Michael Jackson used a special shoe to perform his Smooth Criminal lean trick!

In order to accomplish his famous forward lean, Michael Jackson invented a special shoe that had a slotted heel which slid onto bolts that protruded from the floor, essentially creating a dovetail joint between the dancer and the stage.

These shoes had a system which allowed the wearer to lean forwardly beyond his center of gravity.

The shoes have a specially designed heel slot which can be detachably engaged with the hitch member by simply sliding the shoe wearer’s foot forward, thereby engaging with the hitch member.

So if you’ve ever tried doing the trick and failed, don’t be upset! Go get yourself a brand new pair of those babies and you’ll be dancing like the eternal king of pop in no time!