Your running shoes, workout sneakers, or street shoes aren’t the ideal choice for strutting your moves on the dance floor. Whether you are a newbie or seasoned professional, wearing the best salsa dance shoes will support your feet, and give you the edge.
Dance has increased in popularity as a form of exercise over recent years. To perform at your best, here are our top picks of comfortable salsa shoes.
Our Top Picks of the Best Salsa Dance Shoes
1. TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes
TTdancewear stud the sparkly satin uppers on these shoes with rhinestones. There are seven colors and two heel heights, making them an excellent choice for amateur or professional Latin dance shoes. Suede soles provide the right amount of grip and slide on the dance floor.
2. YYTing Women Dance Shoes
A suede insole with a breathable lining accompanies the satin, strappy uppers on these salsa dance shoes. They have a flexible midsole, suede outsole, and a choice of two heights in the heels. A quick-release buckle makes them easy to slip on and off.
3. CLEECLI Women’s Ballroom Dance Shoes
Cleecli brings us a salsa dance shoe with a choice of three heel heights. So whether you’re new to dancing in heels or a seasoned pro, you can choose accordingly. The satin and mesh uppers secure with straps and a buckle at the ankle.
4. Capezio 550 Junior Footlight
For younger dancers, this junior footlight character shoe from Capezio is ideal. It has a soft polyurethane leather upper, a microfiber lining, foam padded footbed, and scored leather sole. Three width fittings are available.
5. Sansha Salsette 3 Sneaker
You may want a more substantial shoe for practice or performance—this sneaker styled footwear from Sansha could fit the bill. Their unisex design makes them great for boys, girls, men and women. Laces lock your feet down in these suede and mesh shoes with a suede split sole.
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6. Capezio Women’s SD02 Rosa Flared-Heel Sandal
Our second choice from Capezio is a woman’s strappy satin or PU leather shoe with a cushioned insole and suede sole. It has a 2.5 inch flared heel and a half shank in the midsole to provide flexibility and support for your feet.
630 Reviews Capezio Women's Rosa 2.5" Social Dance Shoe,Black,5 M US 
7. Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe
We return once again to Capezio for this lace-up dance shoe for men. It has a suede sole, synthetic upper, and a sponge insole to absorb shock. Lightweight and flexible, it’s an ideal partner for your feet.
Capezio Men's 1" Standard Ballroom Shoe,Black,10.5 M US 
Reviews of the Most Comfortable Shoes for Salsa Dancing
There are dance shoes; then there are salsa dance shoes. Here are our top picks of the 7 best salsa dance shoes.
1. TTdancewear Women Rhinestone Ballroom Dance Shoes
The satin uppers feature a strappy forefoot and ankle, with a quick-release buckle. Sparkly rhinestones, across the front straps and down the length of the heels, beautifully adorn the shoes.
Available in sizes 5.5 to 10, these ladies’ shoes have two heel heights, 3-inch and 2.5-inch—and seven different colors to choose from.
The satin uppers feature a strappy forefoot and ankle, with a quick-release buckle. They are beautifully adorned with sparkly rhinestones across the front straps and along the length of the heels.
Both the insole and outsole are suede leather. This helps cushion your feet on the inside and makes moves easy on the dance floor. The shoes are both lightweight and flexible, providing comfort for your feet as you put them through their paces.
Check the embellishments are stuck down well; it seems they can fall off. The manufacturer includes some spares with the shoes.
You can choose from two different heel heights and seven colors in these rhinestone embellished shoes. The satin uppers have a suede insole, and also a suede sole. They secure with a quick-release buckle at the ankle.
Pros
- Choice of colors and heel heights.
- Strappy satin uppers.
- Suede sole.
- Padded insole.
Cons
- The rhinestones could fall off.
2. YYTing Women Dance Shoes
YYTing brings us a sandal style salsa shoe with an understated style. The classic strappy design supports your feet while you dance.
The sizes on offer range from a 6 to an 11 in half size increments. You can choose from black or nude, with 3-inch or 2.3-inch heels.
Satin uppers have a soft, breathable lining and a suede insole cushions your steps. The midsole has a high elastic latex content making these shoes flexible.
A durable, thick suede outsole lets you move with ease, and a quick-release buckle allows for a secure fit.
Some find the quick release buckle a little challenging to get to grips with at first. If you find this applies to you, this video shows you how they work.
