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.
For women, form is almost as important as function, and shoe styles are as varied as dance categories -- including Latin, swing, cha cha, foxtrot and waltz, to name a few.
Basic designs 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.
Slim heels make turns and other moves easier. Flared heels are preferred for the Latin dances because they provide more stability.
A Word on Women's ShoesWomen new to the world of ballroom dance may consider purchasing one pair of shoes that will work for a number dances -- typically a closed-toe pump with a 2 to 2.5 inch flared heel and an ankle strap. These are referred to as standard, court or modern dance shoes.
Latin dancers typically wear open-toed shoes or strappy sandals with a 3 inch flared heel. As you become more proficient, you can add more styles to your wardrobe.
Expect to spend about $100-175 for a good pair of ballroom shoes.
Ballroom dance shoes come in a variety of colors. Black is the most popular. Many women choose flesh-colored shoes, which help extend the leg line, for competitions.
For women, form is almost as important as function, and shoe styles are as varied as dance categories -- including Latin, swing, cha cha, foxtrot and waltz, to name a few.
Basic designs 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.
Slim heels make turns and other moves easier. Flared heels are preferred for the Latin dances because they provide more stability.
A Word on Women's ShoesWomen new to the world of ballroom dance may consider purchasing one pair of shoes that will work for a number dances -- typically a closed-toe pump with a 2 to 2.5 inch flared heel and an ankle strap. These are referred to as standard, court or modern dance shoes.
Latin dancers typically wear open-toed shoes or strappy sandals with a 3 inch flared heel. As you become more proficient, you can add more styles to your wardrobe.
Expect to spend about $100-175 for a good pair of ballroom shoes.
Ballroom dance shoes come in a variety of colors. Black is the most popular. Many women choose flesh-colored shoes, which help extend the leg line, for competitions.