How to Choose Clothing and Shoes for African Dances

African dances encompass a variety of distinct styles that developed in isolation. It's no wonder you might confuse names and origins—let alone how to choose attire. But African dances share a common pulse and groundedness: these are not airy ballet moves, but heavy, rhythmic dances that make your whole body vibrate. Hence, the requirements for dancewear are simple: clothes must be as comfortable as possible.

Afro Dance

Today, Afro seems like a standalone style, but it's actually a blend of movements from various ethnic dances, varying from instructor to instructor. The most important aspect of Afro is that it mimics animal behavior, combining graceful, stealthy moves with swift throws of arms, legs, and the whole body. For this dance, free your body as much as possible. T-shirts, tank tops, and loose shorts are ideal.

Choose cotton clothing so your skin can breathe; otherwise, you'll overheat from the hot African rhythms. Your body will move with maximum amplitude, appearing relaxed externally but filled with wild energy inside. For any African dance style, women should carefully select a sports bra, regardless of breast size. Take this seriously, as if you were a professional athlete. Nothing can ruin your dance enjoyment like a strap slipping off your shoulder.

Afro-House (Kuduro)

This is a modern mix of club culture and ancient ethnic tradition: hip-hop and electronic music meet complex drum rhythms. Prepare to be completely exhausted; Kuduro will drain you. This dance doesn't tolerate skirts or dresses; women should wear shorts or leggings. Wide pants are also acceptable, but they should have no belts or rivets. The dance is very active; you must never step on your own belt or catch a button on someone else. Since Afro-House incorporates hip-hop, it's best to practice in shoes—sneakers or canvas shoes. That way, you'll get used to them and can perform your favorite moves at the club. For men, clothing recommendations are standard: t-shirts and pants.

Makulele

This is a rare dance, and few know how to teach it properly. It's part of African warrior culture, performed to the accompaniment of the atabaque drum (though recordings of authentic performers are often used). Makulele is a warrior dance, originally performed with machetes and knives, but in the modern world, you'll need special sticks instead. Traditionally, everyone dances barefoot, but if you're not used to the strain on your feet, you can start with sneakers with springy soles.

Afro-Cuban Dances

There are many such dances, like Yoruba. They are known for their rich costumes, and if you become seriously interested, you'll enjoy learning the intricacies of sewing skirts and bodices. Additionally, body art is widely used in these dances. For starters, women can simply wear light floor-length skirts and sleeveless tops. Skirts must be either very wide (e.g., circle skirts) or with a high slit (or better, two), so they don't restrict movement. Men are advised to wear sweatpants or even harem pants. Footwear should have soft soles, absolutely no heels: sneakers, canvas shoes, jazz shoes, ballet flats. Socks are possible, but there's a risk of slipping. And of course, dancing barefoot is a unique pleasure like no other.