I am 26, and my husband and I have just started taking lessons (standard and Latin). I need to buy a good pair of shoes, but I have issues:
1. I have plantar faciitis in both feet.
2. I have never, ever worn high heels (before I got p.f., I wore chunky platforms).
3. I don't know which options are best for me (heel style, material, straps, etc.).

I already know *where* to find shoes and that brand preference is very subjective, but can anyone help with some general guidelines for addressing my issues? I can't afford practice shoes/sneakers *and* nice shoes, so I'd prefer the latter with as much support as possible.

Help! (and Thanks!)

They make shoes in a variety of heel heights from one inch to three. I suppose if I were in your position I would try to find a lower heel, maybe 1 1/2 inches. Latin shoes have a metal plate running along the sole for extra support and its suprising how easy it is to dance in them. As far as standard shoes they come in low heel heights as well, but they tend to be tight on the foot to keep them in place, at least mine are. They do make straps to go on court shoes that help keep them in place, if you buy them comfortably loose.