Which shoes?

What shoes should I wear to dance class?

For your first Ballroom or Latin Class, it's not neccessary to buy new shoes. Chances are you can find something appropriate in your closet at home.

Women

- Wear a pair of shoes that you would wear to go out dancing (makes sense, doesn't it?!).
- Choosing something with a bit of a heel will help to put your weight on the ball of your foot. Use your judgement in choosing the right height of heel - even an inch will help to shift your weight, but you are probably better off without your 3" stilettos.
- Even if you usually wear a platform shoe to add a little height, stay away from them for dance class. A thinner sole will help your contact with the floor, and greatly minimize the risk of twisting your ankle.
- A shoe with a closed toe (as opposed to an open sandal or peep toe) takes the pressure off your partner if he accidentally steps forward with the wrong foot.
- You're going to be stepping forward and backward, so avoid slip-on mules and backless shoes.

Men

- Basically, your instructor will be happy if you don't wear running shoes (in the summer, that goes for sandals too).
- A pair of 'dress' shoes (basic oxford style laced shoes) is perfect.
- Like your female counterparts, a bit of a heel is good (half an inch will do it) as is a leather sole (as opposed to rubber which tends to stick to the floor).
- Basic rule of thumb - if your shoes squeak, choose a different pair.

When it's time to invest in a pair of dance shoes, there are a lot of styles to choose from.