Enhance your on-court flexibility with the Mizuno Wave Momentum athletic shoe.

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Investing in a high-quality pair of volleyball shoes is essential for injury prevention and optimal performance on the court. Designed with lightweight materials, rubber soles, and supportive cushioning, volleyball shoes offer the agility required for quick changes in direction and constant jumping.

While some volleyball shoes cater to all playing styles, others boast features tailored to specific positions, such as setters or opposites. Therefore, it is crucial to select a shoe that aligns with your individual needs, style, and preferences. Look for shoes that provide stability for agile movements and rapid changes in direction, as well as superior traction. Our selection of volleyball shoes is based on criteria including durability, affordability, sole grip, weight, cushioning, stability, and breathability.

Mizuno Wave Momentum

Discover the finest volleyball shoes available on the market:

Pros:

- Impressive traction

- Lightweight yet supportive

- Optimal stability

- Outstanding durability

Cons:

- Not suitable for wide feet

- Expensive option

The Mizuno Wave Momentum surpasses expectations in terms of cushioning, support, stability, and breathability, earning its well-deserved spot as our ultimate choice. These versatile volleyball shoes showcase Mizuno's signature Wave technology, which effectively disperses impact energy to provide players with cushioned comfort and injury protection. Thanks to the lightweight, wave-shaped midsole plate, the shoe boasts ample cushioning, support, and breathability, courtesy of its engineered mesh upper. Additionally, the Intercool ventilation system minimizes heat buildup within the shoe, boosting overall comfort and enhancing performance.

Crafted with premium-grade rubber, the outsole of the Mizuno Wave Momentum enhances flexibility and agility on the court. These durable shoes come in various color combinations, as well as women's sizes ranging from 6 to 13, making them a fantastic choice for all-around volleyball play.

ASICS Men’s GEL-Rocket® 9

Price at the time of publication: $140

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber sole | Closure: Lace-up

Pros:

- Exceptional traction

- Superior shock absorption

- Breathable design

- Exceptional value

Negative Points

  • Drawbacks
  • The versatile ASICS GEL-ROCKET 9 volleyball shoe for men lacks exceptional grip and shock absorption, and has an underwhelming cushioned, molded-EVA midsole. Crafted with ASICS’s renowned GEL cushioning in the rear, its purpose is to dampen landings and takeoffs. Moreover, the breathable, featherweight mesh upper permits adequate airflow to maintain your feet dry and invigorated.

The TRUSSTIC SYSTEM technology brings stability to the shoe enabling you to proficiently pass and dig, whilst the adhesive rubber outsole ensures you maintain stability during pivoting and movement. The GET-ROCKET 9 is offered in a range of color options and men’s sizes 6 through 15, establishing it as a fantastic all-around choice.

Mizuno Women's Cyclone Speed Volleyball Shoes

Materials: Artificial and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Fastener: Lace-up

Benefits

  • Inexpensive
  • Superior traction
  • Comfortable, EVA midsole

Drawbacks

  • Possible size discrepancy
  • Ideal for slender feet

At an economical price, these adaptable shoes from Mizuno are an exceptional selection for all-around volleyball athletes. The receptive EVA midsole supplies commendable cushioning to shelter your feet and joints during jumps and sprints. Comparable to all high-performance volleyball shoes, they are also equipped with non-marking rubber soles guaranteeing exceptional grip for swift movements on the court.

The synthetic mesh upper moves in sync with your foot, bestowing you with ample freedom of movement in conjunction with an exceedingly snug fit. They are obtainable in women’s sizes 6 through 11, and some users propose acquiring a larger size as the shoes tend to run small.

Asics Men's Upcourt 4 Volleyball Shoes

Materials: Artificial and mesh upper, rubber sole | Fastener: Lace-up

Benefits

  • Economical
  • Breathable
  • Impressive traction
  • Lightweight support

Drawbacks

  • Ideal for slender feet
  • Requires breaking-in period

Whether you’re a complete novice to volleyball or a seasoned player seeking to augment your collection with an inexpensive pair of shoes, the ASICS Upcourt 4 shoe is a dependable selection. Lightweight and enduring, it encompasses the cushioning, breathability, and performance to be anticipated from pricier shoes. The rubber gum sole clutches the court’s surface to prevent slipping, and the mesh paneling prevents your feet from overheating. It is also constructed from synthetic leather for added support."

Choose from a range of color combinations in men's sizes 6 to 13 to find the perfect match for your volleyball uniform or attire.

