If you’ve ever watched a pole dancing performance, one of the first things you might notice—aside from the gravity-defying tricks—is the incredibly high heels the dancers often wear. These shoes, often referred to as “stripper heels” or "pleasers," are iconic in the world of pole dancing. But why do pole dancers wear such high heels? Is it just for the aesthetic, or is there more to these towering shoes than meets the eye? In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind the high heels in pole dancing and why they’re an integral part of the performance.
1. Enhancing the Aesthetic and Style of the Performance
One of the primary reasons pole dancers wear high heels is to enhance the overall aesthetic of their performance. The height, shine, and unique designs of pole heels add to the visual appeal, making the movements on the pole appear more dramatic and fluid.
- Elegance and Extension: High heels naturally lengthen the legs, giving the dancer an elongated, elegant appearance. This added height makes spins, holds, and poses look more graceful, emphasizing the fluidity of the dancer’s movements.
- Sex Appeal: There’s no denying that heels have long been associated with femininity and sex appeal. For many dancers, wearing heels is part of embracing their sensual side. The heels add an extra layer of confidence and power, allowing dancers to feel empowered in their movements.
- Signature Look: High heels have become a signature element in many styles of pole dancing, particularly in exotic pole dancing and sensual dance. They’re a part of the visual identity of pole dancing performances, helping dancers embody characters and themes within their routines.
2. High Heels Add Weight and Momentum
In pole dancing, high heels serve more than just a cosmetic purpose. The extra weight from the shoes actually helps with momentum and control during certain moves and spins.
- Momentum for Spins: The weight of the heels can help dancers gain momentum when spinning around the pole. This is particularly useful in moves that require continuous rotation, where the weight of the heels helps keep the spin going for longer.
- Controlled Movement: The added weight of the shoes also helps dancers achieve controlled descents and slides. Moves that require slow, deliberate movement down the pole are easier to perform with the help of the extra weight provided by the heels.
- Balance and Stability: Contrary to what one might think, pole dancing in heels can provide more balance and stability during certain floor work moves. The wide platform of many pole dancing heels allows dancers to maintain a strong base, making transitions smoother and safer.
3. Improving Flexibility and Foot Articulation
High heels aren’t just about appearances—they actually enhance the flexibility and articulation of the feet. This is especially important for dancers who want to create beautiful lines and point their toes during performances.
- Accentuating Foot Pointing: The shape of pole dancing heels forces the foot into a naturally pointed position, which helps dancers create cleaner lines. This is crucial in pole dancing, where the lines of the body, including the feet, are an important part of the overall aesthetic.
- Assisting with Toe Work: Pole dancing heels make it easier to perform moves that require balance on the toes. For example, many exotic dance routines include floor work that involves pivoting or sliding on the toes. The structure of high heels helps dancers stay balanced while performing these delicate movements.
- Increasing Range of Motion: Wearing heels can also increase the range of motion in the ankles and feet. Dancers who regularly wear pole heels develop more flexibility and strength in their feet, which helps with both their pole work and their ability to execute intricate floor choreography.
4. Boosting Confidence and Empowerment
For many pole dancers, high heels are about more than just the physical aspects—they’re also about the feeling they evoke. Wearing heels can be incredibly empowering, helping dancers feel more confident, powerful, and in control.
- Confidence Boost: There’s something about slipping into a pair of high heels that makes people feel more confident. The extra height and the click of the heels on the floor create an aura of power and poise, which can translate into a more self-assured performance.
- Embracing Femininity: Many dancers find that wearing heels helps them embrace their femininity and sensuality. Pole dancing is often about exploring and expressing one’s self through movement, and high heels are a tool that allows dancers to fully embody that sensual, confident persona.
- Breaking Stereotypes: High heels in pole dancing also represent a shift in perspective. They challenge traditional notions of fitness attire, proving that you can be strong, powerful, and feminine all at once. By wearing heels, pole dancers are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a strong woman in fitness.
5. Heels Protect the Feet During Floor Work
Surprisingly, high heels also serve a practical purpose in pole dancing. When performing floor work or moves that involve sliding, dragging, or crawling on the ground, heels protect the feet from injury.
- Protection from Scrapes and Bruises: Pole dancing routines often include floor work, where the dancer’s feet come into contact with the floor as they glide, slide, or crawl. The thick platform of pole dancing heels acts as a barrier, preventing scrapes, cuts, or bruises that could occur when barefoot.
- Ankle Support: Many pole dancing heels are designed with a strong platform and ankle support, helping dancers feel more stable and secure when performing complex moves. This is especially helpful for beginners who are still building strength and balance.
- Traction for Floor Moves: The design of pole dancing heels also provides better grip and traction on the floor, which is crucial for executing smooth transitions between floor and pole work. This added traction helps prevent slipping and ensures that movements are precise and controlled.
6. Specially Designed for Pole Dancing
It’s important to note that not just any high heels are worn during pole dancing performances. Pole dancing heels are specially designed for the sport, offering features that make them functional for both floor work and pole tricks.
- Sturdy Platform: The platform of pole dancing heels is much thicker than standard high heels, providing additional support and stability. This makes it easier to balance during spins and transitions.
- Ankle Support: Most pole heels have a high ankle strap or a boot-like design, offering greater support than regular heels. This is particularly important for dancers performing complex tricks that require precision and balance.
- Non-Slip Soles: Pole dancing heels are often designed with non-slip soles, which helps dancers grip the pole and the floor more securely. This prevents accidents and ensures that dancers can move confidently during their routines.
Conclusion: High Heels are More Than Just a Fashion Statement in Pole Dancing
While they may seem like just another stylish accessory, high heels in pole dancing serve a variety of important functions. From enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a performance to providing extra momentum, control, and even protection, these shoes are an essential part of the pole dancing world.
For many dancers, wearing high heels is also about empowerment and self-expression. It’s a way to embrace sensuality, confidence, and grace while performing challenging routines. Whether you’re performing intricate tricks on the pole or showcasing floor work, heels elevate the experience - both literally and figuratively.
As more people explore pole dancing as a form of fitness and self-expression, brands like Spincess Pole Wear ensure that dancers feel confident, comfortable, and stylish both in and out of their heels. Whether you're new to pole dancing or an experienced performer, don't hesitate to slip into a pair of those sky-high shoes and let them empower you on your pole journey.