Best Ballroom Dance Shoes for Women: Your Guide to Women’s Dancing Latin and Ballroom Shoes
Hello everyone! Throughout my journey, I’ve seen firsthand how the right pair of dance shoes can transform a dancer’s performance and confidence on the dance floor.
In this blog post, I’ll share my top recommendations for women’s ballroom dance shoes, drawing from experience and the feedback from my students. Let’s step into the world of ballroom shoes and find the perfect pair for you!
Comparison Table of Top Brands
| Brand | Key Features | Average Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very Fine | Durable, Comfortable, Wide Range | $80 – $150 | ★★★★☆ |
| Werner Kern | Exceptional Craftsmanship, Professional Fit | $100 – $200 | ★★★★★ |
| Capezio | Innovative Designs, High-Quality Materials | $90 – $180 | ★★★★☆ |
| SupaDance | Elegant, Comfortable | $85 – $160 | ★★★★☆ |
| Ray Rose | Stylish Designs, Superior Comfort | $95 – $170 | ★★★★☆ |
Leading Brands of Ballroom Dance Shoes
1. Very Fine
For ladies looking for stylish, comfortable, and high-performance ballroom dance shoes, the Very Fine Ladies Vienna Ballroom Smooth Tango Waltz Dance Shoe is an excellent choice.
These shoes come with built-in memory foam cushioning, offering significant comfort and support, especially for dancers with narrow feet.
The arch support and premium natural suede sole provide excellent traction and smooth sliding on the dance floor.
Made from high-quality materials that mold to your foot’s shape, these shoes offer a personalized fit. The high-quality leather finish adds to their aesthetic appeal.
While some users with wider feet have reported fit issues, most praise the Vienna Ballroom Shoes for their comfort and elegant design. They are a favorite among dance enthusiasts.
Best For: Ladies with narrow feet seeking stylish, comfortable, and high-performance ballroom shoes.
Pros:
- Built-in memory foam cushioning for exceptional comfort.
- High-quality natural suede sole ensures optimal traction and smooth sliding.
- Elegant design with a high-quality leather finish.
Cons:
- Fit issues for individuals with wider feet.
- Narrow footbeds may not accommodate all foot shapes.
- Some users experienced gaps at the back of the shoe.
2. Werner Kern
The Werner Kern Ashley Dance Shoes in suede black epitomize outstanding Italian craftsmanship and quality. Made from premium suede, these shoes are designed for elegance and durability on the dance floor.
They feature precise dimensions for a comfortable fit and are ideal for women who demand both style and performance in their dance footwear.
Pros:
- High-quality suede material
- Excellent craftsmanship from Italy
- Comfortable fit with precise dimensions
- Durable and elegant design
Cons:
- Limited color options (only available in black suede)
- Higher price point due to premium materials and craftsmanship
3. Capezio
Ideal for women seeking both comfort and stability during dance practice, the Capezio women’s Practice 1 Ballroom Shoe features a lightweight canvas design, a secure lace-up front, and a sturdy chunky heel.
The suede sole ensures smooth gliding on the dance floor, suitable for both practice and performance.
Capezio, established by Salvatore Capezio in 1887, has a long history of innovation in dance footwear. This model reflects their commitment to quality and functionality.
Customers appreciate the good arch support and comfort during long sessions. Some, however, suggest ordering a half-size larger due to a narrow toe box.
There are occasional concerns about the durability of the suede sole, with reports of wear after minimal use.
Best For: Women seeking comfortable and stable footwear for dance practice and performance.
Pros:
- Lightweight canvas design
- Secure lace-up front for a custom fit
- Good arch support and comfort during long sessions
Cons:
- Sizing discrepancies; consider ordering a half-size larger
- Initial tightness, especially in the toe box
- Concerns about the durability of the suede sole
4. SupaDance Style 1012 – Flesh Sateen Leather
Crafted for dedicated dancers, the Style 1012 ballroom shoes in flesh sateen leather offer both elegance and performance. These shoes are perfect for women seeking comfort and style on the dance floor.
The shoes feature a round toe design and a horizontal strap with an oval diamante buckle for secure fastening. The high-quality sateen leather upper gives a satin-like shine, while the suede sole provides excellent performance.
Lightweight construction and a memory foam insole guarantee comfort during extended wear. These shoes are available in regular, wide, and extra wide fittings to suit all foot shapes.
