By PAGE Editor

Latin dance boasts a rich history that reflects the intense passion of its performers. It has endured through the ages as one of the most favored dance styles, which is why many individuals start their learning journey with it. 

Latin dancing is attractive for numerous reasons, including the pleasure and sensual allure, as well as the technical challenges. Nonetheless, beginning demands more than merely the right mindset; it's essential to have the ideal Latin ballroom dance shoes! 

That being said, we created a list of things to think about when selecting a pair of Latin dance shoes, covering aspects from fit to purpose. Ultimately, you will learn how to purchase your perfect shoe. 

The Style 

Latin dance encompasses numerous genres, such as Salsa, Rumba, Cha-Cha, Samba, and several others. The type of dance style you select will determine the kind of shoe you ought to wear. The type of dance will influence how your shoe needs to fit and if it should be open or closed-toed. 

You are not required to restrict yourself, though. There is significant overlap between Latin dance shoes, so if you intend to practice various styles, choose a more adaptable shoe. 

You must also take into account the shape of the shoe. Mesh inserts located between the straps can help secure your shoe while engaging in high-speed workouts. 

The Fit

Like any other pair of shoes, it's essential to make sure they fit your feet well. When purchasing shoes for Latin dancing, the fit is likely the most important aspect to take into account. You will be using them frequently, whether you dance for enjoyment or as a profession. 

Latin dance shoes are crafted to glide effortlessly and elegantly across the floor, minimizing friction like these https://ballroomshoes.com/collections/yellow-shoes 

One way to maximize the benefits of this design is to refrain from compromising fit. Latin dance shoes should redistribute your weight, creating the impression that it is more balanced on the ball of your foot. When putting on open-toe shoes, position your toes at the very edge of the shoe, or even beyond. 

Heel Height

The perfect heel height is mainly influenced by your goal. Experts opt for higher heels to create the longest leg line achievable. The standard heel height varies from 1.5 to 3.5 inches, with 3 inches being the most favored. 

The heel height of Latin and ballroom dance shoes usually ranges from 1.5 inches to 3 inches. For beginner dancers, choose the heel height that offers the greatest comfort. If you’re not familiar with wearing heels, it may be best to begin with shoes that have lower heels. 

Heels are available in different shapes, such as thin and flared. A flared heel is preferred as it provides extra stability. A 1/2" heel is usually designed for ballroom dancing, and a 1.5" Cuban heel is usually for Latin dancing. Unless you are entering dance competitions, a 1/2" heel is generally suitable for both ballroom and Latin dancing. 

If you're simply dancing for enjoyment, prioritize your comfort. There's nothing wrong with that. Ultimately, the main goal is to have a good time! Nothing dampens happiness quite like a dreadful pair of heels. Whether it's just for enjoyment, choosing a 2-inch heel will provide you with that additional elevation. 

Heel Shape

Not every Latin dance shoe you choose will have the same heel shape. The two most common styles are thin and flared. Thin heels narrow the foot's appearance upon contact with the ground, enabling more graceful and fluid movements. 

The flared tip initially narrows the foot but gradually widens as it approaches the ground, hence its name. The wider tip offers enhanced stability. 

The choice is entirely yours, and it largely depends on individual preferences. Experiment with both alternatives and find out which suits you best! 

The material of the shoe 

The shoe's style and elevation are not the sole aspects to take into account. You need to assess the material of the shoe. 

The most common materials used for Latin dance shoes are leather and satin. In previous years, white satin gained popularity as dancers could easily dye the shoes to coordinate with their outfit colors. 

Conversely, leather boasts greater durability and could be a superior long-term investment. Shoes that match the skin tone are favored in Latin dance as they give the appearance of longer legs, enhancing the illusion of an elongated leg line. 

Open-toe or closed-dance shoes

Open-toed footwear is often made for Latin and rhythm dances like Rumba, Salsa, and swing, which demand improved toe pointing and foot flexibility. The opening in the shoes allows for easy toe placement and proper execution of footwork. 

Closed-toe shoes are designed for smooth or standard dances such as Foxtrot and Waltz, which require a more traditional classic look. For beginners exploring various dance styles, open-toe or Latin dancing shoes are preferable as they can be utilized for nearly any genre. 

Maintaining the Shoes

The primary reason for shoe deterioration is moisture. After dancing, we typically use shoe trees to take in moisture and maintain the shape of our dance shoes. Cedar shoe trees are highly efficient at removing odors! Regrettably, dancing shoes are not built to last long because of their fragile materials and how dancers use them. 

To extend the lifespan of your dancing shoes, we suggest having two or more pairs (depending on how often you dance) switch between during sessions. This allows each pair sufficient time to dry before being used again. Additionally, avoid wearing your dance shoes outside, since the suede leather is delicate and can be easily damaged by water or rough surfaces. 

Price

Recreational dance footwear is typically more affordable than professional, competition-grade dance shoes. It doesn’t imply that you shouldn’t invest in quality just because you wish to dance for enjoyment, but you also don’t need to spend a fortune. 

Don’t feel pressured to purchase expensive footwear. Latin dance is accessible to all, and as long as participants feel at ease and enjoy themselves, they are fulfilling their objectives. 

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