Owning a good pair of dance shoes can make a huge difference in your dancing experience as a beginner. Comfortable and durable dance shoes are essential in your Latin dancing journey. It can be challenging to know what to look for in a good pair of shoes, so I am here to help you choose the best Latin dance shoes suitable for beginners.
I hope that experience I had while discovering perfect Latin dance shoes will benefit your decisions, as well.
Many people start Latin dance as a hobby, and then it turns into passion. After a few lessons, people start thinking about whether they should invest in proper Latin dance shoes.
Dancing in proper dance shoes is considerably different because dance shoes are made specifically for dancing. You will notice a massive difference in your spins, turns, and body movements instantly.
Tips For Buying Latin Dance Shoes For Beginners
Prior to purchasing your first pair of Latin dance shoes, you need to consider a few things. We need to look for a few things when buying the first pair of dance shoes for beginners. With so many things that come into the play, it is no surprise that proper dance shoes play an essential role in your dancing journey, even if your plan is just to learn to dance socially.
Heel Height
Latin dance shoes come in lots of heel height options, but I would recommend to chose lower heel height as a beginner because it will be more comfortable to dance while still trying to incorporate all the moves and techniques you have learned.
The right shoes will be very comfortable and will also help you dance better.
Ladies:
Professional dancers would choose shoes with higher heels because they want their legs to look longer. However, for us who are learning to dance socially only, an ideal heel height would be no more than 2 inches because we are looking for comfort and want to minimize injuries.
If you are not used to regularly wearing high heels, please ensure that you have adequately strengthened your shoe around the ankle for additional safety and comfort.
A Latin heel is considered a heel that is very thin and slightly heavier than the regular heel. It will take you some time to get used to walking in these shoes, let alone getting accustomed to dancing in them. So take some time to adjust to these shoes at home first.
This type of heel is called Cuban or Spanish heel. These heels are flared at the bottom and are usually two inches high. Of course, there are other types of heels, but these are most commonly used among people who are interested in Latin dance. For example, there is also a slim heel type. Whether you decide to choose a slim or flare heel type is up to personal preference, but flare tip offers more stability, which is very important for beginners.
Men:
The heel on male Latin dance shoes is different. The main difference is in the shape and height of the heel. Most male Latin dance shoes are not bigger than one inch.
When choosing proper Latin dance shoes, the rule of thumb is to choose shoes that you are most comfortable with.
Additional Tip!
You can purchase a heel protector to extend the life of your heels. Those are usually suede or plastic covers for your slim or flared heel tip. It will extend the life of your shoes.
Proper Fit
Finding perfect Latin dance shoes will take you some time. Latin dance shoes should fit you comfortably. However, since you will be paying a substantial amount of money for dance lessons, it is wise to take some time to choose adequate dance shoes.
Dance shoes are made differently than regular shoes. They are built to be durable for a very long time.
The Latin dance shoes’ sole is made of flexible suede so you can feel the floor while dancing. Additionally, they are beneficial, so you can point your toe and finish your leg’s line.
Latin dance shoes should fit tight but not to the point where it is painful. Dance shoes should fit sung around your feet like a glove.
For ladies who wear open-toe shoes, the toes need to come up the sole’s edge because the flexible suede sole will bother you while dancing due to not being snug enough.
The thumb rule is that if you decide to wear closed-toe shoe size down by 0.5 and wear open shoe toe, then size down by one full size.
High-Quality Materials
Latin dance shoes should always be made of high-quality material. There are many affordable options to purchase excellent quality shoes online.
I wouldn’t recommend that beginners spend a lot of money on dance shoes, especially if you use those shoes only for practice.
If you opt for very inexpensive shoes, the quality and durability will suffer, so you will end up purchasing a new pair of dance shoes pretty quickly. So, my recommendation would be to buy dance shoes that are in the medium price range.
If you invest in better quality shoes, it will pay off in the long run because it will allow you the optimal benefit with a superior sole that gives you the best control and spins.
As I beginner, I wouldn’t advise you to purchase the most expensive pair of shoes. Let it be your goal once you become better at dancing. I have rewarded myself with beautiful pair of Latin dance shoes once I improved with Salsa dancing.
Once you set yourself a goal with a reward at the end, learning to dance will be more motivating.
