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“What are the Best Shoes for Drumming?”
What Drumming shoes are the best is often asked by beginners and intermediates on forums.
And the answer to this question usually falls in one of three categories:
- “It doesn’t matter, whatever works for you!”
- “NEVER wear shoes, play in socks or play barefoot!”
- “I live and die by THIS shoe!” (whatever it may be)
In my experience it definitely matters.
I once went for a promo shoot wearing leather boots and then shot a music video immediately after… let me tell you something, it wasn’t easy or comfortable.
I’m not saying buying a certain type of shoe is going to make you into Buddy Rich.
But there are benefits to certain types of “drumming shoes”.
Sidenote: This forum post recounts a story about Tony Williams and shows you how amazing he played… in military boots!
Now, think how much more comfortable and faster Tony would have been able to play in some lightweight trainers!
So what factors should you consider when looking at drumming shoes?
Here’s our top 7 factors to look for when you’re looking for the perfect shoes for drumming:
- Grip: Decide whether you want slippery shoes for speed or grippy shoes for power!
- Weight: Lightweight shoes are better.
- Material: Go for canvas in general. Leather / suede sneakers are fine but might need to be worn-in before they become comfortable.
- Sole profile: Go for flat soled shoes and avoid heels.
- Ventilation: Drumming is sweaty activity!
- Flexibility: Precision & control.
- Comfort: The most important!
1. Pedal grip
How much grip you want on the bass drum pedal is a big deciding factor when choosing footwear for drumming.
The more grip you have means more power in your stroke as your foot won’t be sliding up the footboard so ALL the power is going down into the pedal.
This comes at a cost, if you use the slide-double technique, this can make the sliding motion a little tricker to nail down.
2. Weight
There’s a reason why quite a few drummers prefer to play in socks or barefoot, it’s because it’s as light as your foot can be.
This means playing intricate techniques and playing fast is easier as you don’t have to move the weight of a shoe.
Granted, it’s not the biggest factor as shoes aren’t going to weigh a lot.
But it can make a difference when you’re spending a day tracking drums for a record.
3. Material
Imagine playing in a stiff, restrictive shirt compared to a softer t-shirt – which would be more comfortable?
The same consideration applies to your drumming shoes. Having a nice, natural feel will aid to your comfort when playing.
Any material that’s too restrictive or stiff can be a distraction and hinder your playing.
For this reason when selecting the best shoes for drumming, choose flexible materials that wear in easily. Canvas and thin leathers/suede are the best options here.
4. Sole profile
If you do want to wear shoes when you play, you’ll want to avoid heels as it changes the fundamental shape of your foot when playing.
Consider when you’re standing barefoot, your heel, toes and the ball of your feet are all making contact with the floor evenly. (Unless you’re flat footed).
You want to keep the relationship between these parts of your foot constant by wearing flat bottomed shoes. Tennis / basketball and skate shoes are generally great choices for drummers because they tend to be flexible, lightweight and flat.
Running shoes, although lightweight and flexible have a tapered shape which will likely translate to a funky feel when on the kit (and not in a good way!).
5. Ventilation
Drumming can be a physically demanding activity, and proper ventilation in the shoes helps keep the feet cool and comfortable, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort.
6. Flexibility
Drummers need flexibility in their shoes to execute nuanced footwork. Shoes that allow for natural foot movement enable you to play with precision and control.
7. Comfort
Drumming sessions can be long! You don’t want blisters. Trust us! The best drumming shoes for you must prioritize comfort, offer adequate support for the arches and cushioning to absorb the impact of continuous foot movement.
The Top Picks: What do the drum pros use for their drumming shoes?
Now you’ve heard my factors on what makes the best shoes for drumming, let’s dive into some of the popular brands that he pros use! (If I’ve missed anyone out, let me know in the comments and I’ll add them in!)
Puma Drift Cat (RIP Puma SpeedCat)
Pros:
- Sleek profile & excellent grip
- Thin sole
- Light
- Made from suede so they’re hard wearing!
As used by:
- Thomas Lang
- Mike Mangini
- Virgil Donati
- Joey Jordison, Slipknot
Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars
Pros:
- Iconic in the music scene
- Timeless and versatile
- Flat sole with good grip & flexibility
- Slimmer “Lean” version available
- Available in hi tops & low tops
- Available in loads of colours
As used by:
- Tré Cool, from Green Day
- Jojo Mayer, Swiss virtuoso drummer of Nerve
- Dave Grohl, the Foo Fighters & Nirvana
ADIDAS Superstars
Pros:
- Flat sole with good grip
- Support & comfort
- Available in different styles
As used by:
- Joey Jordison, the legend of Slipknot
- Carter Beauford, the renowned drummer for the Dave Matthews Band
VANS Authentic
Pros:
- Iconic in the music scene
- Flat sole with good grip
- Light weigh flexible, slip-on design
- Available in “Lo pro” which has a slimmer sole
- Available in “Lite” which are lighter than the regular shoes
As used by:
- Travis Barker, Blink-182
Adidas Samba
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Midsole for better response
- Slim profile
- Non-marking gum rubber outsole
- Super popular again
- Heaps of colours
Used by:
- Any famous drummers used Adidas Sambas? Leave us comment!
Hobibear -Barefoot Shoes
Pros:
- Very Lightweight
- Durable
- Rubber sole for better response
- Slim profile
- As close to barefoot as possible
- Heaps of colours
Used by:
- Any famous drummers used Hobibear? Leave us comment!
Unconventional Choice: Drumming with Bare Feet
While the right pair of shoes is crucial for many drummers, some go the unconventional route of playing barefoot.
Pros:
- Unique connection between the drummer & the pedals
- Heightened sense of touch
- More direct control over pedal dynamics
- Natural feel & flexibility
- Free!
As used by:
- Nicko McBrain, Iron Maiden
The Bottom Line
Remember, the best shoes for drumming can vary based on personal preference, playing style,and the specific demands of the drummer’s setup. It’s essential to find the pair that feels most comfortable and supportive for your individual drumming journey. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced drummer, investing in the right pair of shoes is a step towards enhancing your performance and enjoying the rhythmic journey to its fullest.
Choose the shoes you feel comfortable in but these shoes are tried and tested by the pros, choose light and grippy shoes to keep you feet feeling fine while you play.
