The Various Styles of Dance Tights and the Importance of Wearing the Right One

When you sign your child up for ballet, you aren't only signing them up for dance; you are also signing them up for lessons in discipline and hard work. With that, comes the ballet dress code. For those unfamiliar with the dance world, the ballet dress code may seem unnecessary but it does have an important function - they make the class more focused and structured. 

One important piece of the ballet dress code is the dance tights. Regular tights won't do it - it is important to buy dance tights. Dance tights are designed to provide light compression of the muscles in the legs and foot, improving circulation and helping the dancer to engage the correct muscles. Proper dance tights also provide unrestricted movement while providing good coverage for the sake of discretion and modesty.   

When looking to buy dance tights, you will come across many types of them. Learning a little bit about of each will help you choose the best one for your needs. Here is some basic information to help you out. 

Styles of Dance Tights and Their Uses

Footed Tights

Tights that feature a fully covered foot that offer a seamless look in shoes. They are basic tights available in shimmer/gloss, matte, and fishnet. 

Convertible Tights

Also called transition tights, these tight have a small hole under the foot, which means they can be converted to a footless tight by simple pulling the hole over the toes and heel. These tights offer the benefit of wearing to and from class and allow individuals to quickly pull the tights off the foot for adjustment to ballet pointe shoe pads. 

Stirrup Tights

These tights feature a self sling that pulls the foot securing the tight and leaving the toes, ball and heel of the foot bare. They are a popular choice for contemporary, modern and physical culture. 

Fishnet Tights

Tights that have an open net weave that stretch out when worn. They are a popular choice for Jazz, Tap and Cabaret dance styles and are usually used to create funky looks for costuming. 

Choosing the Best Dance Tight

The convertible tights are the most recommended for classical dance, especially to wear with the pointe shoes. The hole under the instep facilitates the dancer access to the foot to protect or heal the wounds lead by the pointe shoes. Thin tights are generally more elegant and adapt better to the body. Tights without sewing are the most comfortable to wear. The sewing on the feet can cause the dance to feel uncomfortable during some movements.