shoes store - LA/OC area?

[flyhere]

Hi All,

We are looking for some decent shoes for our AT lessons, and just wonder if anyone knows of some dance shoes stores in the Orange County (or even in Los Angeles) area.

Having just started out, we don't want to spend a whole lot on nice shoes yet, just something good and suitable for the lessons. Our teacher gave us the name of one dance supply store, but they specialize in ballet stuff and have very limited choices, just a couple of pairs of Capezio shoes to choose from.

We found a couple of stores attached to the local ballroom dance studios, and my wife tried on a few ballroom shoes. The sizes vary a great deal depending on the manufacturer, so we're hesitant about buying shoes off the internet. I did find a few websites like darcos, tara, etc.

Suggestions and pointers are appreciated, or tricks on ordering online, how to make sure they fit. Thanks.

fly

PS. I'm not real impressed with the sales guys at the ballroom shoes stores. They don't seem knowledgeable, one gave us a catalog to order from.

[bastet]

Hi All,

We are looking for some decent shoes for our AT lessons, and just wonder if anyone knows of some dance shoes stores in the Orange County (or even in Los Angeles) area.

Having just started out, we don't want to spend a whole lot on nice shoes yet, just something good and suitable for the lessons. Our teacher gave us the name of one dance supply store, but they specialize in ballet stuff and have very limited choices, just a couple of pairs of Capezio shoes to choose from.

We found a couple of stores attached to the local ballroom dance studios, and my wife tried on a few ballroom shoes. The sizes vary a great deal depending on the manufacturer, so we're hesitant about buying shoes off the internet. I did find a few websites like darcos, tara, etc.

Suggestions and pointers are appreciated, or tricks on ordering online, how to make sure they fit. Thanks.

fly

PS. I'm not real impressed with the sales guys at the ballroom shoes stores. They don't seem knowledgeable, one gave us a catalog to order from.

For guys (and unisex practice shoe) the Sansha Salsette with the suede half sole is very popular and very cheap (like under $40 most times). It comes in black on black and red and black. Guys go something like 4 sizes up from street shoe.

For ladies....that's a bit more of a problem. You don't really need lether bottom shoes if you don't want to...the only added bonus for that is you can walk around in them in the street (and gouge the soles, IMO) or keep them for nice floors so you don't gouge the soles. People think it makes them pivot better, but once you get grit and stuff in the bottoms that can't be smoothed over, IMO you'd have been better off with suede bottoms you let get packed down. You can clean it and it will repack smooth.

Style-wise for ladies for practicing, I like the Bloch Split-Flex (Capezio has something similar also) for under $80 usually. Try them on in a store, sizing varies from street shoe. There's nothing wrong with getting a cheaper pair of suede bottom ballroom shoes your first time out either if you like. As you dance, you'll probably want to move on from them but if you aren't ready to drop $200 on ladies shoes yet, give somethig else a try in the mean time.

Recommendations for later- I have it on very good authority that Werner Kern's Nueva Epoca line (their very nicely made tango and salsa shoes) will soon be out with a lower heel option, like late August to early September. I have given them a trial run and found the leathers very soft (softer than Argentine leathers) and quite flexible in the sole with good padding. I'm looking forward to them.

[j_alexandra]

Worldtone has a store in LA; worldtonedance dot com for more info.

[flyhere]

j alexandra: Thanks. Yes, worldtone website does not have much info, but I talked to the saleslady yesterday, planning to drive up to the store in the next day or so.

bastet: Thanks for the info, will do some looking around, see if anyone has those around here.

[hbboogie1]

Hi All,

We are looking for some decent shoes for our AT lessons, and just wonder if anyone knows of some dance shoes stores in the Orange County (or even in Los Angeles) area.

Having just started out, we don't want to spend a whole lot on nice shoes yet, just something good and suitable for the lessons. Our teacher gave us the name of one dance supply store, but they specialize in ballet stuff and have very limited choices, just a couple of pairs of Capezio shoes to choose from.

