Best Volleyball Shoes
Having the best volleyball shoes might not make you the best volleyball player, but they will help you use your skills in a safe and effective way. A quality volleyball shoe will help prevent injuries and allow the player to perfect their footwork.
Shoes are extremely important tools for volleyball players. Ask any athlete that plays on a field or court and they will tell you that you must take good care of your feet. In this article we give you our picks for the best volleyball shoes for women and men, as well as give you a guide on what to look for when shopping for quality volleyball shoes.
Best Women’s Volleyball Shoes
When playing volleyball, finding the right pair of shoes is important. You want to have the right comfort and size for all the movement you will be doing on the court. There are many choices of shoes to choose from and you will want to pick the shoes that are going to help you perform better on the court.
Each of the volleyball shoes below come from reputable companies that have put research and testing into their shoes. Some of these shoes are good for certain postions on the court, so be sure to keep that in mind if you are looking for volleyball shoes that will help you in your position.
We chose a variety of options for our list. We’re sure that you can find the right volleyball shoes for you on the list. However, if you are still wanting to shop around, we have provided a buyer’s guide at the end of this article.
Adidas Women’s Crazyflight Mid Volleyball Shoes
Also Available in Low Top!
- Stretch mesh upper is durable and light weight; Knit inner sock hugs the foot
- The incredible energy return of adidas Boost is created by fusing together energy capsules, giving you the power to keep your feet moving
- Top Grip rubber outsole for excellent grip on all indoor surfaces
The Adidas Women’s Crazyflight Mid Volleyball Shoes is our top pick for volleyball shoes. These shoes are lightweight and have a knit inner lining perfect for extra support around the ankles. The upper part of the shoes are made of a mesh material to keep your feet cool while playing.
With the mid-height ankle support these shoes are great for the front row hitting positions because they provide excellent support for making those big jumps at the net. The inside sole is the Adidas Boost which is made of compressed pellets that provide extra comfort. The outsole which is made of rubber gives you nice traction for moving on the court.
If you are looking for shoes that do not have the mid ankle support then the Adidas Crazyflight low volleyball shoes might be for you. They have a lower ankle that many liberos and setters like because it makes it easier to move without the mid ankle support. All in all these shoes are great and many professional and club athletes use them.
Key Features:
- Great ankle support
- Sturdy and well built
- Comfortable and fits to the foot
- Made from material that keeps the feet cool
Asics Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes
- Lightweight mesh upper with synthetic overlays provide structured support and comfort
- Breathable mesh lining and a cushioned footbed provide added cushioning
- Features a rear and forefoot GEL® Cushioning System that offers shock-absorbing support at toe-off and offers superior movement and support through the gait cycle
The Asices Gel-Rocket 9 volleyball shoes do not disappoint when it comes to comfortable and durable volleyball shoes. Asics has been making volleyball shoes for years, so no wonder these shoes are made for the court. Good foot support, shock absorbency, and great cushioning are just a few of the great features these shoes have to offer.
These shoes are made with Trusstic System technology that reduces the weight of the shoe without compromising the structural integrity. This system prevents the shoes from twisting excessively while playing. It helps keep the shoes stable while the player is making quick moves on the court.
At first, these shoes may feel a little snug because they conform to your foot well. As you play in them, you may notice the snug feeling turns into support for your foot. Your feet shouldn’t slip around and they should stay locked in at the heels.
Key Features:
- Made of breathable mesh at the top of the shoe
- Rubber sole for better grip
- Provides great support and cushioning
- Great price
Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum Volleyball Shoes
- 3-Layer No Sew Upper: For an overall incredible fit and feel
- Booty Construction: Located inside the shoe to provide a soft and secure fit
- Mizuno Wave: The Mizuno Wave plate disperses energy from impact to a broader area providing a stable platform and a superior cushioning
The Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum volleyball shoes are lightweight and have a soft and secure fit that will help any volleyball player’s feet remain comfortable on the court. These shoes are made with a wave plate that is located in the heel and mid foot that absorbs shock when jumping or moving quickly.
The soles of these shoes are made from Mizuno’s XG rubber which gives these shoes a strong grip and high durability. There is a dura shield at the toes that protects your toes from friction on the court or injuries. Many people have said these shoes fit comfortably snug and are able to still jump and move freely on the court.
It has been reported that sometimes these shoes run a half size too big, so you may want to try a half size smaller than what you usually wear. They are good for people with wider feet because there is a little extra room in the shoes. This is a good, solid pair of volleyball shoes that will provide comfort and durabiltiy for a long period of time.
