Rock the Court Better with The Top 12 Best Women’s Volleyball Shoes

best women's volleyball shoes

Does sturdy mean reliable? Is flexibility a hindrance to stability? Is a certain category better than the other, although they have the same basic qualities? Don’t worry! We aren’t judging people; we were talking about volleyball shoes! In our quest to find the best women’s volleyball shoes for amateur and advanced players alike, we rounded up which features to incorporate and which to grant allowances, as women’s feet have different shapes and tolerance than men’s.

To save your time, we did the research and reviewed 12 shoes featuring cushioning, breathability, sizing, sole, safety, stability, playing position, etc. to help you with some exceptional responsiveness and performance in the courts!

Volleyball Shoes vs. Regular Athlete Shoes:

They differ in 3 prime points: fabric, soles, and structure.

Fabric

Regular shoes can be made of any material as long as it meets the needs of the athlete. However, volleyball shoes for a defender or an attacker, whether an amateur player or a professional needs to be made of breathable material. The shoes that cricketers play with or footballers, for that matter, do not need to be as breathable as a volleyball player. Since volleyball players are always jumping or doing lateral/ side to side moves, they need a good breathable fabric to be incorporated in their shoe construction.

Sole

Unlike football that requires the turfs to have spikes under them for increased grip on the field, shoes made for volleyball players need to be non-marking as there might be indoor tournaments. Also, volley shoes have a soft rubber/gum sole that allows them to practice indoors or do gym sessions in the same shoes without giving in to injuries.

Structure

Since volley players are continually jumping and landing, exceptional support is provided to the balls of their feet. This is where they suffer maximum stress and hence stability. So the mid-sections of these shoes are made differently from other athlete shoes.

What to Look for In Women’s Volleyball Shoes:

In order to pick the best women’s volleyball shoes, we may need to look for certain things, such as:

Brand

The brands of the shoes do matter in some aspects of picking the right volleyball shoe. This is because there are some brands that are simply very good at making volleyball shoes, whether it is for defenders or attackers. Again, there are brands that make the type of volleyball shoe that is fit to play with, in all positions in the game. Although brands differ in how they make the ultimate volleyball shoe, there are brands that address specific issues like high-arches or better-serving abilities or higher durability. Based on your volley game need, you should get the brand of your choice.

Popularity

There are sometimes hypes over newly launched volleyball shoes. Then again, there are time-tested brands and models that have been popular throughout their launch, and people still play with them after years or decades of their ownership. For research, if you don’t have the time or simply can’t make up your mind about which shoe to buy, you can always buy one that is popular. But keep in mind that there are mixed reviews, and what suits most of the people may not suit you in your game. So popularity can be a quick solution but is not a thoughtful one.

Criteria

Like we mention in our buying guide in the next sections, you will see that a couple of criteria make up the best women’s volleyball shoes. While the criteria may differ for base players or advanced ones, the gist remains the same throughout volleyball. You have to get shoes that give you a good landing, better grip, optimal cushioning, great flexibility, and good stability. If you are constantly tripping wearing your new shoes, you may have got the fit wrong. Again, if your feet always hurt after playing with the shoe, the cushioning may be faulty. You can easily avoid these by paying attention to our buying guide and what your feet are trying to tell you pre/post the volley game.

Appearance

The shoe’s appearance will not matter as much, but if you want cool tones or bright ones, or even neutral colors, you can always find them in the volleyball shoes. However, make sure that the features offered are as good as the appearance, or else, there is no point buying a fancy volley shoe that can’t deliver.

Our Top 12 Best Women’s Volleyball Shoes:

Here’s what we think to make the twelve best women’s volleyball shoes:

Nike React Hyperset Women’s Volleyball Shoe

If we are discussing shoes for players and Nike isn’t on the list, is it even a list? Not to be blinded by brand identity, but we think that this shoe from Nike is quite a deal. This is a shoe made for a competitive game or practice and is one that can offer you great comfort and support the arches.

Highlight features:

  1. Tie-lace-type volleyball shoes.
  2. Available in black, navy, and white.
  3. Nike Skin Overlay for better feet protection and durability.
  4. Lateral Straps for better stability.
  5. Rubber sole for increased traction.
  6. A responsive cushion was made to allow better jumping, acceleration, and landing.

