Photo Credit: ballroomshoes.com
One strap. Two straps. T-straps. Four. Latin ballroom dance shoes are cute, stylish, and fun, but the one-strap design leaves dancers in awe. The 1-strap ballroom shoe helps dancers bring their performances to life, affecting how they feel, move, and perform. Today, the one-strap is the focus of the shoe. Read this to learn why this shoe is a top choice for ballroom dancers worldwide.
The 1-strap dance shoe works well regardless of expertise or preferred dance style. It’s worn by dancers shaking what their mamas gave them to the Rumba, Salsa, Cha-Cha, and many others. The 1-strap comes in assorted designs that give the costume dramatic flair while providing added stability and support that dancers need to glide across the dance floor.
What Are 1-Strap Dance Shoes?
As the name suggests, 1-strap shoes have one single strap across the top or middle of the foot or on the ankle. The strap crosses the foot to secure it in place. Most often worn by Latin/Rhythm dancers, the shoe is so popular that many Smooth/Standard dancers wear them during their performances.
What’s The Hype About 1-Straps?
Ballroom shoes are more than foot covers. Their design and inclusive features allow dancers to move freely across the dance floor, help build their confidence, and become part of their performance.
The 1-strap shoe design is perfect for performance and comes in great styles designed to maintain focus on a dancer's legs and footwork rather than the straps and strings hanging off the foot. Its intricate, sleek design complements many costumes, whether a classic dress or a glittery, jewel-encrusted ensemble.
1-Strap Shoes Support Your Feet
It is common for dancers to feel reluctant to wear the 1-strap shoe before they learn how amazing it supports the feet. Looking at the single strap leaves dancers wondering if the shoe will stay in place and if it's tight enough to support the feet.
The answer to both questions is yes! Dancers appreciate how the 1-strap stays securely in place, provides superb ankle stability, and delivers comfort where it's most needed.
How to Choose 1-Strap Ballroom Shoes
One-strap ballroom shoes are popular for good reason. Find out what so many other dancers know and purchase a pair! Here are important tips dancers should know when buying 1-strap dance footwear.
- Heel Height: 1-strap shoes offer heel heights ranging from 1” up to 2.5” and higher. Experts recommend starting with a shorter heel and advancing toward a higher one as skills progress.
- Sole Type: Suede soles are standard in Latin/Rhythm dance shoes. This material adds comfort to the shoe but, most importantly, allows dancers the perfect grip and balance to maneuver their crisp footwork.
- Brand: Dance shoe brands are not created equally. Shop a trusted, well-respected brand for shoes that deliver exceptional quality and style. Brands like International Dance Shoes, Ray Rose, Werner Kern, and Dance Naturals are some of the most recommended brands.
- Strap Placement: Diagonal straps are preferred by many dancers since the style provides better arch support than ankle straps.
- Closure: How does the strap close? Is there a buckle, a snap, or perhaps a hook closure? Look at the closure of the dance shoes before purchase.
Final Thoughts
When you need dance shoes that combine style and functionality, any of the 1-strap styles covers your needs. It’s the supportive, polished shoe that helps you move with confidence. It’s great to wear as a practice shoe or during a competition. Do not overlook the one-strap shoe design the next time you shop for dance shoes.
Disclaimer: Written in partnership with APG.
