For Women:
Women’s
ballroom and Latin shoes are mostly available
in white satin and flesh colors. White satin
shoes should be dyed to match your flesh color
(or your hose or your fake tan color). This
general rule was made based on the concept that
matching your shoe color to your flesh color
extends your leg line. It is freeing, because
you don’t have to worry, your shoes will
go with any color costume/dress. If you get
satin shoes dirty or wet (Don’t keep water
bottles in your shoe bag!), they can be bleached
(1/3 bleach and 2/3 water) and redyed. (The
bleach smell can linger- plan to air them out).
Some floors require heel protectors. Purchase
them when you buy the shoes- about $2 to $5.
American Smooth shoes are generally 2
to 2 ½” heel, closed toed or have
a small opening at the toe (similar to wedgies),
they can have straps. I favor Supadance for
Smooth and St
andard shoes!
International Standard shoes are traditionally
closed toed without straps. You need to buy
clear stretchy plastic bands to put over the
shoes so they can stay on properly.
International Latin , American Rhythm, and Salsa shoes are generally open toed, 2 ½”
to 3”, slim or flared heel. I suggest
trying the 2 ½” inch international
IDS heels. T-strap or ankle-strap is acceptable,
wear the style that fits you best. I like International's
shoe called the "Nadia". It has an
open heel that accomodates the slight difference
in length between my feet. FYI - I have heard
several dancers complain about the closed style
heel in International being
too deep for their feet.