The Dance Shoe Depot

The Dos and Donts of Dancing!

2012-01-27T13:27:00.000-05:00

The Do’s and Don’ts of Dancing!

1. Do bring 2 pairs of shoes

- Don’t let your day be spoiled by blistered feet.

2. Do bring formal attire.

- Gentlemen: Suit & tie or Tux
- Ladies: cocktail dress/ sassy Latin Dances
- Formal dress/classic smooth dances. It’s also a great idea to coordinate colors.

3. Do bring toiletries

- Don’t forget deodorant, hairspray, bobby pins, safety pins, make-up, hair brush, etc.

4. Do bring music for routine

- Don’t be caught off guard! It’s always better to be prepared!

5. Do bring a “ready to party hardy” attitude!

- Don’t worry about anything! You’ve practiced & you’re prepared, so now it’s time to reap the benefits of the Showcase!

If you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it!

For a great pair of dance shoes visit The Dance Shoe Depot.com where we pride ourselves on great customer service and a large selection of comfortable discounted ballroom dance shoes.

Happy Dancing!

via The Dos and Donts of Dancing! – Arthur Murray International Dance Studios – Dance Classes.

Swing Dancer Dancer Dancer Swing!

2012-01-26T22:13:00.002-05:00

Swing Dancer Dancer Dancer Swing!

One of the most key elements to developing a great “swing” in dancing is to ensure that your “bounce” in swing is moving downward vs. upwards.

Ideally your knees should start in a slightly flexed position and as you move through your triple step, you will want to imagine yourself dancing down into the floorboards as opposed to above them.

Check out our great selection of swing dance shoes to get you started on the “Right” foot at www.thedanceshoedepot.com!

Happy Dancing!

Remember…Perfect Practice Makes Perfect!

2012-01-24T13:52:00.000-05:00

Remember…Perfect Practice Makes Perfect!

Despite what you may think, practicing is not ALWAYS a great idea when dancing.

What one should remember is that dancing involves muscle memory. As such, if you consistently practice something, your body will memorize this; therefore, you’ll want to make sure that what you are “setting in stone” is something you’ll want to be looking at a month from now.

Also, keep in mind that if you have practiced something incorrectly it will take double the time for your instructor to “undo” the damage, so make sure your instructor has vetted what you’re practicing.

Check out our great selection of practice dance shoes to get you started on the “Right” foot at www.thedanceshoedepot.com!

Happy Dancing!

New Years Sale Reminder!

2012-01-20T12:29:00.000-05:00

Don’t miss out on our New Years Sale!

You still have 13 days left to take advantage of 10% off everything!…Everything you say?

That’s right;

Ladies Dance Shoes…10% Off

Men’s Dance Shoes…10% Off

Kids Dance Shoes…10% Off

Dance Sneakers…10% Off

Things already on sale…10% Off

No, we haven’t bumped our heads, or are we going out of business. We just really like to pass as much savings onto our customers as possible…your welcome! =-)

So, stop procrastinating and come see us for a huge selection on quality, discounted ballroom dance shoes.

Use promo code 2Dance4Me (case sensitive)

Happy Dancing!

Defensive Dancing

2012-01-18T09:59:00.000-05:00

Defensive Dancing

Defensive dancing is the art of anticipating what your partner is likely to happen on the dance floor that is undesirable and preparing for it ahead of time. This tip primarily applies for the gentlemen as you are in control…or at least should be. =-)

When taking lessons, if your instructors do not already do this for you, learn to ask them what problems you can generally anticipate in a particular pattern and how to pre-empt these problems. For example, when leading fast-paced changes in direction you can anticipate that your partner may be likely to end up back weighted and off balance. To help prevent this you can plan to keep your leads tighter and shorter before your partner has an opportunity to dance out of control.

Similarly, when engaging in free spins or blind turns with an inexperienced or new partner, it’s always a good idea to keep a hand on your partner’s person to ensure they have some sense of where you are until you have a better sense of each other.

Other ways to dance more effectively are to always wear mens dancing shoes that will help keep YOU balanced and be more in control. Check out our selection at http://www.thedanceshoedepot.com to find the pair that best suits you!

Happy Dancing!

Weekly Dance Tip from The Dance Shoe Depot

2012-01-17T09:44:00.002-05:00

Chacha Rhythm

Here is a simple way to improve your Chacha dramatically. Learn to hold your “1” beat just a little longer. The count in Chacha is 1,2,3,4 & 1,2,3,4 & 1 etc.

