There’s just something so satisfying about living your best pole life on a pair of boss ass stilettos. Whether your pole dance journey had you jumping into a pair of heels right away or you took your time, many pole dancers understand the obsession with pole shoes. And if you don’t, keep reading to find more than 20 gorgeous pairs of heels that might just reel you in once and for all.
The beautiful thing about pole shoes is also the beautiful thing about pole dancing: there are so many different styles for expressing yourself. Sometimes, your pole shoes can define your whole look. You could have different pole shoes for different moods.
I didn’t buy my first pair of shoes until I had been pole dancing for 2 years. I started with clear heels at 6 inches high. Little did I know that shorter heels are actually harder to manage because the platform is smaller and the arch is at a higher angle. Once I graduated to 7 inches, I passed on my baby pair to someone else in a pole swap. I never thought I’d go any higher, but another 2 years later I bought my first pair of 8-inch chrome heels and I love the view up there even more.
If you want to start pole dancing in shoes, try starting with 6.5 to 7-inch heels if you can. You’ll get the same Bambi effect but you’ll be surprised how comfortable the arch really is. Plus, the most popular styles of pole shoes tend to be 7-8 inches tall, so you’ll have more options.
Sandals or boots. Laces and peep-toes. Ankle-high or thigh-high. Suede or bejeweled. Mermaid or unicorn – it’s all covered. You can even create custom-designed shoes.
What’s on your wishlist next? Leave a comment and let me know!
Check out my pole playlists if you want new music to dance to in your new shoes. If you’re looking to get your own pole to practice at home, read my review for the best home poles for 2021. You can also see my most essential pole dancing accessories and read about how to be an ally to sex workers.
As a disclaimer, this post has affiliate links. That means I could get a small commission for some of the products that you purchase through my site. This does not affect the price you pay or the way I write about the products. I only recommend products that I would personally buy and use.
Nightshade Designs Midnight + Lavender Sandals
These were high on my wishlist before the Nightshade Designs store closed.
The shoes are Pleasers so you know they’re comfortable. My only concern would be the possibility of the beautiful art falling off the heels when you actually use them to dance. However, the shoes had a bunch of reviews saying that the glitter stays on well and doesn’t fall off. You should avoid clacking the shoes together, though.
I wouldn’t use these shoes as an everyday workhorse for class or conditioning. But they are beautiful for performing and for those times you’re really feeling yourself and want that extra bling to shine.
Pleaser Adore-708 Pole Dance Sandals
Now, these are a great pair of workhorse pole dancing shoes.
I am a Pleaser Shoes girl. Pleaser pole dancing shoes are comfortable, light, durable, and come in hundreds of colors and designs. The Adore model is the perfect 7-inch heel to start with, with many styles to choose from.
If this is your first pair of heels, I’d recommend keeping it simple. Pick your favorite color and go!
Pleaser Flamingo-808 Pole Dance Sandals
If you’re ready to upgrade from 7 inches to 8, the Pleaser Flamingo model is a staple.
And oof, these are pretty. So sparkly and shiny at 8 inches tall, with a variety of colors to choose from. I tend to gravitate towards pink myself but I would definitely have them all if I could.
Nightshade Designs Galaxy Pole Dance Sandals & Boots
Hnngh… my lord, these are beautiful. They speak directly to my sci-fi romance loving heart. I would buy these just to put them out on display. But who am I kidding? I wouldn’t be able to resist dancing in them.
Boots are a great choice for beginners (maybe not these specific ones since they’re so ornate) because they offer additional ankle stability compared to sandals. I know I’m not the only one who gets used to dancing in boots and then becomes Bambi all over again when I go back to my strappy sandals.
Pleaser Adore-1020 Pole Dance Ankle Boots
These are an excellent pair of workhorse pole dancing ankle boots, standing at 7 inches tall. The black matte/faux leather model became so popular in 2018 that it was sold out everywhere. I had to wait 4 months to nab a pair in my size. They’re super comfortable and they match the aesthetic of erotic pole dancing, which blew up in popularity around the same time.
These boots come in vegan faux leather, patent, and even metallic chrome. For additional stability, sometimes I like to wrap my laces around my ankle before tying them.
The faux leather and metallic finish may rub and flake off over time unless you take steps to protect your heels from wear and tear. The patent may also get scuffed. At this point, my faux leather pair is completely faded at the toes. Check out this awesome highlight by Iris Sparrow about how to protect your boots – this is definitely what I will be doing for my next pair.
Pleaser Scallop-708 Pole Dance Sandals
These are so cute, with 9 colors to choose from. The blue and silver pairs remind me of mermaids.
Let’s go on a mermaid journey, shall we?
Pleaser Flamingo-709MMRS Pole Dance Sandals
Dreamy 7-inch heels make a fun ode to mermaid scales in silver and turquoise holographic chrome.
