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

In this review the Capezio Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe is evaluated as a beginner tap shoe that balances comfort and practicality for young dancers. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a removable clip-on bow and an adjustable Mary Jane strap that keeps the shoe secure while allowing quick on/off, which reviewers consistently praised. Fit runs true to size with a little room for growth, and the foam footbed makes it comfortable for practice sessions without sacrificing the tactile feel needed for basic tap work.

Key Features

• Adjustable Mary Jane strap: The Velcro-style strap offers a customizable fit so the shoe stays snug during lessons and performances.
• Attached taps at heel and toe: Built-in metal taps provide clear sound for learning rhythms without needing a separate conversion.
• Removable clip-on bow: The toe bow clips on for a dressy look and detaches easily for everyday practice or cleaning.
• Shock-absorbing foam insole: A foam footbed cushions the foot to reduce fatigue during longer classes and rehearsals.
• Rubber patch on sole: A non-slip rubber patch underfoot improves grip on studio floors for safer turns and steps.

Who It's For

The 3800 Mary Jane is best suited for young beginners and early elementary students who need a reliable, easy-to-use tap shoe with comfort features. Parents and teachers will appreciate the Velcro strap and removable bow, which make dressing and costume changes quicker and less fussy.

Dancers who are advancing into more technical tap work or who need specialized fitting should look elsewhere for shoes with custom lasts or performance-grade tap hardware. This style prioritizes beginner comfort and convenience over advanced sound customization.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable foam footbed that allows for longer practice without discomfort.
• Easy Velcro Mary Jane strap makes the shoe quick to put on and provides a secure fit.
• Detachable clip-on bow adds a dressy option without permanence.
• Built-in taps at heel and toe produce clear tones suitable for learning rhythms.

Cons

• Not designed for advanced tap performers seeking specialized sound tuning or custom fit options.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The Capezio 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe is a practical, comfortable pick for young beginners who need an easy-to-wear tap shoe that still produces a good sound. With a foam footbed, Velcro strap, and removable bow this shoe is good value for parents seeking durability and ease of use during early training.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the bows permanently attached?
The bows are removable clip-on accessories so they can be detached for practice or cleaning.

Do these run true to size?
Customers report the shoes fit true to size with a little room for growth, making them suitable for growing feet.

Is the sole slippery on studio floors?
The shoe includes a rubber patch on the sole to improve grip and reduce slipping during basic steps.