Adidas Women's Crazyflight Bounce 3 Volleyball Shoes

Made with synthetic leather and a rubber sole, these shoes have a lace-up closure.

Advantages:

- Lightweight

- Breathable

- Excellent cushioning

- Grippy rubber outsole

Disadvantages:

- More suitable for narrower feet

- White shoes can be difficult to clean

Whether you're hitting, blocking, passing, or setting, the Adidas Crazyflight Bounce 3 volleyball shoe is perfect for the all-around player. Its lightweight and breathable design allows for optimal movement and jumping.

A cushioned midsole ensures a comfortable landing and provides good responsiveness. The mesh upper offers breathability and stability on the court. Available in women's sizes 6 to 12, this versatile shoe is an excellent choice for opposites or any volleyball player seeking comfort and stability.

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber sole | Closure: Lace-up

Advantages:

- Outstanding traction

- Lightweight

- Durable

- Good cushioning

Disadvantages:

ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF MT 2

- Narrow toebox

- Expensive

The ASICS NETBURNER BALLISTIC FF MT 2 volleyball shoe is perfect for agile indoor court players with its lightweight and supportive design. The grippy rubber outsole ensures excellent traction. Similar to ASICS's popular running shoes, it features the GEL cushioning system in the rearfoot and forefoot, providing exceptional shock absorption and comfort during jumps and quick movements.

The FlyteFoam midsole cushioning enhances overall responsiveness. With a mid-top profile and a mesh-and-leather upper, this shoe offers stability on the court. The rubber outsole features ASIC's Flexion Fit grooves for added traction. Available in men's sizes 6 to 15.

Materials: Polyurethane, mesh, leather upper, rubber outsole | Closure: Lace-up

Advantages

  • Superb ankle support
  • A wide range of sizes and colors to choose from
  • Great cushioning
  • Lightweight

Disadvantages

  • Not available in wide sizes
  • Requires a break-in period
Adidas Women's Crazyflight Mid Volleyball Shoes

If you're someone who desires additional ankle support while engaging in jumps, hits, and blocks on the court, you'll find satisfaction in the midcut design of Adidas Women's Crazyflight Mid Volleyball Shoes. These shoes offer the perfect fusion of comfort and lightweight stability, making them an excellent option for intense play on indoor courts. The molded heel counter ensures that your foot remains securely in place, while the Adidas Boost cushioning system guarantees soft and gentle landings.

These shoes are highly versatile and resilient, providing a myriad of colors and sizes ranging from women's 5 to 14. Though they may be slightly pricier than some alternatives, they are unquestionably a worthwhile investment.

Price at the time of publication: $150

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole

Closure: Lace-up

Advantages

  • Outstanding traction
  • Durable
  • Stylish
  • Good cushioning

Disadvantages

  • Not available in wide sizes
  • Requires a break-in period

Due to the fact that setters must be capable of swift and sudden movements, it is imperative that they have shoes with exceptional traction. In this regard, the ASICS Gel-Tactic 2 Women's Volleyball Shoes reign supreme. The grippy rubber outsole, specifically designed for quick acceleration and swift maneuvers, coupled with the lightweight cushioning for shock absorption, make these shoes indispensable for any setter.

Best for Setters Shoes

The Gel-Tactic 2 also incorporates an OrthoLite sock liner that will gradually adapt to the shape of your feet, enhancing overall comfort. Offering durability and versatility, these shoes are available in women's sizes 5 to 14 and an array of color combinations.

Price at the time of publication: $100

Materials: Mesh upper, rubber sole

Closure: Lace-up

Advantages

  • Exceptional padding
  • Featherweight
  • Outstanding grip
  • Supremely flexible

Disadvantages

  • Pricy
  • Not available in wide sizes
Mizuno Wave Lightning Z6

When it comes to volleyball hitters, their game involves plenty of jumping. Therefore, those who play this position require a shoe with extraordinary cushioning and traction. The Mizuno Wave Lightning Z6 Women's Volleyball Shoe showcases the innovative Parallel Wave technology, which is designed to distribute shock evenly throughout the entire sole rather than concentrate it in a single area. This ingenious feature allows hitters to engage in repeated jumps while minimizing the shock and strain on their feet.

What's more, the shoe's feathery construction contributes to reducing foot fatigue and discomfort, enabling hitters to stay nimble. The strategically placed grooves on the outsole not only enhance flexibility but also provide exceptional grip and agility. Catering perfectly to the needs of hitters, this footwear is available in sizes ranging from 6 to 13 for women.

