How to Choose the Perfect Heels for Dancing

Heels dancing is more than a single style; it blends self-expression with jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dance, all performed gracefully in a key element: a pair of heels. Whether a seasoned dancer or a beginner, heels dancing allows you to tap into your femininity. It’s a dance style that welcomes everyone. 

Like any dance form, heels dancing requires properly fitted shoes. To maintain balance and stability, the heels should be comfortable, well-fitting, and confidence-boosting. The right pair not only supports proper posture and prevents injuries but also helps dancers move with grace and assurance in every step. 

Read on as we explore what truly matters in heels dance shoes and how to choose the perfect pair for you—or your little dancer.

What Should You Consider When Buying Dance Heels?

Heel Height

One of your first considerations when purchasing heels for dancing is the height of the heels themselves. Beginners should start with lower heels, around 2-2.5 inches, to ensure the best stability. Once foundational moves are mastered, dancers can gradually experiment with higher heels. 

It’s important not to rush the process, though. The right heel height prevents strain and injury by allowing the dancer to focus on technique while building strength and stability. Keep in mind that comfort and safety should always come first.

Heel Shape

Another consideration is the shape of the heel, as it plays a significant role in balance and control during movement. For beginners, block or flared heels offer a wider base that provides added stability. In contrast, stiletto heels are slimmer and typically taller, requiring a strong technique and advanced skills, making them more suited for experienced dancers. 

Ankle & Foot Support

Dancing in heels can be risky without proper support for your ankles and feet. Opt for styles with straps, laces, or closed designs—like booties—that keep your foot secure and help prevent slipping or twisting during spins, turns, and transitions. A steady heel protects your joints, promotes proper alignment, and gives you the stability you need to master more complex movements.

Sole Type

Sole type is another major factor that affects both movement and control. Suede or specialized dance soles allow dancers to glide smoothly across the floor while still providing traction to stay grounded. This balance between glide and traction is critical for executing spins, turns, and transitions safely. 

Comfort & Cushioned

Once again, comfort is key when choosing dance heels. Look for features like padded insoles, arch support, and soft linings—these reduce foot fatigue and strain by supporting natural movement and absorbing impact during jumps and turns. A cushioned, comfortable heel also helps dancers stay focused on their performance instead of being uncomfortable.

Confidence & Style

Considering the functionality of the heel is an obvious notion, but it’s not the only important characteristic. Dancers should also pick a style that boosts their confidence and leaves them feeling empowered. Maybe it's a pair of laced-up heels that leaves you feeling poised, or a small pair of kitten heels that adds a touch of charm to your outfit, whatever the style, make sure it says YOU!

Shoe Recommendations Based on Skill Level

Beginner (Stability & Comfort)

Shoes with firm support and a shorter/lower heel are ideal for those still building strength and balance. Here are a few beginner-friendly styles that help new dancers feel confident from the very first steps:

1. Block Heels 

Block heels with a height of 2-3 inches provide stability for new dancers, making them a safe choice for those still developing their ankle and foot strength. This heel type is ideal for practicing walks, learning how to shift body weight, and mastering basic turns and dynamic movements. 

2. Character Shoes 

Often required for ballet tests, character shoes feature a low heel and secure straps, making them safe and supportive for beginners. They are especially great for learning proper technique, alignment, and posture. 

3. Low-heel Latin Shoes 

For those who are just starting to explore Latin heels dance, low-heel Latin shoes can be a wonderful first choice. This dance style features quick turns, shifts in weight, and detailed footwork, so having the right flexibility and support is really important. These heels provide comfort and help you glide smoothly as you learn and enjoy dancing.

4. Block-heel Ankle Boots 

Ankle boots that lace up completely are a great choice for beginners, as they offer wonderful support. With their block heel, these boots provide a stable base, helping new dancers feel more secure as they work on building their strength and confidence.

Intermediate (Balance & Flexibility)

Shoes that allow dancers to begin exploring more movement and height, while staying supported, are best for intermediate dancers. Here we have four designs that stand out as ideal choices:

1. Thinner Block Heels 

With a slimmer heel than beginner shoes, thin block heels create more refined lines while still offering stability. The slightly narrower heel supports dancers who are new to slimmer designs, making these shoes ideal for building balance and confidence.

2. Open-toe Heels

Intermediate heels dance introduces more intricate movement, requiring shoes that balance flexibility with reliable support. Open-toe heels allow greater toe articulation, helping dancers point, extend, and move with cleaner, more fluid lines. 

3. Low-heel Ballroom shoes

Low-heel ballroom shoes offer a great blend of flexibility, structure, and control. Designed for precision and smooth weight transfers, they help intermediate dancers refine technique while maintaining stability. 

4. Slim-heel Ankle Boots

Slim-heel ankle boots are another great option for intermediate heel dancers. While still providing support, they introduce a thinner, more aesthetic heel shape. They’re a strong option for dancers transitioning into more advanced styles, as they promote stability without sacrificing line or style.

Advanced (Performance & Style)

Heels designed for advanced dancers prioritize height, artistry, and stage presence. These styles support expressive movement, clean lines, and high-energy choreography, making them ideal for performances and professional settings.

1. High Stilettos 

High stilettos create long, dramatic lines and elevate overall stage presence. The added height demands strong core engagement, refined balance, and confident weight placement, making them best suited for experienced dancers who can fully control their movement.

2. Performance Pumps

Performance pumps are best suited for advanced dancers as they demand good technique and control when dancing. However, for dancers with strong footwork, their secure fit and flexible sole allows for precise, advanced turns, sharp directional changes, and polished transitions.

3. High-Heel Latin Sandals 

Latin heels dance requires sharp turns and precise, rhythmic footwork, and high-heel Latin sandals are designed to support exactly that. This style offers advanced dancers secure straps, ample toe articulation, and supportive structure, allowing for confident, fast movements.

4. High Stiletto Boots

High stiletto boots are versatile enough for just about any dance style; however, they are best left to advanced dancers. While they are great for floorwork, power moves, and progressive movements, they require strong ankle control because of their thin, high heel. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What shoes to wear for a heels dance class?

During class, it's best to wear heels with secure straps and cushioned insoles. This is a great opportunity to focus on training and strengthening your posture, so comfortable and stable shoes are recommended.

2. What is the dance with heels called?

The dance style where dancers are known to wear heels is often referred to as “Heels dance”. Movements include those from a fusion of various styles, such as those from Latin, Hip-Hop, and contemporary styles. 

3. What are heel dance classes?

Heels classes teach choreography in high heels, focusing on grace, musicality, balance, and technique while blending jazz and hip-hop movement.

4. Do we have to wear heels to a heels dance class?

You don’t have to wear heels; many beginners start in sneakers or character shoes to build balance, confidence, and technique.

Dance in Comfort, Perform with Grace

The right heels are about more than style; they should promote self-assurance, comfort, and a stable foot. For beginners, stick to shoes with a wider and shorter heel while building balance and strength. With time, dancers can gradually explore higher, slimmer heels. 

Whether you’re a beginner finding your footing or an advanced dancer seeking flair and performance-ready shoes, investing in the right heels makes all the difference. Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore Stelle’s collection of dancewear and step into confidence with every move.