What shoes are worn for Irish dancing?

Irish dancing shoes, typically known as "ghillies" or "hard shoes," are used for Irish step dancing. The shoe construction varies depending on the desired outcome on the dance floor based on its stiffness or lightness.

1. Ghillies (Soft Shoes):

- Ghillies are lightweight dance shoes made of soft leather

typically used for traditional soft-shoe steps that prioritize

fluidity and intricate dance moves.

2. Hard Shoes:

- Constructed with heavier or more rigid leather

- Equipped with toe taps and heel plates on the underside.

- The taps create rhythmic beats when the shoes come into contact with the floor during specific hard-shoe dance routines.

- Used for lively stepping beats requiring greater precision and percussive sounds

Dancers often transition between ghillies and hard shoes

during performances based on the dance styles needed: soft

and light dance movements or heavy and precise stepping moves.