can add some spins, slides, and hops to create a complete shuffle routine. Shuffle moves are demanding on your feet, though, and that’s why you need proper footwear.
We’re bringing you a few of our favorite picks down below!
What to look for when shopping for the best shoes for shuffling?
When shopping for the best shoes for shuffling, you might want to keep an eye on a few favorable features that promise to make shuffling easier for you.
We need to mention that there’s nothing wrong with wearing whatever sneakers you have – they’re going to do the trick for now. But when you get better at shuffling, you might want to explore other options to ensure you’re getting the best support, stability, and protection you need.
Right off the bat, the best shuffling shoes always come with strong, stiff, flat soles. Rather than wearing chunky, foamy walking or running sneakers, you need something that’s going to keep your feet grounded. Soles with little to no tread are a must, too, because you’re going to be spinning and sliding across the room.
Worn-out sneakers are a perfect fit because they’re molded to your feet, flexible enough to move with them, and slippery enough to allow you to perform better. Thick soles play a huge part because you need to be able to stand and spin on your toes, and you can’t do that with thin, flexible soles.
Slip-ons aren’t an option because laces allow you to tighten your sneakers as much as you can – you don’t want them flying off while you’re shuffling, now do you? High tops, on the other hand, offer you enough support and stability to do whatever you want.
We know what you’re thinking – we’re pretty much describing high-top Vans, aren’t we? Vans are one of the best shuffling shoes out there, but we’re bringing you a bunch of other options to consider, too. Whether you go for Vans or one of the other sneakers on the list, dance like no one’s watching!
What are the best shoes for shuffling?
1. Loom Waterproof Sneakers
We’re starting with a simple sneaker guaranteed to keep you on your toes – the Loom Waterproof sneakers aren’t as stiff and sturdy as some of the other sneakers we’re going to talk about, but they’re a decent option to consider, nonetheless.
First off, they’re breathable and lightweight which means you won’t even know you’re wearing them. Furthermore, they’re made with Merino wool, moisture-wicking materials, and antimicrobial properties to ensure your feet stay happy and healthy throughout the day.
Not to mention that they feature plenty of padding for comfort and support. Now, they’re equipped with flat soles, but they’re a little too flexible for shuffling.
2. Bloch Omnia Knitted Sneakers
Oh, you want more padding?
Bloch Omnia Knitted Sneakers might be breathable and lightweight, but they’re packed with padding placed around the strategic areas to provide comfort and support. Padded footbeds and insoles keep your feet grounded and secured, and padded heels control unnecessary and unwanted movement.
But Bloch Omnia Knitted Sneakers come with the same problem as Loom Waterproof Sneakers – they’re a little too flexible. Beginners might not notice a difference, but advanced dancers prefer sneakers that are sturdy and stiff rather than flexible.
3. New Balance Fuel Cell
When you’re on the hunt for sneakers that are going to work with any dance routine, you might want to throw a glance at New Balance Fuel Cell sneakers.
They’re equipped with a myriad of features that promise to keep you going no matter what. They feature a shock absorber and a shank to keep you supported. They come with dual-density collar foam, too, where the soft foam makes them more comfortable and wearable and the firm foam makes them more supportive.
They’re made with IMEVA midsoles that provide you with a snug fit and flat soles that allow you to slide on the floor. And, they’re made with 100% leather which means they’re breathable and lightweight. What’s not to adore, right?
4. Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Vintage
OK, now we’re getting somewhere!
We mentioned that high-tops with flat soles (most of them are) make for the best shoes for shuffling because they’re designed to give you a snug fit, keep your ankles supported, and allow you to drag your feet on the floor without too much pressure and resistance.
Well, Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Vintage sneakers are everything you need and more.
With easy-to-clean, hard-wearing fabrics, a sleek silhouette, and flat soles, they’re bound to make your day better the moment you put them on. We suggest lacing them up as tight as possible to ensure you get the comfiest, snuggest fit you can.
5. Puma Rebound Layup Sneaker
Moving on to another great high-top option, Puma Rebound Layup Sneakers are made to accommodate anyone who spends a lot of time walking, running, or dancing. Without question, they’re one of the most wearable sneakers because they’re designed according to classic court styles.
Where do we even start with these? They’re super supportive because they’re made with a leather upper, a mid-cut padded collar, and a tongue that molds to your foot. They’re padded and equipped with Puma’s comfort sock liners for a soft, snug sensation every step of the day.
6. Off-White Off Court 3.0 High Top Sneakers
Depending on your preferences, you might be on the hunt for a designer sneaker guaranteed to turn heads on the dance floor. Don’t worry, you can’t go wrong with every celebrity and fashionista’s favorite basketball high-tops, Off-White Off Court 3.0 High Top Sneakers.
Now, they’re pretty expensive compared to the sneakers we mentioned beforehand, but they’re worth the staggering price tag. They’re easy on the eye, that’s for sure. But they’re much more than eye candy when you analyze the features they’re made with.
They’re made with plenty of wiggle room which means they’re perfect for people that weren’t blessed with narrow feet. They’re equipped with lace-up vamps, leather linings, and rubber soles – similar to other styles we talked about. They’re padded for comfort and simple to slip on and off when necessary.
7. Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Classic
While there’s something alluring about designer high-tops, we can’t forget about everyone’s favorite high-top sneakers that happen to be a fraction of the price of the designer ones – say hello to Converse Chuck Taylor All-Star Classic sneakers.
We don’t even need to go on about the deets on these sneakers because everyone already knows everything about them – but don’t mind if we do. Converse Chuck Taylors are signature high-top sneakers made with a canvas upper, a rubber outsole, and a star logo.
Dancers adore them because they’re breathable, lightweight, simple to slip on and off, and flat so they’re perfect for moving, sliding, and gliding on the floor.
8. Vans Canvas SK8-HI
We can’t forget about Vans, either. Whether you go for the low-top or the high-top version, you’re going to appreciate the simple, sleek design, comfortable fit, and flat soles. They’re similar to Converse sneakers because they’re made with a canvas upper and a rubber outsole.
They are also decently durable considering the affordable price tag, but they’re definitely difficult to clean. These shoes are perfect for that effortless, worn-out look, though – give them a few years and you’re going to have the signature Golden Goose appearance for a fraction of the price.
9. Adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers
Adidas Originals Superstar Sneakers might not be high-tops, but they’re supportive and protective, nonetheless. They’re one of Adidas’ signature styles, and they’re wearable with pretty much everything you own – whether you’re dancing or grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend.
They’re suitable for shuffling, though, because they’re made with sturdy, stiff, flat soles and plenty of padding. They’re even reinforced around the toe area which makes them perfect for standing and spinning on your toes. They’re a decent deal for the price tag, for sure.
10. Reebok Guresu 2.0
We’ve arrived at the end of the article with Reebok Guresu 2.0 sneakers. We’d argue that these sneakers aren’t the best shoes for shuffling because they’re a little too flexible for a lot of the moves.
However, they’re great for beginners because they’re breathable, lightweight, and comfortable. Before you turn a blind eye to them, know that they’re equipped with a few redeeming features.
They’re made with excellent arch support which might be something to keep an eye on, depending on your feet. Designed to have a snug, comfortable fit, they’re a decent sneaker to consider – especially when you’re out of high-top options.
