Choosing the right pair of shoes for Ballroom Dancing

Comfort. Support. Performance. Protection. These are the features to look for when choosing your dancing shoes. Quality ballroom dance shoes have thin and flexible suede soles that allow you to move freely across the dance floor with the right amount of grip. Brushed suede (chrome leather) soles offer more traction than smooth leather (which are less expensive but more slippery).

There are three basic types of ballroom shoes: Latin, standard, and practice. The Latin women’s shoe is a very flexible, open-toe sandal with a 1-3 inch heel. The Latin men’s shoe has a 1.5 inch Cuban heel (usually worn for competition). The women’s standard shoe is close-toe and the 2.5 inch heel is positioned more centrally under the foot to ease backward movement. The men’s standard is a black oxford lace-up, with the heel like that of a regular dress shoe. Women’s practice shoes resemble the men’s standard shoe with a higher heel. Dance sneakers with suede soles also work well for practice.

If you have never purchased ballroom shoes, it’s probably a good idea to visit a shoe store so you can try them on. If you decide to order online, check the size charts carefully. Dance shoes are often made in European sizes, which typically run 1.5 sizes smaller than American. Your new shoes should fit snugly but not pinch your feet. Remember that these soft leather shoes will stretch more than usual, so you may want to consider buying a half size smaller than your normal size. It is also a good idea to examine the inside of the shoes for any seams or sharp edges that may irritate your feet when you are dancing. Nude or bronze colors are good choices for women’s shoes because they make your legs look longer. Arch supports can provide additional comfort.

Prices for ballroom shoes can range anywhere from $50 to $200. Keep in mind that if the soles on your favorite pair of dancing shoes wear out, most shoe stores can replace them with quality chrome suede for about $15. If you plan on buying only one style of shoe, women should buy the Latin sandal with a heel no higher than 2.5 inches. Men should buy the standard in regular black leather. Of course, you don’t need to buy special shoes to start dancing. Dress shoes or sneakers are fine for practice.

Take care of your dancing shoes to extend their lifetime. Heel protectors are inexpensive and protect the dance floor, give you traction, and protect the heels of your shoes. A steel-bristled shoe brush refreshes the nap of sued soles, and should be used after every use. Treat satin dance shoes with a fabric protector to help keep them clean.

If you have any questions about what type of ballroom shoe will work best for you, consult the dance instructors at the Arthur Murray Dance Studios in Charlotte and Lake Norman, NC.