Guide for Beginners

### Shoes Because we pivot a lot in tango, it's important to have shoes that don't stick to the floor. If you happen to have any dance shoes (ballet, jazz, dance sneakers or ballroom), you can use those. If not, you are welcome to dance in socks, or buy affordable [dance socks](https://www.amazon.com/Haysandy-Pairs-Dance-Covers-Dancer/dp/B09M9VC88X/) to put over regular street shoes. In any case, please don't wear street shoes directly from the street to the dance floor. Please change into the shoes when you arrive. Later on, you may consider buying a pair of tango shoes at [our yearly festival](http://www.philadelphiatangofestival.com/) or from a source like [https://www.strictly4dancers.com/](https://www.strictly4dancers.com/). Italian shoes like Tangolera tend to be the best choice now because of their quality and superior padding, but there are many brands to choose from. ### Music We've put together this [playlist on spotify](https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4k7q4b6bNSQmScSgaz9wn9?si=c89161ec3a4849a8) that is useful for practicing at home. ### Social Dancing In order to learn Argentine tango, it's really important to practice social dancing in practicas and milongas, in addition to attending group or private lessons. Practicas are more casual, and tend to be a great way to get your first tango social dance experiences. Our Wednesday night milonga is also more casual than a big weekend event. That is also a great choice. If you're feeling nervous about attending a social dance early in your tango learning, feel free to reach out to [Meredith](/contact) who can arrange for a "buddy" to accompany you during your first tango events.