Open dance shoes

Why are open dance shoes with higher heels ideal for Latin American dances?

If you love tango, salsa, or Latin American dances such as samba, cha-cha-cha, paso doble, or rumba, then you need dance shoes with an open design. The open toe allows for greater flexibility of movement, which is essential for these expressive dances. Only open dance shoes make it possible to fully extend the feet—something that is characteristic of Latin American dances. In addition, classic Latin dance shoes are not only open but also feature a higher heel. This shifts the body’s center of gravity slightly forward, helping to support the hip movements that are typical of many Latin dances.

Why do you need good dance shoes to dance properly?

Are you open to new dance experiences and have therefore signed up for a tango or salsa class? Then you should try dancing right away in shoes that have been loved and worn by dancers all over the world for more than 50 years: dance shoes by Werner Kern. Experience our open women’s dance shoes, which provide stable, secure support while still allowing you to glide effortlessly across the dance floor. All Werner Kern dance shoes, whether open or closed, feature a flexible and soft suede sole, a cushioned midsole, and shock-absorbing heels. Each shoe adapts perfectly to the foot, offering maximum comfort even when you dance for many hours.

Why do Italian craftsmanship and perfect fits ensure maximum dance comfort?

This outstanding comfort is the result of decades of experience that goes into all of our dance shoes, both open and closed. For example, our shoemakers in Italy use different fits to ensure that our dance shoes sit just as securely and comfortably on slim feet as they do on wider feet. Crafted with care and attention to detail, these shoes are made by hand with the highest level of craftsmanship. We rely not only on experienced artisans but also on premium materials such as soft nappa leather, suede goat leather, or glossy velour. Regional suppliers—some of whom we have worked with for decades—provide additional materials such as soles, buckles, and heels, and share our passion for high-quality dance shoes.

What defines true quality in handcrafted leather dance shoes?

Naturally, as leather is a pure natural product, slight variations in the grain may occur. This is not a defect, but rather a mark of quality that makes each genuine leather dance shoe unique. We source all leather exclusively from Italian tanneries that meet strict animal welfare standards and our high quality requirements. More than 120 individual steps are required to produce a genuine Werner Kern women’s dance shoe; many of these are done entirely by hand, and all demand care, experience, and a keen eye for detail. Each shoe then undergoes a strict quality inspection at our Italian factory before being offered for sale online or in-store.

Are you looking for a dance shoe in a specific color?

Upon request, we can create your dance shoe—open or closed—entirely according to your wishes and specifications. With our “shoes designed by you” option, you can have any of our models custom-made in your preferred color. Simply visit a local retailer first and try on the desired model. Then decide on the shoe size, heel height, color, and material you want. We will then have your personal dance shoe handcrafted in Italy. After approximately 6–8 weeks, your custom-made dance shoe will be ready and delivered to your retailer.

Of course, this service is not limited to women’s shoes—it is also available for men’s dance shoes. You can easily and quickly find a suitable retailer near you using our store finder.

In-store, you can try on and test our other dance shoes (open and closed) and see for yourself that dance shoes by Werner Kern are anything but ordinary. Or simply order your favorite model online and have your new shoes conveniently delivered straight to your doorstep.