We found a couple of stores attached to the local ballroom dance studios, and my wife tried on a few ballroom shoes. The sizes vary a great deal depending on the manufacturer, so we're hesitant about buying shoes off the internet. I did find a few websites like darcos, tara, etc.

Suggestions and pointers are appreciated, or tricks on ordering online, how to make sure they fit. Thanks.

fly

PS. I'm not real impressed with the sales guys at the ballroom shoes stores. They don't seem knowledgeable, one gave us a catalog to order from.

Try “Very Fine “ Shoe store in El Monte they carry a large inventory and very reasonable prices with lots of comfortable options that your feet will enjoy.
4920 Santa Anita Ave
El Monte
626-575-8801

[3wishes]

and coming into third, Champion shoes on Barham off the 101 just the south side of Universal City. Small store, knowledgable gents, lots of choices. However, being that it's the holiday week - check store hours by calling ahead. May save time and gas if their closed.

[chachachacat]

Strictly Ballroom in the Avant Garde Studio in Newport Beach. they carry a few brands, at least you can try on shoes to find your size. You're right, it is best to try them on first before ordering online.

Notably Unique in Anaheim.


Also, Very Fine shoes are inexpensive, especially on their website, or Google discount dance shoes.

BTW, your dance shoes should fit snugly, like socks, about 2 sizes smaller than your street shoe size.

[Ampster]

Hi All,

We are looking for some decent shoes for our AT lessons, and just wonder if anyone knows of some dance shoes stores in the Orange County (or even in Los Angeles) area.

Having just started out, we don't want to spend a whole lot on nice shoes yet, just something good and suitable for the lessons. Our teacher gave us the name of one dance supply store, but they specialize in ballet stuff and have very limited choices, just a couple of pairs of Capezio shoes to choose from.

We found a couple of stores attached to the local ballroom dance studios, and my wife tried on a few ballroom shoes. The sizes vary a great deal depending on the manufacturer, so we're hesitant about buying shoes off the internet. I did find a few websites like darcos, tara, etc.

Suggestions and pointers are appreciated, or tricks on ordering online, how to make sure they fit. Thanks.

fly

PS. I'm not real impressed with the sales guys at the ballroom shoes stores. They don't seem knowledgeable, one gave us a catalog to order from.

Keep this in mind when looking for real AT shoes (They are NOT like ballroom shoes)...

Women's Argentine Tango shoes are stiff to help hold the woman up. They are hard leather soled to help pivoting. They come in the sexy 3+" stilleto heels because most of the time, the woman's weight are on the balls of the foot, NOT on the heel. Unlike salsa/ballroom shoes where the heels are lower and wider because you hold the weight evenly most of the time.

They are also designed and built to be worn out doors AND to wear dancing. (Of course women don't. But you can if you wanted to) Be sure to also buy a wire sole brush to provide some traction, and to clean out the soles if you do decide to wear them out

To give you an idea, thiese are how AT shoes look:
http://www.darcostango.com/img/510.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/459.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/475.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/616.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/546.jpg

My point is: You don't have to get specific dance shoes for AT. If you can find a woman's shoe in the aforementioned parameters, they will work.

[bastet]

Strictly Ballroom in the Avant Garde Studio in Newport Beach. they carry a few brands, at least you can try on shoes to find your size. You're right, it is best to try them on first before ordering online.

Notably Unique in Anaheim.


Also, Very Fine shoes are inexpensive, especially on their website, or Google discount dance shoes.

BTW, your dance shoes should fit snugly, like socks, about 2 sizes smaller than your street shoe size.

I'm going to say no to this for tango shoes. British sizing is about 2 sizes off from American so that's where that little scenariio comes in. (IE- I wear a 6.5 US and when I buy British made shoes like Freed or Supadane, I get a 4- that is the correct size conversion. I am not buying myself a size 4 Amercian shoe.) If you buy American shoes 2 sizes down you won't get your feet in them and you will RUIN your feet (trust me).

