When selecting salsa dance shoes, the choice between heels and sneakers largely depends on your style, comfort, and dancing goals.
Heels are the classic choice for salsa, especially for women. They typically feature suede soles that provide the ideal balance of grip and slide for smooth turns and spins on wooden floors. Cuban heels (1.5–2 inches) and stilettos are popular for their elegance and ability to enhance posture and hip movement, though beginners may prefer lower or flared heels for better stability. Heels help maintain weight on the balls of the feet, crucial for salsa technique, but require some practice to dance comfortably.
Sneakers or dance trainers with rubber soles offer more cushioning and support, making them a good option for beginners or those prioritizing comfort and foot protection. They grip more than suede soles, which can limit smooth spins but are versatile for different floor types, including less ideal surfaces like sticky club floors. Some dancers prefer jazz shoes with suede soles as a middle ground, offering flexibility and moderate support without the height of heels.
Some examples:
Capezio E-Series Jazz Slip On, Black, 7 W : Amazon.ca: Clothing, Shoes & Accessories
Fuego | The Worlds Best Dance Sneakers – Fuego, Inc.
In summary, choose heels if you want traditional salsa aesthetics and improved technique on smooth floors, and opt for sneakers or jazz shoes if comfort, support, and versatility are your priorities, especially when starting out.