Hi, I just started to learn ballroom and was wondering if someone could tell me where to find a good pair of shoes for a guy that aren't too expensive.

I got mine through the studio I take lessons at about a month after I started. Cost me 140 euros (about 170 dollars). It was a very good investment...or at least thats what I think so far ;)

I recommend Veryfines, from appledanceshoes dot com. They're moderately priced, come in a variety of widths and styles, and last about as long as Elegance or E'lenas (aren't they pretty much the same?).

I DO NOT recommend DSOL (danceshoesonline) shoes AT ALL. J had his TWO STINKIN MONTHS to the DAY, and the soles separated. The heels ARE GLUED ON. It's a shame, too- the total was $80-ish, and they had the wide width he needed with the perforated upper for breathability.

Of course, to be honest, you can't beat Supadance, though.

For a GOOD alternative though, try apple/veryfines.

I'm only familiar with women's shoes, but I have had horrible experiences with Veryfines... On my first pair, one strap completely broke off (I had to get it nailed back on at a shoe repair place the day before a show) and then the straps around the big toes broke underneath and stretched out. I sent back a different pair after only a week because the ankle strap was pulled out to only a few threads. Their men's shoes may be different, I can't imagine them being that much higher quality. Since you're just starting out and probably won't be very hard on them/ wear them very frequently they may be okay for your first couple of pairs. Later, I would recommend Dance naturals... They are more expensive but as you work harder and start to compete it makes a noticeable difference.

Try Tootsies at tootsiesdance.com they have an 800 number. They have the a large selection and great customer service.

I am a new dancer, too, and when I discovered the need for dancing shoes, I tried several kinds of shoes including 2 pairs of Very Fines. VF are less expensive, but they are not quite the quality shoes I wanted, and they don't fit me right. My dance teacher has some, too, but he does not like them either. I bought a pair of Coast shoes which I absolutely love. They were comfortable from the start and are quality made. They have all kinds of styles and can accommodate special needs for sizes, colors, etc. A good shoe is worth the investment. You should be able to find them on the web. Good luck dancing!

We sell shoes ourseves.

On the last cruise we were on there was another dance group with their teacher. He sold "VeryFine" through his studio.

I looked at the site and most of the shoes appear to be re-branded from the same supplier we have.


$75 Canadian (approx. $64 US)Women's

$85 Canadian (approx $73 US)Men's and Women's Tango

We always stress our shoes are "entry level" and we always ask our students to compare our prices with local outlets first before buying from us.

We definitely stress our shoes are not the quality of Capezio or Supadance but at $75 (including taxes) vs. $170 + taxes you can't expect the same quality. However, one thing we get commented for all the time is our shoes are the most comfortable ever.

Beginners get to try our shoes at a great price that they can decide first if the want to upgrade later to a quality shoe. You can buy 2 pairs of our shoes for less than the cost of 1 Supadance.

I dance in Capezios. My wife's favourite pair is one of our own and she's been wearing them over 4 years now.

We're about to bring in a new line that is much higher quality but we'll still be able to sell for much less than Supadance.

I'm against buying on line as you need to "fit to size". Just because you're a size 9 does not mean the size 9s in the box will fit you. Buy local.

Also, make sure you get suede soles. Our community is only about 300,000. Local shops here bring in "Character" stage shoes that look like ballroom but have thick leather soles. We're constantly dealing with beginners who bought the wrong shoes. Ask your teacher first.

OB

"Also, make sure you get suede soles. Our community is only about 300,000. Local shops here bring in "Character" stage shoes that look like ballroom but have thick leather soles. We're constantly dealing with beginners who bought the wrong shoes. Ask your teacher first."

So glue suede onto them. Shoes will still be stiff, but a lot closer than any other non-ballroom shoe.

I've heard of Tootsie's from friends who bought their shoes there. I hear they have a wide variety and several brands to choose from. The lady that owned it sold to someone in Kansas City, which is close enought that I can check it out and let you know what I think. As far as what kind of shoes to get, I personally like Elegance shoes, but they are more expensive. I have not tried Coast, but I hear they have a good cushion. Not sure what you will find for pricing.

I've been searching for shoes myself, and I've heard Capezio's are really good. I have a pair of Very Fines and I don't recommend it, it was good to get started though.
Check out www.allaboutdance.com and www.dancewearelite.com they sell Capezio's much cheaper than anywhere else I've seen (Very Fine prices!)...
Angelica