You MIGHT end up a half size off depending on the brand. They should fit COMFORTABLY, not too loose or too tight and your toes should NOT hang over like they would in latin shoes- try to imagine doing toe taps with your toes hanging over OWW! You are not attempting to create a second skin in tango shoes. I tuined my feet by wearing too tight shoes. Don't even go there- take careof your feet.

[bastet]

Keep this in mind when looking for real AT shoes (They are NOT like ballroom shoes)...

Women's Argentine Tango shoes are stiff to help hold the woman up. They are hard leather soled to help pivoting. They come in the sexy 3+" stilleto heels because most of the time, the woman's weight are on the balls of the foot, NOT on the heel. Unlike salsa/ballroom shoes where the heels are lower and wider because you hold the weight evenly most of the time.

They are also designed and built to be worn out doors AND to wear dancing. (Of course women don't. But you can if you wanted to) Be sure to also buy a wire sole brush to provide some traction, and to clean out the soles if you do decide to wear them out

To give you an idea, thiese are how AT shoes look:
http://www.darcostango.com/img/510.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/459.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/475.jpghttp://www.darcostango.com/img/546.jpg

My point is: You don't have to get specific dance shoes for AT. If you can find a woman's shoe in the aforementioned parameters, they will work.

I personally think the hard leather for pivoting is a bit of a myth. Scratched up leather soles aren't going to increase your ability to pivot any better than suede, in fact, probably worse. Only if you keep the leather soles in pristine condition (smooth) would it help with pivoting.

I almost always get a leather sole with a cromo half sole on my shoe, but lately am preferring the full suede (like Tango Brujo) again for flexibility.

Also- any shoe over 2.5" in height will tend to throw a ladies weight forward over the balls of the feet. Once they ar 3" or over, it's more difficult (but not impossible) to backweight yourself. But the style selection in tango shoes can't be beaten...really.... :D

[j_alexandra]

But the style selection in tango shoes can't be beaten...really.... :D

Amen. I've often considered taking up AT just for the shoes. :) There are some gorgeous AT shoes.

[flyhere]

Appreciate all the fine pointers from everyone.

and coming into third, Champion shoes on Barham off the 101 ...
I found them online, but did not make it to their store.

Try “Very Fine “ Shoe store in El Monte they carry a large inventory and very reasonable prices ...
We ended up there today and bought 2 pairs. The quality is ok, acceptable for lessons, and the prices are ok with their "2 for 1" specials, I thought their normal prices are not value for money. Will save up money for better and nicer shoes later elsewhere.

Strictly Ballroom in the Avant Garde Studio in Newport Beach...

Notably Unique in Anaheim.
We looked at both and decided we are not good enough yet to spend $200 on a pair of shoes there. Then, may be when we're ready to spend, we'll go for real AT shoes, like Ampster's images.

Keep this in mind when looking for real AT shoes (They are NOT like ballroom shoes)...
To give you an idea, thiese are how AT shoes look:...
My ideas of good-looking AT shoes, I'm sure my wife will agree too. Also seeing dancers doing AT steps in these beautiful shoes is my idea of sexiness, I can visualize some nice shots with my photographers eyes already...(need a smilie with a camera here...)

I'm going to say no to this for tango shoes. British sizing is about 2 sizes off from American so that's where that little scenariio comes in. ...American shoes 2 sizes down you won't get your feet in them and you will RUIN your feet (trust me).

You MIGHT end up a half size off depending on the brand. They should fit COMFORTABLY,...
Yes, I think you are correct.

My wife's street-shoes size is US 7 or 7.5, also according to a measurement chart. At one store, she fits a size 6 comfortably (not tight) of one brand, and 6.5 of another brand. At another store, she fits their size 7. The ones she bought were size 6.5, suede sole 2.5" heel btw.

