Which shoes should I wear?

FAQ about Ballroom & Latin Dance Shoes

"Can I just wear sneakers or ballet shoes?"

Well, the answer is ultimately up to the dancer. At Oceans Dance Studio, we do not required our non-competitive dancers to wear any special shoes or dance-wear. However, we encourage each dancer to purchase a quality pair of ballroom dance shoes in order to get the most out of your lessons.

"What should I look for in Ballroom & Latin dance shoes?"

There are two main characteristics that distinguish ballroom and Latin dance shoes from other shoes and your "street" shoes. SUEDES SOLES and FLEXIBILITY. Suede soles allow you to "glide" and "spin" across the floor easily and smoothly to create that professional, graceful look. The flexibility of the shoes allows your feet to straighten, point and grip the floor in ways that are necessary to execute beautifully. Another great aspect of quality dance shoes is a double-cushion sole---this will help keep your feet and knees comfy after hours of dancing! Our partner Stephanie Pearl Shoes offers a full line of Very Fine DanceSport shoes, the majority of which include a double-cushion in the sole! Click here to schedule a shoe fitting.

"Which shoes should I wear for XXXX dance? Why are some open-toed and some closed? Does it matter? What about the heel?"

YES, it does matter! Closed toes shoes are primarily for Smooth Dancing (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot) while open-toed shoes are reserved for Latin & Rhythm dances (Cha Cha, Rumba, Swing, Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Hustle, etc,.). For ladies, we suggest no more than a 2.5" heel when learning.

Q: Does our first dance have to be a traditional slow dance?
A: What to do for your first dance?  A question you may have been asking yourself since you started planning your wedding.  And Oceans Dance Studio knows every couple wants that first dance to be memorable. The traditional dance with your spouse for the first time doesn’t have to be so “traditional”.  There are so many options to choose from.  We can help tailor one that fits your personality, style, and vision best.  At Oceans Dance Studio, we provide a free consultation to help you.  And as icing on the cake,  taking dance lessons with your significant other creates a synergy and intimacy that can be carried out throughout your life together.