Here are my recommendations for the best Latin dance shoes for beginners. The price range is medium, ideal for beginners while providing excellent quality, durability, and comfort.
Recommendations For Best Latin Dance Shoes For Beginners- Women
Capezio Women’s SD01 Eva 2″ Flared-Heel Sandal
The heel height of 2 inches is perfect for beginners who are still just stepping their foot into Latin dancing waters.
These shoes are lightweight, flexible with excellent shank, and great support. Suede sole allows for smooth and fast turns on the dance floor. You will notice the difference in your spins and turns once you start dancing in these shoes.
These shoes are elegant enough to wear to dance practice and dress them up if you are going out dancing.
The comfortable strap allows extra support on the dance floor. I like to tie the strap tightly when I practice Salsa because it provides me with better balance and better stability.
The suede sole provides flexibility while spinning and turning and fast and prompt switches between movements.
Pros:
- Suede Sole
- Heel height ideal for beginners
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Classic style
- Cushioned insole
Cons:
- Runs a size smaller (measure your feet before ordering)
DSOL Women’s Latin Dance Shoes
DSOL are another great shoes that would be perfect for someone who is starting with any Latin dance style or has been in the game for a while.
DSOL classic dance shoes are made of excellent quality and come in tan and black satin colors.
These shoes are soft and comfortable for walking and dancing, especially if you need to stand or dance for a long time.
Unlike some other dance shoes, these are true to the size. There is no reason to go a size up or down with these shoes.
I don’t wear heels that often, and when I step in these shoes, it feels like I am professional with wearing high heels because they are that comfortable.
DSOL Latin dance shoes are comfortable, flexible, and lightweight, and perfectly suitable for beginners and people who dance socially.
These shoes offer excellent quality, and the leather sole allows you to spin on the dance floor like a professional.
Pros:
- Leather sole
- Flexible
- Comfortable
- Beautiful and classic
- True size
- Great quality
- Affordable
- Heel height great for beginners
Cons:
- None
TTdancewear Rhinestones Ballroom Dance Shoes Women Latin Salsa Bachata Performance Dance Shoes Suede Sole
TTdancewear dance shoes are perfect for beginners who are stepping their foot into social dance because of their appearance due to gorgeous crystal AB rhinestones.
These shoes are great for spinning and turning on the dance floor because of their high-quality suede sole.
Heel height ranges from 1.5 inches to 3 inches that are incredibly comfortable because of the shock-absorbing sponge insole, extra padded footbed, and moisture-absorbent cotton lining. However, I would suggest getting a pair of these shoes with a heel height of 2 inches for maximum comfort and stability while dancing and standing.
These shoes have a quick-release buckle that allows you to tighten up your shoes just enough to snug around your ankle.
You will not go wrong with these shoes if you decide to wear them to any social gathering, such as any Latin night out, wedding, or dance party. As I mentioned earlier, these shoes are perfect for an absolute beginner that dances socially or for dance practice.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Wide variety of colors and styles
- Suede Sole
- Gorgeous dance shoes with rhinestones
- Moisture absorbent cotton lining
- Lightweight and stable
Cons:
- Indoor shoes only
Cheery Ball Women Ballroom Dance Practice Shoes Cuban Heel
With the heel almost no-existent, Cheery Ball Dance shoes are made for ladies who are just starting out learning Latin dances. You will be able to spin and turn comfortably and effortlessly. These shoes are perfect for Latin dance practice lessons because they contain cushioned insole for shock absorption when you need to abruptly between the moves.
Additionally, these shoes are equipped with an extra padded footbed for added comfort and anti-skidding for stability.
The lace adds extra elegance to these shoes, so you will not just dance great; you will also look great in these shoes.
Pros:
- Leather sole
- Lace adds feminity and elegance to these shoes
- Made of high-quality material
- Cuban low heel height (excellent for practice)
- Extra padded footbed for added comfort and anti-skidding
Cons:
- Suitable for dance floor only
HIPPOSEUS Women’s Latin Dance Shoes Satin Ballroom Party Dance Practice Performance Shoes
Hipposeous women’s Latin dance shoes come in different styles and colors, a lot to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or professional, these shoes are ideal for you because they are lightweight, comfortable, and flexible.
