What is a rude gesture in Russia?

What to Avoid: Rude Gestures in Russia

Traveling to Russia? It’s worth knowing that some everyday gestures in the West can carry very different meanings there. A handshake may seem like a standard greeting, but doing it across a doorway—over the threshold—is considered bad luck and deeply impolite. Locals believe it invites conflict or misfortune, so step fully inside before offering your hand.

Another subtle but important point: how you use your hands. Pointing at someone with a single finger, especially in irritation, is seen as aggressive. Russians often consider this childish or even hostile. Instead, they’re more likely to gesture openly with their whole hand. Likewise, keeping your hands in your pockets while talking—especially in public or to someone in authority—can come off as disrespectful or dismissive. Standing with hands visibly out of pockets shows attentiveness and respect.

Showing the soles of your shoes—whether by propping your feet up or carelessly pointing them at someone—is a serious faux pas. In Russian culture, shoes are seen as dirty, and the soles are the dirtiest part. To display them in someone’s direction is a clear sign of contempt. This belief runs so deep that even tossing shoes onto a table is thought to bring bad luck.

These customs may seem minor, but they reflect broader values: respect, formality, and awareness of social harmony. Getting them right can go a long way in building trust. So next time you’re in St. Petersburg or Moscow, keep your hands out of your pockets, your shoes on the ground, and your gestures thoughtful.