ArtZine Singapore

You’re at a gala dinner and someone taps you on the shoulder. “May I have this dance?” Unlike Cinderella who could dance hours on end till Midnight, you probably won’t last through all the hours of ballroom dancing unless you have proper dancing shoes.

Here are some tips on choosing the perfect ballroom dancing shoes.

Men’s dance shoes are typically black lace-up Oxfords with a flat heel for standard dances and a 1 to 2 inch heel for Latin dances.

Basic designs for women’s dance shoes include open- or closed-toe pumps and sandals. Heels in women’s shoes are slim or flared and generally range in height from 1 to 3 inches.
Jean Goh from Two Left Feet Dance School says:

1. Material

Leather shoes will soften with use. It is easy to clean but may feel slippery if your shoe doesn’t fit tightly. Cloth shoes may ‘cut’ into your flesh. Since cloth will absorb your sweat, the base of the show may wear with time.

2. Heel height

People tend to choose shoes with high heels as it looks slim and nicer. However, taller does not mean easier as you will require more time to adjust and find your balance, depending how comfortable you are with wearing high heels.

3. Height of shoe base

A platform base provides better shock absorption but keeps you further from the ground.  A non-platform will allow you to feel the ground better.

4. Number of straps (for ladies)

One strap: less secure, but chosen for design
Two straps: better support as your foot is held more securely within the shoe.

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