The 7 Best Ballroom Dance Shoes of 2022

Perhaps you’ll agree with me if I say, Dancing in a ballroom is difficult if you don’t have the right shoes. And you’ll need a right pair of shoe every time whether you perform:

  • Standard ballroom dance styles like the Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep or.
  • Latin ballroom dance styles such as Pasodoble, Cuban Bolero, Spanish Bolero, Samba, Rhumba, Mambo, Cha-cha.

That’s why putting on proper ballroom dance shoes is crucial to achieving the dance perfect steps and delivery that will lead to outstanding performance.

Such comfortable, ballroom dancing shoes will make you feel relaxed and confident while doing what you love best.

Our ultimate review of the 7 Best Ballroom Dance Shoes of 2022 will help you select the best pick and ease your shopping experience while cutting out the confusion.

We’ve done all the work by reviewing and analyzing their shoe’s design, durability, price, and features.

Top on the list for men is the Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe, and for the ladies, the CLEECLI Women’s Ballroom Dance Shoes is the hottest pick among the lot.

What to Look Out for Before Buying Ballroom Dance Shoes

Sole

To get the best use out of your ballroom dance shoes, it must have the right type of sole.

This requirement is crucial if you want to avoid heel spur injuries.

While some are made from resin or leather, suede remains the best sole because it offers the right traction and resistance when gliding on the dance floor, especially for professional dancing.

Suede sole is durable, and that makes shoes made with them to last much longer.

A sturdy but light and flexible sole is vital as it aids you to pivot well when making your moves during a performance.

Size

Getting the right fit with your Ballroom dance shoe is a function of the size you end up purchasing.

Always select the size that will fit your feet without being too snugly tight since your feet must get the right amount of air when you are dancing.

The width of the shoe must be moderate enough to accommodate your feet, so you don’t feel pain after a dance routine.

Whereas it is easier to have a shoe fitting session when shopping instore, the reverse is the case with shopping online.

It is advisable to crosscheck size charts before placing your online order.

Getting the sizing right will determine the proper fitting to avoid slips and accidents on the dance floor.

Functionality

Choosing a pair of ballroom dance shoes while considering the various shapes, styles, designs, quality, and the price will depend on the purpose you want it to serve.

  • Are you a newbie dancer or a professional?
  • Do you want to dance daily or weekly?
  • On what kind of floor will you be dancing?

Providing answers such questions will help you when making the selection decision.

Comfort

As far as dancing is concerned, comfort is everything. Your poise and grace will shine only when you are comfortable in the shoes.

As such, buying the right design with the right material and the proper fitting is critical.

Remember that putting an extra insole in your dance shoes will keep you comfortable if dancing for a long time.

In other words, comfortability on the dance floor helps to prevent soreness to the feet and ankle.

Heel to ankle support

While you may want to look elegant by putting on a high heel shoe, you need to consider your safety when twirling, turning and twisting on the dance floor.

For a newbie dancer, the heel should be low, so the ankle can get the right support for balancing.

The right heel height is very crucial to maintain stability and prevent back pain as a result of slipping and falling while performing a routine.

Flexibility

While dance shoes may be made from 100% leather, patent leather, canvas or satin material, the key to achieving flexibility is to select the one made from plain but high-quality leather.

The best ballroom dance shoes are made from lightweight materials to aid the flexibility of dancer.

Safety

The right shoe is the one that will give the needed support and protection to your toes, feet, and ankle during practice or professional performance.

Women dancers should consider buying closed-toe shoes to protect their toenails from innocent injury by their partner when dancing.

Whether you are a male or female dancer, always go for comfortable ballroom dancing shoes that have proper arch support for your feet.

The Different Types of Ballroom Dance Shoes

  • Latin Ballroom Shoes
  • Practice Shoes
  • Standard Ballroom Shoes

Latin Ballroom Shoes

The Latin ballroom shoes are available for men and women.

Whereas the women variants are commonly opened-toe sandal or pump secured with an ankle-strap with heels of 1”-3”, men’s Latin shoes, commonly referred to as Cuban heels, can be as high as 1.5”.

The shoes are flexible and light since they are manufactured with leather and suede soles.

Men wear them to competitions showcasing American or International Latin dance styles.

It comes in black and white for men, and brown for women.

Newbies and professionals can make use of Latin ballroom shoes comfortably.

Practice Shoes

Since you can’t wake up and start ballroom-dancing with bare feet, you need to practice with proper shoes.

So, you need practice shoes that are made with either suede or rubber soles to allow for flexibility at the arch so you can point your toes.