Because we typically learn chacha at the beginning with a count of rock step chachacha, rock step chachacha, there is a tendency to shorten the third “cha” – so to speak and rush.

In chacha, when we say 4&1 it means that we have stepped 3 times in the space of two beats. You will want to ensure that the accelerated steps occur on the “4 and the &” while your “1” beat continues to be held for a full beat.

The short version, if this sound a little like a math formula to you, is that you should try to hold your 1 or third cha as long as you possibly can without getting off time.

As always, the proper dance shoes will always ensure that you are more in control of your movements and balanced. Check out http://www.thedanceshoedepot.comfor a great selection of dance shoes to meet your needs.

Happy Dancing!

A Message From Our Teachers

2012-01-13T11:18:00.002-05:00

Dance Cruise 2012

Join us for ten days filled with fun, sun and dancing…what could be more fun? Whether you are a novice, intermediate or seasoned dancer, the material you will be introduced to will serve you for years to come.

Using a unique and proven interrelated system of teaching, you will leave your holiday with new patterns that you can consistently use (and not forget!) in Foxtrot, Waltz, Rumba, Chacha, Swing, Samba, Salsa, Bachata and Merengue.

As a bonus you’ll have a chance to dabble in the sultry style of Bachata, and the joyous styles of Cumbia and Brazilian Samba. Join us for our surprise ice breaker on the first day and meet all your fellow dance enthusiasts.

We look forward to teaching you … save us a few dances!

Melody and Rick

…Of course, like last year, all attendees will receive a coupon for major discounts to be used at The Dance Shoe Depot.com

Happy Dancing!

Dine & Dance Pre Cruise Party!

2012-01-11T22:22:00.002-05:00

Catch the excitement of the Dance Cruise and join us for a fun evening!

Why: Meet your new dance friends
        Get more details on cruise
        Questions/Answers

When: Saturday, January 14, 2012

Where: Villa Lucia Super Club
        Private Dining Room
        3430 Carling Ave. Ottawa, ON K2H 5B1



Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 119

2012-01-10T08:35:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette 119

B) Dancing at Special Events:

Dancing is by its very nature a close contact sport and therefore sometimes requires more explicit instructions than in day to day situations. Here are some helpful hints in this area:

As a ballroom dancer, you will be encouraged to attend many semi-formal or formal events. These events, as would be expected, revolve around a great chance to get outside of the studio and use the social dance skills you have been learning. As dancing is the focus at these events, you should pay attention to the amount of alcohol that is being consumed at dinner. Ballroom dancing on a social floor is a lot like driving, and is a challenging activity after having that one glass of wine too many.

Remember that you are asking fellow dancers to dance, and the experience might not be a pleasant one if too much alcohol has been consumed during dinner.
Courtesy and etiquette is a lost art – help bring it back!

HAPPY DANCING!!

Dance Etiquette 118

2012-01-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Dance Etiquette 118

A)PERSONAL HYGIENE

Dancing is by its very nature a close contact sport and therefore sometimes requires more explicit instructions than in day to day situations. Here are some helpful hints in this area:

1. Brush your teeth, bathe, wear antiperspirant.

2. If you perspire a lot, bring a small towel to dry off between dances and/or wear an extra undershirt. (Do not wipe perspiration from your brow or anywhere else and offer the same to dance with. If this is absolutely necessary, consider using hand sanitizer as a courtesy to your partner.)

3. Do not use other people’s sweat towels.

4. Wear freshly laundered clothes.

5. Use a tissue to dispose of chewing gum.

6. It is generally considered in poor taste and poor hygiene to massage or groom one’s feet in public. If this is absolutely unavoidable consider immediately using hand sanitizer or washing your hands – particularly before asking someone to dance.

7. Walking bare foot in a public place is generally not socially acceptable. Perhaps this would be even more applicable at a dance studio considering the odourous nature of dancer’s feet. If your feet are particularly odourous, use of foot spray and insoles might be a good idea. If you’re not sure ask a trusted friend.

8. Keep the application of hand lotion and scents to a minimum. Many people have allergies or sensitivities to the chemicals found in these products.

9. If you do choose to use hand lotion, be aware of how much you use, and do not wipe extra off on someone else’s hands without ensuring they would like it.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Shoe Bags

2012-01-05T10:30:00.002-05:00

At The Dance Shoe Depot we know how important your ballroom dance shoes can be to you and so why not protect them with one of our dance shoe bags for only $10.00. With our current 10% off everything sale, (use promo code 2Dance4Me) you can pick one up for only $9.00…I think you’ll find that this is the best deal in town!

