Which type of shoe is suitable for which dance style?

Whether standard, Latin or jazz dance: with the right dance shoes, you'll have more fun in the long run and avoid injuries and pain. Because dance shoes are no ordinary shoes, they are specially developed and manufactured for dancing. This becomes clear when you look at the soles of dance shoes, which are made of so-called suede. This material, also known as chrome, suede or suede leather, is characterized by its particular robustness and resistance and wears very slowly, even with intensive use on smooth parquet.

Dance shoes from Werner Kern not only offer particularly high-quality soles, but also numerous other features that make them the first choice for dancers all over the world. For example, a joint made of hardened steel is invisibly integrated into the midsole of our dance shoes, providing optimum support for the foot without impairing the flexibility of the forefoot area. The joint is also anchored to the heel several times, reliably preventing the shoe from bending in critical areas (e.g. at the transition between the heel and sole).

In addition to these and other similarities, there are also differences in dance shoes that you should be aware of. Dance shoes can generally be divided into three large groups: Standard dance shoes, Latin dance shoes and dance sneakers or training shoes. When choosing the right dance shoe, it also depends on which dance style you prefer, as the different designs not only differ visually, but also in terms of construction and design.

Standard dance shoes - not just a good choice for beginners

If you are attending a basic or advanced dance course or need dance shoes for a prom or wedding, you are always well advised to choose standard dance shoes from Werner Kern. These dance shoes are suitable for classic standard dances such as disco fox, waltz, foxtrot and tango, which is partly due to the fact that most models have a comparatively flat heel. The heel is also aligned towards the center of the foot and therefore provides particularly good support for the heel steps that are often required in these dance styles.

The foot is reliably supported and stabilized by standard dance shoes without restricting mobility when dancing. Some models of our standard dance shoes also have a strap fastening, which not only gives them an elegant look, but also provides additional secure support.

Latin dance shoes - elegance and function in perfect harmony

The five Latin American dances Salsa, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive and Cha-Cha-Cha are characterized by fast turns and frequent changes between driving and rather calm movement phases, which are also coordinated between the two dance partners. This not only requires a lot of training and a good level of fitness, but you also need the right dance shoes, such as the Nueva Epoca brand from Werner Kern.

These shoes are characterized, among other things, by the fact that their heel is inclined towards the heel. This gives dancers the best possible support when performing the complicated and highly dynamic dance figures - and also when shifting their weight backwards, which is typical of Latin American dances. Most Latin dance shoes for women have ankle or cross straps, which not only look great, but also provide additional stability and safety on the dance floor and help to prevent injuries or painful overloading of joints, tendons and muscles.

Latin dance shoes for men often have a higher heel than standard dance shoes to emphasize the hip swing, which is very important for dance expression.

Dance sneakers and dance training shoes - modern look and inner values

The third important group of dance shoes are dance sneakers and training shoes, which we manufacture and offer under our Anna Kern brand. These sporty, casual dance shoes are visually similar to modern sneakers or sneakers, but like our other dance shoes for men and women, they are specially developed for dance sport in all its facets. Whether for salsa, rumba, jazz dance or zumba, a dance workout in the gym or your first dance class: the fashionable dance sneakers from Anna Kern have a smooth PU or suede sole, give your feet a secure grip and absorb shocks.

Dance sneakers are characterized by a pleasant and particularly comfortable fit as well as a comfortable heel height. They can also be easily combined with orthopaedic insoles as the footbed is removable. The two-part sole offers good cushioning properties and generous tread and turning surfaces. This makes dance sneakers particularly suitable for dynamic dance styles such as samba as well as for use in the gym and during workouts.