Why are dance shoes so important? What is so special about them?
- DARA dance
- Oct 26, 2022
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 5, 2024

How many times have you asked yourselves "Why are dance shoes so important?" or “Are dance shoes really important?” or “Should I really spend money on dance shoes, even though I have shoes I can use?
In order to answer these questions, we have consulted experts and Latin dance instructors. Here are their answers:
Do I need dance shoes when I have shoes I can wear?
Whether you're dancing salsa, bachata, tango or any other kind of dances, my advice is always based on how much do you intend to dance. At the beginning of your 'dance journey', while studying the basic steps, it is perfectly acceptable to wear something you already have. However, some amateur dance shoes cost around $70 - $80 and it is not reasonable to make such an expense if you do not intend to keep dancing. After you have been dancing for 2-3 weeks and intend to keep dancing, then the 'Latin-fever' has started to overwhelm you. This is the point where I would definitely recommend that you bought dance shoes.
Although it is possible to dance while wearing some sports or casual shoes or classic heels, once you have danced with dance shoes, you will never want to dance with others again! The main problem with sports footwear is their sole - it has too much adhesion (grip) to the floor and makes it difficult not only to spin but also to step properly. And it is clear to everyone that the Latino dances do not look good with sports shoes at all. On the other hand, ordinary day-to-day footwear, even those with heels, may look acceptable, but their soles are not suitable as well. They are usually firm and smooth, so you will slide and it will be difficult to keep your balance.
The other serious problem of shoes that are not designed for dancing is that they do not have the flexibility they need and you will find it really hard and tiresome to dance with them.
Why are dance shoes so important? Do I need dance shoes?
When you go to the gym, do you need suitable shoes to run and do exercises? The answer is the same for dance shoes. :)
How are dance shoes more special than ordinary ones?
They are designed to give you comfort, support and endurance while dancing. You spend a long time on your legs and need something that will give freedom and ease to your movements and reduce the risk of slipping, falling or getting hurt.
The beauty of dance shoes is not just in their appearance – it is undeniable that these shoes look great, but it is the ease, flexibility and comfort that they give your legs that are more important.
Thanks to the suede sole, dance shoes give you the right amount of grip to move around the floor and practice your dance skills without having to think about your footwear. The suede leather sole is thin enough to feel the floor, but also padded enough to make dance classes pleasant and pain-free. The more advanced dancers know well what it means to connect to the floor. This connection cannot be achieved without suitable shoes.
How are they more special?
Well, in every way - they are simply specially designed for dancing. Much more comfortable, much lighter, much more flexible, they have the right grip with the floor and certainly the ladies who are wearing them look great on the dance floor.
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Very usefull artical!