Women's Ballroom Shoes Buying Guide

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Whether you are a professional ballroom dancer or just taking a basic introduction course, you'll need a good pair of ballroom shoes.  There are three basic types of ballroom shoes. You may only need one of these types (depending on your skill level, area of interest, and level of interest in ballroom dancing), or several pairs of all three types.

Basic Overview

  • Don't buy any heel that is over 3" if you are just beginning. You'll never learn any techniques if you are too busy trying not to fall.
  • Though black  is the most common colour of ballroom shoes, buying a nude colour shoe  will not only appear to lengthen your legs (ultra sexy!), but it will match with most outfits.
  • Expect to pay a hefty amount for quality ballroom shoes.  

The Three Basic Types of Ballroom Shoes

I Could Have Danced All Night

Practice shoes  are a real lifesaver (or foot saver) for those who are struggling to learn the basics or for those who practice more than an hour a day.

  • Practice shoes have low heels and laces.
  • Often sold in comfortable sneaker styles.
  • When buying, don't worry too much about colour or type. Just find a comfortable pair that is flexible enough to dance in, breathable, and has some level of grip so you don't slide on a polished wood floor.

Two To Tango

Smooth/Standard Shoes  are the most common type of ballroom shoes.

  • Look for a closed toe  if you are just beginning or your dance partner has two left feet.
  • Although sky-high heels are sexy, don't buy a heel that is out of your league. Make sure you can do quick spins and jump around in your shoes.
  • Look for shoes that have a snug fit, but make sure your toes aren't overlapping or crammed!
  • Buy in a nude/skin tone shade that will match with almost any outfit.

Rhythm's Gonna Get Ya

Latin dance shoes  are bold, flashy, and super sexy.

  • Open toe shoes  should fit so your toes meet the very edge or even hang off by a quarter of an inch.
  • Look for heels that are closer to the center of the foot. Not only will they be easier to balance in, but these shoes will lift you even higher!
  • Look for decor here. Latin shoes are meant to be flashy, so look for shoes that are shiny, bold, or have jewels.

Basic Ankle Strap Styles

Ankle Strap Styles

Cross ankle straps  are super sexy and can give you some extra ankle support.

Single ankle straps  are basic and versatile.

T-Straps  are alluring and romantic.

External Links

International Resources

For this resource in your home country, please see:
NL: Stijldansschoenen voor vrouwen Shopgids