Let’s Talk Equipment!
As with all the sports we like to play such as football,
basketball, soccer, hockey, golf, we need the proper equipment so that we can
play successfully and safely. What would happen if you tried to play field
football in basketball shoes? You would slip around, your feet would not be
able to hug the grass the right way for optimal movement and speed. What would
happen if you played golf with a putter and disregarded all the other clubs in
your bag? Each club is designed for a different function and it would sacrifice
your game would it not? Ballroom dance is no exception to this rule. The shoes
we wear, the type of costumes and practicewear, the type of makeup for women,
all serve a function for us as dancers. Equipment needs may vary from social to
competitive dancers but certain tools of the trade we simply can not live
without….SHOES!
Why do we need special ballroom shoes to be successful
dancers?
Ballroom
shoes have suede soles and flexible arches. You need them to be able to accomplish the actions more easily
because the shoes will not stick to the floor when you spin. When you take long strides
across the floor, your shoes and heels are designed to bend with
your feet and allow you to glide smoothly and without additional
friction in your knees or ankles. Ballroom dance shoes also tend to be less bulky than sneakers
and dress shoes. This
means
your feet are free to move, feel the floor, and strike the floor properly. Not to mention, because you have more of an awareness of where your feet strike
the floor you are now much less likely to step on your partners’ feet. Shoes
should be an extension of your foot; they should fit snuggly and comfortably.
I need shoes! Help, where can I purchase a pair?
Ballroom dance shoes are on sale at your local Fred Astaire location. Each location may vary on availability of in stock shoe styles but all studios can order shoes from www.showtimedanceshoes.com.
What type of shoes do I need?
The type of dance shoe or shoes you will need will depend upon the dances you do, where you socially dance most commonly, and if you have any goals about showcases or competition style performing. The average female dance student has a pair of nude Latin performance heels, flesh Smooth heels, and practice heels or social dance heels for parties. The average male dance student has a pair of black leather low heel performance shoes, and one pair of black leather low heel practice shoes. Competitive dancers will have different and more specific needs that should be discussed with their instructors or dance directors. Heel height will depend upon your comfort and dance goals. Here is a shoe height guide to help you decide what will be right for you.
How do I care for ballroom dance shoes?
What other dance equipment will I need?
Other dance equipment we recommend, especially for newer dancers, are ballroom dance CD's. Ballroom CD's have the correct tempo and feeling for the dances you are learning and are perfect for practice. Ballroom dancewear can also be very helpful when learning how to dance because the clothing is designed to facilitate the movements you are learning and show off techniques of the dances.
For example, practice skirts on women will help highlight your cuban motion and leg and foot movements. Mens latin pants work similarly as they will move easily and more comfortably than jeans or dress slacks. For more information about what attire will be good for you ask your Fred Astaire instructor!
Other equipment used by dancers includes, dance pants for ladies, fishnets for ladies, ballroom jewelry for performances and competitions, hair nets and false hair for performances and competitions, track suits and work out wear, duffel bags and dance shoe bags. All of this equipment may not be necessary for the typical bronze social dancer.
