How to choose volleyball shoes based on your position. What factors to consider when selecting volleyball footwear. Why court surface impacts volleyball shoe selection. How often you play affects the durability needed in volleyball shoes. What upper materials are best for volleyball footwear. Why midsole cushioning is crucial in volleyball shoes. How outsole design impacts performance in volleyball footwear.
Position-Specific Volleyball Shoe Requirements
Choosing the right volleyball shoes starts with understanding your position’s unique demands. Different roles on the court require specific features to enhance performance and prevent injuries.
Setter Shoe Characteristics
Setters need agile, responsive footwear to support their quick movements and frequent jumps. Key features include:
- Lightweight construction for rapid transitions
- Flexible soles to accommodate multi-directional movement
- Enhanced cushioning to absorb impact from repetitive jumps
- Low-profile design for better court feel and ball control
Libero Footwear Requirements
Liberos require shoes that prioritize stability and durability due to their defensive role. Essential elements include:
- Reinforced toe box for sliding and digging
- Durable outsoles to withstand constant movement
- Superior lateral support for quick directional changes
- Breathable upper materials to manage moisture during intense play
Hitter Shoe Needs
Hitters benefit from shoes that provide excellent support and cushioning for powerful jumps and landings. Key features include:
- Robust ankle support to prevent injuries during intense net play
- Maximum cushioning in the heel and forefoot for impact absorption
- Strong lateral stability to support aggressive approach jumps
- Grippy outsoles for quick stops and explosive takeoffs
Court Surface Considerations for Volleyball Shoes
The playing surface significantly influences the type of volleyball shoes you should choose. Indoor and outdoor courts have distinct requirements that affect shoe design and performance.
Indoor Volleyball Shoe Characteristics
Indoor volleyball shoes are designed for optimal performance on wood or synthetic court surfaces. Key features include:
- Non-marking gum rubber outsoles for excellent traction without scuffing the court
- Low-profile design for better court feel and agility
- Lightweight materials to reduce fatigue during long matches
- Enhanced cushioning to absorb impact on hard indoor surfaces
Outdoor Volleyball Shoe Requirements
Outdoor volleyball shoes, especially those designed for beach volleyball, have unique characteristics to handle diverse terrain. Essential elements include:
- Durable rubber outsoles with aggressive tread patterns for grip on various surfaces
- Reinforced uppers to withstand sand abrasion and outdoor elements
- Quick-drying materials to manage moisture from sand and sweat
- Flexible soles to adapt to uneven terrain and provide stability
Do outdoor volleyball shoes last as long as indoor ones. Generally, outdoor volleyball shoes wear down faster due to exposure to harsher elements and abrasive surfaces. However, they are designed with more durable materials to withstand these conditions, which can help extend their lifespan.
Frequency of Play and Volleyball Shoe Durability
How often you play volleyball directly impacts the type of shoes you should invest in. Frequent players need more durable, high-performance options, while casual players can often opt for more budget-friendly choices.
High-Frequency Player Shoe Needs
For those playing volleyball multiple times a week or at a competitive level, investing in premium shoes is crucial. Look for:
- High-quality materials that maintain their shape and support over time
- Reinforced high-wear areas like the toe box and lateral sides
- Advanced cushioning systems that retain their shock-absorbing properties
- Durable outsoles that can withstand frequent use without losing traction
Casual Player Shoe Options
If you play volleyball occasionally or recreationally, you may not need to invest in top-tier shoes. Consider:
- Mid-range shoes that balance performance and affordability
- Models with basic cushioning and support features
- Versatile designs that can be used for other sports or activities
- Shoes with replaceable insoles to extend their usable life
How long should volleyball shoes last for frequent players. For players who train or compete 4-5 times per week, high-quality volleyball shoes typically last between 6 to 12 months before needing replacement. However, this can vary based on playing style, court surface, and maintenance habits.
