Swing Dance Shoes: Finding Your Perfect Pair for Lindy Hop, Shag, and Philly Bop

Swing dancing is a vibrant and joyful activity, but did you know your shoes can make a world of difference? Choosing the right footwear isn't just about style; it's about comfort, safety, and enhancing your dance experience. Today, let's delve into the crucial role of shoes in three popular swing styles: Lindy Hop, Carolina Shag, and Philly Bop.

Lindy Hop: Energy and Dynamic Movement

Lindy Hop, with its energetic swings, turns, and aerials, demands shoes that can keep up. For this dynamic dance, you'll want:

• Soles: Suede or smooth leather soles are your best friends. They offer that sweet spot between slip and grip, allowing for smooth turns without losing control during complex footwork.

• Flexibility: Your shoes need to be flexible enough to handle kicks, swivels, and quick changes in direction.

• Support: Strong ankle and arch support is vital, especially if you're venturing into fast-paced sequences.

• Comfort: Lindy Hop sessions can be long and intense, so prioritize comfort. Blisters and discomfort are a dancer's worst enemy.

• Heels: Low heels or flats are generally recommended for stability and ease of movement.

Think dance sneakers with suede soles, jazz shoes, or classic dance oxfords. These types of shoes will give you the tools you need to really enjoy your Lindy Hop.

Carolina Shag: Smoothness and Precision

Carolina Shag, known for its smooth, gliding footwork and close partner connection, requires a different approach:

• Soles: Smooth leather soles are often favored, allowing for the characteristic gliding steps.

• Flexibility: Flexibility is still important for the subtle footwork and changes in direction.

• Fit: A snug, comfortable fit is crucial for maintaining close partner connection and executing precise footwork.

• Lightweight: Lightweight shoes enhance agility and allow for effortless movement.

• Heels: Low heels, or flat soled shoes are the most common.

Dress shoes with smooth leather soles or dance-specific shoes with leather soles are excellent choices for Carolina Shag.

Philly Bop: Style and Flow

Philly Bop emphasizes smooth, flowing, and syncopated footwork, with a strong focus on style and individual expression:

• Soles: Smooth leather or suede soles are preferred for smooth slides and turns. The required sole can vary somewhat based on the specific location where the dance is being done.

• Flexibility: Shoes must be flexible enough to accommodate the intricate footwork and stylistic variations.

• Style: Philly Bop dancers often prioritize style, so shoes that complement their overall look are important.

• Comfort: Because this dance is done for long periods of time in social settings, comfort is a very high priority.

• Heels: Low heels or flat-soled shoes are most common.

Stylish dress shoes with leather soles or dance sneakers are popular choices.

General Tips for All Swing Styles:

• Always prioritize a good fit and adequate support.

• Consider the dance floor surface, as it can affect your choice of sole.

• Ultimately, the best shoes are the ones that allow you to dance comfortably and confidently.

Investing in the right shoes can significantly enhance your swing dance experience. So, take the time to find your perfect pair, and get ready to swing out in style!

Dreaming of Swing and Carolina Shag in Our Community: Join the Vision!

Hey everyone,

Roger & Denise Underhill here, and we wanted to share something we've been dreaming about: bringing the joy of swing and Carolina Shag dancing back into the heart of our community. Like many of you, we miss the days when partner dancing filled our parks, bars, and community centers with laughter and rhythm.

Although there are dance studios, dedicated clubs, competitions, and dance event weekends that keep the dancing spirit alive, the spontaneous enjoyment of social partner dancing seems to have disappeared from the public eye. However, whenever we partner dance in public, we see that spark of interest and desire to learn and connect from people who approach us and ask, "Where can we learn to do that?" This is what has driven our vision of establishing the Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective.

A Vision for the Future:

We envision a community where swing, Carolina Shag, and other partner dances are a regular part of our social scene, where we can gather and dance together in public spaces, creating moments of pure joy. To make this happen, we've been thinking about:

• Building a community of passionate instructors: A network of teachers who love to share their knowledge.

• Empowering Dance Ambassadors: People who can bring the dance to the people, wherever they are.

• Creating a resource hub: A website (swingandshagdancecollective.com) with information on instructors, events, and learning materials.

• Organizing public dance opportunities: Finding and creating venues for social dancing.

Please Note: These are currently plans and dreams. This collective is not yet fully formed, and these resources are not yet fully available. But we wanted to share this vision with you and see if others share the same passion.

Join the Dream!

If you're a dancer, instructor, or simply someone who loves the idea of bringing swing, Carolina Shag, and any other partnered dance back to our community, we'd love to hear from you. Let's connect and see if we can make this dream a reality.

