WDSF Shoe Standards for Children and Junior Dancers – Complete Guide
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WDSF Shoe Regulations by Category
When preparing for a ballroom or Latin competition, choosing the correct shoes is as important as the choreography itself. The World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) sets clear rules for footwear to ensure safety, fairness, and elegance on the dance floor. Here is a breakdown by age category and gender:
Juvenile (Children)
Boys (ST/LA):
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Shoes: black only (Bo).
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Heel: max 2.5 cm.
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Socks: black socks are mandatory.
Girls (ST/LA):
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Shoes: any colour (C), including metallic and glitter effects. Buckles are allowed only if used for fastening, not decoration.
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Heel: block heel, max 3.5 cm.
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Socks: short socks are allowed.
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Tights: skin colour permitted (OA), mesh tights not allowed (NA).
Junior I
Boys (ST):
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Heel: max 2.5 cm.
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Socks: black socks required.
Boys (LA):
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Heel: max 3.5 cm.
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Socks: must match either shoe colour or trousers.
Girls (ST/LA):
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Heel: max 5 cm.
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Socks: short socks are allowed.
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Tights: skin colour permitted (OA), mesh tights not allowed (NA).
Junior 2 and Senior
Junior II and Senior dancers enjoy more freedom – any shoe color is permitted, and heels can even exceed 5 cm, as long as they are comfortable and do not disturb others on the dance floor. The only universal rule for boys across all categories is that socks are mandatory. This guide helps dancers and parents choose the right shoes to stay compliant with WDSF standards while feeling confident on stage.
Key Notes
Juveniles must keep footwear modest and simple, avoiding high heels and mesh tights.
Juniors I gain slightly more flexibility in colour choices and heel height.
From Junior II upwards, dancers can wear heels up to 5 cm, but tights must remain in compliance with WDSF rules.
Buckles and metallic effects are acceptable only if practical, not decorative.
At Diamond Fashion, we provide dance shoes designed to meet every WDSF rule – so parents and coaches can feel confident that their dancers are competition-ready.