The best Latin dance shoes for women are open sandals with a suede sole, adjustable straps that lock the foot in place and a heel you can stay balanced on for a whole class. Start with a low to medium heel, choose a snug fit, and keep the shoes for the dance floor only.
What makes a Latin dance shoe different?
Latin dances such as salsa, bachata, cha-cha, rumba and samba are danced on the ball of the foot, with fast spins and weight changes. A Latin shoe is built for this: an open toe so the foot can spread and grip, a flexible sole that lets you point and roll through the foot, and a heel set slightly forward so your weight stays over the front of the foot.
A street sandal does none of this. Its rubber sole sticks to the floor, which makes turns harder and puts strain on the knees.
Heel height: start lower than you think
Most beginners are more comfortable on a low or medium heel. It is stable, easy on the calves and still gives the posture Latin dances need. Dancers who train several times a week often move up to a higher, slimmer heel for cha-cha, rumba and samba. Every product page states the exact heel height, so compare it with shoes you already wear comfortably.
The sole: suede for the dance floor
A suede sole glides just enough for spins and still holds when you stop. It wears quickly outside: water, grit and pavement flatten the fibres and the shoe loses its grip. Put your dance shoes on when you arrive at class, and brush the sole from time to time to lift the suede.
Straps and fit
- Ankle strap: holds the heel in place during turns. Adjustable buckles let you fine-tune the fit.
- Cross straps on the front: keep the toes from sliding forward.
- Fit: snug, with the toes reaching the edge of the sole without hanging over it. Satin and soft leather give a little with wear.
Measure your foot in centimetres, heel to longest toe, and follow the size chart on each product page. If the size is not right, the first size exchange is free.
Which materials?
Satin is light and elegant, a classic for social dancing and shows. Soft leather moulds to the foot and lasts longer for regular training. Glitter and patent finishes are made for evenings and competitions.
Our selection
See all our Latin dance shoes for women, our salsa shoes and our comfortable Latin shoes for long evenings. Not sure about your size? Read the size guide.