Why did we like this? It’s because this particular Nike women’s volleyball shoes can provide an exceptional level of comfort to its wearers. And by exceptional, we mean people who have weak knees and ankles and are willing to play the game with a shoe that won’t hurt their condition while they are comfortable practicing or enjoying a friendly game with this.

Pros:

  • Better comfort and support than older Nike versions made for volleyball.
  • Lightweight as well as flexible to move in laterally so great for hitters.
  • Can be used in the gym.

Cons:

  • The rubber sole could be better.

 

Adidas (by Stella McCartney) Ultraboost HD Women’s Sneakers

adidas Women's Ultraboost 19, Black Grey, 5 M US
  • Lace closure
  • Supportive adidas Primeknit 360
  • Comfortable textile lining; Stretchweb outsole flexes naturally for an energised ride, and Continental Rubber gives you superior traction
  • Responsive Boost midsole; Stabilizing Torsion Spring
  • Lightweight and adaptive

For those of you looking for a high-end designer shoe that can give your volleyball game the touch of elegance and even beauty, is this Adidas shoe designed in collaboration with Stella McCartney. As graceful as it looks, it can let you enter beast mode on the court with a responsiveness that is unmatched.

Highlight features:

  1. Available in a single color: white.
  2. Boost technology for an energetic return back to the throw offered.
  3. Long-lasting cushioning.
  4. Torsion system to aid the midfoot and balls of the feet.
  5. Continental rubber sole for superior traction.
  6. Webbed fabric makes a high-cut, pulled design.
  7. Tie-lace style.
  8. The water-resistant upper part of the shoe.
  9. Stretchweb outsole.

Why did we like this? That is because if money isn’t a factor for you and you want to go for a high-end option that can give you some premium performance boost, as they call it, you will love this shoe.

Pros:

  • Increased support with dual elastic bands.
  • Round to silhouette to protect and secure your toes from high impact.
  • The heel has pull-tabs that can save you from injury and can increase your stability in the game.
  • Flexible outsoles.
  • Increases stability and responsiveness.
  • Great for midfoot support.

Cons:

  • Expensive.

 

Mizuno Lightning Z6 Mid Volleyball Shoe

Mizuno Wave Lightning Z6 Mid Womens Volleyball Shoe, White, 6
  • Eva midsole
  • Lightweight
  • Wave technology provides both cushion and stability to get you through the entire match comfortably
  • D-flex groove: Diagonal flexible groove. A diagonal groove in the mid foot area allows the player to turn at maximum speed and power by efficiently transferring natural body movement and shift in direction
  • Features a 360 degree, extremely breathable, engineered mesh

Mizuno has been quite a popular name in making volleyball shoes for both men and women. Of the different ranges it has, we liked the Z6 for you. This particular model can be a blessing to your midfoot, as the name suggests, and it also has other notable features such as:

Highlight features:

  1. Available in multiple colors: blue, white, and pink.
  2. EVA midsole, rubber outsole.
  3. Wave technology for better cushioning and to increase your stability throughout the game.
  4. Diagonal flexible groove technology to increase how fast you play the game.
  5. Breathable, engineered mesh upper.
  6. Extra-stable outrigger sole.

So, why did we like this? Because of the acceleration, it can provide without hurting the midfoot. This actually comes from the re-engineered, outrigger sole that allows you to enjoy the power and acceleration required to play a good volleyball game.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and comfortable on foot.
  • The stability offered by the wave technology that remains consistent throughout the game.
  • Better speed and power response.
  • 360 degree, breathable material construction.
  • Allows natural body movements and shifts for a fluid performance.
  • Can generate super-fast reactions.

Cons:

  • Has sizing issues.

 

Mizuno Momentum Volleyball Shoe

Mizuno Women's Wave Momentum Volleyball Shoe, blacksilver, 6 B US
  • 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
  • Dura Shield: Protects toe from the damage of friction to the floor
  • XG Rubber: Extra grade rubber. High traction (grip) to the floor

Here’s another one from Mizuno, but this time, it is meant for all positions other than just hitters. For intense matches that need to be played with some intense volleyball shoes, you need the Momentum’s support and lightweight that doesn’t hold you back. Here are some notable features of the Mizuno Momentum:

Highlight features:

  1. Available in both pastels of coral and neutral black/white/brown.
  2. Construction materials are a combination of synthetic and textile fabric.
  3. Rubber outsole.
  4. No-sew upper made of three layers to improve fit.
  5. Booty construction inside the shoe to protect the ankle and heels.
  6. Mizuno Wave technology that disperses impact into broad areas so as not to injure your feet.

