A Sassy Guide for Your Fierce Feet 💃👠

POV—there’s nothing quite like that first moment you step onto the dance floor in a phenomenal pair of heels. Whether you're learning salsa for the first time, hitting a commercial heels class, or spinning into your Pole era, the right dance heels can make or break your experience. And no, your cute brunch stilettos aren’t going to cut it bestie. 🙅

If you’re a beginner dipping your toe (literally) into the world of dance heels, we’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to choosing the best dance heels for your style, comfort, and slay factor. Trust us, your ankles will thank you later. 💅

Why Dance Heels Matter (Like, A Lot)

You wouldn't wear flip-flops to run a marathon, right? Same logic applies here. Dance heels are specifically designed to:

✨ Support your foot and ankle during movement
✨ Offer flexibility for pointing, arching, and articulation
✨ Provide balance and stability for spins, dips, and turns
✨ Reduce foot fatigue (yes, comfort is possible)

Wearing regular heels while dancing can lead to twisted ankles, plantar fasciitis, sore knees, and a quick exit from the studio (or worse, the club). Not cute.

Types of Dance Heels (Find Your Flavor 😍)

Let’s break it down by dance style because yes, they are all a little different—and yes, you might end up wanting them all. #SorryNotSorry

🔥 Latin & Ballroom Heels

These are your go-to’s for dances like Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Rumba, Samba, and even Paso Doble. Think suede soles for slick spins, ankle straps for support, and 2.5"–3" heels for elegance and control.
Burju Pick #1: Loraina 3” – a fan fave for beginners with secure ankle straps and a stable base. Thicker straps over toes keep from uncomfortable pinching. 5 out of 5 stars from reviewers with all the comments mentioning comfort and stability along with beautiful design. Shop Loraina now. 
Burju Pick #2: Christalina 3.5” – while the heel is a little higher, the ankle straps make them so supportive and sturdy that you won't even feel the extra height. The crystal embellishments add some elegance to make this your favorite shoe to go out dancing in. Shop Christalina now.

👠 Heels/Commercial Dance

This is the fierce, Beyoncé-style class where sass meets strength. These heels are all about flexibility, durability, and shock absorption. You’ll need something that hugs your foot but lets you MOVE.
Burju Pick #1: Sierra Ankle Bootie 3.5"– our all time best selling dance heel, and you can see why.  They are the perfect combination of beauty and function. So sexy that it has been often imitated but never duplicated. With ankle boots a higher heels is possible because of the added stability and security that the boot structure provides. Sierra has the most heel and color options as well as available in WIDE WIDTH! Shop Sierra now.
💬 “Best heels for my heels class! I feel secure AND sexy.” – Jess
Burju Pick #2: Sierralynn Ankle Bootie 3.5"– cousin to the Sierra, this bootie made of vegan suede is soft and molds to the foot without having to break in. Light, flexible and supportive so you can focus on your moves while you are pain free for hours of dancing. Shop Sierralynn now.

🪩 Pole Dance Heels

Pole heels aren’t just about height—they’re a functional part of your movement. Platforms offer balance and make transitions smoother (and let’s be honest, they look HOT).
Burju Pick: Devon 6" – made for grip, glide, and goddess energy. You will be so much more PLEASED with these over that other brand 😜. Shop Devon now.
💬 “So light weight, flexible and walkable.” – Missy D.

💃 Salsa, Bachata and Zouk

These Latin club staples require fast footwork and slick spins, so you’ll want something flexible and snug with a suede sole and moderate heel.
Burju Pick:

Alemana 2.5” – show stopper heels that are completely adjustable to fit your foot like a glove. 2.5" is a really great beginner heel if you are new to the fast pace footwork of salsa and spins of zouk. Shop Alemana now.
💬 “So comfy I wore them all night out social dancing without dying.” – Carla F.

🌀 West Coast Swing

These flowy, body-led dances need stability and softness. Go for lower heels or flats, excellent arch support, and suede soles.
Burju Pick: Madelaina – smooth as butter, perfect for long socials. Flats with a personality so you can stand out and shine.Shop Madelaina now.
💬 “I had to have these shoes.” – Whitney S.

💋 Tango

Argentine Tango demands precision and drama. These heels need strong ankle support, arch-hugging insoles, and sleek aesthetics.
Burju Pick: Arlette 3.5” – elegant with serious attitude and fun prints. The criss cross straps make your ochos chefs kiss both from the appearance and the function. Shop Arlette Now.
💬 “ Not only did they receive lots of compliments for how sassy they looked, but they were extremely comfortable. My feet didn't hurt all night. They are my go-to dance shoe now!.” – Amanda L.

Picking Your Perfect Heel Height 👇

Your heel height should match your experience, not your ego. Start where you are at and work your way up. 😘

• 2.5": Ideal for true beginners or dancers not used to heels. Great for practicing technique.

• 3": The sweet spot—comfortable for most and still elongates your legs.

• 3.5": For the experienced or naturally heel-loving dancers. Adds drama and dazzle.

• 4”+: Reserved for advanced dancers or pole baddies who live life on an incline.

💡Pro Tip: If you’re new to heels, start lower and train up. Your feet, calves, and balance need time to adjust—and yes, you will feel like a baby giraffe at first. It gets better.  If you are ok wearing high heels just casually but not sure you can keep up with dance moves in them, try a chunky heel option.  The wider surface area of the heel will provide more stability for you to go from a walk to dance combo.

Heel Types: Stiletto, Block, or Flared?

• Stiletto: Sexy and sleek, but best for experienced dancers with strong ankles and good balance.

• Block: Chunkier and more stable. Beginner bestie and perfect for long socials.

• Flared: Tapered but wider at the base. A happy medium of style and stability.

Burju Bonus: Most Burju styles come in multiple heel heights and types—so you can get your fave in a version that actually works for you. We even offer customization so you can get exactly what you want in a short 10-15 business days.  We don't do fast fashion, only functional fashion.

So... Which Dance Heel Should You Start With?

Ask yourself:

✔️ What kind of dance am I doing?
✔️ How comfortable am I walking/standing in heels?
✔️ Do I need extra ankle support or stability?
✔️ Am I practicing a lot or just dancing on weekends?

If you're a total newbie, start with a block heel or lower heel between 2.5–3 inches and look for ankle straps or closed heels for extra support. Prioritize suede soles for indoor dancing and street soles if you're hitting concrete or club floors.

Real Talk from the Burju Babes 💬

We don’t gatekeep around here. Burju Shoes has been the go-to for dancers of all levels—from absolute beginners to international pros.

💖 “I bought my first pair of Burju heels last month and I already feel like a different dancer. So much more control!” – Naomi S.
💖 “I was nervous to dance in heels but these gave me the confidence and support I needed to level up.” – Leila K.

Final Step? Treat Your Feet. 👑

Wearing the right dance heels isn’t just about looking cute (though, that's a plus 💅). It’s about dancing longer, stronger, and injury-free. With Burju Shoes, you’re not just buying a pair of heels—you’re investing in your dance journey.

Explore our beginner-friendly dance heels here and find the perfect pair that moves with you—not against you. 💃✨

TL;DR (of for those that don't know the internet slang "too long, didn't read"): Dance Heels 101 for Beginners

• 🩰 Choose style-specific heels for better performance and safety.

• 📏 Start with 2.5”–3” heels for comfort and control.

• 🔥 Look for ankle straps, more upper material, and proper fit.

• 🕺 Your heels should support your moves, not fight them.

• 💖 Burju Shoes = dancer-tested, style-approved.

See you on the dance floor, queen. 👑👠