A Beginner's Guide to Choosing the Perfect Dance Shoes

Wanna try something new? Is dancing something you are passionate about or a new skill you would like to learn? Then you've come to the right place. If you're a beginner in the dance world, you need a pair of dance shoes to showcase your new moves. 

This is where ILoveDanceShoes comes into place. We are here to guide you on the perfect pair of dance shoes and why you need a pair. 

Step 1

First, if you're just starting on the dance floor, you might be able to use a regular pair of shoes for now, but avoid shoes with rubber soles. While rubber soles may seem like a good choice, they are designed to grip the floor, which can make it difficult to glide smoothly when ballroom dancing. Instead, look for shoes with leather soles.

If you don't have any leather-soled shoes, it’s a good idea to invest in a pair of proper dance shoes. These shoes typically feature leather or suede soles, which offer a balance of grip and ease of movement, allowing you to slide gracefully across the floor.

You’ll notice that suede soles are often thin. This is intentional, as it allows the dancer to feel the floor beneath them, which helps create the fluid, controlled movements seen in dance.

Step 2

Next, consider the heel. When you’re a beginner, opt for shoes with a low heel—around 1 to 1.5 inches. Dance shoes are designed differently from regular shoes, with the heel placement tailored for movement. If you're not accustomed to this type of shoe, wearing high heels may affect your balance and make dancing more challenging. Starting with a lower heel will allow you to get comfortable with the shoes and the necessary movements, and you can gradually increase the heel height as you gain more experience.

Step 3

Lastly, focus on the fit. Your dance shoes must fit snugly. Shoes that are too loose can cause your foot to slide around, increasing your risk of tripping or injuring yourself. Your shoes should be snug enough to keep your foot in place but still comfortable enough to let your toes move slightly.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right pair of shoes is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a dancer. Since your shoes are an extension of your legs and feet—your primary tools—your first pair of dance shoes is a significant investment. Be sure to select a high-quality pair that is both comfortable and flexible, so you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort and continue progressing in your dance journey.