How to Maintain and Clean Your Suede Soles for the Perfect Glide

So, you’ve finally invested in a beautiful pair of professional dance shoes from Salsa Style. They feel like a second skin, and the suede soles give you that perfect balance between "grip" and "glide" on the dance floor.

But after a few nights of social dancing in Montreal or at your local studio in Sainte-Julie, you might notice the soles look shiny, flat, or feel slippery. This is because the suede has become compressed and clogged with wax and dust from the floor.

Don’t worry! With the right maintenance, your shoes can last for years. Here is our expert guide on keeping your suede soles in peak condition.

 

1. The Essential Tool: The Steel Wire Brush

If you own suede-soled dance shoes, a dance shoe brush is non-negotiable. This tool has stiff wire bristles designed to "rough up" the suede fibers, restoring the friction you need to spin safely.

* How to do it: Hold your shoe firmly and brush from the toe toward the heel (or in a circular motion) with short, firm strokes.

* The Result: You’ll see the "fluff" return to the suede, which provides the traction needed to prevent sliding.

2. Never Wear Them Outside

It sounds obvious, but even a quick walk from the car to the studio can ruin suede soles. Moisture, pebbles, and oil from the pavement will permanently damage the delicate leather.

* Pro Tip: Always carry your dance shoes in a dedicated bag and change into them only once you are inside the ballroom.

3. Dealing with Moisture

If you happen to step in a small puddle or your soles get damp:

* Do not use a hairdryer or put them near a heater; this will cause the leather to crack.

* Instead, stuff them with newspaper and let them air-dry naturally. Once dry, use your wire brush to restore the texture.

4. How to Remove "Gunk" (Wax and Oil)

Sometimes, dance floors are treated with wax that builds up into hard black spots on your soles.

* Use your wire brush first. If the buildup is stubborn, a slightly damp (not soaking) cloth can be used to wipe the sole, followed immediately by a vigorous brushing once the moisture evaporates.

5. When is it time for a "Resole"?

If you brush your shoes and the suede still feels paper-thin or you start feeling the floor through the ball of your foot, the suede may have worn away completely. At this stage, you don’t necessarily need new shoes—a professional cobbler can often apply a new layer of suede to your favorites.

Final Thoughts

Your shoes are your most important instrument as a dancer. Taking five minutes every week to brush your soles will not only improve your dancing but save you money in the long run.

Need a fresh pair of heels or a professional shoe brush? Browse our latest collection here.