Upper Material Selection for Volleyball Shoes
The upper material of volleyball shoes plays a crucial role in comfort, durability, and performance. Different materials offer varying benefits, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Leather Upper Benefits
Leather uppers provide several advantages for volleyball players:
- Excellent durability and longevity
- Superior support and stability during lateral movements
- Molds to the foot over time for a custom fit
- Resistance to wear and tear from frequent play
Synthetic and Mesh Upper Advantages
Synthetic and mesh uppers offer different benefits:
- Lightweight construction for enhanced agility
- Excellent breathability to keep feet cool and dry
- Quick-drying properties ideal for intense play or outdoor use
- Often more affordable than full-leather options
Knit Upper Features
Knit uppers are becoming increasingly popular in volleyball shoes due to their unique properties:
- Sock-like fit for enhanced comfort and reduced irritation
- Excellent flexibility to accommodate natural foot movement
- Breathable construction for optimal temperature regulation
- Often features integrated support zones for targeted stability
Are knit uppers durable enough for competitive volleyball. While initially considered less durable, modern knit technologies have significantly improved. Many high-performance volleyball shoes now feature reinforced knit uppers that offer excellent durability combined with the material’s inherent comfort and flexibility benefits.
Importance of Midsole Cushioning in Volleyball Shoes
Midsole cushioning is a critical component of volleyball shoes, providing essential shock absorption and energy return to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injuries.
Types of Cushioning Materials
Various cushioning materials are used in volleyball shoe midsoles, each with unique properties:
- EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate): Lightweight, flexible, and provides good shock absorption
- Polyurethane: Denser and more durable than EVA, offers long-lasting cushioning
- Proprietary foams: Brand-specific technologies designed for enhanced performance
- Gel inserts: Often used in heel and forefoot areas for targeted cushioning
Cushioning Placement and Design
The distribution and design of cushioning in volleyball shoes can vary based on position-specific needs:
- Heel cushioning: Crucial for absorbing impact during landings and quick stops
- Forefoot cushioning: Important for takeoffs and providing responsiveness during quick movements
- Full-length cushioning: Offers consistent shock absorption throughout the entire foot
- Zoned cushioning: Strategically placed to provide support where it’s needed most
How does cushioning affect a player’s performance on the court. Proper cushioning can significantly enhance a player’s performance by reducing fatigue, improving comfort, and allowing for more explosive movements. It helps absorb the impact of repetitive jumps and quick transitions, potentially reducing the risk of stress-related injuries and allowing players to maintain their energy levels throughout long matches or training sessions.
Outsole Design Considerations for Volleyball Shoes
The outsole of a volleyball shoe is crucial for providing traction, stability, and durability. Its design can significantly impact a player’s performance on the court.
Tread Patterns for Optimal Grip
Different tread patterns offer varying levels of traction for specific movements:
- Herringbone patterns: Provide excellent multi-directional grip
- Circular patterns: Enhance pivot points for quick rotations
- Hexagonal patterns: Offer balanced traction for all-around performance
- Zoned treads: Combine different patterns for position-specific needs
Rubber Compounds and Durability
The type of rubber used in the outsole affects both grip and longevity:
- Gum rubber: Offers superior traction on indoor courts but may wear faster
- Carbon rubber: Provides excellent durability, ideal for outdoor use
- Proprietary compounds: Brand-specific rubbers designed for optimal performance
- Multi-density outsoles: Combine different rubbers for targeted performance
Flexibility and Court Feel
The outsole’s design also impacts the shoe’s flexibility and court feel:
- Flex grooves: Allow for natural foot movement during play
- Segmented outsoles: Enhance flexibility while maintaining stability
- Thin outsoles: Provide better court feel for improved responsiveness
- Reinforced high-wear areas: Increase durability without sacrificing flexibility
How does outsole design affect a player’s ability to make quick directional changes. A well-designed outsole with appropriate tread patterns and rubber compounds can significantly enhance a player’s ability to make rapid directional changes. It provides the necessary grip to push off and stop quickly, while also offering enough flexibility to allow for natural foot movement. This combination of features enables players to react faster and maintain better control during intense gameplay.
Volleyball Shoe Height Options and Their Impact
The height of a volleyball shoe can significantly affect a player’s performance, comfort, and injury prevention. Understanding the pros and cons of each height option is crucial for making an informed decision.
