Stepping Out in Style
How to Shop for
the Perfect Tango Shoes
Choosing the right tango shoes is essential for any dancer. Tango is a passionate and intricate dance that requires precision and control. The right shoes can greatly enhance your performance and make you feel more confident on the dance floor.
Last year, I took a trip to Montreal specifically to get myself a pair of tango shoes. I absolutely adore Montreal and the incredible tango community that thrives there. During my visit, I made sure to attend tango classes and spent a few unforgettable nights at Milonga.
To make my tango shoe shopping experience even more special, I had the pleasure of booking an appointment with Line Desrosiers at Tango Sublime. Our session was an absolute delight. Line not only helped me find the perfect tango shoes, but she also shared some invaluable tips with me. And guess what! I’m here to pass those tips on to you too!
“Investing in
a good pa ir of ta ngo shoes is essentia l for ta ngo da ncers”
- Toe Width: It is important to select shoes that have enough room for your toes to stretch long and wide. This allows for better balance and control during intricate footwork. If you have wide feet like me, it can be challenging to find shoes that are both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. However, it is important to note that certain materials, such as shade and leather, tend to stretch more than satin or patent leather. Therefore, considering the material of the shoe can help accommodate wider feet without compromising style.
- Flexible Sole: Tango requires a lot of floor pushing and pivoting. Therefore, it is crucial to choose shoes with a flexible sole that can adapt to your feet’s shape and movements. Leather or suede soles are ideal as they provide flexibility and fit the shape of your feet, allowing you to pivot smoothly on the dance floor.
- Heel Height: Tango heels typically range between 2-3.5 inches. It is recommended to start with lower heel sizes and gradually train your muscles to adapt to higher heels. This gradual progression helps prevent strain and injury to your feet and ankles. Additionally, lower heels provide better stability and balance, especially for beginners. As you become more experienced, you can gradually increase the heel height to suit your comfort and style. There is nothing wrong with opting for lower heels; I personally find 2.5 inches to be the most comfortable height for me.
- Closed Heel/Open Heel: The choice between a closed-heel or open-heel shoe depends on personal preference and individual needs. Closed-heel shoes provide support to the back of your feet, which is great for beginners as it helps with balance and makes you feel more secure. However, if you need extra room in the back, open-heel shoes can provide a few more millimeters of space. I love both closed and open-heel designs, depending on the shoe’s overall flexibility and fit. If you choose open-heel shoes, ensure that the strap doesn’t hurt your feet, allow your feet to flex, and fit your feet well.
- Length: While leather or suede shoes can stretch in width, they cannot stretch in length. It is important to choose shoes that protect your toes by leaving approximately 0.5 cm of space in front of your foot.
- Design: Ultimately, choose shoes that feel right for you. Comfort is key when it comes to tango shoes. Sometimes, you may find yourself buying shoes that you didn’t plan on getting because they fit your feet better or are more comfortable to dance in. If a design you like doesn’t fit your foot well, prioritize comfort over looks.
Selecting the right tango shoes involves considering factors such as toe width, sole flexibility, heel height, closed or open heel, length, and design. By keeping these tips in mind, you can find the perfect pair of tango shoes that will enhance your dance and make you feel confident and comfortable on the dance floor.
by Sirin Angasinha
published January 27, 2004