Available in two heel heights, these stain salsa shoes have a suede sole and a suede padded insole. They fasten with a quick-release buckle and have a classic strappy design.
Pros
- Satin uppers.
- Quick-release buckle.
- Suede soles.
- Cushioned insole.
Cons
- Buckle might take a bit of getting used to.
3. CLEECLI Women’s Ballroom Dance Shoes
If you want added substance to your heeled dance shoes, these from Cleecli have mesh beneath the satin straps at the forefoot. This adds comfort and prevents the straps from digging into your feet.
The wide range of sizes cover from a ladies’ 4.5 to 12, and there are three heel heights, 2-inch, 2.5-inch, and 3-inch. If you aren’t confident dancing in heels, you can choose the lowest elevation until you’re used to them.
They have a suede insole, and the straps are lined with soft, breathable material. This feels velvety to the touch and helps with comfort.
The outsole is suede allowing you to move across the dance floor with ease when performing those Latin moves. A high elastic latex midsole lets your feet flex through a range of movements.
It seems that these shoes come up a little wide, and stretch over time, so keep this in mind when working out the size you want.
A wide range of ladies’ sizes and three heel heights are on offer in these satin and mesh salsa shoes. They have a suede sole and insole, and soft lined straps. The midsole is flexible, allowing your feet to perform a range of Latin dance steps.
Pros
- Choice of three heel heights.
- Suede soles.
- Soft lined straps.
- Flexible midsole.
Cons
- Might be too wide for very narrow feet.
4. Capezio 550 Junior Footlight
The Capezio brand has manufactured quality dance products since the 1890s. Their shoes have adorned the feet of dancers in Broadway musicals, and performances in the Metropolitan Opera House.
These junior editions could be perfect for young ladies starting in the world of Latin style dancing.
These shoes start at a size 4 and rise to a size 12 in half size increments. There are three widths to choose from, narrow, medium, and wide. Smaller child sizes from 1 to 13.5 are also on offer in the Junior 550X model.
The uppers are synthetic polyurethane leather, and Capezio has scored the leather sole to add grip. A padded foam footbed cushions the feet, and a microfiber lining is there to absorb moisture, keeping feet cool and dry.
Adding to the comfort, you have a padded collar and a notch for your Achilles.
The heel measures 1.5-inches and has a scored leather top lift.
Capezio advises that you order a half size up from street shoes. Though many find that even this is not enough, especially in kids’ sizes. You might need at least one size, if not two sizes, larger.
Capezio brings us an excellent shoe for those starting in the salsa dance world. These enclosed shoes have a small heel, leather soles, and padding for comfort. A microfiber lining absorbs moisture and helps keep feet fresh.
Pros
- Sizes for big and little kids.
- Scored leather sole.
- 1.5-inch heel.
- Padded insole and collar.
Cons
- Sizes run small.
5. Sansha Salsette 3 Sneaker
Not everyone wants to wear heels when they’re in a salsa class. If that sounds familiar, then these sneaker style dance shoes could be what you need. They are unisex, so also a great option for men.
The sizes run from 2 to 18 for women, and up to 15 for men. The smaller sizes could also be suitable for youngsters. There are no width options, only regular fitting, and, like the Ford Model T, they only come in black.
Mesh uppers with suede overlays help support your feet, and a secure lacing system keeps them locked down in the shoes. The collar and tongue are padded, offering comfort for your feet.
The soles of the shoes are a double layer of hand-stitched leather, and there is a stacked heel. They allow your feet to perform the spins and steps for salsa dancing with ease.
Some find the sizing of these shoes a challenge and need to try a few sizes to get the right fit. It seems sizing up is the way to go, by one or two sizes.
Suitable for men, women, and teenagers, these dance shoes have a suede sole for ease of movement around the dance floor. The mesh and leather uppers secure with laces to keep feet supported and locked down.
Pros
- Unisex salsa shoes.
- Suede leather soles.
- Breathable mesh and leather uppers.
- Secure lacing system.
Cons
- May need to size up.
6. Capezio Women’s SD02 Rosa Flared-Heel Sandal
We return to Capezio for this ladies’ salsa shoe. You are in celebrity company when you choose their products—the likes of Taylor Swift, Beyonce, and Lady Gaga have worn them.
The Rosa ballroom shoe has all the features you need for Latin dance moves, and they come in sizes 5 to 12. There are half sizes and two widths available, regular and wide. Color options are black PU leather or camel satin uppers.