Hurry as you only have until the end of Jan. 2012 to take advantage of all these savings!

Happy Dancing!

New Styles Available for the New Year!

2012-01-04T10:10:00.006-05:00

The Dance Shoe Depot is proud to offer you some of the latest styles in the ballroom dance industry to be added to our site. These new shoes which are available in both men’s and ladies sizes will sure to turn some heads on the dance floor or on this years 2012 Dance Cruise.

* Genuine leather upper.
* Soft leather back lining.
* A fully lined and cushioned insole for comfort.
* A nonslip suede sole with flat heel.
* Ideal for Salsa, Merengue, Bachata Dance.

Happy New Year from all of us at The Dance Shoe Depot!

2012 Dance Party, Come Join Us!

2012-01-04T10:10:00.005-05:00

2012 Dance Party hosted by The Dance Shoe Depot

Come join us for our first night night of Ballroom dancing in 2012 at Dance With Alana on the 7th of Jan 2012. Instructor Melody Brown will once again be joining us and offering what is sure to be another interesting and fun filled lesson from 7 to 8 with dancing to follow from 8 to 11. Be sure to mark your calendars and hope to see you all there.
Admission $10 with lesson $7 for dance alone.

Happy Dancing

Happy New Year's Sale!!!

2012-01-01T11:55:00.002-05:00

That right, we are having a month long Happy New Year’s Sale!!!

January 1st to 31st, 2012
Use the discount code listed below to get 10% off everything: men’s, ladies and kids ballroom dance shoes – even stuff that’s already on SALE! Crazy…we know!

2Dance4Me

Happy Dancing!
See you on the ballroom dance cruise February 7 to 17th, 2012

Happy New Years Sale!!!

2012-01-01T11:50:00.003-05:00

That right, we are having a month long Happy New Years Sale!!!

January 1st to 31st, 2012
Use the discount code listed below to get 10% off everything, even stuff that’s already on SALE, “crazy…we know!”

Luv2Dance

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 117

2011-12-23T10:29:00.001-05:00

Dance Etiquette 117

17. When practicing in the ballroom (which is highly encouraged), be considerate of the lessons in progress. Private lessons should never be interrupted unless it is a matter of utmost importance.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dancing shoes should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances.
When choosing dance shoes, you should consider both comfort and style. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes that are BOTH comfortable and stylish!

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 116

2011-12-21T21:01:00.001-05:00

Dance Etiquette 116

16. Avoid talking during spotlights or demonstrations. Be respectful of an individual’s courage to share their progress or knowledge with you.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dancing shoes should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances.
When choosing dance shoes, you should consider both comfort and style. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes that are BOTH comfortable and stylish!

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 115

2011-12-20T10:24:00.001-05:00

Dance Etiquette 115

15. Avoid foul language or humour that is in poor taste.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances.
When choosing dance shoes, you should consider both comfort and style. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes that are BOTH comfortable and stylish!

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 114

2011-12-19T10:43:00.003-05:00

Dance Etiquette 114

14. When attending a group class, show consideration for both the teacher and other students by not interrupting and by adhering to the material assigned. Remember that some students are learning the material for the first time and will appreciate having the opportunity to practice.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable practice shoes will help save your feet while you practice, sometimes for hours, on a routine or new style of dance.
When choosing dance shoes, you should consider both comfort and style. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes that are BOTH comfortable and stylish!

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette Tip 113

2011-12-16T10:57:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette Tip 113

13. Although this may have been considered charming in years past, kissing a lady’s hand or any other part of her body without an invitation to do so can very easily be considered a serious invasion of one’s personal space and even sexual harassment. Accepting or asking for a dance does not necessarily imply personal interest even if the dance is a passionate or provocative one by nature. Both the lady and the gentlemen should consider each dance much like a brief conversation at a party where they will then move to the next chat.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances.
When a man chooses dance shoes, he should consider both comfort and style. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes that are BOTH comfortable and stylish!

