Dance Style Hosiery
Dance hosiery serves both function and aesthetics, designed for movement, performance, and visual appeal. Each dance form has specific hosiery requirements based on technique, tradition, and presentation.
Ballet Hosiery
Traditional Ballet Tights
- Opaque coverage
- Pink/ballet pink standard
- Full-footed or convertible
- Designed for pointe work
Features
- High stretch for full movement
- Reinforced gusset
- Smooth seams
- Durable construction
Convertible Tights
Opening at ball of foot allows:
- Barefoot exercises
- Foot tape application
- Quick shoe changes
Contemporary Dance
Preferences
Jazz Dance
Typical Choices
- Fishnets for performance
- Black or tan tights
- High-shine options
- Footless for jazz shoes
Ballroom Dance
Competition Standards
- Skin-tone matching critical
- Sheer to near-invisible
- Shimmer for stage lighting
- Professional dance tights
Latin vs. Standard
| Latin | Standard |
|---|---|
| Fishnet popular | Sheer/natural |
| Tan/bronze tones | Subtle shimmer |
| Bare legs option | Hosiery expected |
Theatrical Dance
Stage Requirements
- Higher denier for visibility
- Stage lighting consideration
- Character-appropriate colors
- Durability for quick changes
Broadway/Musical Theater
- Fishnets for chorus lines
- Character-specific choices
- Multiple pairs for show run
Ice Skating
Figure Skating
- Stirrup or boot-cover styles
- Skin-tone matching
- Compression for support
- Warm materials for cold rinks
Dance Hosiery Features
| Feature | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Convertible foot | Barefoot/shoed flexibility |
| Stirrup | Stays in place during movement |
| High waist | Security during movement |
| Moisture-wicking | Comfort during exertion |
Professional Tips
Do
- Buy performance-grade tights
- Break in new tights before performance
- Have backup pairs
- Match skin tone for competitions
Don't
- Use fashion tights for dance
- Ignore fit issues
- Wear damaged tights on stage
Dance Hosiery Brands
- Capezio
- Bloch
- Body Wrappers
- Danskin
- Mondor