Irish dancing shoes are an essential part of every dancer’s journey, from their first class to exams and competitions. Choosing the right style and the correct fit plays a huge role in comfort, confidence, and performance.
At Leddy Uniforms, we regularly help parents select Irish dancing shoes and one of the most common questions we receive is about shoe type and sizing. This guide explains the differences between full sole, practice, and split sole pumps, and also offers important fitting advice to help you choose correctly.
What Are Irish Dancing Pumps?
Irish dancing pumps are soft leather shoes worn for light dances, classes, and competitions. They are designed to fit more snugly than everyday footwear to allow precise footwork and proper technique.
Because of this, Irish dancing shoes will often feel tighter than regular shoes, especially when new.
Full Sole Pumps
Best for beginners and younger dancers
Full sole pumps feature a single piece of leather running the full length of the shoe, from heel to toe.
Why choose full sole pumps?
-
Provide extra support and stability
-
Encourage correct foot placement
-
Help build strength in developing feet
-
Ideal for beginners and early grades
Full sole pumps are usually recommended when a child is starting Irish dancing, as they support technique and prevent bad habits from forming early.
Practice Pumps
Ideal for regular classes and training
Practice pumps are designed for frequent use and regular lessons. They are similar in structure to full sole pumps but are made to withstand repeated wear.
Benefits of practice pumps:
-
Comfortable for longer training sessions
-
Durable and supportive
-
Suitable for dancers attending weekly classes
-
Maintain shape with regular use
Practice pumps are a popular everyday option once a dancer is attending classes consistently.
Split Sole Pumps
Best for experienced and advanced dancers
Split sole pumps have two separate leather sections — one under the ball of the foot and one under the heel — leaving the arch exposed.
Benefits of split sole pumps:
-
Greater flexibility and movement
-
Allows dancers to point and arch the foot more clearly
-
Enhances visual lines and performance
-
Recommended for higher grades and competitions
Split sole pumps are generally advised once a dancer has developed strong foot control and confidence.
Important Fitting Advice for Irish Dancing Shoes
Irish dancing shoes are designed to fit snugly to support technique and prevent slipping. This means they often feel tighter than everyday school shoes or trainers.
Our fitting recommendation at Leddy Uniforms:
-
Irish dancing shoes should feel firm but not painful
-
Toes should not be cramped or curled
-
The heel should sit securely without slipping
For many children, we recommend going up one shoe size from their normal everyday footwear to allow for comfort, movement, and growth — especially for younger dancers.
Leather pumps will soften slightly with wear, but they should never feel uncomfortable or restrictive.
If you are unsure, professional fitting is always advised.
Irish Dancing Shoes at Leddy Uniforms
At Leddy Uniforms, we stock a carefully selected range of Irish dancing shoes to suit beginners, developing dancers, and advanced performers. Our experienced team is happy to offer fitting advice in-store to ensure the right balance of comfort, support, and performance.
Choosing the correct shoe and fit from the start helps dancers feel confident, comfortable, and ready to enjoy their Irish dancing journey.
Explore our Irish dancing footwear collection online or visit us in-store for expert guidance.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.