Capezio Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe (Style 2V1S)

Our review of the Capezio Little Kid/Big Kid 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe finds it to be an excellent beginner tap shoe for young dancers who need a comfortable, easy-to-use option. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of an adjustable Mary Jane strap with a foam insole and detachable bow, which together deliver a secure fit, everyday comfort, and a neat stage-ready look without fuss. The review focuses on fit, durability, and usability for dance classes and recitals, and notes how the shoe suits children learning tap.

Key Features

• Adjustable Mary Jane strap: The hook-and-loop closure gives a customizable, secure fit so the shoe stays on during lessons and quick changes.
• Attached taps at heel and toe: Built-in metal taps let beginners practice rhythms right away without needing separate tap hardware.
• Removable clip-on bow: The detachable bow adds a polished look for performances and can be removed for practice or washing.
• Shock-absorbing foam insole: The cushioned footbed reduces impact on young feet and makes longer practice sessions more comfortable.
• Non-slip rubber patch sole: A rubber patch under the sole improves grip for safer movement in the studio and reduces slips.

Who It's For

The 3800 Mary Jane tap shoe is aimed at young beginners and elementary-level dancers who need an easy-to-wear, dependable practice shoe. Parents will appreciate the Velcro-style adjustable strap for independent dressing and the foam insole that keeps kids comfortable during classes.

Serious intermediate or advanced tap students who require specialized toe shapes, professional-grade taps, or very narrow competitive fitting may want to look elsewhere; this model emphasizes comfort, simplicity, and starter-friendly features rather than professional customization.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable foam insole provides shock absorption for longer practice sessions.
• Easy Velcro-style Mary Jane strap makes putting the shoe on and off quick for kids.
• Detachable clip-on bow offers a neat, performative detail without permanence.
• Built-in heel and toe taps let beginners start learning tap technique immediately.

Cons

• Not designed as a high-performance or competition-level tap shoe, so advanced dancers may prefer a different model.
• The removable bow and clip components may require occasional attention to keep them secure.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The Capezio 3800 Mary Jane Tap Shoe is a strong pick for young beginners and recreational dancers who need a comfortable, easy-fitting shoe with ready-to-use taps and a tidy performance appearance. It balances comfort, safety, and simple style at a price that makes sense for parents buying a first pair, though advanced students may prefer more specialized footwear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the taps attached or removable?
The taps on this model are attached at both the heel and toe so beginners can practice immediately.

Does the shoe run true to size?
Customers report the shoe fits true to size with a bit of room for growth, and the adjustable strap helps fine-tune the fit.

Can the bow be removed for practice?
Yes, the decorative bow is a removable clip-on so it can be detached for regular practice or cleaning.