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette Tip 112

2011-12-16T10:53:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette Tip 112

12. When a woman accepts a dance, she is agreeing to let the man lead. While this does not imply that she needs to have mastered the skill of following, it does mean that she should not try to lead the man and in turn reject his contribution to the partnership. This applies to choice of dance and timing as well as patterns.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes. We also offer women’s wedding shoes.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette Tip 111

2011-12-14T17:26:00.001-05:00

Dance Etiquette Tip 111

11. Gentlemen should never exercise forceful leads to achieve a pattern. Pushing and pulling a lady into position will never feel comfortable. A good dancer will show sensitivity and only lead what is appropriate to his partner’s current level of skill.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection in both women’s dance shoes and men’s dance shoes.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette Tip 110

2011-12-13T10:44:00.000-05:00

Dance Etiquette Tip 110

10. Observe the line of dance. In traveling dances such as waltz, tango, foxtrot, samba, Viennese waltz, and quickstep, traffic should always move counterclockwise on the floor. Faster, more experienced dancers should be in the outermost lane, intermediate dancers in the middle lane and inexperienced dancers in the center of the ballroom.

Comfortable footwear is always key to top performance in ballroom dancing and the ideal dance shoe should combine comfort and style in one! A comfortable dance shoe for both men and women will stabilize you in the smooth dances. Alternately, comfortable latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 109

2011-12-13T10:42:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette 109

9. If you step on (or bump into) anyone, apologize to all partners involved immediately, and ensure that everyone is okay.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes or dance boots for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for a terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 108

2011-12-13T10:41:00.003-05:00

Dance Etiquette 108

8. Both the lead and the follow should be aware of who is around them (including what is happening behind you.) at all times, and should assist in preventing collisions. Ladies, preventing your partner from a collision is not considered leading.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

H

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 107

2011-12-13T10:40:00.000-05:00

Dance Etiquette 107

7. Never correct or teach other dancers (even if it is solicited). Leave it to the professionals. This way, the correct information is sure to be delivered with no chance of you being the cause of hurt feelings, or injured pride. Simply refer the dancer to their teacher for the additional information.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 106

2011-12-13T10:38:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette 106

6. Never criticize or blame your partner for mistakes. (This includes a spouse or significant other.) Gentlemen, avoid questions such as “Don’t you know this pattern?” as this type of question also assigns blame.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 105

2011-12-13T08:21:00.001-05:00

Dance Etiquette 105

5. Smile. Be warm, personable, and nice. If you are a perfectionist in your dancing, leave it behind. Aim to be playful and lighthearted, and focus on your partner instead of yourself. This will ensure that people will want to dance with you again.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 104

2011-12-13T08:20:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette 104

4. Both the lady and the gentleman should always thank their partner for the privilege of a dance when the dance is over.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 103

2011-12-13T08:19:00.000-05:00

Dance Etiquette 103

3. Gentlemen, escort your partner off the floor or until either of you are intercepted.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 102

2011-12-13T08:16:00.002-05:00

Dance Etiquette 102

2. Being declined a dance is always unpleasant and one should avoid declining a dance under most circumstances. If you do decline due to reasons such as not knowing the dance, or taking a rest, accepting a dance from someone else is considered to be improper.

Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Happy Dancing!

Dance Etiquette 101

2011-12-13T08:15:00.000-05:00

Dance Etiquette 101

1. Both ladies and gentlemen should ask their partners to dance in a polite manner. (ie. “May I have this dance?” or “Shall we dance?”) Doing the 100 meter dash to get a “choice” partner would not be considered proper.
Proper footwear will definitely assist in these exercises. A solid pair of Ladies Ballroom shoes with a lower heel will stabilize you in the smooth dances as will the Mens Ballroom shoes. Alternately, latin shoes for men and ladies will help place the weight and foot in the rhythm dances. Visit www.thedanceshoedepot.com for terrific selection to meet all your dancing needs.

Stay Tuned for 17 more dance etiquette tips to come!

Happy Dancing!