Low-Top Volleyball Shoes
Low-top volleyball shoes offer several advantages:
- Maximum mobility and flexibility for quick movements
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long matches
- Excellent breathability due to less material around the ankle
- Often preferred by setters and liberos for unrestricted movement
However, they also have some drawbacks:
- Less ankle support compared to higher-cut options
- May require additional ankle bracing for players with weak ankles
- Not ideal for players who frequently engage in blocking at the net
Mid-Top Volleyball Shoes
Mid-top volleyball shoes strike a balance between mobility and support:
- Provide moderate ankle support without sacrificing too much flexibility
- Offer more protection against rolled ankles compared to low-tops
- Suitable for a wide range of positions and playing styles
- Often feature padded collars for enhanced comfort
Potential drawbacks include:
- Slightly heavier than low-top options
- May feel restrictive to players accustomed to low-cut shoes
- Can trap more heat around the ankle area
High-Top Volleyball Shoes
High-top volleyball shoes offer maximum support and protection:
- Provide the highest level of ankle stability and support
- Ideal for players who frequently engage in blocking and jumping
- Offer additional protection against impacts and collisions
- Can reduce the need for separate ankle braces
However, they also have some limitations:
- Heaviest option, which may impact agility and speed
- Can restrict ankle mobility, potentially affecting certain movements
- May cause more heat buildup around the ankle
- Often the most expensive option
Does shoe height affect jumping ability in volleyball. While shoe height can impact jumping ability, the effect is often minimal and varies among players. Low-top shoes may allow for slightly more explosive jumps due to their lighter weight and unrestricted ankle movement. However, the added stability of mid- or high-top shoes can provide more confidence during takeoffs and landings, potentially leading to better overall jumping performance. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences, playing style, and any history of ankle injuries.
Stability and Support Features in Volleyball Shoes
Stability and support are crucial aspects of volleyball shoes, helping to prevent injuries and enhance performance during the intense movements required in the sport.
Heel Counter Design
The heel counter is a critical component for stability in volleyball shoes:
- Provides structure to the rear of the shoe, locking the heel in place
- Helps prevent excessive inward or outward rolling of the foot
- Can be internal or external, with external counters often providing more robust support
- Some designs incorporate thermoplastic materials for customized fit over time
Midfoot Support Systems
Various midfoot support systems are employed in volleyball shoes:
- Torsion bars: Provide stability while allowing natural foot flex
- Shank plates: Offer rigid support to prevent arch collapse
- Integrated lacing systems: Enhance midfoot lockdown and support
- Reinforced uppers: Provide targeted support in key areas
Lateral Support Technologies
Lateral support is crucial for the side-to-side movements in volleyball:
- Reinforced side walls: Prevent the foot from sliding over the edge of the sole
- Outriggers: Widen the base of the shoe for improved stability during lateral cuts
- Strategic overlay placement: Provides support without adding excessive weight
- Asymmetrical designs: Offer more support on the medial or lateral side based on common movements
How do these support features impact a player’s ability to react quickly on the court. Enhanced stability and support features in volleyball shoes can significantly improve a player’s reaction time and confidence on the court. By providing a secure and stable platform, these features allow players to push off and change direction more explosively without fear of ankle rolls or foot slippage. This can lead to quicker first steps, more controlled landings, and overall improved agility during gameplay. However, it’s important to find the right balance, as overly rigid support systems can potentially limit natural foot movement and reduce court feel.
Price Range and Quality Considerations for Volleyball Shoes
When selecting volleyball shoes, it’s essential to balance budget constraints with the need for quality and performance. Understanding what you get at different price points can help you make an informed decision.
Determine Your Position – Setter, Libero, Hitter? Shoe Needs Vary
As any experienced volleyball player knows, the position you play directly impacts the performance features you need from your shoes. Setters who move quickly in multiple directions require flexible, lightweight shoes with top-notch cushioning to absorb shock during repetitive jumps and abrupt stops. Liberos need durability, stability and comfort as they transition swiftly from digs to dives across the court. Hitters depend on sturdy lateral support during intense approach jumps and blocks at the net. Before purchasing new volleyball shoes, reflect on your position and playing style to determine your must-have features.
Take Court Surface Into Account – Indoor vs Outdoor Use Matters
Are you purchasing shoes primarily for indoor or outdoor volleyball? Court surface makes a big difference in the traction, durability, and support required. Outdoor courts (especially beach sand) will wear down shoes more quickly compared to indoor wood or sport court floors. Look for durable rubber outsoles with multi-directional grip patterns to handle the abrasion of outdoor use. For indoor shoes, cushioning and low-profile, non-marking soles are key.