Price at the time of writing: $135

Materials: The upper is crafted from a combination of mesh and synthetic materials, while the outsole is made of rubber. | Closure: Lace-up.

Nike Zoom HyperAce 2

Pros

  • Excellent arch support
  • Flexible material
  • Ample shock absorption

Cons

  • Potentially too narrow
  • Pricy

A team's libero, responsible for defensive play in the back row, necessitates shoes characterized by stability, shock absorption, and traction. These features enable them to pass, dig, and change direction with confidence and quickness. Nike's Zoom HyperAce 2 Women's Volleyball Shoe, offering lightweight support, a true-to-size fit, and superior grip, proves to be the perfect choice for the intense gameplay of liberos.

Designed specifically for hard volleyball courts, these shoes boast pressured air units in the midsole, ensuring optimal responsiveness and bounce. The Nike Zoom technology provides light cushioning that is both supportive and comfortable, enabling swift movement. Available in women's sizes 5 to 11, with a selection of colors to choose from, the HyperAce becomes an outstanding option for liberos.

Price at the time of writing: $120

Best for Kids

Materials: The upper is made of textile, while the lining is mesh. The outsole is constructed from rubber. | Closure: Lace-up.

Pros

  • Purpose-designed for children
  • Comfortable and secure fit
  • Reliable traction
  • Excellent breathability

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Cons

  • The shoes run small.
  • They are designed for indoor use only.

If your child develops a passion for volleyball, it is crucial to provide them with the appropriate footwear to minimize the risk of injury and enhance their performance. Give your child confidence and stability with these durable and comfortable youth volleyball shoes from ASICS. Whether they are blocking, hitting, or serving, these shoes will keep them steady. The grippy rubber outsole provides excellent traction on slippery gym floors, allowing kids to jump, pivot, and move with ease.

These shoes deliver high performance without the distraction of poorly fitting or unsupportive footwear. Additionally, they feature a breathable construction and padding to prevent blisters and calluses. Available in sizes 1 to 7 for big kids, your child can choose from a variety of colors.

Price at the time of publication:

Materials: The upper is made of synthetic and mesh, and the outsole is rubber. The closure is lace-up.

The ASICS GEL-ROCKET 9 (view at Zappos) is the top choice for men's volleyball shoes, offering all the desired features of a high-performance shoe. It is a versatile and high-quality option for volleyball players.

For women, the Mizuno Wave Momentum (view at Zappos) provides the right cushioning, traction, and support to take their game to the next level.

Good volleyball shoes should have rubber soles that provide excellent grip on the court surface, allowing quick cuts and pivots. Shoes with superior traction are essential for preventing slips and falls, which is crucial for avoiding injuries.

Kathy DeBoer, the executive director of the American Volleyball Coaches Association, explains that jumping is a fundamental skill in volleyball, and players need lightweight shoes to excel. Not only does a lightweight shoe facilitate jumping, but it also prevents fatigue in the feet.

Comfort is of utmost importance for any shoe, especially during intense activities like volleyball. DeBoer emphasizes the significance of good cushioning to prevent foot and leg fatigue and reduce the risk of injuries.

Given the frequent accelerations and changes in direction in volleyball, stability and support are vital. Proper fit is also essential for stability, with a snug but not overly tight feel. Room in the toe box is necessary for toe movement. Individuals with wide feet should look for shoes available in various widths.

Many volleyball shoes feature breathable mesh uppers to keep feet cool and sweat-free during play. Breathability enhances overall comfort and helps prevent painful blisters.

  • What distinguishes volleyball shoes from regular shoes?
  • The demands of volleyball require shoes that incorporate features from various types of athletic footwear. They must combine the stability and traction of tennis shoes, the heel strike reinforcement of running shoes, and the ankle roll protection and impact softening of basketball shoes.

  • Can running shoes be used for volleyball?
  • For occasional volleyball players, running shoes may suffice. However, regular players should invest in volleyball-specific shoes. The shoes listed in this article provide the necessary traction, stability, and cushioning for optimal performance and injury prevention.

  • Can volleyball shoes be used for basketball?
  • While some volleyball shoes may be suitable for basketball, others may lack the ankle support and stability required by basketball players in a dependable and high-performance shoe.

Certified running coach and fitness writer Christine Luff (source) has dedicated years to researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products. She understands that the right gear can significantly enhance performance and comfort.