I am looking for pumps for smooth dancing and the selection that I see online includes pumps with buckle straps and some that are just slip on. Are slip-on pumps less secure or is the buckle strap just for looks?

I think the buckle straps are just for decor. I have plain pumps and have no trouble with my foot coming out of them or anything like that. Just make sure they are the correct size for your feet and you should have no problems.

Thank you. Have you ever bought shoes online and if so, how do you make sure to get the right fit?

I have had a terrible time finding the perfect shoes for Standard and Smooth. For a while I wore the International ICS Superstar with diagonal strap, and I liked having the security of the strap. I also like the Supadance round-toe court shoe with elastic sewn around the opening.

My advice is to be prepared to experiment until you find the right shoe for you. Mamboqueen is right: if the shoe fits you properly it will stay on. The trick is finding the brand and style that fits right. It's not just a matter of shoe size, though: every brand and every style feels different and fits a little differently.

Ditto what Laura said. It has taken me a few brands to find what works for me. And I'll stick with those becuase, honestly, even a change of brand can be a big adjustment and take a while to get used to.

I tried on lots of different kinds and when I found what worked, I actually found a website in England that, even with shipping to the states, saved me $30! I'll dig it up. It's a pretty popular site.

I've never had a problem with my pumps with the elastic at the front and no straps. However, I'll tell you a funny story:

I have a friend who's a professional competitor. At one comp, right as tango was starting, she somehow lost a shoe. And couldn't find it. (Yes, she was on the dance floor and LOST a shoe!) They had to get a move on, so she kicked off her other shoe and danced the tango in bare feet! She said it was the best dance she's ever had...at least it was tango and not foxtrot! :) Anyway, after the dance ended, they found the shoe...it was caught by the heel in her partner's cuff or shoe or something. :)

Good for her for adjusting to the situation! They deserved a placement just for that creativity (and thank the Lord he didn't step on her toes after the shoe removal!)