Hi,

Today i noticed a hole in my latin-shoe , so i guess it's time for a new pair. Therefore i've been looking around on the internet. I've seen a few nice options, some with split sole and some conventional ones, on for example supadance.

I was wondering what the advantages are of the split sole. I already have a pair of salsa sneakers with a (rather coarse) split sole, so I'm familiair with the concept. But what is te major benefit of split sole shoes used for balroom dancing (latin-american)?

Another thing of likely the same subject is that I'm wondering what you think of the use of the split sole sneakers for training purposes (Ballroom dancing,standard). Could it help develop a better foot work and balance?

I hope someone can help me with some suggestions, otherwise i will look like an idiot with a hole in my shoe .

"I was wondering what the advantages are of the split sole. I already have a pair of salsa sneakers with a (rather coarse) split sole, so I'm familiair with the concept. But what is te major benefit of split sole shoes used for balroom dancing (latin-american)?"

It gives you more flexibility to point your foot and change its shape.

"Another thing of likely the same subject is that I'm wondering what you think of the use of the split sole sneakers for training purposes (Ballroom dancing,standard). Could it help develop a better foot work and balance?"

Probably not. These sneakers are really designed for ballet-derived dances. They won't provide the encouragement towards proper weight position or the tactile feedback that a latin heel provides. And the heel generally isn't prominent enough to give you as much benefit from the toe release action as even a men's standard shoe would.

People who wear dance sneakers for ballroom wear them because they find them more comfortable, or because they want something to dance in that they can wear on dirty floors. They don't do it for techincal benefits.

I wear Capezio Fierce dance sneakers with good inner soles when I practice with my Pro partner and dance socially. I have gotten used to it and don't notice that much different than regular ballroom or latin shoes.
My partner has started dancing in dance sneakers too. She is on her feet about 9 hours a day and was getting foot and knee problems. If you dance enough on hard non supportive dance floors your dance life will be shorter.

When competing we wear regular dance shoes, but otherwise it's dance sneakers.

Wybe,I would suggest to try both of them first if possible before you buy them.You might be comfortable with your salsa sneakers but Latin shoes are higher (3 1/2 inches or higher)and the heels are smaller than the sneakers.I only use Supadance and I have 2 pairs of each and even the conventional latin shoes is giving me a problem because of the height.The Standard shoe split sole is not as bad but I don't like split sole shoes.For one thing,you need to have a good balance to wear one of them or you can sprain your ankle if your not careful.I'm from New York area so I go to Danceworld to try before I buy.

Holy Cow Batman. They make 3 1/2 inch heels for men's shoes? They're almost like ladies' staletos.

Hi Supaman,

My previous shoes, also latin, have a heel of 37mm (sorry but I'm Dutch, but i think it's something like 1.5 in inches). So a conventional latin heel shouldn't be the problem.

Wow, 3 1/2 inch?? Some calculation from my side... That's 89mm. That's huge.

Hi Wybe and Confused,
I apologize,my mistake,I just measure my Supadance style 8200 latin shoe and it has a 2 1/2 inches heels.