Improving Your Arm Styling

2011-08-24T09:42:00.000-04:00

Improving Your Arm Styling

Choosing the Right Dance Shoe for You

2010-02-24T12:25:00.000-05:00

Choosing the Right Dance Shoe for You
If you are at the stage of choosing an appropriate dance shoe, it means you have finally discovered the joy of ballroom dancing.
However, like any sport or physical pastime, the gear chosen can seriously affect one’s performance, enjoyment and appearance. Well chosen shoes will ensure better enjoyment of your dancing and permit you to do so for longer periods of time.
Construction:
Dance shoes are generally more lightweight and flexible with suede soles to ensure the right combination of “grip and slide” with the floor. They also typically have more padding in the insole to absorb the impact of dancing and generally have more toe room for added comfort.
Although many street shoes may be comfortable or stylish, they can easily lead to injury. Rubber soles often cause knee injuries from too much grip while leather soles are often far too slippery.
When choosing the right ballroom shoe, several factors must be taken into consideration.
Comfort and support should be first and foremost in choosing a style. Dancing directs an incredible amount of pressure into the feet and as such, choosing a comfortable shoe is paramount in making dancing a positive experience.
When first trying on a dance shoe, keep in mind that any noticeable pressure, friction or general discomfort will only become magnified after even just a few minutes of dancing. Select a shoe that fits snugly without excessive pressure.
Styles
One can typically choose from two basic styles: Latin or Standard (aka Rhythm or Smooth).
Latin: Latin shoes for ladies usually have higher, slimmer heels and typically sport an opening to show off the toes. Flared heels are often favored by dancers as they provide added stability. Also, many manufacturers offer a variety of strappy styles. One should generally aim to choose straps that are backed with non – stretchy material and 8mm or wider to provide the most support without cutting into the skin.
Additionally, depending on the supplier, Latin shoes may also be available with open backs. Open toes and heels, of course, provide more air flow to the foot, keeping one’s feet cooler. On the other hand, dancers who are seeking the highest degree of support and protection should aim to select shoes with a closed back and/or closed toe style of shoe.
Men’s Latin shoes typically carry a higher heel of up to 1.5 inches to help enhance movement of the hips in the Latin rhythms.
Standard: Standard shoes for ladies typically consist of a closed toe and a lower heel allowing for ease of movement across the floor versus Latin hip motion.
As mentioned above, they also provide added support and protection to the foot and toes.
Men will choose from a variety of shoes which typically sport a 1 inch heel.
Which one is right for you?
When new to the world of dance, ladies may want to choose an all purpose shoe that will work for a variety of dances such as a 2 – 2.5 inch shoe with good support. Black is often chosen for it’s suitability to match a variety of ensembles.
However, as one becomes more proficient, choosing different shoes for different occasions and styles is often ideal. Additionally, flesh-colored shoes are often chosen for their ability to lengthen leg lines.
Maintenance and Repair:
Expect to spend approximately $100 for a quality pair of shoes and keep in mind that dance shoes are in fact, not designed for extended wear. As such, they should be replaced regularly to ensure the best performance.
To extend the life of your dance shoes, never wear them outdoors or permit the soles to become wet. Consider brushing the suede soles with a specially made wire brush to maximize the correct amount of traction with the floor.

Competitive Dancer Series

2009-12-11T21:50:00.002-05:00

Friends, check out the latest edition to the site,

Competitive Dancer Series

*Professional line made for professional competitors and dancers.
*Non-slip insole made with certified nano-fiber that deodorizes the shoes after long hours of dancing.
*Extra padded footbed using latest memory padding technology provides both comfort and long lasting.
*Extra thick memory padding designed to absorb shock and provides strong resistance against high pressure and pad deformation. It lasts average 10 times longer than other major brands.
*Special exterior fabrication/satin made for water/oil/dirt RESISTANCE (3R = 3 Resistance), and easier to clean than traditional satin used for dance shoes.

Christmas Sale!!!

2009-11-22T23:14:00.003-05:00

Join us for our Super Christmas Sale, spend over $175 and get $50 off your order! Runs from Nov.23rd to Dec.31st 2009

www.thedanceshoedepot.com
More Discounts. More Dancing.

A LESSON IN ETIQUETTE #2

2009-11-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Dancing is by its very nature a close contact sport and therefore sometimes requires more explicit instructions than in day to day situations. Here are some helpful hints in this area:

1. Brush your teeth, bathe, wear antiperspirant..

3. Do not use other people’s sweat towels.

4. Wear freshly laundered clothes.

5. Use a tissue to dispose of chewing gum.

8. Keep the application of hand lotion and scents to a minimum. Many people have allergies or sensitivities to the chemicals found in these products.

9. If you do choose to use hand lotion, be aware of how much you use, and do not wipe extra off on someone else’s hands without ensuring they would like it.

