Tap dancing builds rhythm, coordination and confidence in young dancers, and having the right footwear is the first step toward getting the most out of every class. At Total Dance, Australia's home of premium dancewear, we know how important it is to find shoes that fit well, feel comfortable and are built to last through lessons, rehearsals and performances. That's why we've put together a carefully selected range of children's tap shoes to suit every age, foot shape and experience level, all available to buy online with free shipping across Australia.
Why Buying Child's Tap Shoes Online Makes Sense
For busy dance families, shopping online is a genuinely practical choice. You can browse at your own pace, compare styles side by side, check sizing guides without any pressure, and have quality tap shoes delivered straight to your door. When you buy child's tap shoes online in Australia through Total Dance, you're not sacrificing quality for convenience. Every shoe in our range has been chosen for its construction, sound production and comfort, so your child can focus on learning, not on sore feet.
Free shipping across Australia means no hidden costs at checkout, and our easy returns process gives you confidence if the fit isn't quite right the first time. Whether your dancer is just starting out in a first-year tap class or moving into more advanced repertoire, you'll find the right option in our range.
If you'd like detailed guidance before you purchase, our article on how to choose the right child's tap shoes for Australian dancers covers everything from sole types to sizing tips, and is well worth a read before you add to cart.
Our Range of Children's Tap Shoes
We carry a broad selection of styles to match different age groups, foot widths and skill levels. Here's what you'll find when you browse our children's tap shoe collection.
Velcro Strap Styles for Younger Dancers
For younger children who are still developing their fine motor skills, velcro closures are a practical and popular choice. They allow little ones to put their shoes on and take them off independently, which teachers and parents both appreciate.
The Terra Tap Shoe - Velcro strap is a firm favourite for beginners. Its supportive construction and easy velcro fastening make it ideal for preschool and primary-aged dancers who need a secure fit without the fuss of laces. The Mary Jane Childs Tap Shoe - Velcro Buckle offers a classic Mary Jane silhouette with a stylish buckle detail, giving younger girls a smart, neat look for class and concert days alike.
Lace-Up Styles for Growing Feet
As children grow and their feet become more stable, lace-up tap shoes offer a more precise, adjustable fit. They also encourage independence and responsibility, as young dancers learn to tie and tighten their own shoes before class.
The Downtown Lace up Tap shoe is a sleek, well-constructed option that suits intermediate dancers stepping up their training. Its oxford-style upper and quality tap plates deliver a satisfying, clear sound on the studio floor. The Showtime Tapper - Childs Tap Shoe is another excellent lace-up choice, known for its durability and clean tap tone. It's a reliable everyday training shoe that holds up beautifully to regular use.
Versatile Styles That Grow With Your Dancer
Some styles sit comfortably between beginner and intermediate levels and work well across a range of ages.
The Tic Tap Toe Tap Shoes - Childs is a well-loved option in Australian dance studios, offering a neat fit and a consistent tap sound that suits a wide age range. The Tap-On - Girls & Womens Tap Shoe bridges the gap between child and adult sizing, making it a great investment for older children and teens who are approaching adult shoe sizes. This style often appeals to families who want a shoe that offers a bit more longevity as their dancer grows.
How to Get the Right Fit When Shopping Online
Getting the right fit is the most important part of buying tap shoes, particularly online. Here are some practical tips to help you get it right the first time.
Measure Both Feet
Children's feet grow quickly, and one foot is often slightly larger than the other. Always measure both feet and fit to the larger one. Measure at the end of the day when feet are at their fullest. Write down both the length and width before you consult a size chart.
Use Our Size Guide
Each product listing on the Total Dance website includes a size guide. Take the time to match your child's measurements to the specific guide for the shoe you're considering, as sizing can vary between styles and manufacturers. When in doubt, sizing up half a size is generally a safer choice than sizing down, especially for lace-up styles where you can adjust the fit.
Check the Sole Type
Children's tap shoes typically come with a full sole or a split sole. Full-sole shoes offer more support and are generally recommended for younger or beginner dancers. Split-sole shoes allow more flexibility through the arch and are better suited to more experienced dancers. If your child's teacher has a preference, it's worth checking with them before you purchase.
Allow a Little Growing Room
A thumb's width of space between the tip of the longest toe and the end of the shoe is a good rule of thumb. Too much space, however, can affect balance and sound quality, so aim for a snug but comfortable fit.
Caring for Your Child's Tap Shoes
A little care goes a long way in extending the life of tap shoes. After each class, encourage your child to remove their shoes and store them in a dance bag rather than leaving them loose at the bottom of a school bag. The Duffle Dance Bag and the Legacy Tote Bag are both generous in size and make great options for keeping dancewear organised and protected between classes.
Keep the soles clean and dry between sessions, and check the screws on the tap plates periodically. Loose taps can affect sound quality and may become a tripping hazard, so a quick tighten every few weeks is a good habit to get into. If your child's teacher recommends a specific tap sound, some plates can be adjusted or replaced, so it's worth asking your studio about this as your dancer progresses.
Storing shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight will help preserve the leather or synthetic upper and prevent premature cracking or warping of the sole.
Complete Your Dancer's Kit
Once you've found the perfect tap shoes, it's easy to pick up everything else your dancer needs in one place. Total Dance stocks a full range of dancewear and accessories to complement your purchase. The Essential Camisole Leotard and V Band Shorts make a classic, comfortable combination for tap class. For hair, the Sprinkle Paint Scrunchie, Luna Scrunchie and Coral Coast Scrunchie are all popular choices for keeping hair neat and styled during class.
If your child is dancing in a concert or eisteddfod, take a look at our accessories range, including the Flat Diamante Headpiece and Flower Diamante Headpiece, which add a lovely finishing touch to performance looks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can children start wearing tap shoes?
Most children begin tap classes from around three to four years of age, and tap shoes are typically required from the very first class. Velcro-strap styles are ideal for this age group as they are easy to put on and take off. Always check with your child's dance studio about any specific shoe requirements before purchasing.
How often should I replace my child's tap shoes?
Children's feet grow quickly, so many families find they need to replace tap shoes every six to twelve months. Beyond sizing, keep an eye on the condition of the upper, the sole and the tap plates. If the shoe is visibly worn, the sole is separating or the taps are cracked or damaged, it's time for a new pair regardless of how recently they were purchased.
Do I need to break in new tap shoes?
Most children's tap shoes do require a short break-in period, particularly those with leather uppers. Encourage your child to wear their new shoes around the house for short periods before their first class to soften the material and allow the shoe to mould to the shape of their foot. This can help prevent blisters and discomfort in the early weeks of wearing a new pair.
Can I buy tap shoes online if I'm not sure of my child's size?
Absolutely. Our detailed size guides make it straightforward to find the right fit from home. Measure your child's feet carefully, refer to the guide on each product listing, and if you're between sizes, size up. If you do find the fit isn't right when the shoes arrive, our returns process is simple and straightforward. You're also welcome to reach out to our team for sizing advice before you order.
Ready to find the perfect pair? Shop our full range of quality tap shoes for kids and enjoy free shipping on your order across Australia. Total Dance is here to support your dancer every step of the way.
