Pleaser’s Best Product for Pole Dancers

Pleaser shoes are the quintessential footwear for pole dancers, known for their iconic platform heels that offer both aesthetic appeal and functional advantages for grip, leverage, and elongation.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Pleaser’s product recommendations for pole dancers, categorized by style, level, and intended use:

Understanding Pleaser’s Naming Convention

Before diving in, a quick note on Pleaser’s common series names:

ADORE (ADOR): Typically 7-inch heels with a 2.75-inch platform. A very popular and versatile range.
DELIGHT (DEL): Typically 6-inch heels with a 1.75-inch platform. A good starting point for slightly less extreme height.
FLAMINGO (FLAM): Typically 8-inch heels with a 4-inch platform. Another extremely popular and iconic range for intermediate/advanced dancers.
SKY (SKY): Often 7-inch heels with a 2.75-inch platform, similar to Adore, but sometimes with slightly different platform or heel designs.
XTREME (XTRM): Typically 10-inch heels with a 6-inch platform. For advanced dancers seeking maximum height and drama.
INFINITY (INF): Typically 9-inch heels with a 5.25-inch platform. Also for advanced dancers.
STARDUST (STDUS): Features a glitter-filled platform, often on Adore or Flamingo height bases.

The numbers after the series name (e.g., ADORE-708) usually denote the specific style/upper design.

General Considerations for Pole Dancers

Platform Height: The platform is key for leverage, stability, and reducing the effective heel height. Taller platforms (like 8-inch Flamigos or 10-inch Xtremes) allow for more dramatic lines and easier floorwork slides.
Heel Height: While the overall height is important, the effective heel height (total heel height minus platform height) determines how steep your foot angle is.
Ankle Support: Ankle straps are crucial for keeping the shoe securely on your foot during spins, climbs, and inverts. Boots offer even more support.
Material:
- Clear PVC/Patent: Most common for aesthetics and visibility.
- Faux Leather/Suede: Can offer more grip on the pole itself, especially boots.
- Glitter/Rhinestone: For performance and sparkle.
Boots vs. Sandals:
- Sandals: Lightweight, good for foot articulation, common for all levels.
- Ankle Boots: Offer more ankle support, protect the top of the foot for certain floorwork, and provide grip for knee holds on the pole.
- Knee/Thigh High Boots: Offer maximum grip for climbs, protect the shins, and provide a strong aesthetic.

Product Recommendations by Level & Style

1. For Beginners & General Practice (Comfort & Stability)

Goal: Learn basic spins, climbs, and floorwork with stable, manageable height.
Recommendation: Start with 6-inch or 7-inch heels.
- Pleaser DELIGHT-608: (6-inch heel, 1.75-inch platform)
  - Why: Lower height makes them less intimidating. Good for building confidence and foot strength.
  - Features: Classic clear strap sandal.
- Pleaser ADORE-708: (7-inch heel, 2.75-inch platform)
  - Why: The ultimate classic starter Pleaser. The 7-inch height provides that pole aesthetic without being overly challenging. The platform offers good stability.
  - Features: Clear upper strap and clear platform/heel are standard. Available in many colors and finishes (patent, matte).
- Pleaser SKY-308: (7-inch heel, 2.75-inch platform)
  - Why: Similar to Adore-708 but sometimes with a slightly different platform shape that some find even more stable.
  - Features: Clear upper, clear platform/heel.

2. For Intermediate Dancers & Versatile Training (Stepping Up)

Goal: Progress to more complex spins, transitions, and start working on higher pole tricks and more dynamic floorwork.
Recommendation: 8-inch heels are the standard for intermediate and advanced pole.
- Pleaser FLAMINGO-808: (8-inch heel, 4-inch platform)
  - Why: The most popular 8-inch sandal. The higher platform creates a less steep foot angle than a 7-inch, making some moves feel easier. Excellent for floorwork slides.
  - Features: Clear upper strap, clear platform/heel. Available in a vast array of colors, finishes (glitter, chrome, matte, patent).
- Pleaser FLAMINGO-809: (8-inch heel, 4-inch platform)
  - Why: Similar to 808 but with a slightly thicker toe strap, which some prefer for security and comfort.
  - Features: Clear upper strap, clear platform/heel.
- Pleaser ADORE-1020 / FLAMINGO-1020 (Ankle Boots):
  - Why: Ankle boots offer fantastic support and protection, great for slides, knee holds, and a more sensual aesthetic.
  - Features: Come in various materials (patent, matte, stretch). Choose Adore (7-inch) or Flamingo (8-inch) depending on preferred height.

3. For Advanced, Exotic Pole, & Performance (Maximum Impact)

Goal: High-level tricks, dramatic lines, powerful exotic choreography, and stage presence.
Recommendation: 9-inch or 10-inch heels, often in boot styles.
- Pleaser INFINITY-908: (9-inch heel, 5.25-inch platform)
  - Why: Provides significant height and a dramatic silhouette.
  - Features: Often seen with clear straps and platforms.
- Pleaser XTREME-1020 / BEYOND-1020 (Ankle Boot): (8-inch heel, 4-inch platform) / (10-inch heel, 6-inch platform)
  - Why: The quintessential exotic pole boot. The 10-inch platform allows for incredible leverage and protection for dynamic floorwork. The ankle boot provides support.
  - Features: Available in patent, matte, glitter.
- Pleaser XTREME-808 / INFINITY-908 (Sandals):
  - Why: For advanced dancers who prefer the open feel of a sandal even at extreme heights.
  - Features: Clear straps are common.
- Pleaser DELIGHT-2000 / ADORE-2000 (Knee-High Boots):
  - Why: Excellent for pole climbs where you want extra grip on your shins/knees, and for powerful, dramatic looks. Protects the leg during certain floorwork.
  - Features: Various materials, often stretch patent or faux leather. Available in 6-inch (Delight) or 7-inch (Adore) heights.

4. For Sparkle & Aesthetics (Performance & Photo Shoots)

Goal: Stand out, add glamour, and create visual interest.
Recommendation:
- Pleaser STARDUST Series: (e.g., STDUS708, STDUS808)
  - Why: Features a clear platform filled with glitter, rhinestones, or other decorative elements. Instantly adds sparkle to any routine.
  - Features: Available in 7-inch (Adore-like) or 8-inch (Flamingo-like) heights.
- Pleaser with Chrome Heels/Platforms: (e.g., ADORE-708C, FLAMINGO-808C)
  - Why: Reflective chrome adds a futuristic, edgy vibe and catches the light beautifully.
- Pleaser with Rhinestone Embellishments: Many models come with pre-applied rhinestones on the straps or platforms for extra glam.

Essential Buying Tips

Sizing: Pleaser sizing can be a bit tricky. Many dancers size down by half or a full size, especially in sandals with clear straps, as the PVC can stretch. However, with boots, you might stick to your true size or go up if you have wide feet. Always check reviews for specific models.
Breaking In: New Pleasers (especially clear PVC straps) can be stiff. Wear them around the house with socks or use a hairdryer to gently warm and mold the plastic to your feet.
Practice, Practice, Practice: Always practice in your pole shoes to build strength, balance, and confidence before performing.
Care: Clean clear PVC with a soft cloth and mild soap. Store them in their dust bags to prevent scratches.
Safety First: Choose shoes that feel secure on your feet. Never compromise stability for height.

Pleasers are an investment in your pole journey. Experiment with different styles and heights to find what feels best for your body, your style, and your specific pole dance goals!