For those who don't take part in dance, the difficulty and athleticism involved in this activity are sometimes lost. The importance of proper training cannot be stated enough and neither can the need for correct gear. Dancing, depending on its form, can really take a lot of a practice and good gear not only serves to make a performance "look" better, it can also make a difference in the wear and tear a dancer's body will undergo. With this in mind, it's important not only to make sure gear looks good, but also performs well.

The uninitiated may not understand the value of good gear, but when it comes to dancing, it's vital. This is very true especially of the shoes needed for various dances. They are specifically designed to help a dancer perform the moves necessary for each basic style of dance.

Ballet shoes, for example, come in several different types meant for beginners and more advanced dancers. The basic slipper of the dance is the standard gear for many dancers of this form, but the more advanced will use what's called a pointe shoe. This shoe supports the foot with a stiff sole. Its boxy shape encases the toes and will allow a skilled dancer to rest his or her weight on the platform, allowing the famous toe stances signature in any ballet performance. When the shoes or the skill level required aren't present, this form of dance can be impossible to execute and can even lead to injury in the dancer.

Like ballet, tap comes with its own type of shoes. Designed to create the signature sound of the dance style, tap shoes are specialized gear. Without the right shoes, a tap dancer just won't tap. Beyond the noisemaker, however, tap shoes are designed to support the dancer and help him or her avoid injury.

Other forms of dance each come with their own shoes, as well. The basic tenant behind them all, however, is a drive to help ensure the foot and legs are properly supported to not only allow the moves necessary for the style to be executed, but also avoid injury.

Beyond the shoes, dance comes with a whole host of other required gear. From costumes and workout suits to bags, towels and beyond, dance is an art form that requires its own specialized equipment.

Those looking to buy dance gear should make sure they pay attention to a few things to help their dancer do their best:

* Fit. Any gear from workout clothing down to the shoes should be fit correctly to ensure the clothing doesn't get in the way and performs its job correctly, too.

* Appearance. While almost anything will go for classes and practices, the style of clothing for actual shows will be very important. Many times set costumes are required and must be purchased in accordance with rules outlined by a school or team.

* Comfort. Dance gear should be comfortable and be of materials that enable free movement. If they don't, the routines can be jeopardized.

Dance is an art form that uses the human body to create the picture. When the gear is good, a dancer is free to perform at his or her best. When it's not, movement can be hampered and even worse, injury can happen.