As a long time spectator shoe owner and fan, I will say stay AWAY from the synthetic "dance" styled shoes....they're meant for dancing indoors only, and fall apart in no time with normal wear. Also stay away from the "pimp" shoes made by Stacey Adams....not good quality, and usually garish looking(though if you can find a vintage pair of Stacey Adams, say from the 60s or earlier they're a good bet) Best bet is to look for a decent pair made by Allen Edmonds or Bally...they can be pricey new, but you'll find them on Ebay from time to time. I found a pair of black and white A.E. on Ebay a while back for less than $200.