These shoes have a single layer, memory foam insole, which provides added comfort and helps absorb impact. The flared 2.5-inch heel has a two-piece construction in the top lift—the bit in contact with the floor—to help keep you stable on your feet.
The midsole houses a half shank, which, although reinforced, makes these shoes flexible. They secure with a crisscrossed ankle strap and adjustable buckle. Multiple crossed straps at the front of the shoe bolster your forefoot.
The edges of the heel are folded and padded at the collar. A notch cut out at the Achilles’ helps to prevent irritation.
You might need to size up if your feet are very broad. It seems, even in the wide width, that they come up narrow.
Stability and comfort are the main features of these salsa shoes from Capezio. The uppers are secured at the ankle with crossed straps and an adjustable buckle. A suede sole and flared heel are great for Latin ballroom dancing.
Pros
- Flared heel for stability.
- Suede soles.
- Cushioned insole.
- Adjustable crisscrossed straps.
Cons
- Tend to come up narrow.
7. Capezio Men’s SD103 Social Dance Shoe
Not to leave out the gentlemen, these shoes ensure your dance partner won’t upstage you. The classic style allows you to strut your stuff while staying stable and comfortable.
They come in sizes 6 to 14 and go up in half-inch increments. There are both regular and wide fittings. Capezio makes the black uppers from soft polyurethane to hug your feet. You won’t need to worry about sweat either as they have a moisture-absorbing cotton lining.
Inside there is a sponge insole to absorb shock, and the folded edges, padded collar, and Achilles notch ramp up the comfort level. A three-quarter shank supports your feet but still allows flexibility in the shoes.
Both the sole and the top lift of the one-inch heel are suede. This allows you to glide around the dance floor. The strong heel counter and secure laces ensure your feet stay supported and don’t slide out.
Just as we found with the ladies Capezio shoes, these seem to come up narrow. Be prepared to go up one or even two sizes from your regular street shoes.
While these shoes might not make you the next Fred Astaire, they will let you move easily and comfortably around the dance floor. They have suede soles and heel, a PU upper, cotton lining, and secure laces.
Pros
- Suede bottomed soles and heels.
- Flexible midsole.
- Cushioned insole.
- Firm heel counter and secure laces.
Cons
- Fit is narrow, even in the wide width.
Salsa Origins—A Brief History
Originating in Cuba in the 1900s, salsais a dance style that combines moves from the Cuban mambo and Latin jazz styles, and the Afro Caribbean mambo. It’s an energetic, vibrant series of hip-swinging, spinning, and foot sliding movements, with intricate steps and stomps.
It evolved, due to the influx of musicians from Cuba and Puerto Rico, in New York City in the 60s. Now loved by Latin dancers worldwide, the steps are constantly being manipulated and varied, making it a fabulous dance for all ages.
The popularity of T.V. shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing with The Stars has raised the profile of this, and many other styles of dance.
This video shows you some basic salsa moves.
Why Do You Need Salsa Dance Shoes?
You wouldn’t dream of wearing heels or flip-flops to run a marathon, by the same token, regular shoes don’t cut it on the dance floor. Rubber soles found on sneakers, and many other shoes, are designed for traction. This prevents your feet from gliding and could lead to ankle or knee injuries.
The best salsa dance shoes have features like suede or leather soles, heels, and a secure fit to provide stability while allowing movement.
What to Look for in the Best Salsa Dance Shoes
Having the correct tools for any job goes a long way in helping to complete it competently. The same applies to dance shoes, wearing the correct ones for you can enhance your performance and comfort levels. Here are some features to look out for in amateur or professional Latin dance shoes.
Suede or Leather Soles
Soles made from suede or scored leather will give traction but still allow you to spin, slide and step. They will help you keep your balance and provide some stability through all those intricate moves.
Remember to look after the soles of your shoes. Brush them regularly with a suede brush to remove dirt and debris and don’t wear them outdoors. You can find out more about cleaning suede in our article nubuck vs. suede.
Heels
Many agree that salsa dancing requires a heel. A small heel, of about 1.5 inches, is ideal for men, or for the ladies, something higher at about 2.5-3 inches. For newbies, the lower end of this scale is advisable until you master the steps.
A flared heel that is wider at the bottom can provide more stability for ladies, and for men, a Cuban heel with a leather bottom.
