Volleyball is one of the most popular sports and a stable of high school and college athletes.
It requires constant motion, keen tactics, and quick feet, so to improve your game and stop yourself from sliding across the gym floor, it’s essential to have a pair of high-quality shoes.
If you are looking for something durable and long-lasting, you can’t go wrong with the pairs on this list of the best volleyball shoes currently available in 2020.
Comparison Chart
Best Volleyball Shoes Reviews
1. ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 id a durable pair of volleyball shoes designed to take a pounding and still come back for more.
It offers excellent support and breathability and is comfortable even for women with narrow feet.
Product Highlights
The ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 features a narrow design with a small gum rubber heel that is durable and able to withstand months of training.
Multiple colors and designs are available, and the laces are narrow and discrete, so you can avoid tripping.
Some of the most notable features of this pair of volleyball shoes include a patented gel cushioning system, extra support, and a roomy toe box.
These shoes are available in sizes 5-14.
The Good
There are several considerable product highlights which allow the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 to stand out from the competition.
One is that these volleyball shoes feature rear and forefoot GEL® Cushioning Systems, which reduce the pressure placed on the wearer’s ankles and provide extra support.
There is also more shock absorbency in the toe box of the Gel-Rocket 9 than can be found in other shoes at a similar price point.
Another notable feature is the Trusstic System®, which redistributes your weight to reduce the wear and tear of the shoe.
The weight distribution of the Trusstic System is still comfortable and even unnoticeable, but it will improve the lifespan of your footwear.
Finally, these shoes have a synthetic mesh overlay on the exterior of the shoe, which improves airflow to your feet.
You never have to worry about slipping in your own sweat again.
Plus, the low-cut design provides enough space for you to wear an ankle or foot brace without compromising comfort and stability.
The Bad
Every rose has its thorn, and there are a couple of features that can stop the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 from working for everyone.
The main complaint is that the shoe runs narrow and can put too much pressure on the toe box because of the increased padding.
Another issue is the rubber sole is quite thin.
Even with the reduced pressure placed on the sole, having to rely on such a thin surface means the shoes wear down quickly.
Pros:
- Trusstic System for support
- Rear and forefoot GEL® Cushioning Systems
- Breathable mesh overlay
- Roomy toe box
- Durable sole
Cons:
- Thin rubber sole
- Narrow in the midsection
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2. adidas Women’s Crazyflight X 3 Mid Volleyball Shoes
The adidas Women’s Crazyflight X 3 Mid Volleyball Shoes is a unique pair with a high cut design.
It is incredibly durable and comfortable, and it is best suited for women who require extra support for the ankle.
Product Highlights
These volleyball shoes are made entirely from synthetic fibers that wick away moisture and improve the breathability of the entire shoe, making them comfortable for beginners and experienced players alike.
There are only two colors available, white and black, and sizes from six to 15 are available.
You should be aware that these shoes are mid-cut with molded TPU zones and a textile lining.
The Good
There is plenty to like in the adidas Crazyflight X 3.
In particular, these shoes are one of the only designated volleyball shoes which have a comfortable mid-cut while still leaving enough space for the user to wear ankle or foot braces.
The shaft measures approximately six to 12 inches from the arch, and the platform measures approximately zero to three inches.
The bottom of the volleyball shoes features a traditional gum rubber outsole designed to reduce how much you slip and slide on the gym floor during quick cuts and rapid movements.
The lacing system is adjustable and can be tightened enough to accommodate players with narrow feet, while the toe box is roomy, and there is enough space in the heel for comfortable movement.
Lastly, the exterior of the adidas Crazyflight X 3 is made from a combination of thick synthetics and breathable mesh to improve overall airflow and reduce sweating.
Combined, all of these pros make an excellent volleyball shoe for players of all experience levels.
The Bad
With the good comes the bad. The biggest con with these shoes is how fragile the sole of the shoe can be.
After about a month of continuous use, the gum rubber sole becomes damaged and can even fall off of the shoe.
The way to counteract this detriment is only to use these shoes if you intend to practice two to three times a week.
They are not suitable for daily practice.
The design can also cause some chafing around the ankle and calf if you are not used to wearing this style of shoes.
Pros:
- Roomy toe box
- Room for heel movement
- Comfortable mid-cut
- Room for ankle braces
- Breathable mesh exterior
- Suitable for narrow feet
Cons:
- Some ankle chafing
- Easy to damage sole
3. ASICS Women’s Upcourt 3 Volleyball Shoes
The ASICS Women’s Upcourt 3 Volleyball Shoes is a comfortable option developed by ASICS.
It cradles the foot, provides support for orthotics, and even has a removable insert.
Product Highlights
There are several notable highlights of the ASICS Upcourt 3.
One of the most significant is the overall design; it has a roomy midsection and toe box.
The interior also boasts an EVA sockliner that you can remove to accommodate orthotics or required inserts.
The Good
There are a couple of features we enjoyed when sampling these shoes.
