I recently started a latin dance class and I do not know what kind of shoes to get for the right support.?

Answer 1

I wore mid-height heels when we went (this was a while back). But I did that so I could get used to dancing in them because of the attire that's normally worn while doing so. I'm sure it wreaked havoc on my feet and any orthopedist would probably have slapped me for doing so. For some reason, I just couldn't see myself wearing flats with those types of dresses. Stubborn? Yes, I know...
*sigh*

Answer 2

If you are dancing in at a studio or somewhere with a good floor it is probably worth investing in dance shoes. All good dance shoes have a suede bottom and a steel shank for support. For men's shoes Latin shoes have a higher narrower heel (refered to as a cuban heel) or a combination smooth/cuban heel that is somewhere in between. The latter is more useful if you plan to take some smooth/standard lessons as well Latin. The reason for the difference in heels has a lot to do with the type of leads in genre of dance. In smooth or standard, all the leads are heel leads, so a wider flatter heel is required. In latin and rhythm, toe leads are used and cuban motion is desireable so a narrower higher heel is advisable. Ladies shoes have different heel heights as well. Check out some manufacturers web sites. FYI dance shoes can be pricey so you might want to wait until you are quite sure you want to continue taking lessons. Otherwise, a good thin soled leather dress shoe will likely work fine.

Answer 3

Latin shoes have short shank that allows you to point your toes. Other types of shoes may or may not have a proper shank. Shank - its lenght and its shape - is what gives you the proper support. Some men's latin shoes are made with soft shank, that's OK if your feet can take it. Ladies sandals have to have hard metal shank or else they fall apart too soon and/or cause foot injuries because they are so open - they don't provide much support from the sides.

If you a lady and you are just starting out you might want to buy practice shoes, especially if you are concerned with support. They look like this:http://www.dance-shop.com/acatalog/Dance_Shop_Practice_and_Teaching_Shoes_25.html If you are pretty comfortable with heels - buy Latin sandals. It must be open toe.
Looks like this:http://www.featherdanceshoes.com/xcart/home.php?cat=5
Good barnds are Supadance, International and Dance Naturals (preofessional quality) they also have pretty decent knowck-offs like Stephanie and Dance Amo

If you are a guy - buy Men's Latin shoes. Looks like this: http://www.dance-shop.com/acatalog/Dance_Shop_Men_s_Latin_Shoes_24.htmlThe heels are there to position your weight properly, not to make you look taller.

The shape of the heel and style of the shoe has to do more with where your weight ends up being placed and what type of posture does the shoe encourage you to take, not with the toe or heel leads, like one of the answers said. Toe and heel leads are the corollary, not the reason.

Anything you buy - you should be able to place your weight on the front part of your foot comfortably, you must be able to point your foot as hard as you possibly can without the shoe preventing you and your feet shouldn't wable when you are trying to stand still.

Whatever you buy - do not buy Capezio Latin sandals. They are aweful, they don't have proper shank. They wear out too quickly and don't support your foot properly.

Answer 4

Capezio's make the best dance shoes around. I would go for the theatrical heels, they are designed for support but still look elegant. Capezio also makes special Latin t-strap sandals (check under Dancesport)
They are a wee bit expensive but you can check for them on ebay too.
http://www.capeziodance.com

Answer 5

Salsa shoes or dance shoes are best. They weigh so little, and have a leather sole for easier spins.
http://www.exoticsalsashoes.com/
Remember: CLOSED toes for lessons and practice.
OPEN toes for clubbing or dances.