A heel cheater is a specialized, small, rectangular metal plate attached to the inside edge of a shoe's heel, commonly used in specific performance arts or activities to modify sound, feel, or provide a specific aesthetic. These plates are designed to interact with the ground or other elements, often in conjunction with traditional heel taps, to achieve a desired effect.
Understanding Heel Cheaters
In essence, a heel cheater serves as an augmentation to a shoe's heel, particularly in contexts where precise auditory or tactile feedback is important. It's a subtle but effective modification that can significantly impact the wearer's experience and performance.
Key Characteristics and Design
Heel cheaters are engineered with specific features to fulfill their function effectively while minimizing potential issues.
- Dimensions: Typically small, these plates measure approximately 2 inches by 1 inch, making them discreet yet functional.
- Placement: They are precisely worn centered on the inside heel edge of the shoe, positioning them strategically for impact or sound production.
- Material: Constructed from durable metal, these plates are built to withstand repeated use and provide consistent performance.
- Safety and Comfort: A critical design element is that the cheaters are rounded on all four sides. This crucial detail prevents them from catching on or destroying clothing, such as trousers, during movement.
- Adjustability: For applications requiring specific sound or protrusion, rubber washers may be placed between the tap and the heel. This allows the associated tap to protrude by about ½ inch as needed, fine-tuning the interaction with the ground.
The table below summarizes the key attributes of heel cheaters:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Small, rectangular metal plate |
| Dimensions | Approximately 2” x 1” |
| Placement | Centered on the inside heel edge of a shoe |
| Material | Durable Metal |
| Design Detail | Rounded on all four sides to prevent fabric damage (e.g., trousers) |
| Optional Add-on | Rubber washers for tap adjustment (approx. ½ inch protrusion) |
Purpose and Application
The primary purpose of a heel cheater revolves around modifying the sound and feel of a shoe's heel, particularly in performance-oriented settings.
- Sound Enhancement: In activities like tap dancing, a heel cheater, especially when combined with a tap and adjusted with washers, can alter the clarity, resonance, or projection of the heel strike. This allows performers to achieve specific rhythmic or percussive effects. Learn more about the components of tap shoes on Wikipedia.
- Tactile Feedback: The placement and material can change how the wearer perceives contact with the ground, which can be crucial for balance, rhythm, and precision in specialized movements.
- Durability and Wear: While not their primary function, metal cheaters can offer additional protection to the heel of a shoe, prolonging its life in high-wear situations.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation and maintenance ensure the longevity and effectiveness of heel cheaters.
- Secure Attachment: Cheaters are typically fastened securely to the shoe's heel, often using small screws. Ensure they are flush and stable to prevent wobbling or detachment during use.
- Washer Use: If sound or protrusion adjustment is desired, carefully place rubber washers between the shoe's heel and the tap/cheater before securing. Experiment with the number of washers to achieve the desired ½-inch protrusion.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check the cheaters for any signs of loosening, wear, or damage. Tighten screws as needed.
- Cleaning: Keep the metal plates clean to maintain their aesthetic and prevent corrosion, especially if exposed to moisture.
Where Are Heel Cheaters Used?
While the term "heel cheater" might be specific, the concept of modifying shoe heels is prevalent in several areas:
- Tap Dancing: This is perhaps the most prominent application, where the cheater works with traditional taps to fine-tune sound. For further reading on shoe components, you can explore resources like Footwear Components.
- Theatrical Performance: Any stage performance requiring specific auditory cues from footwear could utilize such modifications.
- Specialized Footwear: Certain custom shoes for specific sports or occupational needs might incorporate similar heel augmentations for grip, slide, or sound.
Understanding heel cheaters provides insight into the meticulous details involved in specialized footwear design and how small components can significantly impact performance and function.
