Dancing is all about movement, rhythm, and expression. But did you know that your dance shoes play a huge role in how well you perform on the dance floor? Whether you’re dancing salsa, bachata, kizomba, or linedance, having the right shoes can make all the difference.
At iDance, we see every day how the right footwear enhances both comfort and performance for dancers of all levels. Many of our students ask us which dance shoes are best for our classes, so we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the perfect pair.
Best dance shoe brands for different styles
If you’re looking to invest in a quality pair of dance shoes, here are some well-known brands that we often recommend to our students:
- Bloch – Great for dancers looking for flexible jazz sneakers and lightweight heels for salsa and bachata. Many of our beginner students choose Bloch for their comfort and durability.
- Supadance – A popular choice for social dancing and competitions, particularly for salsa and bachata dancers. These shoes provide excellent support and smooth gliding.
- Capezio – Offers everything from jazz sneakers to ballroom and linedance shoes. We often recommend Capezio for our linedance students.
- Ray Rose – A high-quality brand for Latin dance styles, favored by advanced dancers who need extra stability and comfort.
- Werner Kern – Elegant yet comfortable shoes for social dance and kizomba. Many of our kizomba students prefer Werner Kern for their soft, flexible feel.
- Sansha – A great option for dancers who need lightweight and breathable shoes, ideal for salsa and kizomba.
- Freed of London – A solid choice for dancers looking for classic ballroom or Latin shoes with soft soles.
Not sure which shoes are best for your dance style? Ask us at iDance. We’re happy to help our students find the perfect fit.
Why are dance shoes important?
You might be able to dance in regular sneakers or high heels, but dance shoes are designed to enhance your technique, balance, and overall experience. The right pair can help prevent slipping, reduce strain on your feet, and allow you to spin effortlessly.
Many of our students who start dancing in regular sneakers quickly realize how much easier and more enjoyable dancing becomes when they switch to proper dance shoes.
What to Look for When Choosing Dance Shoes
1. The Right Sole – Balance Between Grip and Glide
Different dance styles require different types of soles:
- Suede or leather soles – Ideal for salsa, bachata, and kizomba. They provide a great balance between grip and glide, allowing for smooth turns.
- Plastic or synthetic soles – Suitable for linedance and some jazz shoes but may be too sticky for social dancing.
- Rubber soles – Great for street dance and outdoor use but can cause too much friction on a dance floor.
Our recommendation: For salsa and bachata, we suggest suede or leather soles since they provide the perfect mix of control and mobility.
2. Proper Fit – Snug but Comfortable
- Your shoes should fit securely without pinching your feet.
- For heels: Open-toe styles offer more flexibility, while closed-toe shoes provide extra stability.
- For dance sneakers: Look for lightweight shoes with good support but without excessive grip.
For kizomba dancers, we recommend soft, cushioned shoes with flexible soles to allow fluid movements and close connection with the floor.
Best Dance Shoes for Each Style
Salsa & Bachata
Salsa and bachata demand smooth turns and precise footwork, so you’ll need shoes that allow easy movement without sticking to the floor.
- For women: Lightweight heels with suede or thin leather soles (3-6 cm heel height). Ankle support is essential for stability.
- For men: Latin dance shoes with a low heel and thin soles for better balance. Avoid sneakers with too much grip, as they can make turns harder.
Many of our salsa students prefer Supadance or Werner Kern shoes for their comfort and ease of movement.
Kizomba
Kizomba is all about fluidity and control, requiring shoes that allow you to glide smoothly across the floor without slipping.
- For women: Low heels or flat shoes with flexible soles.
- For men: Soft, lightweight dance shoes or loafers that provide a slight glide but still offer stability.
Our kizomba students often choose Werner Kern or Freed of London for their balance between comfort and flexibility.
Linedance
Linedance involves a lot of weight shifts and quick movements, so stability is key.
- Cowboy boots are a classic choice, but lightweight sneakers with good arch support also work well.
- Avoid heavy rubber soles, as they can make turning difficult.
Capezio and Bloch are popular choices among our linedance students for their durability and comfort.
iDance’s Final Tips for Choosing the Best Dance Shoes
- Always wear your dance shoes indoors – Dance floors are designed for proper footwear, so using the right shoes protects both your feet and the floor.
- Replace your shoes when the soles wear out – A worn-out sole can reduce traction and affect your technique.
- Prioritize comfort over appearance – Stylish shoes are great, but if they hurt your feet, you won’t enjoy dancing in them.
Most importantly, have fun. The right shoes help you focus on dancing instead of your feet.