Flexibility
Many dance shoes have a reduced size shank at the arch in the midsole. This provides a level of support while allowing the shoes to remain flexible. Stiff shoes won’t allow you to point your toes or flex your ankles.
Fit
Your salsa dance shoes must be a suitable fit. They should be snug but shouldn’t pinch. Imagine a glove-like fit that allows your feet to move easily as you and your partner spin around.
Open or Closed Toes
The recommendation for salsa shoes is an open-toed sandal style for the ladies. Initially, however, you might feel more comfortable in a sneaker style dance shoe like the Sansha Salsette.
The straps on sandals shouldn’t cut into your feet, and the ankle straps should fit well enough to lock your heels down in the shoes.
Materials
Your dance shoes are an investment, and you will want them to last. Leather uppers are likely to be more durable, although there are some suitable alternatives like polyurethane leather.
Just as with the soles, you want the uppers to flex with your feet while hugging them for support.
Cushioning
Although the soles on dance shoes tend to be slim, some cushioning on the insoles will add to the comfort. Look for thin memory foam or suede insoles. This will help protect the balls of your feet and heels from impact as you dance.
Aesthetics
The overall appearance of the shoes and clothes you wear for salsa can add to the illusion you want to create. Choose colors that match your outfits, embellishments that sparkle and shine, and heels that show off your legs.
Remember, though, that a good-looking pair of shoes, which aren’t comfortable and supportive, won’t do you any favors. With this in mind, don’t forgo a good fit, that bolsters your feet, for the sake of fashion.
Cost
Dance shoes can be costly, but there are plenty of affordable options on the market too. As with anything else in life, you get what you pay for, so if the most comfortable shoes for you are more expensive—think of it as an investment in your feet.
Another factor to consider here is how often you use your salsa dance shoes. A cheaper pair might suffice to start until you decide whether this hobby is for you. As you become more proficient, you can upgrade as you see fit.
Fastenings
Check out the buckles or laces on your chosen shoes. They need to secure your feet snugly in the shoes. You don’t want to risk your salsa shoes falling off in the middle of a routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Really Need a Salsa Dance Shoe?
A good salsa dance shoe will help keep you stable while providing the right amount of grip. It will also allow you to spin and slide with ease.
Street shoes can cause too much traction and lead to injuries, so avoid using them for Latin dancing.
What Shoes Are Good for a Beginner at Salsa?
If you are new to the world of salsa dancing, don’t go for a heel that’s too high. Choose a shoe like the Ceelci, with 2-inch heels and mesh beneath the straps. These will help you get used to dancing in heels, without the straps cutting into your feet.
Alternatively, go for the Sansha Salsette, which have laces to keep your feet firmly in the shoes, and a low heel.
Are Latin Dance Shoes Comfortable?
Manufacturers design Latin dance shoes so they are flexible, with soft uppers, suede soles, and minimal cushioning. They almost become an extension of your feet.
The fit should be snug, and for open-toed shoes, your toe should be right at the front. This will let you point your toes and feel the moves as you dance.
What Is the Difference Between Salsa Dance Shoes and Regular Shoes?
The key differences to street shoes are in the soles and flexibility. Salsa dance shoes have suede soles to provide grip with functionality, and they will be pliable. The supportive shank is often a half or three quarter one, meaning your feet can move with ease.
How Do I Look After My Salsa Dance Shoes?
Salsa dance shoes have soles designed for indoor use only. Wearing them outside will shorten their lifespan, damaging them on concrete sidewalks, stony floors, or muddy grass.
Brush your soles regularly to keep them free from dust and dirt, and clean them when needed. Polish the uppers to keep them supple and check over buckles and embellishments to make sure they are secure.
After dancing, pop your salsa shoes into a bag, and change to your street shoes before leaving for the outdoors.
If the insoles become grubby or smelly over time, you can find out how to clean them in our guide on how to clean smelly insoles.
This video gives you some tips on how to brush the suede bottoms of your salsa dance shoes.
So You Think You Can Dance
Now you know all you need to choose the best salsa dance shoes, it’s time to hit the floor and wow everyone with your moves. Whether it’s a training class, a competition, or just for fun, wearing comfortable salsa shoes can help put you ahead of the game.
Our top picks have options for everyone, from beginners through to professional Latin dancers. We would love to hear which ones you choose, and how you get on with them. Please leave us a comment, and don’t forget to share with other salsa dancers.
