The RIGHT Fit
Written by Tammy (2009/10)

Manufacturers and Professional dancers will suggest that a snug fit is recommended over a comfort or loose fit, but it's truly a personal preference.  Just keep this in mind...  Your dance shoes will stretch much faster than your regular shoes. 

STYLES
Just because your foot fits perfectly in one style does not mean it will do the same in another style.  If you have a foot that is difficult to fit, I would recommend you stick with the styles you know will fit before you rack up shipping/return fees.  It's best to visit a local dance shoe store if you want to try a new style, and then look for that style online next time to take advantage of the discounts.  The below are only RECOMMENDATIONS which fit the scenarios of most customers.  You must use your own discretion when deciding size. 

Burju Shoes
(Burju Shoes are made True-to-Size!  It is HIGHLY recommended Ordering Street Size!)
Order TRUE-TO-SIZE

Burju Shoes - Stilettos
(The Stilettos are ONLY made in NARROW 3" or 4" Heels)

Order 1/2 size SMALLER / LARGER than street size

Very Fine Shoes
(Ladies Classics, C Series, Signature Series, Party Party Series Competitive Dancer Series)
Order street or 1/2 size SMALLER than street size

(Mens Classics, C Series, Signature Series, Party Party Series )
(Leather and Nubuck will stretch faster)

Order street or 1/2 size SMALLER than street size

Very Fine Salseras
(Ladies Salseras have a longer foot bed, so the fit is longer making the shoe a bit larger than the average BALLROOM shoe for most customers. 
This shoe is recommended if you need a dance shoe larger than a ladies 10.5 or a wide foot.)
Order 1/2 to FULL size SMALLER than street size

Very Fine Sneakers
You're usually wearing soaks when wearing sneakers, so please keep that in mind. 
WOMEN:  Order street or Full size LARGER
MEN: Order 2 US sizes LARGER

NARROW FOOT
Most women with a narrow foot prefer a shoe with an adjustable buckle across the foot or shoes that cover most of your foot.  Custom order Burju Shoes are available in custom widths.  Some suggested styles...

I'd also recommend a couple of accessories that will help secure your shoes to your feet to help prevent injuries:

Clear Elastic Shoe Straps                           Comfort Pads White

Clear Plastic Shoe Straps slip around the arch of the shoe and your foot for added security.

Foot Pads not only provide added comfort, but are great to add more thickness in the toe area giving you a tighter fit across the toes. 

TOO TIGHT
Okay...you got your shoes, and they're too snug, but you know they'll stretch a good 1/2 inch after a few dances.  The thing is, that you need them for a performance or special occasion...or you're like me...impatient!  Try using a shoe horn or visiting a local shoe repair store.  You'd be surprised exactly what a good shoe repair store could do for you.  Make sure they specialize in dance shoes!  Another great tip I received, but you'll have to try at your own risk....  With leather shoes or shoes made of a natural material, get a wet wash cloth and dampen the inner part of the shoe.  I don't do the soles.  Sometimes, with strappy shoes, I can carefully drip the water directly on the shoe.  Then I place the shoe horn in the shoes, and let them dry for 1-2 days.  Most of the time, my shoes are stretched once dried.  Also, remember that if you leave your shoes in a hot car, they can shrink and dry out your soles.  Try all these tips and more at your own risk, and please be aware that your shoes are no longer returnable or exchangeable.

TOO LOOSE
-  Buy Shoes with Straps! 
Look at the styles with x-straps, ankle straps, or both.  These styles help secure the shoe on your foot more than the Mary Jane styles or slip-ons.  
-  Clear Plastic Shoe Straps
slip around the arch of the shoe and your foot for added security.
-  Foot Pads not only provide added comfort, but are great to add more thickness in the toe area giving you a tighter fit across the toes. 

Clear Elastic Shoe Straps                           Comfort Pads White