Here's how you can get involved in the early stages:

• Share your thoughts: Let us know what you think of this vision.

• Connect with me: Reach out if you're interested in helping to build this collective.

• Spread the word: Tell your friends and family about this idea.

Let's Build This Together!

We truly believe that partner dancing has the power to bring people together and create something special. While these are just plans right now, with your help, we can turn them into a reality.

Visit swingandshagdancecollective.com to learn more about the idea, and feel free to reach out to me at w.roger.underhill@gmail.com.

Let's start building this community together!

"Can You Dance To That?" - A Challenge We Love To Answer

On an early march evening at Atlas42 in Richmond, VA, we found ourselves immersed in the muffled, but vibrant sounds* of the Crain Brothers band. The air buzzed with energy, and the music, mostly a blend of classic rock, filled the smooth concrete dance floor. But amidst the rhythm and revelry, a question kept popping up: "Can you dance to that?"

Our response? A resounding, "Watch!"

It's a question we've heard countless times, often accompanied by a raised eyebrow or a skeptical glance. And it’s a challenge we absolutely adore. Because what we've discovered is that the partnered dance style we've cultivated, a beautiful blend of 6-count and 8-count rhythms influenced by Lindy Hop, Balboa, East & West Coast Swing, Bop, Carolina Shag and others, is remarkably adaptable.

We've learned to listen deeply to the music, to feel the nuances of the rhythm and the emotions woven into the melody. Whether it's a slow, soulful ballad or a high-energy, foot-stomping tune, we find a way to connect, to move in harmony with the music and with each other.

What makes it possible?

• Musicality:

• It's about more than just steps. It's about understanding the music's structure, its peaks and valleys, and letting that guide our movement.

• Connection:

• Partner dancing is a conversation, a dialogue between two people. It's about feeling your partner's energy and responding in real-time.

• Adaptability:

• We've learned to be flexible, to adjust our style and tempo to match the music. We don't force the music into a box; we let it inspire us.

• Joy:

• Most importantly we have fun. The joy of dancing to live music and adapting to the music is a large part of the fun.

It's a beautiful thing to witness the surprise and delight on people's faces when they see us dancing to music they thought was "undanceable." It's a reminder that dance is a universal language, a way to express ourselves and connect with others, regardless of the music's genre or tempo.

So, the next time someone asks, "Can you dance to that?" we'll simply smile and say, "Watch!" Because the answer is almost always, "Yes, we can." And we'll be having a blast doing it.

Call to Action:

• Have you ever danced to unexpected music? Share your experiences in the comments below!

• What is your favorite genre to dance to?

Happy Dancing!

* Sadly, the sound quality forced us to leave after the first set. The venue's PA system was simply too small, leading to excessive volume levels that quickly became distorted and unpleasant. What began as a promising performance deteriorated into an audio nightmare by the end.

"What Kind of Dance Is That?" The Joy of a Style That Defies Categories

My wife and I love to dance. We've developed a style that's a bit of a melting pot, drawing inspiration from Lindy Hop, Balboa, East Coast Swing, Carolina Shag, West Coast Swing, and even a touch of the Bop. We seamlessly blend these styles, transitioning between them fluidly, creating something that feels uniquely ours. But it also creates a fun, and sometimes puzzling, experience when we're out dancing.

Over the past few months, as we've hit different venues, we've been showered with compliments, which is always lovely. But what's even more interesting is how people describe what they're seeing. It's like a dance Rorschach test!

One night, someone will come up and say, "That looks just like Carolina Shag!" The next venue, a couple will exclaim, "We see you doing some great Chicago Steppin'!" Most recently, we even had someone tell us, "You guys are doing some fantastic DC Hand Dancing!"

It's fascinating, and it got me thinking. Why do people see such different things?

It boils down to a few key factors:

1. The Shared Language of Swing: Many swing dances share a common ancestor, a core vocabulary of movements. The rock step, basic turns, partner connection – these are building blocks across styles. Our dance, as a fusion, naturally incorporates these shared elements. So, if you're familiar with one of these "dialects," you're likely to see something recognizable.

2. Regional Dialects: Just like spoken language, dance styles often have strong regional associations. Carolina Shag hails from the Carolinas, Chicago Steppin' from Chicago, and DC Hand Dancing from, you guessed it, Washington D.C. If you've primarily danced in one of these regions, that's your frame of reference. You're seeing our dance through that lens.

3. Emphasis and Interpretation: Our blended style shifts and changes. One moment, we might be doing something with a strong, grounded pulse and intricate footwork, reminiscent of Carolina Shag. The next, we're flowing smoothly with a close connection, perhaps evoking Chicago Steppin'. People latch onto the elements that resonate most with their own dance experience.

