Love these comfortable shoes.  The split sole really makes a difference in a beginner tap class.  I tried the cheaper version without the split sole and it hurt my ankles. My friend did the same, but she sent them back and got the split sole and it made a HUGE difference in her learning ability.  I did the same and found it much easier to learn and enjoy my tap class.  Don't skimp on the split sole, it will make the class enjoyable or may make you give up on learning to tap.