Why did we like this? The reason is that it happens to be one of the best volleyball shoes for the court. It can give you a snug fit and feel but is also welcoming for any intense change in stance mid-game. And when you’re playing indoors, there’s always a chance of slipping from intense moves but this shoe saves you from that.

Pros:

  • Great cushioning is great for jumpers.
  • Excellent fit around the ankle.
  • Stretchy tongue attached to the shoe.
  • Doesn’t cause knee pain.
  • Very likable and attractive design.
  • Comfortable and super lightweight.
  • Great arch support.

Cons:

Narrow toe box.

Mizuno Wave Lightning Z4 Women’s Shoe

You can really tell we can’t get enough of Mizuno! Well, that is because they are one of the leaders when it comes to making good volleyball shoes for women. Anyway, here’s the Z4 that is made to enhance your athletic performance by making sure that they have combined their patent technology and premium materials in it.

Highlight features:

  1. Made of 100% synthetic material in the entirety.
  2. Available in dark and light variations.
  3. Dynamotor Fit technology on the upper that is made to allow seamless movement to your feet without hurting it or restricting your movement in the game.
  4. Air Mesh upper made to provide increased breathability and better feel from reducing sweat.
  5. Sensor Point Suspension System is made to combine with Wave Plate technology for unmatched traction and landing stability.

Why did we like this? Because of the intense combination of some eye-catching, performance-improving technology that we are sold at. If you’re a jumper that needs a lot of movement, can tolerate no sweat, and wants stability, you’ll love it too.

Pros:

  • Great for people with low arches and flat feet.
  • Extremely lightweight feel.
  • Enhanced traction.
  • Better ground grip.
  • Allows seamless movement.

Cons:

  • Needs time breaking in for those with wide feet.

 

Mizuno Wave Lightning Z4 Women’s Shoe

You can really tell we can’t get enough of Mizuno! Well, that is because they are one of the leaders when it comes to making good volleyball shoes for women. Anyway, here’s the Z4 that is made to enhance your athletic performance by making sure that they have combined their patent technology and premium materials in it.

Highlight features:

  1. Made of 100% synthetic material in the entirety.
  2. Available in dark and light variations.
  3. Dynamotor Fit technology on the upper that is made to allow seamless movement to your feet without hurting it or restricting your movement in the game.
  4. Air Mesh upper made to provide increased breathability and better feel from reducing sweat.
  5. Sensor Point Suspension System is made to combine with Wave Plate technology for unmatched traction and landing stability.

Why did we like this? Because of the intense combination of some eye-catching, performance-improving technology that we are sold at. If you’re a jumper that needs a lot of movement, can tolerate no sweat, and wants stability, you’ll love it too.

Pros:

  • Great for people with low arches and flat feet.
  • Extremely lightweight feel.
  • Enhanced traction.
  • Better ground grip.
  • Allows seamless movement.

Cons:

  • Needs time breaking in for those with wide feet.

 

Adidas Crazyflight Bounce 3 Volleyball Women’s Shoe-2

adidas Women's Crazyflight Bounce 3 Volleyball Shoe, Black/White/Gum, 5 M US
  • Regular fit
  • Adjustable lacing system
  • Mesh upper with lightweight moulded TPU yarns
  • Grippy rubber outsole for indoor surfaces, Textile lining

No wonder Adidas showed up on the list of the best volleyball shoes for women. If you want to dominate any point in the court and not just one point where the shoe will suit you either as a defender or a hitter, you will like the Crazyflight. As the name suggests, if you are open to receiving serves by doing a jump or whether you are hitting for a jump, this show enables you to land on your feet better and bear the impact without being injured.

Highlight features:

  1. Breathable mesh is upper for increased comfort.
  2. Available in some colors, such as white, black, and ash with hints of brown.
  3. Integrated TPU fibers for the stability of landing.
  4. Abrasion-resistant.
  5. Cushioned midsole that eases your landings.
  6. Synthetic sole and shoe material.

So, why did we like this? That is because this shoe can offer you a bounce back when you land with a thud (which might cause serious injuries to your ankle or ball of the foot). Also, because the shoe is running and jumping friendly, it happens to be very lightweight.

Pros:

  • Sleek silhouette.
  • Cushioned mid and front foot and booted ankles.
  • Doesn’t require breaking in for many due to a great fit.
  • Great for those with a bad knee.

