The Definitive Guide to Dance Tights
One of the most common dance questions we hear from customers in our retail stores is "how do I know which dance tights I need!?". We get it, there are a LOT to choose from. And when you're standing in front of an entire wall of tights without any idea of what you need, it can be overwhelming. The reason for all that choice is simple. We try to cater for every dancer, across every experience level and dance style, so there really is a pair of tights there for everyone. Our amazing dancewear consultants are always there to give you advice, but it can't hurt to be prepared, so here's a helpful guide to get you started.
The Classic Tight
Our Classic Tights are our best-selling staples. The soft, durable knit is crafted in a deluxe, breathable Microfibre/Spandex for long-lasting shape retention, making the classic tight your go-to for class and rehearsal. They also feature a cotton gusset and flat seams for comfort and invisibility. Designed for durability and support, they look and feel amazing wear after wear which is why they are great for everyone - from baby beginners who are rough on their clothes to adults dancing several times a week. We find that most teachers include the Classic Tights on their uniform lists.
The Classic range includes footed, stirrup, footless, convertible (and fishnet) tights - and if those terms confuse you, keep reading - we will explain them.
The Essential Tight
Our Essential Dance Tight allows for complete freedom of movement as well as durability that will last from studio to stage and back again. These tights are designed for the dancer who never stops moving. Super-soft to the touch and a little more lightweight than the Classic Tights, they also feature no gusset and flat seams for a flawless clean finish.
The Essential Tights are available in footed and convertible styles, and the colours vary a little bit to the Classic range as well - instead of the Beige colour you can choose from Light Tan and Jazz Tan in addition to the standard Theatrical and Salmon Pinks.
The Premier Tight
Our Premier Tights are perfect for dancers with busy schedules. Beautifully soft, these tights are made with lasting comfort in mind so you can stay confident and carefree in class and focus on your dancing. The Premiere Tights are crafted from a carefully selected Nylon/Spandex blend for ultimate breathability and wearability and also feature a gusset for added comfort.
Available in both footed and convertible options to cater to your specific needs, they also come in Salmon Pink, Theatrical Pink and Natural Tan.
The PROFESSIONAL TIGHT
Our Professional Tights offer everything a professional or elite dancer requires from their hosiery. These tights are strong and durable, and of the highest quality to support artists through demanding rehearsals and performances.
The Professional Tight range includes our Professional Fishnet, which is strong and wiry to avoid snags, the Soloist Tight, which is slightly sheerer than the Classic to enhance your leg lines, and the Professional High Gloss Tights, perfect for Aerobics, Calisthenics and performances.
The Compression Tight
Compression Tights are engineered for muscle recovery, making them perfect for dancers with demanding class or rehearsal schedules. These tights are an amazing way to look after your body while you dance. During exercise, lactic acid builds up in your muscles which results in pain and stiffness. The graduated compression technology can help your muscles to recover faster by increasing blood flow and circulation as you move.
Our Compression Tights are available in both footed and convertible styles, in a range of colours. If you dance often, or for long periods of time, these are perfect for you - just remember that the fit will be tighter than a standard pair.
Style Options
Capri
Capri styles finish mid-calf. They are usually worn by jazz dancers or those who like to dance barefoot but with some coverage at the top of the leg. Click to Shop.
Convertible
Convertible tights can be worn like a standard tight or rolled up to become footless, for those doing multiple classes one after the other, or ballet dancers who need to access their toes to add padding before pointe work. Click to Shop.
Footed
Everyone's go-to dance tights, Footed styles must be worn with shoes, whether that's Ballet shoes, Tap shoes or Jazz shoes. These are also the most comfortable for children with sensitive toes. Click to Shop.
Fishnet
Usually used for Broadway, Showgirl, Ballroom, Musical Theatre or Tap dancing, Fishnets are woven in a criss-cross pattern and give a glamorous look when worn with heels. Click to Shop.
Footless
Footless tights are ideal for those who are dancing barefoot, with a clean line at the ankle. These tights are popular for Contemporary dance or Lyrical styles. Click to Shop.
Stirrup
Stirrup tights are another way to allow barefoot dancing, but with an extended leg line. These can also be worn with shoes if preferred, and are often used for Aerobics in a High Gloss style. Click to Shop.
Colours
Getting the colour right can also be tricky, because some of the shades are quite similar. Your teacher will usually let you know what you need if there's a set uniform. If in doubt:
Theatrical Pink and Salmon Pink are standard Ballet tight colours. Your teacher will advise if they have a preference for uniform. Shop Theatrical Pink. Shop Salmon Pink.
Beige is our best-selling colour for Jazz dance as well as the standard colour for Gloss and Fishnet Tights. Shop Beige.
Tan is a darker option for those with deeper skin tones or if your teacher prefers a stronger look on stage. Shop Tan.
Some teachers may prefer you choose the Light Tan or Jazz Tan colours that are available in our Essential Tights collection. Shop Light Tan. Shop Jazz Tan.
Black and White tights are often used for Calisthenics, Performances and Concerts. Shop Black. Shop White.
So there you have it - a guide to everything you've ever needed to know about Dance Tights. If you have any more questions, you can always visit one of our Retail Stores, or talk to our customer service team by getting in touch here. Happy Dancing!
Article by Emily Newton-Smith
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