These shoes are available in 1” heel for men or 2”-2.5” for women and are flexible to assist in pivoting during practice.

However, you can likewise use a dance sneaker to start your ballroom dancing journey.

Standard Ballroom Shoes

When looking for shoes that will allow you to take short walking steps while on heels, the standard ballroom shoes fit the bill.

Since they have 1” heel and 2.5” heel for men and women, respectively, they allow for smooth movement, stability, and balance required at international ballroom dances.

For females, they come in flesh-colored satin to match the skin or in vibrant colors to match their ensembles; for men, it comes in black.

The female folk also have the privilege of having it in closed-toe, and with or without straps.

The standard ballroom shoes are perfect for new dancers and professionals.

Best Ballroom Dance Shoes

NamePriceMade ofSole
Capezio Men's SD103 Social Dance ShoeCheck PriceSyntheticSuede
Bloch Dance Men's Xavier Ballroom ShoeCheck PriceLeatherSuede
CLEECLI Women's Ballroom Dance ShoesCheck PriceSatin & MeshLeather
TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance ShoesCheck PriceSatinSuede
OCHENTA Women's Sequined Leather Pointed Toe Dance ShoesCheck PricePU LeatherFaux suede
NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin ShoesCheck PriceLeatherSuede
DLisiting Latin Dance Shoes MensCheck PriceLeatherSuede

1. Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe

Capezio Men's SD103 Social Dance Shoe

The Capezio brand is a favorite of dance enthusiasts when it comes to selecting comfortable ballroom dancing shoes.

The Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe is not an exemption but one of the very best the manufacturer ever created.

This particular design considers the beginner and the professional who requires a pair of dance shoes what will give them the right ankle support yet still enjoy flexibility.

The use of padded collar folded edges and is one feature that ensures the dancer is comfortable at all times.

This feature is essential for people suffering from Achilles tendonitis.

The shoelace ensures it latches perfectly on the feet of the dancer at all times so they can get the needed traction while dancing.

Top Features

  • 1” heel
  • Flexible Suede Sole
  • ¾ “Shank for flexibility
  • Long-lasting upper leather

Pros

  • It has a cotton lining that absorbs moisture
  • Presence of a sponge-like insole to absorb shock
  • Durable heel counter to get the right support for the ankle
  • Price is perfect for the quality

Cons

  • It is not wide
  • Inaccurate sizing
  • It is not available in arrays of colors

The Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe is a perfect fit for dancers with narrow feet anytime, any day as if fits them well.

Want to try some aerobic dance moves this weekend? Click here for the best aerobic shoes in town.

2. Bloch Dance Men’s Xavier Ballroom Shoe

Bloch Dance Men's Xavier Ballroom Shoe

The Bloch Dance Men’s Xavier Ballroom Shoe is perfect for men who want to look elegant on the dance floor.

Its unique Oxford format gives it that traditional Latin ballroom shoe feels loved by dancers. This piece matches any tuxedo shoe designed for ballroom dancing.

Since the heel is low and wide, it provides the needed support required when performing a demi-pointe dance style and likewise enjoying flexibility while at it.

The use of a cushioned insole ensures your feet are as comfortable as possible while providing the essential protection to the metatarsals when you are delivering different ballroom dance styles of your choice.

When looking for a great pair of dance shoes for beginners, Bloch Dance Men’s Xavier Ballroom Shoe comes highly recommended.

Top Features

  • Leather is 100% full grain
  • Suede sole
  • Wide low heel

Pros

  • A low shank which gives support to the arch
  • Cushioned insole to absorb shock
  • Possession of a full suede outsole which allows for smooth sliding
  • It is durable and comfortable
  • Exceptional quality at an affordable price

Cons

  • The heel does not align properly
  • Irregularity in the shape of the shoe
  • It doesn’t come in regular street shoe size

Coming from a reputable, high-quality footwear company, Bloch Dance Men’s Xavier Ballroom Shoe is a must-have in the wardrobe of a shoe lover.

This feature is a significant criterion for qualifying among the list of 7 in this category.

3. CLEECLI Women’s Ballroom Dance Shoes

CLEECLI Women's Ballroom Dance Shoes

The CLEECLI Women’s Ballroom Dance Shoes stands out in any list curating dance shoes.

It is always a spectacle to behold when worn for professional or amateur ballroom dance, weddings, evening parties, or for regular dance practice.

This diversity in use is possible considering the quality of materials used in manufacturing the fabulous pair, giving you the needed comfort and support on or off the dance floor.