Cons:

  • Sole could be improved.

 

ASICS Sky Elite F.F. Women’s Volleyball Shoes

ASICS Women's Sky Elite FlyteFoam Mid Top 2 Volleyball Shoes, 6, White/White
  • GEL technology cushioning: Provides excellent shock absorption.
  • DYNAWRAP technology: Improves stability during side-to-side movements.
  • Solution dye sockliner: Helps reduce overall water usage by approx. 33% and carbon emissions by approx. 45%.
  • FLYTEFOAM Propel technology cushioning: Increases impact absorption and responsiveness.
  • TWISTRUSS technology: Helps players transition horizontal power to vertical power without losing energy.

Made particularly for indoor courts’ servers, the Sky Elite from ASICS is a treat to the eye and the feet. It is great for some high-performing, athletic movements that many volleyball players require from their shoes.

Highlight features:

  1. Made of fabric material.
  2. Available in white/silver/pink.
  3. N.C. rubber outsole made abrasion-resistant and grip-friendly.
  4. Synthetic reinforcement in mesh upper.
  5. Tie-lace fit for a better lock-down.
  6. Mesh lining in the footbed for sweat absorption.
  7. Ortholite sockliner to keep moisture at bay on the feet.
  8. Trusstic technology in midfoot to prevent twists and sprains.
  9. Gel technology for increased shock absorption.

Why did we like this? Because of the excellent build nature that makes it so perfect for indoor volleyball games. You will not slip or mark the court with the N.C. rubber sole. You also can’t twist yourself to impossible movements and most importantly, this is great for sweaty players. So, if you are prone to having sweaty feet and stinky feet later on, the breathability of your feet from this shoe will welcome you.

Pros:

  • Great for pickleball courts.
  • Stays true to the fit.
  • Feels nice and light with extended support in mid foot.
  • Lightweight and comfortable.
  • Great shock absorption.
  • Lasts long without wearing out.

Cons:

  • May be a little big for narrow-footed women.

 

ASICS Netburner Ballistic Women’s Volleyball Shoes

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ASICS Women's Netburner Ballistic FlyteFoam 2 Volleyball Shoes, 6, White/Black
  • FLYTEFOAM Propel Technology: ASICS energetic foam formulation that provides supreme bounce thanks to a unique elastomer compound.
  • TWISTRUSS Technology: Equips athletes with more agility and speed during abrupt twisting or pivoting motions
  • Flex grooves in the outsole improve flexibility:

If you only kept two things in your mind: comfort and support, Ballistic is your deal. It is made to enhance your performance by offering you cushion and bounce, which, although many promises, not all shoe brands can deliver.

Highlight features:

  1. Knitted mesh upper for excellent breathability and comfort from wearing.
  2. Swathing overlays from midfoot for better stability.
  3. N.C. Gum rubber outer sole.
  4. Synthetic shoe construction.
  5. Tie-lace system.
  6. FlyteFoam midsole technology that gives you bounce and cushioning in every step.
  7. Twisstrust system for saving you from sprains.
  8. GEL technology cushion in rearfoot and forefoot.
  9. Removable Ortholite sockliner to control your moisture level inside the shoe.

Why did we like this? The organic super fiber construction goes into making the Flytefoam, which causes all the difference. It helps you to make fast and quick movements, all the while maintaining traction.

Pros:

  • Allows agile movements.
  • Better traction on the court.
  • Absorbs shock well.
  • Offers supreme, lasting comfort.
  • Allows better foot movement without causing restrictions in how you play the game or serve throws.
  • Great ankle support.

Cons:

Not for those with wide feet, as they may feel it is smaller than their true size.

 

ASICS GEL-Nimbus 20 Women’s Running Shoe

ASICS Women's Mens Fitness/Cross-Training Athletic Shoe, indigo blue/indigo blue/opal green, 5 Medium US
  • FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams
  • FLUIDRIDE MIDSOLE: ASICS FluidRide midsole provides the ultimate combination of bounce back and cushioning properties with reduced weight and exceptional durability
  • FLUIDRIDE MIDSOLE: ASICS FluidRide midsole provides the ultimate combination of bounce back and cushioning properties with reduced weight and exceptional durability;, Technologia FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE Nasza technologia FlyteFoam zapewnia wyjątkowy komfort pleców i responsywny, uspokajające włókna organiczne pomagają zmniejszyć opakowanie, które tradycyjnie nasiąkają miękką pianką
  • Podeszwa środkowa FLUIDRIDE MIDSOLE: podeszwa środkowa ASICS FluidRide zapewnia doskonałe połączenie właściwości bounce back i cushioning o zmniejszonej wadze i wyjątkowej trwałości;, FLYTEFOAM MIDSOLE TECHNOLOGY Our FlyteFoam technology provides exceptional bounce back and responsiveness no matter the distance, utilizing organic super fibers to help reduce packing out that traditionally happens with softer, low density foams

