Ballroom Dancing Shoes
From LoveToKnow Shoes
When the man of your dreams extends his hand and asks, "Would you care for a dance?" you'll want to make sure you have ballroom dancing shoes that will allow you to show off your talents on the dance floor. That means you want the appropriate soles, in a size that fits just right, in a heel height that doesn't make you stumble when you twirl.
Tracking Down Ballroom Dancing Shoes, One Step at a Time
Ready to get started shopping? Here are some stores to help you on your quest:
Soles
Ballroom dancing shoes often have suede soles to allow you to do everything you need to on the ballroom dance floors, without the risk of falling down. Leather soles are common in streetwear counterparts (ballroom shoes tend to look a lot like regular everyday shoes to an untrained eye). Rubber soles are also popular for just your average shoe, but the amount of traction they provide will not allow for all the dance moves to be demonstrated properly. This is why, if you're looking into ballroom dancing, you should definitely get the correct equipment--special shoes.
One more thing that makes ballroom dancing shoes' soles different from commonplace shoes is the amount of flexibility in the sole. You can bend and point your foot much more easily in a pair that is designed with dancing in mind. Walking shoes have a stiffer sole.
Fit
One thing that you'll want to think about when choosing your ballroom dancing shoes is the toebox. You'll want to protect your feet while dancing, especially when starting out (your partner may be clumsy!). That means you'll want to opt for a closed toe as opposed to a sandal. Make sure the shoes aren't too pointed so you can experience maximum comfort while dancing. You're supposed to have fun, and who can do that while their feet are in agony?
Other considerations are like normal shoes--make sure there isn't too much room in the back that will cause them to slip. Consider going to an actual shoe store to be fitted instead of depending solely on yourself (or shopping online).
Heels
The heel's height and width is completely up to you and what you feel comfortable in. If you're just starting out in ballroom dancing shoes, you'll probably want to go with a wider, shorter heel. Gradually, you can move up to a thinner, taller heel. You want to focus on your dance technique at first--not your balance! Besides, you're trying to show off your skill, not make a fashion statement. Choose sexy heels but don't think you need to pay more attention to looks than function.
One good thing about ballroom dancing shoes is, the heels are usually very well made, so you're less likely to need repairs from a snapped heel. That's not to say that it will never happen; it just isn't as likely as in a regular fashion shoe designed to wear during everyday activities.
Heels on ballroom dancing shoes are also positioned differently on the sole than those of everyday shoes to promote better balance and a more natural posture.
For more information on ballroom dance shoes, visit StepOneDanceShoes.com. They offer links to forums, music, books, studios and more!
This page has been accessed 3,198 times. This page was last modified 06:48, 1 July 2008.
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