The heel height is 2 inches, as per the recommended heel height for beginners. Even if I weren’t a beginner, I wouldn’t go higher heel height than two inches because shoes can become uncomfortable if the heel is too high.
Many Amazon users are raving how much these shoes are comfortable and would re-purchase them in different colors. These shoes definitely exceed expectations for a great price, and I totally agree with them.
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Many options (colors and styles)
- Flexible
- Inexpensive
- Suede sole
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Delivery time longer for the USA, Canada, and the UK
- Suitable for indoor dancing only
Recommendations For Best Latin Dance Shoes For Beginners- Men
Gogodance Men’s Breathable Latin Dance Shoes
These simple, elegant, and comfortable dance shoes will be a nice addition to the Latin dance learning experience.
These shoes are made of high-quality leather with a cushioned heel and a soft suede sole, perfect for smooth stepping and turns while being durable enough to resist wear and tear for many years to come.
The shoes are designed to be breathable enough while dancing and have an anti-slip and lightweight outsole that comfortably fits your feet. Anti-slip is protection comes in handy in Latin dance because of the fast turns and spins. You want to make sure that you provide enough support and security as a lead.
Like many men who are just starting out with Latin dances, you want to make sure you have high-quality dance footwear, and these shoes will not disappoint. They will provide you with all the benefits that regular shoes have by being stylish, inexpensive, and elegant while providing the extra perks that dance shoes offer.
Pros:
- Built with air holes for breathability
- Elegant and stylish
- Inexpensive
- Anti-slip feature for smooth and safe movements on the dance floor
- Lightweight outsole
- True to size
Cons:
- Not suitable for everyday wear
50 Shades Mens Flat Latin Dance Shoes
I have selected these dance shoes for you because of the wide variety of selections in colors and styles. There is a lot to choose from! It is no surprise these shoes are called 50 Shades!
With a heel height of 1.5 inches only, suede sole, and cushioned insole for shock absorption, these shoes are perfect for anyone who have the intention of stepping on a dance floor. Besides being excellent for dancing, these are so stylish and elegant to wear to a club, not just dance practice.
If you want to wear these shoes outdoor, put on a sole stopper, and you will have a great dance and street shoes, all in one pair of shoes.
Pros:
- Easy to slip on
- Made of high-quality material
- Runs regular street shoe size
Cons:
- None
Diamant Men’s Latin Dance Shoes
Although these shoes are a bit pricy, the quality speaks for itself. These shoes are made in Germany and will not disappoint with quality, durability, comfort, and style.
These shoes are entirely made of leather and have a leather sole. They are a great investment and will last you a very long time, especially if you take good care of them.
Many men who purchased these shoes do not regret it. It is a bit of investment, but you will not need to look for a new pair of dance shoes for a very long time.
Additionally, these dance shoes have shock-absorbent heel cushioning and breathable and moisture-absorbent microfiber lining. This is everything you need to give you extra confidence and support on the dance floor as a lead.
Pros:
- Entirely made of leather (including the sole)
- Excellent quality
- Stylish and elegant
- Breathable
- Moisture-absorbent microfiber lining
- Shock-absorbent heel cushioning
- True to size
Cons:
- Pricey
DSOL Men’s Standard Dance Shoes
Unlike Diamant Men’s Latin Dance Shoes, these shoes are affordable while being stylish and meeting all the qualities that good pair of dance shoes have to offer.
With the suede sole and great quality, these shoes are comfortable, flexible, and lightweight. These shoes will meet all your dancing needs, whether you are a beginner or a professional.
Pros:
- Suede Sole
- Great quality
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Flexible
- Stylish and elegant
Cons:
- Not true to the size. Order a size up
Capezio Men’s 1″ Standard Ballroom Shoes
Capezio never fails with design, quality, and price. Shock-absorbing sponge insole and suede-covered bottom for shock absorption provide extra comfort and support while dancing.
While working up the sweat on the dance floor, the moisture-absorbent cotton lining will keep you dry.
No woman can resist a man who knows how to dance, so become an irresistible man 😉
Pros:
- True to the size
- Affordable
- Shock-absorbing sponge insole
- Classic style
- Moisture absorbent cotton lining
- Suede sole
- Flexible outsole
Cons:
- Not true to the size