Do you remember how Harry’s friends reacted in the Prisoner of Azkaban when Sirius gifted him a Nimbus 2000? Although it is 100 times as less as the magical broom, ASICS’s Nimbus is quite a cult favorite for its exceptional performance. To do justice to every one of its outstanding features, we mentioned them here:

Highlight features:

  1. Made of a textile/synthetic combination.
  2. Available in multiple colors, probably the most color options on the list today.
  3. Rubber outsole.
  4. FlyteFoam midsole technology is made of organic fibers for bounce and cushioning.
  5. FluidRide midsole for durability and weight balance.
  6. Discrete eyelet construction.
  7. FluidFit upper made of gradient jacquard mesh for superior breathability.
  8. 3D Print Overlays for added support and customized fit.
  9. GEL technology for shock absorption.
  10. Exoskeletal heels for heel support.

Why did we like this? For all the 10 features above and more than that, we think this is the best one on the list today. Because if you see what it offers, it takes care that your feet breathe, that your ankles and heels are protected, that these won’t come fit and fit you snugly and that you can do quick movements and still retain your balance. What more could you ask for from a volley shoe? These obviously make it one of the best-selling volleyball shoes for women.

Pros:

  • Shoes adapt to the natural motion of your feet.
  • Extra support for your ankles and heels.
  • Attenuates shock well.
  • Multidirectional stretch.

Cons:

  • Slightly larger toe box.

 

Adidas Crazyflight Women’s Cross Trainer

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adidas Women's Crazyflight Cross Trainer, Core Black/Night Met./Core Black, 5
  • Regular fit
  • Lace closure
  • Stretch mesh upper with TPU reinforced midfoot
  • Light and breathable feel

 

This shoe in red/navy and white is a beautiful, power-packed one from Adidas that looks both cool and laid-back at the same time. It also has versions such as the X2 and X3, but the original Crazyflight bears the line’s initial trademarks, which volleyball players all adore and want, that is stability and energetic performance that is not too harsh on the feet.

Highlight features:

  1. Fabric and mesh are upper for increased breathability in the game.
  2. Made of a combination of different fibers throughout the shoe.
  3. Synthetic rubber sole.
  4. Available in multiple colors.
  5. Features a star and stripes design in the USA.
  6. Lace-up closure on the upper.
  7. Heel-pull tab to increase your stability and control from the shoe.
  8. Cushioned insole with soft inner lining.

But why did we like this? It seems to offer you some features that most other shoes here are offering. Yet we went for this particular volleyball shoe. Why? Because it is a decent one in terms of performance and is excellent for national level tournaments as it depicts the inspirations from the flag.

Pros:

  • Great for national team plays.
  • Good breathability from the mesh and textile construction.
  • Durable outsole.
  • Great stability.
  • Regular fit.

Cons:

  • No exceptional technology to boost performance.

 

Adidas Crazyflight Women’s Cross Trainer

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adidas Women's Crazyflight Cross Trainer, Core Black/Night Met./Core Black, 5
  • Regular fit
  • Lace closure
  • Stretch mesh upper with TPU reinforced midfoot
  • Light and breathable feel

This shoe in red/navy and white is a beautiful, power-packed one from Adidas that looks both cool and laid-back at the same time. It also has versions such as the X2 and X3, but the original Crazyflight bears the line’s initial trademarks, which volleyball players all adore and want, that is stability and energetic performance that is not too harsh on the feet.

Highlight features:

  1. Fabric and mesh are upper for increased breathability in the game.
  2. Made of a combination of different fibers throughout the shoe.
  3. Synthetic rubber sole.
  4. Available in multiple colors.
  5. Features a star and stripes design in the USA.
  6. Lace-up closure on the upper.
  7. Heel-pull tab to increase your stability and control from the shoe.
  8. Cushioned insole with soft inner lining.

