What to look for in a pair of dancing shoes?
1. IT'S GOT TO BE A SNUG FIT
The first time you try on a pair of dance shoes should feel comfortable, a close, but not too close fit, giving you that oneness of feeling with your shoes, throughout their lifespan. Usually take a half or full size down when making your choice.
2. TOES... OPEN OR CLOSED?
Shoes are actually designed for certain rhythms and dances. For example, with the Rhumba, Swing and Salsa, which require more toe pointing and flexbillity, open toe shoes are best for accuracy and ease of movement with your footwork
For the Waltz or Foxtrot, you can choose a closed toe pair of shoes, since it's a smoother, 'classic' dance and.. of course, your shoes have got to make the grade for looks too.
Closed toe shoes are obviously, also good to protect your toes from getting the full impact of a clumsy misstep by your partner! Seriously though, you can choose which ever makes you feel more comfortable, but for the extra edge, consider what kind of dances you'll be doing most of, to make your choice.
3. HEEL HEIGHTS
Latin and ballroom dance shoes have heels ranging in height from 1.5" to 3". Ladies if you're beginners, make sure to get a pair that's very comfortable in height. Choose a flared heel (which gives better balance). For men's dance shoes, a 1" heel is designed for ballroom dance styles while a 1.5" Cuban heel is designed for Latin dance styles. Unless you are participating in dance competitions, a 1" heel is generally sufficient for both ballroom and Latin dancing.
4. SUEDE SOLE SHOES
Suede soles are great. When you're on the dance floor, suedes give you just enough manoueverability with turns and spins and just general movement.
5. BUYING DANCE SHOES ONLINE VS. IN STORE
If you're making your purchase online or via local store, it's great to try on the shoes at a local store before qoing to the desired place to get them.
6. HOW TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR SHOES
Moisture is the no. 1 thing that kills a shoe. After dancing, I usually use shoe trees to absorb moisture and keep the shape of the dance shoes. Cedar shoe trees are particularly great for fighting odor! Unfortunately, dance shoes are not made to last for a long time due to their delicate materials and the way dancers use the shoes. To extend the life of a pair of dance shoes, I recommend having 2 or more pairs of shoes (depending on how frequently you dance) to rotate between dance sessions. This allows each pair enough time to dry out before the next use. Also, never wear your dance shoes outdoors as the suede leather is very delicate and can be damaged easily by any harsh objects and water!
7. WHAT'S IT WORTH?
The cost of Latin and ballroom dance shoes range from US$80 to $300 a pair depending on the brand and quality. For about US$170, you can get a great quality pair of shoes. It is definitely worth spending a little more money since a good pair of dance shoes can last longer and give you more comfort and support when learning to dance.
8. BRAND
If you want great value for money with your dance shoes, I recommend the BLOCH range. They have a longstanding reputation for quality. It's fantastic, durable an just about any style looks good on you! Plus they've got clothing and other accessories to choose from.
Also check out this DanceWear link...especially the ladies. You just might see something you'd like to buy. You can also click on the Movement Connection ...or click on the Store page, you might quicker get it right here in Trinidad!
Also check out this DanceWear link...especially the ladies. You just might see something you'd like to buy. You can also click on the Movement Connection ...or click on the Store page, you might quicker get it right here in Trinidad!
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