Key Features:
- Great shoes for jumping
- Covers part of the ankle for extra support
- Soles have excellent grip
- Intergrated tongue
Nike Women’s React Hyperset Volleyball Shoes
- Gives you excellent traction for netball, volleyball, badminton and other sports played on indoor courts
- Durable tread helps you attack at full-speed, stop on a dime, elevate and land with confidence
- The lateral strap and Flywire cables hold your foot in securely, while Nike React foam creates incredible energy return to keep the quickness in your game
The Nike Women’s React Hyperset volleyball shoes provides players extra support in the arch of the foot. The lateral strap on the outside of the shoe holds your foot in while allowing your foot to be flexible. These shoes have very durable tread that helps you attack at the net full speed and stop quickly when saving a ball.
There is comfortable cushioning on the insole as well as on the top of the foot. All of the cushioning in these shoes feels soft on your feet yet is springy as to not feel too tight on your foot. The mesh that is incorporated into the shoes helps your feet breathe through all the tough plays.
These volleyball shoes come with pull loops at the heel and tongue for quick and easy on and off. This is great for those times when you are at a tournament and want to take the shoes off for break or if you don’t want to wear your court shoes off the court.
Key Features:
- Comfortable cushioned insole
- Good Grip for fast movements
- Has extra arch support
- Great for libero, defensive specialist, setter
Adidas Originals Crazyflight X 2 Volleyball Shoes
- Adjustable lacing system
- Mesh upper with moulded TPU zones
- Grippy rubber outsole for indoor surfaces, Moulded S shape heel counter, Textile lining
The Adidas Originals Crazyflight X 2 volleyball shoes are a great shoe for a great price! These shoes are known for being very comfortable and perform well on the court. The top of the shoes is made of a breathable mesh material that is perfect for keeping your feet cool during those long matches or tournaments.
Making those side-to-side movements on the court is no trouble for these shoes. They come with a grippy outsole specifically for indoor surfaces. Liberos, defensive specialists, and setters benefit the most from these shoes because these players need to move quickly to save or dig a ball.
For some people these shoes run about a half size bigger than their usual size and take a little while to break in. Overall, these shoes are very comfortable and provide great traction on the court.
Key Features:
- Has a wider toe box
- Fit well around the whole foot
- Don’t slip on the court and have excellent traction
- Great price and durability
Asics Women’s Upcourt 4 Court Shoes
- Rubber Gumsole - Provides enhanced durability and traction
- Synthetic Leather and Mesh Upper
- Lightweight, comfortable and breathable, enhancing performance and fit
Best Budget Option!
The Asics Women’s Upcourt 4 Court Shoes are lightweight and provide players with great support and durability. These shoes are great for those quick lateral moves needed for passing or setting. There is enough give to move when you need to go quickly from side to side.
These shoes are made with a rubber gum sole that grips the court nicely and decreases slippage on the court. You are able to easily keep your footing when moving on the court quickly. Several reviews say that the shoes are very comfortable on your feet because they fit snugly around them.
If you are a libero, defensive specialist or setter these shoes are great for all the movements needed to get to a ball quickly. For some people, these Asics run a half size smaller than their normal size, so you may want to order a half size larger.
Key Features:
- Excellent traction on the soles
- Perfect for court sports
- Very comfortable, feels like they are hugging your feet
- Great for quick movements
Best Men’s Volleyball Shoes
When looking for the right men’s volleyball shoes, you want to make sure that you have the right comfort and size to help you play your best game. There are many choices to choose from, so you will want to pick the best shoes for you to play your best.
All of the shoes below were chosen for our list because they come highly recommended and have many features that help the shoes be comfortable, durable, and supportive for the player. Some of these shoes are better for certain positions on the court, so be sure to keep that in mind especially if you are looking for shoes that will help you while playing a certain position.
We chose a variety of shoes for our list. We are sure that you will be able to find the right shoes for you on this list. However, if you are still wanting to shop around, we have provided a buyer’s guide toward the end of this article.
Asics Men’s Gel-Rocket 10 Indoor Court Shoes
- Breathable mesh upper
- Trusstic System technology - Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural integrity of the shoe
- Flex grooves in the outsole improve flexibility
The Asics Men’s Gel-Rocket 10 Indoor Court Shoes has been updated from the Gel-Rocket 9 by focusing on improving the shoe’s stability at the same time offering more flexibility. The top of the shoe is designed with a flexible construction that helps the feet move more naturally and assists players in moving more freely.
These shoes are very durable lasting several months with heavy use. The gel technology cushioning in this shoe adds a lot of comfort when playing. In the heel, the gel technology provides better shock absorption when jumping. The outsole has flexible grooves that help the shoes move smoothly on the court.
These shoes are great for any position on the court. They help with those quick movements that a back row player may need to take to save a ball as well as helping the front row players make a smooth landing after a high jump at the net. Asics has made some wonderful updates to these shoes that provide players comfort, durability and support.