As with many other volleyball shoes, the ASICS Upcourt 3 features a durable gum rubber outsole and an upper, synthetic mesh, which is great for breathability.
The footwear is also low cut and provides ample space around the ankle to accommodate a brace.
Additionally, the interior has enough cushioning to reduce the pressure placed on the heel, and the sockliner is comfortable and easy to remove if you don’t like it.
The Bad
There are several features we didn’t like.
One of the most important is that these shoes have a larger fit than other ASICS volleyball shoes.
This is great if you have wide or larger feet, but the fit is not suitable for those with a narrow midsection or a high arch.
The other downside is the shoes squeak an excessive amount even after being broken in.
While the noise is not a dealbreaker for us, it might be for you.
Pros:
- Comfortable toe box
- Durable outsole
- Ample cushioning
- Removable EVA sockliner
- Room for braces
Cons:
- Small and narrow fit
- Excessive squeaking
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4. adidas Originals Women’s Ligra 6 Volleyball Shoes
These volleyball shoes are one of the latest options from the adidas Originals line.
They have many characteristic adidas features but also have some innovative qualities that make them an excellent choice for the average volleyball player.
Product Highlights
Some of the best highlights of the adidas Originals Libra 6 include the thick outsole, the mesh lining, and the reinforced loopholes.
The shaft measures approximately six to 12 inches from the arch, and the platform measures approximately zero to three inches.
On the other hand, the interior has a roomy toe box but a narrow middle, which makes these shoes excellent for quick cutting and lateral movement.
The lace closure is tight, the upper part of the shoe has a breathable mesh, and even multiple colors are available.
All of these features add up to make a comfortable shoe that can withstand constant use without breaking within a month.
The Good
We enjoyed the overall design of the adidas Originals Libra 6.
While it is not a mid-design, it provides some ankle protection and has enough room to comfortably fit a brace or orthotic without sacrificing the interior lining.
We also thought the gum rubber outsole was one of the most reliable.
It stops you from sliding across the floor but also does not have any excessive sticking or squeaking, which can be a major problem with some newer volleyball shoes.
The Bad
It was hard to find something we disliked about these shoes.
We wore them extensively and eventually noticed one of the biggest faults: the design is clunky and heavy.
While you might not notice the extra weight at first, those excessive ounces will begin to weigh you down and increase your likelihood of developing regular aches and pains.
The clunkiness can also restrict your movement and make it harder to move fast in the game.
Pros:
- Reliable rubber outsole
- Roomy toe box
- Room for braces
- Some ankle protection
- Great for lateral movement
Cons:
- Clunky design
- Heavier than normal
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5. ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoes
Our final pair of shoes is one of the most popular among young volleyball players: the ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoes.
Product Highlights
At first glance, these shoes seem to be some of the simplest and most straightforward.
They do not have an extravagant design, but there are some notable features, such as the patented Forefoot GEL Cushioning System, the use of Trusstic System Technology, and great structural integrity.
The Forefoot GEL Cushioning System provides extra support for the balls of the feet and matches well with a roomy toe box that leaves ample room for splayed toes.
Meanwhile, the Trusstic System redistributes your weight.
It reduces both the pressure on your ankles and the wear and tears inflicted on the shoes.
The Good
Many volleyball shoes wear out in less than a month under constant use, but this pair won’t, thanks to its Trusstic System.
We also love that the structure of the ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoes is sound.
The outsole is made from a thin layer of gum rubber, and the upper exterior is synthetic mesh combined with a durable tongue and narrow laces.
Another thing to like is that multiple colors are available, and there is room for an ankle brace.
Overall, these are excellent volleyball shoes for somebody on a budget.
The Bad
One feature about these shoes that we did not like was the lack of space for a custom orthotic.
The interior of these volleyball shoes is surprisingly narrow, which can be uncomfortable for individuals with wider feet.
There is also little arch support, and it is easy to scrape or damage the toes through regular movement.
Pros:
- Many colors available
- Roomy toe box
- Trusstic System support
- Forefoot GEL Cushioning System
Cons:
- Little arch support
- Easy to damage toes
- No space for orthotics
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Buyer’s Guide
Buying shoes can be a confusing activity for many.
Manufacturers often discuss the technology that goes into their sneakers, which can be puzzling if you associate technology with computers and electricity.
However, volleyball shoes are legitimately designed to be ergonomic and utilize unique inventions and, yes, technology to be effective on the court.
If you are interested in buying the best volleyball shoes available, you need to consider the following features: outsole, cushioning, support, weight, durability, and fit.
Let’s discuss each of them in-depth for you to understand them better.
1. Outsole
The outsole is the most important part of a volleyball shoe and should not be ignored.
The ideal outsole is made of soft, flexible gum rubber, which allows for rapid movement and a quick grip.
You also want the outsole to have plenty of grooves so that you can curl your foot and attain better footing on the floor.
The majority of volleyball sneakers will use gum rubber, so you need to determine which thickness you are the most comfortable with.