With a heel height of 2 ½ inches, the Style 1012 provides both grace and stability.
Best For: Dancers looking for a blend of elegance, comfort, and performance on the dance floor.
Pros:
- Sateen leather offers a satin-like shine.
- Memory foam insole ensures comfort during long wear.
- Available in various width fittings to suit different foot shapes.
Cons:
- Made to order, requiring 4-6 weeks for manufacturing, and are non-returnable.
- Import duties may apply for international shipments.
- Dance shoes have a shorter lifespan compared to standard sports or fashion shoes.
5. Ray Rose 102 Missouri Flesh Satin Standard Dance Shoes
The Missouri Flesh Satin Standard Dance Shoes are an excellent choice for professional and competitive dancers who need both elegance and functionality. They come with non-slip heel tips and a supportive antibacterial lining.
Made from soft flesh-tone satin and mesh, these shoes have a round toe with a V-shaped throat for a snug, comfortable fit. They are available in sizes from UK 2.5 to 7.5, with either 2-inch or 2.5-inch flared heels.
The multi-use wrap-around ankle strap and Ray Rose logo buckle add a touch of sophistication, while the latex inner sock enhances comfort. Priced at €107.50 excluding VAT, these shoes showcase the brand’s commitment to high-quality craftsmanship.
Best For: Professional and competitive dancers needing elegant, high-quality ballroom shoes.
Pros:
- Non-slip heel tips for safety
- Soft, supportive antibacterial lining for comfort
- Multiple sizes and heel options
Cons:
- Higher price at €107.50 excluding VAT
- Limited to flesh-tone satin and mesh material
- Specific to standard ballroom dance, not versatile for other styles
Varieties of Ballroom Dance Shoes
Ballroom dance shoes come in various styles, each designed to cater to different types of dances and preferences. Here are the main types:
- Latin Shoes: These shoes typically have an open-toe design and a higher heel, providing the flexibility and support needed for fast-paced Latin dances like salsa and cha-cha.
- Standard (Smooth) Shoes: These shoes usually have a closed-toe design and a lower heel, offering stability and comfort for dances like waltz and foxtrot.
- Practice Shoes: Designed for long practice sessions, these shoes often have a lower heel and extra cushioning to ensure comfort and support.
- Teaching Shoes: Similar to practice shoes, teaching shoes are designed for instructors who spend long hours on their feet. They offer additional support and comfort.
Key Features and Qualities
When selecting ballroom dance shoes, it’s essential to consider the following features and qualities:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Most ballroom dance shoes are made of leather or satin, providing durability and a sleek appearance. |
| Heel Type | Heels come in various styles, including flared, slim, and Cuban. Flared heels offer more stability, while slim heels provide a more elegant look. |
| Heel Height | Heel heights vary from low (1-2 inches) to high (3-4 inches). The choice depends on the dancer’s comfort and the type of dance. |
| Sole | Suede soles are common in ballroom dance shoes as they provide the right amount of grip and slide on the dance floor. |
| Fit | A snug fit is crucial for control and precision. It’s recommended to try on shoes in person to ensure the best fit. |
| Arch Support | Good arch support is essential for preventing foot fatigue and ensuring comfort during long dance sessions. |
Expert Insights
Here are some expert tips to help you choose the perfect pair of ballroom dance shoes:
- Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try on dance shoes in person to ensure the best fit and comfort.
- Consider the Dance Style: Choose shoes that are specifically designed for the type of dance you will be performing.
- Check the Heel Height: Select a heel height that you are comfortable with and that suits your dance style.
- Look for Quality Materials: Invest in shoes made from high-quality materials for durability and performance.
- Prioritize Comfort: Ensure the shoes provide adequate support and cushioning to keep your feet comfortable during long dance sessions.
Why Trust Ballroom Dance Planet and Jonathan Enrique
Jonathan Enrique, is a seasoned ballroom dance instructor, performer, and industry expert, has dedicated years to perfecting his craft. Drawing on his extensive experience and knowledge, Jonathan has meticulously researched, tested, and recommended countless dance shoes over the years. He advises his students to prioritize proper fit and reputable brands to ensure both comfort and performance on the dance floor.
Conclusion
Investing in the right pair of ballroom dance shoes can significantly enhance your performance and comfort on the dance floor. By considering the top brands, types, and essential features outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision and find the perfect pair of dance shoes for your needs.