Key Features:
- Overall great fit
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Synthetic leather overlays on the forefoot to improve support
- Great surface traction
Asics Men’s Netburner Ballistic FF MT Volleyball Shoes
- Moisture management
- Midsole gives extra bounce and a lightweight feeling every time you reach for the ball
- The strong rubber also improves performance when making quick turns and jumps.
The Asics Men’s Netburner Ballistic FF MT Volleyball Shoes offer great support and comfort for any position on the court. These shoes are made with Asics Flytefoam which is built-in reinforced fibers that maintains the appropriate cushioning while jumping for the ball. The midsole provides extra bounce and a lightweight feeling when reaching for the ball.
These shoes provide nice ankle support with the mid-cut design around the ankle. The rubber grip of the outsole gives a player just the right amount of traction when making quick turns and jumps. The heel cup is very strong providing extra support and stability.
At first these shoes may seem tight or very snug. As you wear them and “break them in”, they seem to loosen up and fit to your feet nicely. Overall, these shoes are excellent for volleyball whether you play professionally or recreationally.
Key Features:
- Comes with a removable sockliner
- Not overly grippy on the traction
- The lightweight feel helps you move quicker
- Keeps foot snug and doesn’t move around a lot
Mizuno Men’s Wave Momentum Indoor Court Shoes
- 3-Layer no sew upper: for an overall incredible fit and feel
- Booty Construction: Located inside the shoe to provide a soft and secure fit
- Mizuno WAVE Technology provides both cushion and stability to get you through the entire match comfortably
The Mizuno Men’s Wave Momentum Indoor Court Shoes are made from Mizuno’s wave technology which diperses shock throughout the sole of the shoe rather than focused in one spot. This wave technology makes these shoes extremely comfortable for the player.
The extra grade rubber on the bottom of the shoes gives you high traction on the court floor. The heel of the shoe has been rounded off so you can turn smoother in every direction. The outside of the shoe is a little wider than some other shoes which offers more stability.
These shoes are known for fitting well and players are able to play for hours with no foot pain. Several people say they are faster and quicker in this shoes allowing them to get to the ball faster or saving it quickly.
Key Features:
- Lightweight on the feet
- Dura shield protects toes from court damage
- Provides premium stability
- Perfect snug fit
Asics Men’s Upcourt 4 Indoor Sports Shoes
- Synthetic leather paneling
- Rubber sole
- Mesh underlays
If you are looking for some budget men’s volleyball shoes then the Asics Men’s Upcourt 4 Indoor Sports Shoes are for you. These shoes are made with synthetic leather overlays that promote support and stability. They also come with a breathable mesh material to keep your feet cool and comfortable.
If you are just starting out with volleyball these are a great choice! They are very comfortable and provide a stable platform. The grip on the bottom of the shoes is perfect for the court as there is a little extra located near the toes.
They fit perfectly allowing your foot to stay snug inside the shoe and not moving around a lot. Because they fit the foot so well, they may seem tight at first. After a few wears, they should loosen up and be more conformed to your foot size. If you are a setter, these shoes can help your feet stay stable by gripping the court nicely.
Key Features:
- Comfortable and stable court shoe
- Grips the hardwood floor without being sticky
- Good price value
- Made with lightweight materials
Asics Men’s Sky Elite FF 2 Volleyball Shoes
- GEL Technology - Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption
- DYNAWRAP technology improves stability during side-to-side movements
- TWISTRUSS technology helps players transition horizontal power to vertical power without losing energy
The Asics Men’s Sky Elite FF 2 Volleyball Shoes were designed with the hitter in mind. Even with that said, they are a great shoe for any position on the court. These shoes have a nice wide outsole which helps keep your foot flat on the ground to prevent ankle injuries. Many players in 2020 Tokoyo Olympic games wore these shoes, so you know they come with a good reputation.
Since this shoe was designed with the hitter in mind, Asics uses the TWISTRUSS technology which minimizes external twist and bend. This technology helps create faster cutting speed when going up for an attack at the net. It also resists twisting and returns energy for a faster side to side motion.
The cushioning is an improvement on other shoes Asics has made. They have combined the traditional Asics GEL with FLYTEFOAM in the midsole. This has made these shoes feel fast and explosive while having the softness of the GEL. Asics has really made some good changes to benefit players with these shoes.
Key Features:
- Excellent shock absorption
- Fits true to size
- Upper is well ventilated
- Minimal foot slippage when pushing off
Volleyball Shoes Buyer’s Guide
When you are looking for that perfect pair of volleyball shoes it can be difficult to know which ones to choose. There are many options out there, so knowing what to look for can be helpful.
Our guide will help you narrow down your options by giving you things to look for in good volleyball shoes. That way, if the ones listed are not for you, you can choose some yourself.