Factor In Frequency Of Play – Durability Needs Increase With Use
How often do you play volleyball each week? Are you a dedicated club player logging 10+ hours across training and competition? Or is volleyball a more casual hobby you only play occasionally? Frequency of use should guide how much you invest in shoes and durability. Club players on the court 4-5x per week need premium quality materials that provide stability, keep their form, and minimize injury risk during hours of play. More casual players can often get by with budget-friendly shoes that may wear faster but get replaced less often.
Analyze Upper Material – Durability & Breathability Are Key
Volleyball shoe uppers are typically constructed from leather, synthetic leather, mesh, or knit fabrics. Leather offers structure and durability but can feel stiff initially and lacks ventilation. Breathable mesh and knit fabrics keep feet cooler but are less durable for outdoor use. Many shoes combine leather or synthetic leather in high wear areas (toe bumper, eyestays) with mesh or knit fabric elsewhere. Analyze the upper material based on your position, court surface and climate conditions.
Consider Midsole Cushioning – Shock Absorption Prevents Joint Strain
Cushioning is crucial for volleyball shoes to absorb impact on knees, ankles and feet during jumping, sudden direction changes, and hard landings. Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) is the most common midsole material – it’s lightweight, flexible and provides good shock absorption. More premium shoes may use proprietary cushioning foams or gels for increased bounce, energy return and comfort. Test midsole cushioning by doing jumps, sprints and shuffles during in-store try-ons.
Examine Outsole Design – Patterns & Rubber Compounds Impact Traction
Volleyball outsoles vary significantly in their rubber compounds, tread patterns and flexibility based on court surface and position demands. Look for durable rubber with an aggressive multi-directional tread pattern to handle quick lateral cuts and provide grip for take-offs and landings. Pivot points under the forefoot enhance rotations. Outsoles should flex to allow natural foot movement but not be overly flexible. Test traction by doing crossovers and 180 degree pivots on the store flooring.
Evaluate Height – Low, Mid or High Tops Offer Different Ankle Support
Traditionally volleyball shoes came in high tops to maximize ankle stability and support. But many players now prefer the mobility of low and mid-top options combined with external braces for added support. Taller players and middle blockers may still opt for high tops. Trying on different heights will determine your ideal balance of mobility and stability – just ensure the collar padding protects and stabilizes ankles without impeding movement.
Opt For Stability & Support – Ankle, Arch & Lateral Support Crucial
Given the explosive jumps and quick lateral motions of volleyball, shoes must provide stability and support to prevent rolled ankles, arch pain and injuries. Seek out shoes with solid heel counters, torsion bars or shank plates for arch support, and durable uppers/collars to lock in feet. Wide footer players should ensure adequate lateral support and reinforced eyestays. Don’t assume you need to “break-in” an ill-fitting or unstable shoe – opt for proper support from the start.
Check Price Range – Quality & Budget Are Both Important
Volleyball shoes range dramatically in price from $50 budget options to $200+ for top pro models. More expensive shoes typically offer premium materials, precise engineering for each position, and added durability for frequent use. But mid-range models around $75-125 can still deliver excellent court performance for recreational to club players. Consider your frequency of play and specialized needs to find your ideal balance of quality and affordability.
Choose Proper Sizing – Precision Fit Eliminates Slipping & Rubbing
An ideal volleyball shoe fits snugly from heel to toe without excess room causing slippage or rubbing. Feet swell during activity so it’s best to shop late in the day when feet are largest. Bring your custom orthotics if you use them, wear volleyball socks, and walk around on the actual court floor to judge fit. Your toe should sit about 3/4″ from the end and shoes should grip heels and arches firmly. Proper sizing enhances agility, stability and comfort.
Try Them On In Person – No Substitute For An In-Store Fitting
The best way to assess volleyball shoe fit and performance is trying them on in person. Walk, jog, jump and move laterally to feel stability, traction, and precision. Doing drills on the actual court floor is ideal. Breaking them in during try-on can also identify any potential irritation spots before you buy. Don’t rely only on general sizing charts – visit a knowledgeable specialty store for the ideal fitting experience.
Read Online Reviews – Identify Any Consistent Complaints
Once you’ve narrowed down volleyball shoe options, read through online reviews from verified buyers to spot any consistent complaints. Look for patterns of issues with sizing, durability, support or quality rather than a few random negatives. Dig into the details for your particular shoe model and keep an eye out for manufacturing changes year-to-year. The right shoes will have mostly 4 and 5 star feedback.