4. The Power of Suggestion: Sometimes, it's a matter of suggestion. Once someone mentions a particular style, others start to see it too, even if it wasn't their initial thought. Human perception is fascinating!

5. The Beauty of Fusion: Ultimately, the most important thing is that our dance is our dance. It's a unique blend, a conversation between different styles. It defies easy categorization, and that's precisely what we love about it.

So, the next time someone asks, "What kind of dance is that?" we can smile and say, "It's a little bit of everything!" It's a chance to share our passion for blending styles and perhaps even introduce them to the joy of "Combo Swing." It's a reminder that dance, like language, is constantly evolving, borrowing, and creating something new and beautiful.

The Rock Step: The Unsung Hero of Swing Dance

Recently, while preparing for a workshop this weekend and reflecting on teaching a class last week, I had a significant realization: the rock step is the linchpin when integrating 8-count Lindy Hop into a dance foundation primarily based on 6-count swing. This seemingly simple step becomes the crucial moment where the rhythm shifts, the energy changes, and the dancers seamlessly transition between these distinct swing dance styles. This blog post will delve into the unique role of the rock step in bridging these dance styles and fostering a deeper understanding of this fundamental element.

The Rock Step

In the vibrant world of swing dancing, where intricate patterns and dazzling acrobatics often steal the show, there's one seemingly simple element that often goes unnoticed: the rock step.

Often overlooked, the rock step is the foundation upon which much of swing dance is built. It's the rhythmic heartbeat, the moment of pause and preparation, and the key to smooth and seamless transitions.

Why is the Rock Step So Important?

• A Moment of Reset: The rock step, with its inherent change in direction or momentum, provides a crucial moment for the lead to:

  • 
    Re-assess: Analyze the music, their partner's response, and the overall flow of the dance.
  • Plan: Decide on the next move or combination based on their assessment.
  • Communicate: Subtle cues within the rock step can signal the upcoming move to their partner.

• Versatility: The rock step is not a one-size-fits-all.

  • A forward rock can initiate a powerful Lindy Hop swingout or a forward traveling step.
  • A backward rock can set up a Balboa tuck turn or a smooth backward connection.
  • A side rock can change direction or prepare for a turn.

• Creative Canvas: The rock step is a canvas for creativity. Leads can experiment with different rhythms, weights, and levels within the rock step to add unique flair and personal expression.

Beyond the Technical:

The rock step is more than just a technical element; it's a moment of connection and communication. It's in the subtle shifts in weight, the slight pauses, and the nuanced cues that the true magic of partner dancing unfolds.

So, the next time you're on the dance floor, pay close attention to the rock step. Embrace its power to reset, to plan, and to express. You might be surprised at how much more nuanced and expressive your dancing becomes.

What are your thoughts on the rock step? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!

Week 2 Dance Class Recap: Leveling Up Our Moves

Hey dance enthusiasts! Week 2 of our Swing, Carolina Shag, and Lindy Hop classes was a blast, and we dove headfirst into some exciting new territory. This week was all about building on the foundations we laid in week 1 and adding some serious flair. Let's take a look at what we covered in each class:

General Concepts (Across All Classes):

No matter which style you're learning, some fundamental principles apply across the board. This week, we reinforced the importance of solidifying the basics. All classes kicked off by revisiting patterns from week 1 – you know, those catchy 6-count patterns, those essential 6 and 8-count rhythms, and of course, the triple step patterns. Practice makes perfect, and revisiting these core moves is crucial for building a strong foundation for more complex steps. We also continued to emphasize the importance of warming up before each class to get our bodies ready to move. And, of course, week 2 marked a clear progression, introducing more intricate patterns and concepts compared to our first week.

Swing Class: The Magic of Connection

Our swing dancers explored the magic of connection this week. It's not just about knowing the steps; it's about truly feeling the music and communicating with your partner, moving as one cohesive unit. As our instructor put it, "It's not just about the steps; it's about feeling the music, communicating with your partner, and moving as one." We also focused on seamless transitions between open and closed positions, adding fluidity and dynamism to our dancing. Learning to navigate the dance floor together as a duo was another key focus. Remember, practice outside of class makes a huge difference, even just a few minutes a day! Listen to your partner, work as a team, and don't be afraid to ask questions. And most importantly, have fun! Swing dance is all about the joy of movement.

Carolina Shag Class: Styling and Unique Steps

Our Carolina Shag students dove into mastering the core "rock step, up together back,
back in place" movement. Once those basics were down, we explored variations of the triple step, including the sailor step, kick-ball-change, and stutter step, which adds a personal touch to your dance. We even introduced some "Elvis Leg" styling – talk about adding some flair! It's amazing how a little stylistic choice can bring so much character to the dance. We grooved to a lively Beach music beat, connecting the dance to its rich cultural heritage.