Comfort
Finding the most comfortable volleyball shoes that are right for you is a must. If the shoes are uncomfortable it can affect your play. Listed below are some comfort features to look for when purchasing volleyball shoes.
- Size: Volleyball shoes should fit snugly on your feet without being overly tight. You want them to still give you a wide range of movement. A lot of times these shoes can run a half size bigger or smaller, so the best thing to do is try them on. Many times, reviews online will tell you if they fit true to size or if they run bigger or smaller.
- Breathability: Keeping your feet cool while playing is essential. Look for shoes that are made of synthetic, thin, and light materials. Mesh is a very popular material used to keep volleyball shoes cool. Mesh allows air to move freely and keeps the shoes lighter.
- Cushioning: Having the right cushioning for your feet can make a big difference on how well you play. Good cushioning should be located in the forefoot, heel, and midsole. Look for foam cushioning when purchasing your volleyball shoes. EVA is a popular foam material made from plastic that provides softness and flexibility.
Durability
You want your volleyball shoes to last, so it is important to look for shoes that are durable and can stand up to the conditions on the court. Higher quality, tougher knits are a little more expensive but will be more durable and stand up to wear and tear from playing the game. Look for shoes that have a leather or synthetic upper and long-lasting outsole.
A good pair of volleyball shoes should last at least one full season where a player practices or plays games 4-5 times per week. If you play more casually, the shoes should last up to one year. Over time, you may notice the traction wearing out, losing support in the ankles, or materials just falling apart. This just means it’s time for a new pair.
Durable Materials:
- Leather
- Synthetic leather
- Toe guard
- Toe cap
- Well-padded tongue
- Herringbone tread (zig-zag) outsole
Stability
You never want to roll your foot or injure an ankle, so having volleyball shoes that are stable is important. Find a pair of shoes that supports quick side-to-side movements along with forward and back. Many shoes will be made with a slightly wider outsole which is meant to add lateral (side-to-side) stability. Also, be sure the shoe is somewhat flexible for easy movement of your feet, make sure that the material is not too stiff for those quick plays.
Traction
Volleyball shoes should be made of rubber soles that are able to grip hardwood floors for all those quick movements needed on the court. Shoes with a good rubber sole provide excellent traction and prevent slipping and sliding. Some say rubber gum soles are better than the rubber soles for volleyball. Rubber gum soles do grip the court more which can prevent slipping and sliding even more.
Support
Having good support from volleyball shoes can help with comfort and reduce the risk of injury. Look for shoes that have a good arch support. Having a good arch support will help with comfort, balance, and shock absorption.
The midsole of the shoe should be strong but at the same time allowing for flexibility. This way your feet aren’t locked into one position making it hard for your feet to make quick movements. Purchasing shoes with an ankle support is also a great benefit as it can help any position keep their ankle in place and reduce the chances of injury.
Weight
Volleyball shoes should be lightweight so that players can stay agile while playing. Women’s shoes usually weigh about 9-11 ounces while men’s are usually 11-15 ounces. Synthetic materials and mesh are common materials used for a lightweight shoe. Even though there is not much difference in materials used for lightweight and heavyweight shoes, when the shoe feels lighter to you then you are able to move faster and jump higher.
Volleyball Shoes FAQ
Are Volleyball Shoes Different From Other Shoes?
While volleyball shoes are very similar to cross trainers or basketball shoes, they tend to be a little lighter in weight and are designed specifically for motions used in volleyball. You can use other types of shoes for rec teams, but we recommend specialized shoes for organized team volleyball.
How Much Do Volleyball Shoes Cost?
Volleyball shoes generally cost between $50 and $150. The quality of shoes and features they provide usually increase with the price. While the higher valued shoes may be great, they are not required to have an enjoyable volleyball experience.
Can You Wash Volleyball Shoes?
You can wash volleyball shoes as long as you follow the directions from the manufacturer. You can also read this article to learn more about cleaning your volleyball shoes.
How Long Do Volleyball Shoes Last?
A quality pair of volleyball shoes should last about one season. At more competitive levels or longer seasons you may need two or even three pairs to last the entire season.
Conclusion
Volleyball shoes are possibly the most important piece of equipment for players. Foot control and health is paramount to performance for all volleyball players, no matter the position.
With this article, you now have a great list of the top volleyball shoes on the market. You also now have a guide on how to find the qualities you need in your shoes you might find at your local sports stores. Combine your shoes with some equipment from our articles below to ensure you are ready for volleyball this season!
Other Volleyball Gear Reviews:
Volleyball is not only about shoes and equipment. Be sure to get some quality training and practice as much as possible. It is also wise to break in your new volleyball shoes when practicing to make sure you avoid blisters or injury on game day.
Now suit up, and have fun!
