I've been ballroom dancing for a few years but am clueless about shoes. What kind of shoe is worn for waltz,quickstep,foxtrot? Someone told me recently that closed toe shoes are worn. What height heel is recommended?Thanks.

Standard shoes have closed-toes, look like pumps with either stiletto or flared heels. They are designed for heel turns and for taking large balanced strides across the floor. They keep the foot secure during International Standard figures. Generally the heel is 2 or 2.5 inches.
American Smooth shoes also have a closed toe but the heel section is separate from the toe part (like latin shoes). The shoe provides flexibility through the arch for American smooth figures while giving enough support.

I read an article which says that to do Waltz and Foxtrot Latin type shoes should not be worn. The reason being that to extend the foot behind must be first with the toe, and then the ball, and lastly to lower the heel. With the toe outside the shoe nobody is going to be too keen on pushing the nail of the big toe on the floor. Using only the ball will have the result of the weight being back weighted.

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