But why did we like this? It seems to offer you some features that most other shoes here are offering. Yet we went for this particular volleyball shoe. Why? Because it is a decent one in terms of performance and is excellent for national level tournaments as it depicts the inspirations from the flag.

Pros:

  • Great for national team plays.
  • Good breathability from the mesh and textile construction.
  • Durable outsole.
  • Great stability.
  • Regular fit.

Cons:

  • No exceptional technology to boost performance.

 

Nike Zoom Hyperace 2 Women’s Volleyball Shoes

This is a classic from Nike when it comes to an excellent take-off for the volley players. Most users liked it when it first came because it could be easily pulled out of your and worn in for the heel tab. Also, its performance in hard courts and slippery courts make it a fan favorite as well as a player favorite in volleyball games.

Highlight features:

  1. Stylish black and white design. But also available in other colors.
  2. Pull tab on heels.
  3. Mesh upper for feet breathability.
  4. Rubber outsole.
  5. Zoom Air Unit for hyper-cushioning.
  6. TPU cage on upper for increased stability.

Why did we like this? Because the combination of comfort and durability is trustworthy. The TPU cage for the fit, stability and support, and the Zoom Air Unit for the exceptional lightweight comfort make it our star volley shoe.

Pros:

  • Keeps your feet cool in long volleyball games at a stretch.
  • Great for slippery courts.
  • Easy take-off and wear.
  • Durable and lightweight on the feet, with a cloud-like feel.
  • Better traction than most shoes.
  • Supportive for the arch.

Cons:

  • Not for you if you wear ankle guards.

 

Adidas Women’s Crazyflight X3

adidas Women's Crazyflight X 3 Mid Volleyball Shoe, Black/White/Gum, 5 M US
  • Regular fit, Mid cut
  • Adjustable lacing system
  • Mesh upper with moulded TPU zones
  • Grippy rubber outsole for indoor surfaces, Textile lining

The last one on the list today ends with Adidas’s Crazyflight X3, which is the third generation of the previously mentioned Crazyflight. What is very unique about it is the sock-replicating upper of the shoe. This does ensure that you have the most comfortable fit out there so that when you’re playing, you don’t need to worry about foot strain!

Highlight features:

  1. Synthetic sole construction.
  2. Available in three different colors.
  3. Synthetic mesh upper part of the part.
  4. Outer sole made of synthetic rubber.
  5. Mid-cut ankle design.

Why did we like this? The main reason is the ankle design. Note that ankle designs are usually made the high-cut or low cut. The low cut ones are made for giving you good flexibility of movement while high-cut ones are for those who are injury prone and need some form of support when making agile movements. However, this particular volley shoe strikes a balance that both kinds of players can benefit from.

Pros:

  • Needn’t to do any sizing research.
  • Very comfortable.
  • Excellent style and fit.
  • Have a great grip on unforgiving, slippery grounds.
  • Mid-cut ankle for a balance of stability and flexibility.
  • Synthetic mesh upper allows breathability and saves the upper part from wearing out soon, unlike regular mesh.

Cons:

  • Quite pricey.

 

Buying Guide for Volleyball Shoes for Women:

Features to Consider for Choosing Your Perfect Pair:

In order to get yourself the perfect pair of the best women’s volleyball shoes, here’s the most comprehensive buying guide to help you out!

Stability

Whether it is vertical jumps or lateral movements that you’re required to do mid-game, your feet will need good support. Support becomes super necessary as it can save you from tripping over, allow you to get a grip of your landing, and protect your feet. So, goodbye foot injuries!

Cushion

A starter of volleyball who has only begun to play the game needs as much of the cushioning as a professional volleyball player. Usually, when volley players have a tournament where they have to play a couple of games at a stretch, they need to make sure they don’t go through extra strain. For high-impact shock-absorption, cushioning is necessary. But too much of it again can feel heavy, so you must be careful here in seeking comfort.

Weight

It is very important to consider that you are light on your feet when playing volleyball. Your shoe shouldn’t be pulling you down when to jump to make a serve. It should be lightweight as well as flexible. Also, make sure that the weight is evenly distributed, and you have a balanced volley shoe.

Breathability

A lot goes into making volleyball shoes that can work with your feet without making it sweaty and heated. Usually, these shoes are given a mesh upper cover to let the feet breathe and not turn into stinky, infected parts. On the other hand, some shoes have sweat-absorbing technology if you’re not into wearing mesh shoes. Moreover, some volley shoes have air vents that allow air to flow out and in and cool your feet. Check these out when you buy your volley shoe next.

