What shoes to learn to dance salsa?

You start in salsa And you wonder Which shoes to choose To be comfortable on the dance floor? You are already passionate by this dance but seek to perfect your movements Thanks to a suitable pair? This article guides you step by step!

7.5 cm heeled dance shoes are an excellent compromise to combine elegance, stability and comfort. This heel height can easily switch back and forth back and transfer your weight from one foot to another without imbalance, even during quick trips and rotations.

Whether you are a beginner or a dancer confirmed, choosing the right shoes is essential to progress and take full advantage of each step.

In this article, you will learn:

  • Why specific shoes are essential for salsa.
  • The models adapted according to the types of salsa and your level.
  • Our tips for making the right choice and shining on the track!

Ready to find the ideal pair and to enter the dance?

Why have shoes suitable for salsa?

1. Mean the specific movements

    Salsa is a demanding dance that combines rapid rotations, of the Fluid movements and constant weight changes. These movements require shoes designed for:

    • Support flexibility: A flexible sole naturally follows the movements of the foot without constraint.

    • Offer a controlled slide: The suede or leather soles allow you to rotate easily without losing your balance.

    • Guarantee stability: A good shoe structure helps maintain a correct posture during quick movements.

    2.Limit the impact of bad shoes

      Wearing unsuitable shoes can quickly drag your progress and cause physical discomfort

      Here are the main risks:

      A. Frequent lords
      • Sprains due to excessive or insufficient adhesion.
      • Blouns or pains caused by bad adjustment.
      B.
        • Unable to correctly execute the "spins".
        • Unstable or unbalanced posture that increases fatigue during sessions.


        Salsa shoes types

        What types of salsa shoes to choose?

        The choice of salsa shoes is a key step to guarantee comfort, stability and performance on the track. According to the salsa type that you practice and your level, different types of shoes can meet your needs.

        1. Cuban salsa shoes

        There Cuban salsa is characterized by circular movements and fast foot games which are often close to the ground. Interaction with the partner is essential, which requires fluid and stable movements.

        Adapted shoes:

        • Low heels (2 to 4 cm) : They offer increased stability to execute circular movements without fatigue.

        • Leather or rubber members : They are adapted to various surfaces and ensure good fluidity.

        • Flexible structure : They allow you to follow the rapid and natural transitions of the feet.

        Recommended models: medium heeled shoes (Heels)

        These are versatile and often are between 5 and 7 cm high. In addition, they are suitable for beginner or intermediate dancers.

        Benefits :

        • Comfort for long sessions.

        • Good stability for circular movements.

        • Compromise between style and practicality.

        2. Shoes for Puerto Rican salsa

        There Puerto Rican salsa is often danced online and highlights frequent spins and precise trips. The posture is straight and elegant, with great importance given to timing.

        Adapted shoes:

        • Average heels (4 to 6 cm) : Allow you to keep a right posture while facilitating rotations.

        • Smooth suede soles : Essential to execute spins on parquet floors.

        • Light and adjusted shoes : Improve precision and limit fatigue.

        Recommended models: fine heeled shoes (stilettos)

        The heels generally make 7 to 9 cm.

        Benefits :

        • Accentuate a graceful and slender posture.

        • Perfect for performance and social evenings.

        Please note, they are rather Reserved for confirmed dancers Mastering “spins” and balances.

        3. Shoes for Colombian salsa

        Recognized for its fast movements and complex foot games, the Colombian salsa requires great responsiveness and good control.

        Suitable shoes :

        • Higher heels (up to 8 cm) : Help maintain a balanced posture, even during fast movements.

        • Flexible soles : Essential for fluid transitions between complex steps.

        • Firm structure : Support the ankles while remaining comfortable.

        Recommended models: dance boots

        These shoes cover the ankle and offer excellent support for complex choreographies.

        Benefits :

        • Optimal maintenance for fast pivots.

        • Unique design that combines aesthetic and functionality.

        They are Ideal for beginner dancers Seeking comfort and stability.

        4. Shoes for online salsa

        There Online salsa requires precise movements and a Control of complex rotations. It is often danced on an imaginary line.

        Adapted shoes:

        • Low to medium heels (2 to 6 cm) : Offer a good balance during quick management changes.

        • Ultra-lisses (suede or leather) soles) : Facilitate impeccable "spins" without loss of grip.

        Recommended models: Wedding shoes for salsa

        Benefits :

        • Long -term comfort and ideal for long evenings.

        • Refined design to shine on the track.

        These are perfect for events or competitions.


        What shoes to wear for a salsa class

        What shoes should I wear for a salsa class?

        During your First salsa test lesson, the choice of shoes is crucial to guarantee comfort, safety and fluidity in your movements. 

        Here are some recommendations adapted to all levels, whether you are a beginner or experienced.

        1. The characteristics of shoes ideal for a salsa class

        To properly start your learning, choose shoes that meet the following criteria:

        • Flexible and smooth soles : Promote pivots and rotations effortlessly. Avoid the rubber soles that adhere too much and can hinder the movements.

        • Optimal maintenance : Adjusted shoes, with straps or laces to prevent them from slipping.

        • Comfort : Opt for padded shoes to limit fatigue during long sessions.

        • Lightness : Light shoes allow better freedom of movement.

        2. Shoes adapted to beginners

        If you start, it is not necessary to invest immediately in specialized dance shoes.

        Here are some alternatives:

        • City shoes with smooth soles : Moccasins or ballerinas may temporarily suit.

        • Worn sneakers : If they have slightly slippery soles, they can be an option for a first course.

        • Dance sneakers : They are more comfortable and flexible than conventional sneakers.

        3. For regular dancers

        Once you take salsa lessons regularly, invest in specialized shoes becomes essential to improve your technique and avoid injuries.

        Women :

        • Prefer Latin sandals With heels of 5 to 7 cm for more elegance and better control of rotations.

        • If you are less comfortable with the heels, choose low heels (2-4 cm).

        Men :

        • Opt for leather dance shoes or in suede with low heels (1-2 cm) or Cuban (up to 4 cm).

        • These shoes offer an excellent combination of stability and flexibility.

        What if I haven't I have any dance shoes yet?

        Do not panic, here are some tips for improvising during your first lessons:

        • Tip 1: Make sure your shoes allow a slight slide. If they are too adherent, apply a thin layer of talc under the soles to reduce friction.

        • Tip 2: Make sure they keep your feet well. Open or too large shoes can cause pain or accidents.

        • Tip 3: Order online on a site with a flexible return policy. Once your salsa shoes have been received, take the time to walk, rotate and simulate dance movements to check their adequacy. 

        If they don't suit you, you can always Return within 14 days of delivery. However, At Salsanueva, we guarantee you an impeccable quality of salsa shoes.

        Why invest in salsa shoes?

        Even if classic shoes can be suitable to start, here are the advantages of investing in salsa shoes:

        • Best posture : Adapted heels help align your body for more fluid movements.

        • Injury reduction : Good support and flexible soles protect your joints during quick rotations and movements.

        • Performance optimization : Shoes designed for salsa promote a precise technical execution and a more classy style.



        salsa shoes

        Make your first steps with shoes from Salvanueva!

        Here we are at the end of this article! Now you know What shoes favor to learn to dance salsa as well as their importance according to styles and levels of experience.

        So, are you ready to shine on the dance floor?

        Do not let the choice of shoes brake your progress or your pleasure. Whether you are a beginner or a dancer experienced, we have what you need.

        At the house of Salsanueva, we offer a Selection of salsa shoes, specially designed to meet your Latin dance needs.