The Best Volleyball Shoes for Women

Buying Guide for Volleyball Shoes for Women

Why buy volleyball shoes?

Volleyball shoes have soft gum rubber soles that offer a superior grip to prevent sliding or slipping on the gym floors while providing better traction. This gives players better, more solid footing. Plus, the gum rubber soles won’t leave marks on the gym floor and decrease the risk of ankle injuries. You’ll also find that the midsoles are designed to support the balls of the feet since volleyball players spend most of their time perched on the balls of their feet. They’re designed to be strong yet flexible to absorb the shock.

What should you consider when shopping for volleyball shoes for women?

• Fit: Volleyball shoes should fit snugly to ensure you get the best traction and performance. A good rule is that there should be a finger’s width or less between the tip of the shoes and your toes.
• Material: You’ll want shoes made from lightweight and breathable material. Nylon or mesh are considered the best choices for the upper. High-tech polyester or fabric with installed vents will work too. You’ll also want a solid yet flexible midsole to support the balls of your feet properly. Consider foam material since they offer both of these properties. A higher-end shoe may have a gel or air cushion midsole, which will also work well. Last but not least, look for a gum rubber or another type of soft, anti-slip rubber for the sole.
• Support: Since volleyball players tend to engage in quick and frequent movements, you’ll want volleyball shoes with plenty of support. Consider styles that offer extra ankle support for added stability when landing after a jump. You’ll also want cushioning inside the shoes too for added comfort.

Should you wear volleyball shoes outside?

Volleyball shoes have a soft gum rubber sole designed to provide grip without marking floors. However, that softer sole means that you shouldn’t wear these sneakers on an abrasive surface like asphalt or concrete. Doing so can cause the soles to wear down sooner. However, if you decide to put a volleyball set outside, you’ll want to put it on a grassy level surface so your shoes do not get worn down.

Our Picks for the Best Volleyball Shoes for Women

Pros: Whether you’re an old pro at volleyball or are just getting into the sport, this is a solid option that provides plenty of traction thanks to a rubber sole and a breathable upper to keep you comfortable as you spike and serve the ball. There’s also a gel cushioning system concentrated at the rear and forefoot for better shock absorption and better gait stability for enhanced performance.

Cons: First, the shoes may run narrow. Also, the shoe’s upper is relatively thin, so the upper could wear out fast for avid volleyball players.

Bottom Line: This great middle-entry shoe will work for beginners or seasoned volleyball players. Thanks to a rubber sole, breathable upper, and gel cushioning in the rear and forefoot, you can confidently move across the court.

 

Pros: If you’re concerned about rolling your ankle, you’ll want a mid-sneaker shoe that provides better stability around your ankle, especially when you’re landing your jumps. While you’ll get a synthetic upper that allows for better breathability and is lightweight, you still get a rubber sole for enhanced traction and control. Note that this pick features 50% recycled materials in the upper for a greener choice.

Cons: Because of the enhanced ankle support, this feature may eventually press into your ankle, especially if you’re frequently moving.

Bottom Line: Those concerned with ankle support will appreciate the mid-design on this shoe that features better stability and support in this area. A breathable upper made from 50% recycled material combines with a rubber sole for enhanced traction control.

 

Pros: Anyone who’s ever played sports knows that sometimes the equipment required to play the game properly can be cost prohibitive. Thankfully, these volleyball shoes won’t leave a massive dent in your wallet. Available in two colors, this simple design features a synthetic upper with breathable fibers and a rubber sole. You’ll also get a cushioned midsole designed to help you comfortably stay on the balls of your feet.

Cons: These shoes may run from a half to a full size too big.

Bottom Line: Budget-conscious volleyball players will appreciate this pair of shoes that won’t set them back too far. However, while they’re a commendable shoe in terms of traction and comfort, be mindful that they’re not true to size, and you may need to adjust from a half to full size.

 

Pros: If you’re a setter, you know that sole grip is critical. This ASICS shoe is about enhanced traction without creating a design that weighs you down. You’ll get an open mesh upper with the rubber sole for added breathability. There’s also the Trusstic System technology which is designed to make the sole lightweight without ruining the stability and structure of the shoe.

Cons: The finish may peel off prematurely. While that won’t impact your gameplay, it’ll be frustrating if you’re the type who cares about aesthetics.

Bottom Line: Get the traction and support you need while maintaining a lightweight design that allows for mobility with these volleyball sneakers. But be aware that the finish may peel off prematurely.

 

Pros: When you’re a hitter, you need to be ready to move with a moment’s notice as you must follow the ball if it’s in your zone. So, you want a shoe that supports agility thanks to enhanced traction while still being breathable and lightweight. This Mizuno shoe offers an EVA foam midsole for shock absorption and a diagonal groove in the midfoot area that supports quick turn movements.

Cons: These run small and are narrow, meaning you may need to go up a size if you want to be comfortable.

Bottom Line: If you’re frequently pivoting and jumping to hit the volleyball, these shoes cushion the shock when you land with a sole designed for quick movements and turns.

Final Thoughts

Volleyball may not be a true contact sport, but it keeps you moving and requires that you land with confidence. Good volleyball shoes can give you the traction you need to avoid slipping while providing proper shock absorption to keep you in the game.