Research Brand Reputations – Big Names Not Always The Best Option
Mega brands like Nike, Adidas and Under Armour make volleyball shoes but they aren’t always the best performing or most precisely engineered options out there. Do your homework on volleyball specialty brands like Asics, Mizuno, and Molten which focus innovation specifically on the demands of the sport. Boutique brands can offer high performance and durability without the big name markup.
Opt For Stability & Support – Ankle, Arch & Lateral Support Crucial
With the explosive lateral motions and intense jumps inherent in volleyball, proper stability and support features are crucial in your shoes. An unstable or ill-fitting shoe can lead to rolled ankles, knee pain, arch strain and even major injuries over time. When researching volleyball shoes, prioritize models engineered to lock in and stabilize feet during intense play on the court.
Look For A Secure Heel Counter
A firm heel counter (the U-shaped reinforcement around the heel) is vital for stability during jumps and abrupt direction changes. When planting and pivoting, the heel counter keeps the rearfoot from sliding and collapsing inward to maintain structural support. Test heel counters by pushing in with your fingers – minimal give indicates proper stability.
Examine Torsion Bars And Shank Plates
Many volleyball shoes incorporate torsion bars or shank plates in the midsole to prevent excessive foot roll during slides, digs and serves. These features stiffen the arch area for enhanced support while still allowing natural motion. Cradling and moving the shoe should reveal minimal midfoot flexibility and bending.
Analyze Upper Construction
Uppers crafted from durable leather or synthetic leather with reinforced overlays provide rock solid stability all around the foot. Mesh overlays can stretch over time, allowing unwanted movement. Look for overlays protecting high wear areas like the toe bumper, eyestays and collar lining.
Ensure A Snug, Secure Fit
Even shoes with great stability structures require a precision fit to function properly, locking down heels and arches. When trying on shoes, ensure uppers hug feet snugly through the midfoot and collar without pinching toes. Heels shouldn’t lift or slip – a secure heel fit enhances stability and energy transfer.
Ankle Height Impacts Stability
Traditionally volleyball shoes came in high tops to maximize ankle stability and prevent roll-over. But many players now prefer mid and low tops for mobility, wearing braces if needed for added support. Taller players still often opt for high tops since they provide more coverage higher on the ankle. Test different heights when fitting to find your ideal fit.
Wide Footers Need Ample Lateral Support
Volleyball requires many lateral motions – lunges, shuffles, rapid side-to-side steps – placing strain on shoe sidewalls, especially for wide footers. Seek out shoes with solid synthetic leather overlays, dual density midsoles and extended outriggers to prevent your feet from bulging over the shoe’s platform.
Cushioning Absorbs Shock
Quality cushioning is key for absorbing harsh impact on feet and joints from repetitive jumping and quick stops. Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsoles provide responsive bounce and shock absorption. Some models incorporate gel pods or proprietary foam lasting for greater comfort and stability.
Outsoles Must Grip Floors
Volleyball outsoles need an aggressive tread pattern to grip gym floors, resisting slides during lateral movements. Herringbone, hexagonal and multi-directional patterns provide floor traction. Look for durable, high-quality rubber for longevity, especially if playing outdoors.
Collars & Tongues Enhance Security
Properly designed, well-padded ankle collars and tongues are pivotal for stability, enfolding feet in a secure embrace. Test for padding that stabilizes without chafing or irritation. Extended collars and mid-height tongues offer extra protection.
Break-In Period Varies
Some players believe shoes require significant “break-in” but a truly stable, supportive shoe should feel secure pretty quickly. Opt for proper sizing and the features above over expecting shoes to eventually mold to your feet. That said, mild stiffness often resolves after a few wears as uppers relax slightly.
Consult Reviews For Red Flags
When researching specific volleyball shoes, look for patterns of complaints about ankle roll-over, arch pain or lack of stability and support. No shoe is perfect for all players but consistent negatives regarding fit and security indicate an unstable platform.
Prioritize Support Over Style
The coolest colorways and silhouettes shouldn’t outweigh proper stability and fit. Volleyball shoes must support intense play over style and fashion. Leave the casual retro kicks for lifestyle wear and choose performance shoes engineered for the court.
Budget Picks Can Deliver Stability
Stable support features aren’t exclusive to $150+ shoes. Many budget-friendly models around $75 incorporate heel counters, torsion bars and durable overlays to prevent excessive foot movement. Comfort and cushioning may be more basic but support can still suffice.