Playing Position

You have the following settings to pick for:

Basic

No matter which position you play, the basic requirements for getting a volleyball shoe in your position are given below:

  1. Always make sure that your shoes will be able to provide you with not vertical, but lateral stability. Of course, every shoe is made to give you vertical stability. But lateral? You need it in volleyball.
  2. If you are playing indoor games, you will need an anti-slip shoe that has an excellent grip.
  3. You need to keep your feet comfortable with optimal cushioning.

Defense

Your position as a defender in the game will require a lot of fluidity. You will need to respond to quick attacks as well as have a firm footing on the ground. For this:

  1. A low-profile construction with a highly gripping sole can give you the fluidity and speed you need without weighing you down or causing you to trip.
  2. Shock-absorption features on the shoe can ease your landing.
  3. A shoe with better stability can help with passes and serves easily.

Attack

It is as if you are constantly on a trampoline, and you’ll need jumping for the sake of the game. But your jumps won’t be easy and relaxed like on a trampoline, but impactful and sudden. You will need shoes that can:

  1. Be fit and snug on your feet without being tight to allow you the quick movements.
  2. Feel lightweight on your feet for the speed and reaction you will need to block your opponent’s serves or to serve them.
  3.  High traction for a better landing.
  4. Great shock absorption in the cushioning for comfort and safety from injuries.

Construction

Most of the volleyball shoes out there, whether made for men or women, are made from synthetic material. This ensures the longevity of the shoes. And other than durability, they also provide stability and flexibility that volley players seek. But shoes may also be made of textile or some other material.

Sole

The two kinds of the sole that you get on your shoes are synthetic rubber and natural rubber. Although synthetic rubber does not have as good a grip as the natural ones, they are widely used for cost savings and easy availability.

Sizing

The sizes of the brands are more or less consistent except for some known ones. Nike tends to have larger shoes, while Mizuno has smaller shoes. A sizing chart and other users’ experience can help you find if the brand you are buying has a regular, standard fit.

Important thing to remember is that most size charts are for regular wearers. So, if you have exceptionally narrow or wide feet, you will need to do your research based on whether people with feet like yours have bought or played with that particular volleyball shoe.

Safety/Ankle Design

The ankle designs of the volley shoes differ from high to low cut. Low cut designs are meant to give you better flexibility, while high-cut designs are for those who are injury-prone and require better stability. You may also find mid-cut volleyball shoes to play with, for a balance between the two.

FAQs:

Question: What are the best volleyball shoes to wear?

Answer: There is no definite shoe made for volleyball that everyone needs to wear and will benefit from. However, a couple of brands make the best shoes, including Nike, Adidas, Mizuno, ASICS, etc.

Question: Does the sizing and fit of volleyball shoes vary from brand to brand?

Answer: Yes. The sizing guide of volleyball shoes differs according to which brand is making them. For example, Nike shoes tend to be a little larger than regular shoes. On the other hand, Mizuno shoes tend to be smaller than the standard.

Question: Which are the best volleyball shoes for women?

Answer: It differs according to taste. Some women may prefer Adidas and some Nike or Mizuno.

Question: Why do players need breathable volleyball shoes?

Answer: Since volleyball players are almost always hovering in the air and thrashing on the ground, much of the game impact is suffered by their feet. So much so that their feet get all sweaty and squished. To avoid fungal infection from sweat and stinky feet, these athletes need to wear breathable shoes.

Question: What is gum rubber, and why do volleyball shoes have a gum rubber sole?

Answer: Volley shoes these days have a gum rubber sole as a green movement. These synthetically made soles don’t need cutting of rubber plants but use artificial rubber processed from oil to make their soles.

Question: How are volleyball shoes different from tennis shoes?

Answer: In terms of construction and design.

 

Here you can see some awesome shoes life hacks for you.

Video Credit: Phanduy US

Ready to rock the court?

Hopefully, you’re clear on the best brands and features that make the best women’s volleyball shoes. Like we have said throughout the article, there’s no single best one. You can find the best volleyball shoes for liberos or hitters in this researched article.

However, there are certain criteria that identify a shoe as of the “best” type. Hence, you can refer to our buying guide whenever you’re willing to compare shoes that’ll rock the court!

We also made a research about best volleyball shoes for men. Don’t forget to check it out!

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