With its moderate heels design, you can enjoy elegance on the dance floor without fear of surgery after slipping on your ankle, especially if you are a beginner.

Its lightweight material makes the wearer as comfortable as possible when performing different routines on the dance floor.

Top Features

  • 2.5”-3” heels
  • Satin and mesh materials
  • 100% leather sole
  • High elastic midsole
  • Soft lining
  • Top-quality satin upper

Pros

  • It has suede insole to absorb moisture
  • Available in attractive colors
  • Comfortable and a great fit
  • It makes you feel elegant on the dance floor
  • It is quite affordable

Cons

  • Thin ankle strap
  • It has a thin sole

This shoe is a high-performance shoe and sure does qualify to be among the list given its fantastic stability on the feet.

The mesh between the straps keeps the toes together, giving your feet a beautiful look.

4. TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes

TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes

The Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes is a product of TTdancewear known for the production of quality ballroom footwear for beginners and professionals alike.

With its quick-release buckles, you can put it on and off while on stage.

You can own this beautiful and fabulous ballroom dance shoes in different colors to fit your dance ensemble.

The suede sole makes it easy to glide around the dance floor with the right traction without fear of losing your footing or balance.

Top Features

  • 2.5” to 3” heels
  • Suede sole
  • Flexible and Lightweight materials
  • Shining Rhinestones

Pros

  • Available in a wide array of colors
  • Excellent quality at an affordable price
  • The heels give perfect support to the ankle
  • The quick-release buckle makes it fit well
  • It has insole padding for comfortability

Cons

  • You can’t stand with the shoe for an extended period
  • Heels can detach within a short time of use

The TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes is, perhaps, the shoe for women with wide feet because of its spacious toe base and long ankle straps.

So, when you are thinking of comfort, style, and price before choosing comfortable ballroom dancing shoes, you won’t go wrong with this pair, especially when you have them in different colors in your collection.

5. OCHENTA Women’s Sequined Leather Pointed Toe Dance Shoes

OCHENTA Women's Sequined Leather Pointed Toe Dance Shoes

Lovers of Salsa will find this piece super comfortable. The shoe’s closed and pointed toe presentation and perfect heels make it a great pair to put on during a dance session as it offers protection to the toes while attracting the right attention to the feet.

It has a suede outsole suitable for practicing your dancing skills at home while the rubber outsole is perfect for those moments when you want to dance at a party or on stage.

You will have a great time sliding and drifting on a smooth dance surface considering the softness of the suede that makes it an all-purpose dance shoe.

The adjustable buckle ensures it is well secured to your feet, keeping you safe and comfortable.

Top Features

  • Suede insole
  • 1.3” Heels
  • Cross strap
  • Suede or rubber outsole
  • Glittery and Shiny

Pros

  • The two different types of outsole make it versatile
  • The lightweight materials make it comfortable on the feet
  • It provides foot and arch support
  • Five glittering colors to choose from

Cons

  • The straps are too lengthy

OCHENTA Women’s Sequined Leather Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Latin Ballroom Dance Shoes comes highly recommended as one of the very best ballroom dance shoes for beginners.

Almost every user, beginner, or expert that has reviewed it so far finds the heels super comfortable.

Note that this shoe is suitable for all your occasions; a truly quality pair of shoes at an affordable price.

6. NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes

NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes

If you are a man that loves your feet to look good while giving a swell performance on the dance floor, NLeahershoe Breathable Lace-up Dancing Leather Latin Shoes will blow your mind.

It has got the right appeal and features to meet your dancing needs when it comes to dancing.

It is no wonder it got on the list of the 7 best ballroom dancing shoes of the year.

This pair is an excellent choice for professionals and newbies alike and is perfect for all kinds of dances.

The anti-slip outsole gives you the needed balance and confidence required to move without fear of a fall on the dancefloor.

With the air holes on it, you are sure of breathable space for your feet. This feature helps to prevent the buildup of moisture that can damage the pair.

Top Features

  • 100% leather
  • Lightweight outsole
  • Anti-slip outsole
  • Suede Outsole
  • Breathable leather design

Pros

  • The soft leather material used makes it light on the feet
  • It is easy to slip in and out between sessions
  • It is of high quality for its price

Cons

  • Short laces
  • It has a pungent smell
  • Available only in black
  • It is not suitable for a daily heavy dance session

Are you looking for excellent quality, great look, and a great price? Then you are on the right track with this well-designed dancewear with a functional floor feel, if you don’t mind the drawbacks.