Consider Ankle Braces For Added Security
Some players, especially those with past ankle injuries, require extra stability from external braces. Combining stable shoes with flexible braces allows mobility while protecting vulnerable ankles during play.
Replace Shoes Before Losing Support
As shoes wear down through consistent use, support structures like stiff heel counters and reinforced overlays can break down. Swapping in new shoes before losing too much stability protects vulnerable feet and joints.
Check Price Range – Quality & Budget Are Both Important
Where Can You Find The Best Volleyball Shoes This Year?: 15 Must-Know Tips
Choosing the right volleyball shoes is crucial for optimal performance on the court. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to find the perfect pair. Here are 15 tips to help you select the best volleyball shoes this year based on your preferences, playing style, and budget.
1. Determine Your Playing Level
Your playing experience level is a major factor in choosing volleyball shoes. Beginners can start with basic, affordable shoes with decent cushioning. Intermediate and advanced players need shoes with more support, traction, and durability for frequent play. Elite players require top-performance shoes engineered for quickness, jumping, and hard impacts.
2. Consider Your Position
Certain positions require specific footwear features. For example, outside hitters need light shoes for speed while middle blockers need sturdy shoes for jumping power. Setters and liberos may prefer low-profile shoes for agility. Evaluate your position’s demands to choose shoes that complement your movements.
3. Choose the Right Fit
Volleyball shoes must fit snugly for stability but not be painfully tight. Try shoes on at the end of the day when feet are largest. There should be enough wiggle room to avoid rubbing while allowing secure lateral movements. High tops provide extra ankle support. Size up if between sizes for a more comfortable fit.
4. Analyze Your Foot Type
Those with narrow feet need shoes contoured closely while wide feet require wider toe boxes. High arches benefit from well-cushioned midsoles. Flat feet need arch support and shock absorption. Pronation or supination may also influence your ideal footwear features. Consider custom orthotics if necessary.
5. Choose Lightweight Shoes
Lightweight volleyball shoes enhance quickness and agility on the court. Newer mesh, synthetic, and microfiber materials create shoes under 10 ounces. A shoe’s weight is especially important for speed-focused positions like outside hitter. However, don’t sacrifice durability and support solely for an ultra-light shoe.
6. Look for Breathability
Well-ventilated volleyball shoes keep feet cool and dry during intensive play. Shoes with mesh uppers or perforations allow air flow to prevent overheating. Breathable linings wick away sweat. Proper ventilation promotes comfort and reduces odor so shoes can be worn multiple times between washes.
7. Get Good Traction
Volleyball shoes should grip floors well to avoid slips during quick cuts, jumps, and lunges. Herringbone tread patterns with deep grooves provide multi-directional traction. Opt for gum rubber or solid rubber outsoles over cheaper foams that wear out faster. Test shoes on your actual court surface if possible.
8. Select Cushioning and Support
Cushioning in the heel and forefoot absorbs impact from jumping and rapid footwork. Midsole foams like EVA or PU provide shock absorption and energy return. Extra cushioning adds comfort for longer play. Reinforced uppers, stabilizing plates, and torsion bars offer arch and lateral support for stability.
9. Check Durability
Frequent volleyball players need shoes that will last through rough play and high mileage. Durable uppers made of leather, synthetics, or multilayer mesh resist damage from lateral motion and toe-dragging. Sturdy rubber outsoles withstand abrasion on court floors. Replace shoes once the outsoles lose traction or cushioning decompresses.
10. Choose a Style You Like
Volleyball shoes come in a variety of stylish color schemes and designs. While performance should take priority over looks, there’s no harm in finding shoes you feel confident and comfortable wearing. Bold neon colors have high visibility on the court. Stick to versatile neutral or primary colors if wearing shoes casually too.
11. Know the Major Brands
Top athletic brands like Nike, Adidas, Asics, Mizuno, and Under Armour all make volleyball shoes. Compare performance features from brand to brand while factoring in personal brand preferences. Less known brands can offer solid quality at lower prices but may lack recognition or sponsored athlete endorsements.
12. Set a Realistic Budget
Entry-level volleyball shoes cost $40 to $60 while pro models run over $150. Set a budget that fits your skill level and frequency of play. Beginners can find quality discount shoes under $50. Serious players may invest over $100 for premium performance and longevity. Stretching your budget gets better materials and features.