Lindy Hop Class: Mastering the Swing-out

Lindy Hop lovers tackled the swing-out this week – a foundational move in this energetic dance. We explored different entries and exits of the swing-out (closed to open, open to open, open to closed, and closed to closed), learning how to create variety within this essential pattern. As our instructor mentioned, "These make the swing-out super fun and you can use them in almost any partner dance." We also talked about how Lindy Hop adds its unique flavor to that classic swing beat.

Summary & Takeaways:

Week 2 was a whirlwind of learning and fun! All three classes followed a structured, progressive approach, moving from fundamental steps to more complex patterns and stylistic elements. Partnering was a key theme, especially in our swing class, highlighting the social aspect of partner dancing. And both the Carolina Shag and Lindy Hop classes emphasized individual style, encouraging dancers to express themselves within the framework of the dance. Remember, repetition and practice are key to improvement, so keep practicing those moves! We can't wait to see you on the dance floor next week!

Recap of the start to Winter 2025 Swing Dance Classes! Let's get this party started!

This past week was an incredible start to our swing dance classes! 💃🕺

New SnapLock dance floor installed for classes

The afternoon kicked off with the installation of our amazing new portable dance floor. This gift from the dance community is a game-changer, providing a perfect surface for dancing anywhere!

By 6:00 PM, the room was buzzing with excitement as students of all ages (10 to 80+) arrived, ready to learn. We started with the basic swing rhythm, clapping and stepping to the beat, and then progressed to the 6-count rhythm that will be the foundation of our classes.

Seeing the smiles, the "aha!" moments, and the pure joy on everyone's faces as they discovered the magic of swing dance was truly heartwarming. It's a privilege to witness this transformation and share the love of dance with others. ❤️

Week 1: Got Our Feet Tappin', Hearts Whippin'! Welcome to Beginner Swing Dance! (Beginner Wednesday & Thursday)

Buckle up, because our Beginner Swing Dance Class journey started right here, right now!

This week, we cracked open the door to a world of music and movement. We tapped into the pulse of swing rhythms, learning to feel the beat in our bones and letting it guide our feet. We got ready to say goodbye to "two left feet" and hello to stepping out in style!

First up, we conquered the single step swing. We thought of easy, breezy moves that grooved to the melody. Then, we introduced the rock step (ball change), adding a sprinkle of spice to our footwork. We were surprised how quickly those basic steps started to feel natural!

But we held onto our partner (or grabbed a new one!), because it was time to double our fun with a double-step swing! We built on the single step, adding in an extra hop to keep things flowing smoothly. We just waited till we felt the music carry us through this one!

And finally, the pièce de résistance – the triple-step swing! This dynamic pattern combined everything we had learned, packing three steps into every count for a truly exhilarating experience. By the end of the class, we had mastered the magical 6-count swing pattern – the foundation of countless swing variations waiting to be explored!

But here's the best part: we weren't doing it alone! We were guided every step of the way, helping us connect with our partner and move as one in the open position. We were gliding across the floor in no time, leaving grins in our wake.

So, we ditched the doubts and dived into the joy of swing! This was our chance to discover a hidden talent, make new friends, and unlock a world of laughter, music, and pure dance floor magic. We couldn't wait to see ourselves shine!

P.S. Don't forget, this was just the beginning! Week 1 was our launching pad to a 6-week journey of swingy fun. We stayed tuned for more exciting dances, playful moves, and unforgettable memories!

Starting our deep dive into the Carolina Shag, we may not have gotten it perfect, but it was quite alright! (Intermediate Wednesday)

In Week 1 of Carolina Shag, we introduced the foundational six-count pattern: "triple step, triple step, rock step." We learned to break down this rhythm into individual steps, focusing on smooth, rhythmic movement and solid emphasis on beats two and four. The class also covered basic partner connection, exploring open and closed positions and transitions between them, along with simple mirror movements and partner facing to establish a comfortable connection.

Here comes Lindy Hop! Many had asked for it, but we were warned it was quick and we might need a towel for all the condensation! (Intermediate Thursday)

Week 1 was where we dove into the basics, like, what is Lindy Hop (besides totally awesome)? We learned it was a dance born in Harlem during the Black Renaissance, a rebellious child of jazz that lets you groove with a partner or fly solo. We also covered the importance of not stepping on toes (both literally and figuratively), because nobody wanted a dance partner with bruised feet. Then we got into the 6-count rhythm – basically bouncing our butt to the beat while stepping every now and then. We practiced rocking, tripling, and moving like we just didn't care (but still on beat). We also dabbled in partner connection, holding hands and not tripping over each other while doing the basic steps. So, yeah, bouncing, not tripping, and generally having a good time – that was Week 1 in a nutshell.