7. DLisiting Latin Dance Shoes Men’s

DLisiting Latin Dance Shoes Mens

Are you in need of comfortable ballroom dancing shoes that give the right support? Then look no further than DLisiting Latin Dance Shoes Mens Ballroom Leather Modern Dancing Shoes Black with its low heel.

It is ideal for various dancing styles such as Latin, modern, and ballroom dancing.

It is much easier to pivot with than most other dance shoes, and dancers with wide feet find this shoe suitable for them.

Wide-feet-dancers looking for the right shoe with arch support will find this pair extremely functional.

Top Features

  • 1” heel
  • Suede sole
  • Soft Leather
  • Snug-fit
  • Leather upper

Pros

  • The suede bottom grip gives the right amount of slip and slide required on the dance floor
  • It is easy to slip on and off between routine
  • Great price for its quality

Cons

  • The heel is not sturdy
  • Irregular size

DLisiting Latin Dance Shoes Mens Ballroom Leather Modern Dancing Shoes Black is a versatile shoe that suits most foot shapes.

You can also gift it as a dress shoe for your male teen who loves dancing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. Why do you need ballroom dance shoes?

A. Whether you enjoy dancing a lot – especially at social events, want to take up dancing as a career, or you want to enter a dance competition as an amateur, you do need to wear dance shoes.

The essence of this is to protect you from injuring your knee or ankle when trying to spin using a regular everyday pair of shoes that are not made with a suede, leather, or rubber sole.

The style of your ballroom dance will also determine your choice of shoes; considering its purpose – for practice, Latin dance or the standard ballroom dance.

Knowing your purpose for dancing will help you to pick the right fit, style, shape, and quality.

Q. There are so many brands of ballroom dance shoes, how do I know the right one?

A. When choosing the right type of ballroom dance shoes, comfort, and flexibility must be the watchword.

You must also take note of the ones that are light and will not slip off your feet when dancing.

Always go for those with suede or leather soles which allows you to execute turns, spins, and twirls with ease and finesse.

The shape of your feet, which may be narrow or wide, is also a vital consideration.

Never forget that the price and quality of materials used are important factors when shopping for a first-rate ballroom dance shoe.

Always see your spending on the right dance shoe as an investment!

Q. How do you get the right fit for your feet?

A. Getting a snug fit for your feet is dependent on the size and shape of your feet.

Try attending a shoe-fitting session at a physical store where you will be able to try on as many as possible to get the right feel and fit with the help of professionals.

If you are shopping online, do consult a shoe size chart and pick either size up or down. If it doesn’t fit when delivered, do return it in exchange for the right size.

Wearing the right fit and size of dance shoes helps prevent avoidable injuries to the toes and ankle.

Knowing that your shoes fit appropriately provides that extra confidence deliver a wow performance.

Q. What type of heel should you consider in a ballroom dance shoe?

A. You must know that there is a difference in height, shape, and feel of heels for both male and female dance shoes.

Whereas professionals can use a higher height heel to get a more extended leg feel or a more delightful foot point, neophytes should stick to low heels to reduce strain on their ankles and knees.

While a slim heel allows you to move and turn well, a flared heel gives the required stability needed to achieve some intricate dance moves.

Nonetheless, your dancing style and floor type is the ultimate decider of the kind and height of your comfortable ballroom dancing shoes.

Q. How do you care for your ballroom dance shoe?

A. Seeing your Ballroom dance shoe as an investment will ensure you give it the needed attention and care required before and after use.

You are not meant to wear them as an everyday slipper or shoe if you want it to last long and serve its purpose.

Make use of a soft-bristled brush to brush the suede of the shoes after each use, considering that dirt will make it leathery and hard.

A leathery and hard dance shoe will make you vulnerable to slipping on stage.

On the other hand, brush the soles with a hard-bristled brush.

As a lady, do not forget to buy heel protectors or guards (in different shapes) for your shoes to prevent them from damaging occasioned by frequent use.

Using heel protection enables you to have more traction on the dance floor.

Conclusion

Ballroom dance enthusiasts want the best when it comes to the shape, aesthetic value, size, and colors to choose.

This combination makes them spectacular, with an exquisite look from head to toe without breaking the bank.

To achieve this elegance, a comfortable ballroom dancing shoe must offer the right support and protection to the feet and ankle while also providing durability.

With this in place, you are free to spread your wings and dance to your heart’s delight on the dance floor knowing that any among the top 7 in our carefully reviewed list is good enough to meet your needs.

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