In order to avoid blisters, ankle injuries and cramps, there are a few things you should pay attention to while selecting your dream pair. Here is a guide on how to choose the perfect pair just for you.

It is important to protect your feet with a good pair of dance shoes. It is also our top priority to help you find the a pair of dance shoes that has the right style, heel type, and the most suiting material for your feet.

Fitting Size

1. Pick half size down to guarantee the front of your toes remain right inside the edge of your shoes
2. Pick the shoes with fitting width to your feet

The dance shoes you wear should have a snug fit. You may hurt yourself if your shoes are loose and are not strong around your lower legs when dancing. The rule of thumb is to select a half size smaller than your usual measurement. Latin dancing shoes are designed to fit wider feet, and the fabrics tend to stretch. Choosing a shorter shoe will eliminate the sensation of the shoe foot getting caught as you drag your steps. While dancing in them, you will gradually break in your shoes. With Aloriadance’s free return/ exchange policy, you’ll be able to buy with confidence and return or exchange if the shoes do not feel right.

If you choose the width, be certain there will be no spaces between your toes or around the heel. This will guarantee the shoes remain close and snug, even after extensive use. Aloriadance offers different widths to accommodate different foot shapes. Measure your feet width under our guidance before selecting appropriate width shoes.

Heel height and Tip

1. Shorter heels (2.5 or 3 inch) are suggested for beginners
2. Flare heel tip is more stable compared to other heel types

Women’s Latin dance shoes typically have a heel height of 3.5 inches, while men’s Latin dance shoes reach 2 inches. By choosing shoes with higher heels, it allows you to keep your body in best shape and balance.

Beginners should opt for shorter heels as it can take time to get used to dancing in high heels. A 2.5 to 3 inch heel is recommended.This will ensure the best balance, strength, and posture.Typically, men’s dancing shoes have a 1-inch heel for ballroom dancing, and a 1.5-inch Cuban heel is ideal for Latin dancing.

Another important feature to consider is the heel tip. Aloria offers three types of heel tips: flared, elite and slim.If you are just starting out, you should choose shoes with flare heels as they offer more stability.

Materials of shoes

1. Satin shoes are more adaptable while leather shoes are more breathable and stretchy.
2. Suede soles have better grip to the floor which avoids slip during movement

A ballroom dance shoe is usually made of a leather, suede, or patent leather material. Satin shoes are more adaptable and fit your feet more snugly than leather shoes. Shoes made of leather are more breathable and stretch with use. Suede soles will keep you stable on the dance floor and prevent slips that could occur with leather-soled Latin dance shoes. Neither vegan nor manmade materials stretch. Therefore, it is best to choose the same size you wear on the street. The material does break in after a few uses, so it will be less stiff after a while.

Suede-soled shoes usually provide a much better grip and slip resistance than leather shoes. If you dance on a wooden floor or any kind of smooth floor, a pair of dancing shoe with a suede or suede-like sole is most suitable.

Open toes or close toes

1. Open toe shoes are ideal for dances like the salsa, the rumba, and swing dancing. Closed toe shoes are advisable for the waltz and foxtrot.
2. Closed-toe shoes are recommended to beginners for better protection.

Open-toe shoes are appropriate for Latin and rhythm dances, such as Tango, Rumba and Salsa. These dances require your feet to be pointed and articulated. In open-toe shoes, the toe point can be better positioned and you have an easier time with the movements. Close-toed shoes are great for dances such as the Foxtrot and Waltz.

Choosing closed toe shoes will protect your toes if you get stepped on while learning, particularly if you are an intermediate or a beginner.

In conclusion, it is important to invest in comfortable dancing shoes. Your dancing journey will be more enjoyable if you have the right shoes. To ensure that all customers have a satisfactory shopping experience, Aloriadance offers free return or exchange for 30 days on your purchase. If you need assistance choosing shoes, please contact us.