Capezio Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe - Beginner

Our review of the Capezio Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe finds it an excellent starter tap for young dancers who need comfort and a secure fit. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of an adjustable Mary Jane strap with attached taps that makes it easy for beginners to practice with confidence; the removable clip-on bow and shock-absorbing foam insole add practical comfort and a neat finished look. Parents will appreciate the simple Velcro closure and non-slip rubber patch, which help keep early steps safe and fuss-free.

Key Features

• Adjustable Mary Jane strap: The Velcro-style strap provides a customizable fit so the shoe stays secure during practice and allows some room for growth.
• Attached taps at heel and toe: Built-in metal taps let beginners make clear sound without needing a professional cobbler to install hardware.
• Removable clip-on bow: The bow offers a dressy look that can be removed for rehearsals, keeping the shoe versatile for class and performance.
• Shock-absorbing foam insole: A padded footbed reduces impact on young feet, making longer practice sessions more comfortable.
• Non-slip rubber sole patch: A rubber grip on the sole helps prevent slips on studio floors while still allowing basic turns and slides.
• Durable beginner construction: Capezio builds this model with quality materials suited to the wear patterns of first-time tappers.

Who It's For

These shoes are aimed at young dancers taking their first tap lessons, especially parents who want an easy-on shoe that still looks presentable for recitals. The adjustable strap and foam footbed make them ideal for children who are still growing or who need a secure, comfortable shoe for weekly classes.

Those who should look elsewhere include advanced students who need professional-level tap hardware or adults requiring larger size ranges and more specialized support. For older or competitive tappers, a rigid, performance-oriented shoe would be a better match.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable foam insole supports practice without noticeable discomfort.
• Velcro Mary Jane strap is easy for kids to fasten and keeps a secure fit.
• Detachable bow adds presentation value for performances and can be removed for class.
• Attached heel and toe taps deliver immediate sound for beginners.

Cons

• Not intended for advanced or professional tap work where specialized hardware is preferred.
• The removable bow and lightweight construction may show wear faster with heavy daily use.

Specifications

Brand	Capezio
Model	Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe
Closure	Adjustable Mary Jane strap (Velcro)
Taps	Attached taps at heel and toe
Insole	Shock-absorbing foam
Decor	Removable clip-on bow at toe
Sole	Rubber patch for non-slip grip

Our Verdict

The Capezio 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe is a smart buy for beginner girls who need a comfortable, easy-to-use tap shoe with a tidy look for recitals. It balances secure fit, cushioning, and ready-to-use taps at a practical value, though serious or competitive tappers will eventually want a more performance-oriented model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the taps ready to use out of the box?
Yes, the heel and toe taps are attached so the shoes are ready for practice without extra installation.

Can the bow be removed for class?
Yes, the clip-on bow is removable so the shoe can be dressed up or kept simple for regular use.

Do these run true to size?
Customers report they fit true to size with a bit of room for growth, and the adjustable strap helps achieve a secure fit.