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Choosing Dance Shoes

Below I've presented dance shoe information both for men and women. I include a few sites that sell these, but i would recommend shopping around with google looking for dance or salsa shoes. The information below should equip you to make an informed choice on what kind of shoe you want and what you should be paying for it.

For Ladies

1) Ladies Dance Heels- Most women wear dance heels. These are just like normal shoes except that they have a suede leather bottom that allows you to spin easily and smoothly. Prices vary greatly; anywhere from $50 to over $150.

lady shoe 1 lady shoe 2

2) Jazz Shoes- Some women, especially advanced dancers choose to wear jazz shoes. While these are not as fashionable...they have no heel, which allows for more balance, especially when spinning, and they are also more comfortable. Priced $30-50.

jazz shoe

3) Dance Sneakers- Dance sneakers might grip the floor slightly more than a jazz shoe, but they are more comfortable, and can be safely worn outside. Most ladies tend to wear these only for practice and lessons. Generally priced $50-75.

lady sneaker

4) Ballet Shoes - Ballet Shoes are useful for practice, they are essentially just a suede sock that goes over your foot. I would not recommend them for actualy dance outings since your feet will have no protection at all. Priced under $20.

ballet shoe

If you don't want to purchase dance shoes, you can dance in shoes with a smooth leather sole (picture below). If those are not available, try to wear a shoe that is as narrow as possible on the bottom to minimize the surface area in contact with the floor.

leather sole

Brands I know are good:
Capezio, Very Fine Dance Shoes

Where to Buy:
Direct from manufacturers
Local dance instructors
Zappos.com - This is where most people I know get their shoes...if they don't fit, they will give you a return package label and you can get a new pair for no charge.

 

For Men

1) Jazz Shoes- Most basic option, but also highly effective...even top pros in the world dance in these shoes on most occasions. The plastic like bottom surface is easy to care for, and can be worn outside for short durations. Generally priced $30-50.
jazz shoe
2)Ballrooom Dance Shoes- While these shoes are generally meant for smooth ballroom dances or swing, they work perfectly well for salsa. The suede bottom, while probably the best for spinning quickly, requires a lot of upkeep, and can be ruined by wearing outside or on rough concrete. Generally priced $60-80.
ballroom shoe
3)Latin Ballroom Shoes- I actually started with these based on my first instructor. The cuban heel (1.5 inches, usually) in principle helps to amplify your body and hip movement. However, most club style salsa dancers choose not to use these since they are much harder to balance in. I would personally not recommend them for club style salsa. Generally priced $75-100.
latin heel
4) Dance Sneakers- Dance sneakers might grip the floor slightly more than a jazz shoe, but they are more comfortable, and can be safely worn outside. Generally priced $50-75.

dance sneaker

5) Ballo Shoes- These shoes look just like a puma sneaker, but have a suede bottom. The ultimate balance of style and function, but also very expensive...around $110.
ballo shoes

If you don't want to purchase dance shoes, you can dance in shoes with a smooth leather sole (picture below). If those are not available, try to wear a shoe that is as narrow as possible on the bottom to minimize the surface area in contact with the floor.

leathershoes

Brands I know and like:
Capezio, Very Fine Dance Shoes, Ballo, Tankaa (High quality jazz)
Where to buy:
Direct from manufacturers
Local dance instructors
Zappos.com - This is where most people I know get their shoes...if they don't fit, they will give you a return package label and you can get a new pair for no charge.

 

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Copyright 2007 Daniel Ellis