Dance Accessories and Equipment

Although a dancer’s instrument is the body there are countless accessories on the market designed to help you, the dancer, stay in shape, keep organized, and look your best. So how to decide which things are necessary and which are not? Do you really need all of it? Though there are lots of things you can live without, depending on your experience, the nature of your dancing, and your weekly dance schedule, some of the dance accessories sold in stores and online can make your life a whole lot easier. Here are some key items that are definitely worth the investment!

For Rehearsal and Class…

Dance Bag

Odds are, if you’re dancing, you’ve already got more than a few pairs of shoes lying around. Not to mention water bottles, ice packs, and dirty clothes. This is why investing in a quality dance bag is worthwhile for even the most occasional dancer. Available almost anywhere dance or exercise items are sold, a sturdy and sizeable bag dedicated solely to dance stuff will keep everything in one place. Look for bags with compartments for smaller items, comfortable shoulder straps, and an easily washable interior.

Toe Tape

A dancer’s feet can take quite a beating over the years, so any product that helps you to be a little bit kinder to your feet is almost always worth it. One product that many dancers find useful is toe tape, used to wrap feet and toes to prevent blisters, calluses, and other irritations. Toe tape can make your foot more comfortable in your shoes or against the floor, if you’re dancing barefoot.

Knee Pads

Many contemporary, jazz, hip hop, and street classes can be hard on the knees. Often, instructors whose choreography includes a great deal of floor work will recommend that students buy a pair of knee pads. Knee pads prevent painful and unsightly bruising and as a result, you can rehearse your favorite moves over and over without risking injury.

Rosin

Used mostly for ballet, dance rosin is a powdery substance dancers rub on their shoes to prevent slipping. Rosin is especially useful when wearing new shoes or satin ballet slippers. Most studios and rehearsal rooms will keep it in stock, but if not, it’s available at any dance store or website.

For Performance…

Garment Bag/Rack

For competitions and performances, dancers require a whole other set of accessories. One of the most important is a garment bag, which protects your costumes in transit. Dance costumes can often be lightweight or fragile which means you won’t want to expose them to the elements or risk tearing them. Also, if you are not performing at a professional venue, there may not be a place to hang costumes once you’ve arrived. Portable garment racks can be purchased at most home stores and will ensure that your costumes will be easily accessible during quick changes.

Make-Up Case

Like your costumes, your makeup, too, will need a place for storage and travel. A plastic or metal makeup case, complete with mirror and several compartments, will keep your makeup organized and provide you with an instant vanity when you’re preparing to perform. And if you haven’t already stocked up on a good foundation (male or female!), a blush, and a variety of other costume makeup items, get moving!

Hair Accessories

You never know when you’re going to have the worst hair day of your life, or when your choreographer is going to completely change her mind about that Mohican she thought she wanted you to have. Make sure you’re always prepared with plenty of hair gel, spray, and hairpins. This way, you can touch up any mishaps or change your style for different routines.

Remember, there are tons of options when it comes to accessorizing for dance. Before you buy something, make sure it’s an item you will use soon and often. Look for the necessities, but remember that you’ve only got one body to make use of, so treat it well. Happy shopping!