#SwingDance #BeginnerClass #DanceCommunity #JoyOfMovement #DanceIsLife #SnapLockDanceFloor

Finding Rhythm in Love: How Partner Dancing Can Enhance Your Life

Love, like a good dance, requires rhythm, connection, and a willingness to move together. While the everyday hustle and bustle can sometimes leave little room for romance, learning to partner dance can be a surprisingly powerful way to reignite the spark in your life, whether you're currently in a relationship or not.

More Than Just Steps:

Partner dancing is more than just learning a series of steps. It's a journey of:

• Self-Expression: Dance is a powerful form of self-expression. It allows you to connect with your emotions and move your body in a graceful and joyful way.
• Confidence Building: Learning a new skill and mastering challenging steps can significantly boost your self-confidence.
• Social Connection: Dance studios and classes provide a welcoming and social environment where you can meet new people who share your passion for movement.

Benefits for Singles:

• Improved Social Skills: Partner dancing enhances social skills like communication, interaction, and engaging with others.
• Increased Confidence: As you become more comfortable on the dance floor, you'll gain confidence in social situations.
• New Friendships: Dance classes provide a fantastic opportunity to meet new friends who share your interests.

Benefits for Couples:

• Deepened Intimacy: Close physical contact, the shared breath, the rhythmic movement – partner dancing creates an intimate and sensual experience that strengthens the physical and emotional bond between partners.
• Improved Communication: Dance necessitates constant, subtle communication. You learn to read your partner's body language, anticipate their movements, and respond accordingly. This translates beautifully to everyday interactions, fostering deeper understanding and responsiveness.
• Stress Relief: Physical activity like dancing releases endorphins, natural mood boosters that combat stress and improve overall well-being for both partners.
  

Ready to Give It a Try?

Whether you're seeking a romantic connection, looking to boost your confidence, or simply want to enjoy the joy of movement, partner dancing is a fantastic option.

Have you had this experience while learning to dance or while dancing? If so, please share in the comments and let others know how good it can get!

We have a new series of beginner and intermediate swing, Carolina Shag, and Lindy Hop classes starting up in January 2025! Click the links below to find more info!

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Dance Your Way to Playfulness: Rediscovering Joy in Movement

Who says dance is just for kids?

As adults, we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, forgetting the simple joy of movement. Dance, however, offers a delightful escape, inviting us to reconnect with our playful side and experience the numerous benefits it brings.

Why Dance is the Ultimate Playful Pursuit

Dance is more than just physical exercise; it's a holistic experience that nourishes both body and mind. Here's how:

• Physical Well-being:

  • Stress Relief: The rhythmic movements of dance release endorphins, natural mood elevators, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Improved Mood: The combination of physical activity and music can uplift your spirits and boost your overall mood.
  • Enhanced Creativity: Dance encourages creative expression, allowing you to explore different movements and styles.
  • Boosted Confidence: Learning new dance moves and performing them can increase self-confidence and self-esteem.

• Social Connection:

  • Shared Experience: Dancing with others creates a sense of community and shared experience.
  • Communication Beyond Words: Dance can express emotions and ideas that words alone cannot convey.
  • Strengthened Relationships: Engaging in a fun and playful activity like dance can deepen bonds with friends and loved ones.

• Mindfulness and Presence:

  • Focus on the Present Moment: Dance requires full attention to the body's movements and the music, promoting mindfulness.
  • Reduced Self-Consciousness: Immersing yourself in the dance can help you let go of self-judgment and embrace the moment.

How to Incorporate Dance into Your Life

1. Take a Dance Class: Whether it's ballet, hip-hop, or salsa, learning a new style can be both challenging and fun.
2. Dance Parties: Organize dance parties with friends and family, or attend local events that feature live music and dancing.
3. Dance at Home: Turn on your favorite music and let loose in your living room.
4. Dance Therapy: Consider dance therapy as a way to explore emotions and improve mental well-being.

Remember, the key to playful dance is to let go of inhibitions and enjoy the process. Don't worry about being perfect or following specific steps. Just move your body to the rhythm of the music and have fun!

So, why not rediscover the joy of dance and let your inner child shine? Your body, mind, and spirit will thank you.

We are Underhill's Swing and Shag Dance Collective and we can guide you towards the discovery of dancing your way to playfulness and lean in to the power of play!