How to Measure Your Feet Correctly for the Ideal Tango Shoes

Buying a pair of tango shoes online can be both exciting and intimidating. Unlike regular shoes, tango shoes are crafted with almost artistic precision to support complex movements and add elegance to every step. 

But how to choose the right size, especially when each brand has its own standards and materials behave differently? 

In this detailed article, I'll show you how to measure each foot size, how to interpret size charts, and how to compensate for the differences. 

But why is a detailed foot measurement important? 

In tango, the feet are more than just a means of movement – ​​they express passion, grace and technique. Choosing the right shoes is vital for: 

• Comfort: Long hours of dancing can become an ordeal if the shoes are too tight, too loose or uncomfortable. 
• Performance: Shoes that fit perfectly give you stability and freedom of movement, essential for complex movements like gyro or ochos. 
• Durability: Well-fitting shoes will wear out more slowly and the materials will be less stressed. 

How to measure your foot correctly? 

Correct measurement requires attention and patience. A quick or inaccurate measurement can lead to the wrong size. Here's what you need: 

• A sheet of A4 paper (or larger if you have long legs). 
• A well-sharpened pencil. 
• A tailor's ruler or centimeter. 
• A flat surface, preferably hard (not carpet). 

Step 1: Measuring your leg length 

1. Preparing the sheet: Place the sheet on the floor, taped to a wall. 
2. Foot position: Place your foot on the sheet with the heel firmly against the wall. Make sure you are standing straight and that your body weight is evenly distributed between your legs. 
3. Marking: Use the pencil to mark the farthest point of the foot (the tip of the longest toe). 
4. Measurement: Measure the distance between the edge of the sheet (the heel) and the mark made for the toe. 

Note: 
Measure both legs as it is common for one to be slightly longer than the other. Use the larger measurement to determine the correct size. 
Measure the foot in the evening when it is slightly swollen, as this condition best reflects the conditions during the dance. 

Step 2: Measuring the width of the foot 

Width is crucial for choosing a mattress that provides maximum comfort. 

1. Identify the measurement points: The widest points are usually in the instep area (outside and inside of the foot). 
2. Measuring: Measure the distance between the two points with a ruler or a centimeter. 

Step 3: Measuring the thickness of the foot (circumference of the instep) 

This is an essential measurement for people with larger legs or high insteps. 

1. Position: Sit straight with your foot relaxed on the floor. 
2. Measuring: Use a seam allowance to wrap the foot around the instep (highest part of the foot, just above the arch). Apply moderate pressure – neither too tight nor too loose. 

How to choose the right size? 

Shoe materials and their behavior over time 

1. Rigid materials: 
   Lacquer (patent) or plastic: These materials do not fade over time. If your measurement is between two sizes, always choose the larger size to avoid discomfort. 
2. Flexible materials:
   • Leatherette (suede, chamois): These materials shrink up to 5-10% after a few wears. If you're between sizes, go for the smaller size, but make sure it's not too tight to begin with.
   • Nappa leather: Soft nappa molds to the foot quickly, but not as much as leather. You can choose a fixed size or slightly smaller. 
3. Textiles: 
   Textiles may have elasticity, but they do not fully adapt to the shape of the foot. In general, choose the exact size or slightly larger if in doubt. 

If your measurements are between two sizes 

1. For high heel shoes: 
   • If the material is stiff, opt for the larger size. 
   • If the material is flexible, go for the smaller size, but check that there is no excessive pressure on the fingers. 
2. For wide or narrow frames: 
   • If you have narrow feet look for models that specify a narrow footbed or add insoles to reduce the gap. 
   • If you have wide feet choose sizes that allow space around the mounts. 
   • If the size is too large in length, add gel pads to adjust. 

Shoe fitting solutions 

• Gel insoles: Ideal for shoes that are slightly larger. They add comfort and stabilize the foot. 
• Toe pads: If the shoes are too long, you can add small silicone pads to the front. 
• Anti-slip adhesive strips: Useful for shoes that are slightly wide in the back. 
• Adjustable straps: Some models allow adjustment to compensate for differences in girth. 

Interpretation of size charts 

1. European sizes vs. American: 
   A 25 cm foot may correspond to a size 39 in the European system, but an 8 in the American system. See the table of each brand. 
2. Regional calapoades: 
   • Italian brands tend to use narrower casings. 
   • American brands are more permissive in width. 

Conclusion: Start with perfect measurements for a perfect dance 

The right tango shoes are more than an accessory – they're your dance partners. By investing time in accurate measurements and understanding the behavior of materials, you will make an informed choice. 

Whether it's your first pair of shoes or your tenth, a well-chosen shoe will give you confidence, comfort and grace on the dance floor. 

Passion for tango starts with a step – and that step is best with the right shoes! 

or, if you feel ready...simply start shopping:

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