Pleaser Adore-708MSLG Pole Dance Sandals
A subtle shade of sparkly mermaid that comes in 8 different colors.
Pleaser Unicorn-708T Pole Dance Sandals
While we’re on the topic of channeling mystical creatures, who else wants to let their inner unicorn out to frolic every once in a while? Get a dose of rainbow-tinted magic with these 7-inch unicorn heels.
Nightshade Designs Unicorn Sparkly Pink Dip Dye Ombré Pole Dance Boots
These sparkly ombré heels are an absolute delight and the cherry atop the perfect pastel outfit. I also love it when people play with different colors and textures for their laces.
Pleaser Women’s Unicorn-708LG Pole Dance Sandals
Shine bright like a unicorn diamond with these brilliant 7-inch heels.
Pleaser Women’s Flamingo-808MCT Pole Dance Sandals
I’m loving these 8-inch clear ombre beauties.
Nightshade Designs Watermelon Kush Pole Dance Sandals
For when your vibe is extra lit. 🔥🔥🔥
Pleaser Flashdance-808 Pole Dance Sandals
These 8-inch heels are truly unique. The clear, USB-rechargeable platforms light up with multiple static and variable color combinations. You’ll literally be walking on light.
Pleaser Adore-702UV Pole Dance Sandals
Glow in the dark while you dance in these eye-catching 7-inch neon heels.
Nightshade Designs Roaring 20s Pole Dance Sandals
The sparkles! The gold! It’s so beautiful it almost makes me mad!!
Pleaser Beyond Rose Gold-010LG Pole Dance Sandals
How about these 10-inch glittery rose gold beauties for a step up above the crowd?
Pleaser Flamingo Rose Gold-810LG Pole Dance Sandals
These 8-inch heels are a more manageable alternative if 10 inches is a bit much.
Personally, I don’t see myself ever going above 8 inches on heels, but I once said the same thing about 7 inches. The lesson here? Never say never!
Pleaser Flamingo-809Kisses Pole Dance Sandals
These are just so cute I can barely stand it! I can’t wait until they are in stock again.
Pleaser Adore-709HGG Pole Dance Sandals
Opalescent holographs and glitter heels for the ultimate snow princess vibes.
Pleaser Adore-708N-TAR Pole Dance Sandals
Yes… give me all the Lilith Fair 90s grunge feels. Legend says you can’t put on these 7-inch heels without dancing to Alanis, Fiona Apple, or Garbage at least once.
Pleaser Flamingo-1020FS Faux Suede Ankle-High Pole Dance Boots
I am loving the faux suede look and I can’t wait to get my hands on a pair. All the colors of these 8-inch heels are beautiful but I especially love the pink, tan, and red.
Check out the Adore-1020FS model for the 7-inch version.
Nightshade Designs Black Poleboutins Pole Dance Sandals
I looove this classy look. Plus, the glitter is protected since it’s on the underside of the heel.
Pole Shoe Extras
After buying your beautiful new pole shoes, you definitely want to keep them protected. Fortunately, the pole world is filled with amazingly talented and entrepreneur-minded folks!
Check out Etsy for Pleaser protectors of all materials and colors. Some people simply cut the toe off a pair of socks and slip their socks over their pleasers. Just keep in mind that socks and soft fabrics won’t give you as much traction when you’re balancing on the front edge, or “box,” of the shoe.
Think of going for protectors with a little bit of traction, like:
- A color of self-adhesive kinesiology/physio/athletic tape that matches the color of your shoes (see Iris Sparrow’s story on taping your boots)
- These iridescent polyester/spandex sole saviors
- Check out the heel protectors at Pole Active for more options
Using Pleaser protectors and toe covers is a great way to add another layer of style. They can help your shoes look new again, even if they’re already scuffed up.
Pleaser Detachable/Reusable Clear Ankle Straps
Some Pleaser sandals come without ankle straps. I personally don’t recommend those shoes and I’ve never tried to wear them. I admire anyone who can dance or even walk in these without dying.
If you have a pair of Pleaser sandals without straps (or if your Pleaser straps break), you can get clear detachable ankle straps for sizes 5-10 and sizes 11-16 to help with your balance and ankle stability.
Pole Dancing Kneepads
Protect your knees while you dance! I love kneepads by Mighty Grip. The sides are tacky so that you can still stick to the pole. Mighty Grip pole dancing kneepads come in two colors now: black and sand.
If sticking to the pole isn’t a concern, try these Tachikara or Asics kneepads. Read more about my most recommended knee pads and pole dancing accessories here.
What other brands of pole shoes have you worn? Were they comfortable and would you recommend them? What’s next on your wishlist? Leave a comment below and let me know!