How to Choose Shoes for the Tango

Tango dancers depend on their shoes to allow them to glide, pivot and promenade across the dance floor, all while maintaining balance and grace. Plus, shoes must be comfortable to wear through long practice sessions or "milongas," which are tango events. Carefully selecting tango shoes based on their materials and body construction.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Choose Tango Shoes for Women

1. Look for a heel 2 to 3 inches high as a beginner, or up to 4 inches if you are used to dancing in high heels. Test the balance to ensure there is no wobbling by walking forwards and backwards and standing on one leg.

2. Select a shoe with a sole made out of a material that glides on the floor and allows you to turn easily, such as felt or suede. A sole with too much traction, like rubber, can stick to the floor while you're doing tango turns, which can result in knee and ankle injuries.

3. Try the shoes on to make sure they provide support across the ball of the foot and the instep, especially if they are open toed. They should grip the foot firmly with no sliding.

Choose Tango Shoes for Men

4. Decide how high a heel you are most comfortable in, usually between 3/4 of an inch and 1 1/2 inches.

5. Choose a leather body in a lace-up style that provides support and flexibility.

6. Look for non-stick soles made out of suede or leather.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that leather shoes will stretch a little as they are broken in.
• Do not buy shoes with a patent leather finish, because tango dancing involves shoes brushing up against one another and the patent leather tends to stick when rubbed against another shoe.