Bloch Men's Ultraflex Dance Shoe, Black, 10 Medium US Review
The Bloch Men's Ultraflex Dance Shoe is a revolutionary piece of footwear that has set the standard in the world of dance shoes. Crafted from specially developed soft and strong leather, this shoe molds perfectly to your foot, providing unparalleled comfort and flexibility. Initially founded in Sydney in 1932 by Jacob Bloch, the brand has built a legacy of creating exquisite handmade pointe shoes for ballet dancers. Today, Bloch continues to innovate, offering mainstream footwear that meets the demands of modern dancers.
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Features
- Original split sole design enables enhanced flexibility for jazz movements.
- Rubber split sole along with EVA forefoot pad and heel allows for smooth transitioning during pointing and flexing.
- Full cotton lining provides breathability while a suede leather insole ensures comfort.
- Secure fit through traditional laces and eyelets.
- Recommended sizing: Begin with one full size down from your street shoe size.
Pros
- Exceptional flexibility and support for dance performances.
- Durable construction with high-quality leather enhances longevity.
- Comfortable fit suitable for extended wear during practice and performance.
- The classic design appeals to both performers and casual wearers.
Cons
- Requires sizing down, which may be confusing for first-time buyers.
- Not ideal for outdoor use due to its specialized design.
- Some users may find the break-in period to be longer than expected.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Bloch Men's Ultraflex | Capezio Men's Jazz Shoe | Sansha Men's Jazz Shoe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% Leather | Leather/Synthetic blend | Full grain leather |
| Split Sole | Yes | Yes | No |
| Cotton Lining | Yes | No | Yes |
| Sizing Recommendation | 1 size down | No specific recommendation | True to size |
Detailed Review
When considering a quality jazz shoe, the Bloch Men's Ultraflex Dance Shoe stands out in several key areas:
Fit and Comfort
The shoe fits snugly and comfortably once broken in. The lace-up design ensures a secure fit, which is critical for dancers who rely on precision movements. Men looking for comfort will appreciate the soft inner lining that feels gentle against the skin.
Performance
With its innovative split sole, the Ultraflex allows for an expansive range of motion, making it perfect for intricate dance routines. Whether you are practicing or performing, the flexibility offered by this shoe supports your every move effortlessly.
Durability
Brought to life using premium quality leather, this shoe is built to last. Dancers can expect these shoes to endure rigorous training sessions without compromising on performance. However, care must be taken to maintain the leather, as machine washing might not be advisable for long-term upkeep.
Style
While functionality is paramount, the aesthetic appeal should not be overlooked. The classic black design makes it versatile enough to pair with various dance attire or casual outfits for street-style looks.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Exceptional comfort with a snug fit and breathable lining. |
| Performance | 5/5 | Outstanding flexibility and support, ideal for dance. |
| Durability | 4/5 | High-quality materials ensure long-lasting wear. |
| Style | 4/5 | Classic design suitable for stage and street wear. |
User Reviews
Block and Capezio jazz shoes fit just the opposite. The Block shoe I ordered was an 11 medium. It felt like an 11 1/4 wide. The shoe laces enabled me to tighten them up. By contrast, Capezio 11 wide feel like a 9 1/2 or 10 narrow. Otherwise, the shoe has plenty of flexibility for toe pointing.
Expected something better and not true to size
Bf has smaller feet, definitely study the size chart on jazz vs ballet shoes. The quality however if fitted would have otherwise been awesome. Shipped was snappy- I’m still waiting on a pair of capezios from a month ago- these got to me within a couple days. Again- refer to chart. Super sad to send them back.
Are high quality dense you, very comfortable! Would rather wear these in the tennis shoes. Worth paying the little bit extra for this quality product!