2. Cushioning
Cushioning is often created by adding foam or gel pads to the interior of a shoe.
It is essential in volleyball shoes because it reduces the pressure caused by the foot’s impact with the floor.
In general, you need to choose an amount you are comfortable with.
If padding makes it difficult for you to move and perform your best, then you need to select a shoe with minimal padding.
On the other hand, if you are prone to ankle strain and other injuries, extra padding can protect your joint and reduce the likelihood of injury while playing.
That said, the best areas for cushioning for volleyball players will be in the heel or forefoot since those are the areas that receive the most pressure and strain.
3. Support
Support refers to how well your feet cradled and contoured in the shoe.
Proper support reduces the likelihood of injury and can make it easier to perform maneuvers like quick cuts.
For volleyball, the best form of support is lateral since players need to be able to move from side to side at a moment’s notice.
Look for supportive uppers as well as some protection around the midsole.
4. Weight
Weight is straightforward and refers to how heavy your shoe is.
The ideal volleyball shoe is lightweight and features mesh that improves the breathability of the footwear.
A woman’s shoe needs to weigh between nine ounces and 11 ounces, while a men’s shoe can be between 11 and 15 ounces due to the extra material required to cover larger feet.
5. Durability
Like many other sports footwear, volleyball shoes have short lifespans, but there are some characteristics you can look for that will improve overall durability.
You want to find a pair of footwear that has a tough outsole as well as reinforced uppers since these are the areas that experience the most damage.
You might also want to look for a rubber toe cap as well as a toe guard since these will stop you from tearing holes into the front of the shoes with your nails.
6. Fit
Finally, the ideal pair of volleyball shoes will fit comfortably and leave you plenty of room to move.
Your perfect fit will depend on the shape, size, and contours of your feet, so you will need to do some digging.
In general, volleyball players need to choose shoes that are snug, have a small amount of room in the heel, and plenty of ankle support.
You need to shop for volleyball shoes in the evening because your foot swells throughout the day from regular use, and you want to make sure you will be comfortable during a game.
Also, make sure you have the proper amount of arch support for the natural contour of your feet.
Volleyball Shoes FAQs
1. Do Volleyball Shoes Make a Difference?
Many people avoid buying sneakers designed for a specific sport because they assume it is another cash grab by manufacturers.
However, having dedicated volleyball shoes can make a difference because the footwear is designed to reduce pressure and impact.
The most important feature, though, is the gum rubber outsole of volleyball shoes.
Gum rubber is some of the most durable material out there and is responsible for reducing slides and making it easy to cut even on a slippery gym floor quickly.
If you are considering getting dedicated volleyball shoes, know that they are worth it and can make a significant difference in your game.
2. Are Volleyball Shoes Worth It?
Volleyball shoes are worth it.
As mentioned earlier, volleyball shoes are unique because of their use of gum rubber for the outsoles.
This gum rubber is highly durable but also reduces skidding and sliding on even the most slippery of floors.
Plus, volleyball shoes are lighter than traditional sneakers and include extra protection for the toes and heels by reducing pressure and the force from the impact.
If you are considering getting a pair for yourself or the athlete in your family, know that they are a quality investment in the long run.
3. Are Volleyball Shoes Good for Walking?
Unfortunately, volleyball shoes are not good for walking and should not be worn outdoors because the gum rubber sole is considered soft and is more likely to be scuffed and damaged by exposure to abrasive surfaces like concrete.
Volleyball shoes should only be worn indoors like a gymnasium or school hallways.
4. Can I Wear Tennis Shoes for Volleyball?
It is possible to wear tennis shoes for volleyball, but they won’t be as effective.
Tennis shoes are designed to be worn outdoors and therefore have a sole made from tough rubber.
Volleyball shoes, on the other hand, are meant to be worn in a gym and use soft gum rubber that is more effective on slick surfaces.
Tennis shoes are also heavy and can be difficult to wear when you need to slide across the floor or quick cut.
5. How Often Should You Get New Volleyball Shoes?
Replacing shoes is one of the most challenging parts of any sport, and volleyball is no exception.
The frequency with which you need to replace pairs depends on how often you practice and play.
Someone who plays from five to six times a week will wear out their shoes in four to eight weeks.
Those who play two to three times a week can keep their shoes for 12 to 16 weeks before they start to lose effectiveness.
That means that for anyone in high school or college, a pair of dedicated volleyball shoes will last for a single season.
Afterward, the shoes will lose their traction and become slippery.
Final Verdict
Out of all of these shoes, the absolute best ones for volleyball is the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9.
These shoes are the most comfortable, durable, and reliable footwear for athletes of all experience levels.
They even offer proper support for the ankles and redistribute your weight to reduce the wear and tear experienced by your footwear.
If you are looking for something more affordable, though, the ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoes is a great choice.
While these shoes are missing some of the special features seen in other options, they are still reliable and do not break down as easily as other volleyball shoes.
Whichever pair you choose to go with, make sure you have the proper fit and are adequately supported so that you can play well and safely.