An Extra Note For Special Events:

With the studio, you will be encouraged to attend many semi-formal or formal events outside of the studio. These events, as would be expected, revolve around a great chance to get outside of the studio and use the social dance skills you have been learning here. As the dancing is the focus at these events, you should pay attention to the amount of alcohol that is being consumed at dinner. Ballroom dancing on a social floor is a lot like driving, and is a challenging activity after having that one glass of wine too many. Remember that you are asking fellow students and teachers to dance, and the experience might not be a pleasant one if too much alcohol has been consumed during dinner.

A LESSON IN BALLROOM DANCING ETIQUETTE

2009-10-27T20:26:00.001-04:00

Outlined below are some common dos and do nots of which you might or might not be aware. It is our sincere hope that you will find this information beneficial and helpful.

ON THE FLOOR

1. Both ladies and gentlemen should ask their partners to dance in a polite manner. (ie. “May I have this dance?” or “Shall we dance?”) Doing the 100 metre dash to get a “choice” partner would not be considered proper.

2. Being declined is always unpleasant and one should avoid declining a dance under most circumstances. If you do decline due to reasons such as not knowing the dance, or taking a rest, accepting a dance from someone else is considered to be improper.

3. Gentlemen, escort your partner off the floor or until either of you are intercepted.

4. Both the lady and the gentleman should thank their partner.

5. Smile. Be warm, personable, and nice. If you are a perfectionist in your dancing, leave it behind. Aim to be playful and lighthearted, and focus on your partner instead of yourself. This will ensure that people will want to dance with you again.

6. Never criticize or blame your partner for mistakes. (This includes a spouse or significant other.) Gentlemen, avoid questions such as “Don’t you know this pattern?” as this type of question also assigns blame.

7. Never correct or teach other dancers (even if it is solicited). Leave it to the professionals. This way, the correct information is sure to be delivered with no chance of you being the cause of hurt feelings, or injured pride. Simply refer the dancer to their teacher for the additional information.

8. Both the lead and the follow should be aware of who is around them (including what is happening behind you.) at all times, and should assist in preventing collisions. Ladies, preventing your partner from a collision is not considered leading. J

9. If you do step on (or bump into) anyone, apologize to all partners involved immediately, and ensure that everyone is okay.

10. Observe the line of dance. In traveling dances such as waltz, tango, foxtrot, samba, Viennese waltz, and quickstep, traffic should always move counterclockwise on the floor. Faster, more experienced dancers should be in the outermost lane, intermediate dancers in the middle lane and inexperienced dancers in the centre of the ballroom.

11. Gentlemen should never exercise forceful leads to achieve a pattern. Pushing and pulling a lady into position will never feel comfortable. A good dancer will show sensitivity and only lead what is appropriate to his partner’s current level of skill.

12. When a woman accepts a dance, she is agreeing to let the man lead. While this does not imply that she needs to have mastered the skill of following, it does mean that she should not try to lead the man and in turn reject his contribution to the partnership. This applies to choice of dance and timing as well as patterns.

13. Although this may have been considered charming in years past, kissing a lady’s hand or any other part of her body without an invitation to do so can very easily be considered a serious invasion of one’s personal space and even sexual harassment. Accepting or asking for a dance does not necessarily imply personal interest even if the dance is a passionate or provocative one by nature. Both the lady and the gentlemen should consider each dance much like a brief conversation at a party where they will then move to the next chat.

14. When attending a group class, show consideration for both the teacher and other students by not interrupting and by adhering to the material assigned. Remember that some students are learning the material for the first time and will appreciate having the opportunity to practice.

15. Avoid foul language or humour that is in poor taste.

16. Avoid talking during spotlights.

17. When practicing in the ballroom (which is highly encouraged), be considerate of the lessons in progress. Private lessons should never be interrupted unless it is a matter of utmost importance.

18. When at the front desk, be considerate of other students who have been waiting prior to you and avoid interrupting their bookings. Assume everyone’s time is as valuable as yours.

Hurry! Web Launch Sale is Almost Over!

2009-08-23T09:27:00.005-04:00

Come and take advantage of our Website Launch Sales until the end of Aug. Save up to 25% on selected men's and women's Ballroom Dance Shoes at www.thedanceshoedepot.com. We carry a great selection of Salsa, Latin, Ballroom, Cuban and even dance Sneakers all at very competitive prices. We pride ourselves on our customer service and so if you don't find what your looking for, let us know at support@thedanceshoedepot.com and our dedicated team will do what they can to find what you need. Please remember that what you see on our site isn't all that we have, a lot of the styles you see come in many different colours, simply as and we will look into it for you.

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