13. Shop Online for Selection
Online retailers offer a vast selection of volleyball shoes in different styles, models, colors, and sizes. Browse multiple brands side-by-side to compare features. Check for available coupons, promo codes, or cashback rewards to save extra money. Don’t forget to calculate in shipping costs when budgeting.
14. Try Shoes On In-Store
Even if purchasing online, visit local stores first to try on shoes. Test the fit, feel, and support of different options. Identify your true size in different brands and styles. Knowing the best size will ensure proper online order fulfillment. In-store purchases also allow wearing shoes out immediately.
15. Break Shoes in Properly
New shoes need a break-in period for maximum comfort. Wear them at home to gradually stretch the materials. Some shoes require playing in them a few times before optimal performance. Apply moleskin, kinesiology tape, or bandages to prevent blisters while breaking in stiff shoes.
Finding your perfect pair of volleyball shoes involves careful evaluation of factors from budget to materials to playing style. Keep these tips in mind while shopping online or in stores. With the right footwear, you’ll be ready to excel on the volleyball court this season.
Research Brand Reputations – Big Names Not Always The Best Option
Where Can You Find The Best Volleyball Shoes This Year?: 15 Must-Know Tips
With so many volleyball shoe brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones live up to their reputations. Big athletic brand names don’t necessarily equate to the highest performing or most durable shoes. Do your research before buying to find the best value for your needs.
Look Beyond the Major Labels
Popular athletic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour dominate the market, but lesser known brands offer comparable quality at lower prices. Smaller brands specializing in volleyball like Mizuno, Asics, and Cosco can provide a better fit and features for serious players. Don’t limit yourself to big logos.
Compare Construction and Materials
Analyze the shoe construction across brands. Quality materials like leather or suede uppers, full-length midsoles, and rubber outsoles will last longer than cheaply made shoes. Mesh and synthetic materials can still be durable with multiple overlays. Examine insoles, support features, and ventilation as well.
Read Customer Reviews
Don’t rely solely on company claims. Read customer reviews on sites like Amazon to get unbiased opinions on sizing, comfort, support, traction and durability of different volleyball shoes across brands. Sort reviews by most recent and most critical to spot potential quality declines in newer models.
Research Sizing and Fit Consistency
Some brands run smaller or larger than average. Research sizing advice to determine your ideal size in a particular brand. Shoe models within a brand can fit differently too. Poor quality control can lead to inconsistent sizing between colorways. Reading reviews helps avoid a wrong fit.
Compare Prices
Use price comparison sites to find the best deals across brands and retailers. More expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. Lesser known brands can offer similar features at lower costs. Consider value for money rather than just looking at brand reputation when comparing prices.
Check Company Reputation and Values
Beyond product quality, research brand business practices and company values to ensure they align with your ethics. Responsible sourcing, sustainable production, and fair labor practices are marks of reputable athletic brands.
Consider Specialized Volleyball Brands
Brands like Asics and Mizuno focus solely on athletic performance footwear including volleyball shoes. They engineer shoes designed specifically for the demands of volleyball with expert insight. Specialized brands cater to serious players.
Don’t Overlook Smaller Niche Brands
Lesser known niche brands can offer high quality volleyball shoes without expensive marketing budgets and endorsements driving up costs. Boutique brands handcraft shoes in smaller quantities with attention to detail and materials.
Try Shoes In-Store First
Before buying online, visit a store to try shoes on for fit and feel. Narrow down your best options across brands. Judge comfort and support for yourself rather than relying on brand reputation alone when choosing the right shoe.
Avoid Knock-Offs
Counterfeit shoes mimic top brands but use inferior materials that won’t last. They prey on brand recognition while providing poor performance. Carefully inspect shoes for quality and double check seller credibility when shopping online.
Consider Athlete Endorsements
High profile athlete sponsorships reflect brand popularity, but don’t assume top players only endorse the best shoes. Vet shoes on performance merits rather than just athlete hype or you’ll pay a premium for branding.
The biggest brand names don’t automatically equate to the best performing or most comfortable volleyball shoes for your particular needs and budget. Take time to research multiple brands’ reputations and compare construction, materials, and real customer reviews before deciding which shoes match your style of play.