Thanks again to everyone.
fly

[jantango]

Beginners should start with black leather. You may be stepping on one another's shoes, and leather is the easiest to clean.

Her shoes should be closed toes rather than the flashy open-toe sandals from Darcos in Buenos Aires. They aren't practical for beginners.

Only a few years ago, the majority of women in Buenos Aires wore closed-toe street shoes for dancing. Then with the increase in tourism for tango, all kinds of stores opened up. One of the was Comme il Faut which caters to young girls with ballet training who like the feel of nothing on their feet and can handle 4" stilettos. That's fine if you're dancing with an experienced partner who won't step on your toes.

His shoes should also be black leather with laces and a thin sole and normal heel. If they fit like a glove, they will be fine. Perfect fit and comfort are priorities in dance shoes.

Personally, I recommend Tara Tango shoes sold by mail in the USA. They are made in Montevideo, Uruguay. They are comfortable, available in half sizes, they stand up to years of wear. Your first pair could be the Cruzada in black leather.

[bastet]

Beginners should start with black leather. You may be stepping on one another's shoes, and leather is the easiest to clean.

Her shoes should be closed toes rather than the flashy open-toe sandals from Darcos in Buenos Aires. They aren't practical for beginners.

Only a few years ago, the majority of women in Buenos Aires wore closed-toe street shoes for dancing. Then with the increase in tourism for tango, all kinds of stores opened up. One of the was Comme il Faut which caters to young girls with ballet training who like the feel of nothing on their feet and can handle 4" stilettos. That's fine if you're dancing with an experienced partner who won't step on your toes.

His shoes should also be black leather with laces and a thin sole and normal heel. If they fit like a glove, they will be fine. Perfect fit and comfort are priorities in dance shoes.

Personally, I recommend Tara Tango shoes sold by mail in the USA. They are made in Montevideo, Uruguay. They are comfortable, available in half sizes, they stand up to years of wear. Your first pair could be the Cruzada in black leather.

the main trouble I have with Tara's shoes is they have absolutely no arch support and fit too narrow most of the time. Great if you have narrow feet and no arches, I guess. I have had several pair and kept one with added arch shapers I had to put in so I could have some supprt.

They are well made though.

[flyhere]

Beginners should start with black leather. You may be stepping on one another's shoes, and leather is the easiest to clean.

Her shoes should be closed toes rather than the flashy open-toe sandals from Darcos in Buenos Aires. They aren't practical for beginners....

His shoes should also be black leather with laces and a thin sole and normal heel. If they fit like a glove, they will be fine. Perfect fit and comfort are priorities in dance shoes....

That's what we got, both simple black leather with suede sole, closed toe 2.5" heel for the missus, laces and normal 1" heel for me. They had a nice mens pair with leather top at the front half and black suede at the back half, but I thought all leather would be easier to clean than suede.

I did look at Tara shoes, they are nice. We were a bit unsure about fitting with ordering over the internet, so did not go that route this time.

bastet: Thanks for the note about the width, my wife has small heel but medium width, some shoes are too narrow for her.

Thanks
fly

[bastet]

That's what we got, both simple black leather with suede sole, closed toe 2.5" heel for the missus, laces and normal 1" heel for me. They had a nice mens pair with leather top at the front half and black suede at the back half, but I thought all leather would be easier to clean than suede.

I did look at Tara shoes, they are nice. We were a bit unsure about fitting with ordering over the internet, so did not go that route this time.

bastet: Thanks for the note about the width, my wife has small heel but medium width, some shoes are too narrow for her.

Thanks
fly

the Celos model I have has a slighly wider fit in the toes, but still no arch support (my feet have pretty high arches) for me. I also have trouble wearing closed toe shoe due to foot problems (see previous rant) and open toes let my chubby toes spread out and don't squish my big toe...so your wife will just need to see what turns out more comfortable over time, peep, closed or open toes...you got something that works for the mean time- that's the main point for you now.