10 Best Volleyball Shoes in 2021

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ASICS GEL-Rocket 8

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Adidas Originals Crazyflight

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Mizuno Wave Lightning Z4

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If you have to name five fantastic sports to participate in, Volleyball is going to be one of them. It is super fun and competitive. In the game of Volleyball, everyone wants to be the star player. However, this is impossible, except some things that are in place.

First, what you need are skills to be an exceptional player. These skills would involve you making some moves to score points for your team.

Next, you need to understand the importance of teamwork. This game requires proper coordination with the team for an excellent performance.

Most importantly, you need the right gear for the game. In this case, you need the perfect sportswear and shoes. The importance of volleyball shoes cannot be overemphasized because they enhance mobility throughout the court. Without the right kind of shoes for Volleyball, it may be difficult to score points and be a better player, ultimately.

To prevent this from happening, here is a review of the 10 best volleyball shoes. These shoes were selected based on customer reviews, exquisite features, and outstanding performance/quality. There are best volleyball shoes men’s/women’s or unisex from the list below.

Check out the following best volleyball shoes, with respect to their key features, specifications, pros, and cons.

The 10 Best Volleyball Shoes

1

ASICS GEL-Rocket 8

One of the best volleyball shoes to wear is ASICS Gel-Rocket 8. Currently, this pair of shoes are available for both men and women. It has a fantastic design, which makes it one of the most often-used volleyball shoes. ASICS Gel-Rocket 8 gives you the mobility, support, and comfort you need based on the kind of features that surrounds it. It is improved with modern technology to lift-off pressure/weight off the foot – Trusstic System Technology.

For instance, this shoe has a human-made mesh synthetic upper that enhances durability and breathability. On the inside, there is a lining that also ensures breathability, thereby preventing the feet from sweat and odor. The rubber sole is sturdy; thus, control is made perfect. There is a Molded EVA Midsole in this shoe that does the work of cushioning and a shock absorber. Also, ASICS Gel-Rocket 8 does an additional task of enhancing comfort and shock absorption with the Rear and Forefoot Cushioning System. Another feature is the cushioned footbed, which is useful for comfort and support.

Key Features:

  • Rubber Sole
  • Human-Made Mesh Synthetic Upper
  • Molded EVA Midsole
  • Trusstic Technology
  • Foam-Padded Collar and Tongue
  • Breathable Lining
  • Traditional Lace-up closure
  • Rear and Forefoot GEL Cushioning System

Specification:

  • Men’s/Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: ASICS
  • White/Black/Silver Color
Pros
  • Extra support and comfort
  • Cushioning is outstanding
  • Highly durable and fitted
  • One of the best volleyball shoes men’s and women’s
  • Available in several colors
  • Light and breathable
  • Ability to absorb impact
Cons
  • Sometimes, this volleyball shoe runs small

2

Adidas Originals Crazyflight Bounce 3

Without a doubt, volleyball lovers will go for any shoe that comes from a reputable brand. One of such brand is Adidas. This shoe brand has been known for many years to manufacture quality products, which many top players make use of today. With an increase in demand for more quality shoes, Adidas Originals Crazyflight Bounce 3 was designed and manufactured. It is a fantastic shoe in this regard. It has a stylish design coupled with super impressive features for performance.

Check out the ADITUFF Technology and SPRINTSKIN Upper of this shoe, that both contribute to how effective it will be on the court. With a toe-off design, it is one of the best volleyball shoes for wide feet. Hence, it is a superior aesthetic design. This pair of shoes allows you to maintain good landings and gentle impacts against the surface. Features such as the Boost Cushioning and Molded Sock Liner enhances excellent comfort and breathability, respectively. It is only available for women.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable Lacing System
  • Grippy Rubber Sole
  • Textile Lining
  • Mesh Synthetic SPRINTSKIN Upper
  • Boost Cushioning
  • Molded Sock Liner
  • ADITUFF Technology
  • Lightweight Molded TPU Yarns
  • Shaft at 6-12 inches from Arch

Specification:

  • Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: Adidas
  • White/Gum Color
Pros
  • Improved with good technologies
  • Enhanced grip with its rubber sole
  • One of the best choices of shoe for players with wide feet
  • Breathable and comfortable to put on
  • Body weight is light and pleasant
  • Top-level cushioning and support
  • Convenient closure
Cons
  • May run too wide for use

3

Mizuno Women’s Wave Lightning Z3

Also, one of the best brands, especially in Volleyball, is Mizuno. It was founded in 1906, and ever since has produced a countless number of shoes. The objective of this brand is to provide quality volleyball shoes for maximum performance. Mizuno Women’s Wave Lightning Z3 is a typical example of that kind of shoe. It has a remarkable construction and a suitable fit for every woman who wants something extra. The features available are beyond ordinary, based on the kind of role they perform on the court.

This low-top shoe has a DynaMotion Fit Tech that enhances mobility and support. The stability, on the other hand, is enhanced by the parallel wave plate present. This means Mizuno Women’s Wave Lightning Z3 has a lot to offer. For breathability, the air mesh and D-Flex Groove are attractive features for that. On the inside, the anatomical cupInsole makes sure all necessary comfort is given as much as possible without compromise. Indeed, it is a durable, lightweight shoe for women to put on.

Key Features:

  • DynaMotion Fit
  • Non-marking Synthetic Sole
  • Parallel Wave Plate
  • 100% Synthetic Material
  • Shaft is low-top from Arch
  • Breathable Air Mesh
  • Anatomical CupInsole
  • D-Flex Groove

Specification:

  • Brand name: Mizuno
  • Women’s Shoe
  • Stars/Stripes Color
Pros
  • Fits perfectly well for all women
  • Breathable and durable shoe to wear
  • Suitable for practice and match
  • One of the best volleyball shoes women’s at an affordable price
  • Quick movements and excellent stability
  • An extreme lightweight body
Cons
  • Runs a bit narrow

4

ASICS GEL-Rocket 9

Another ASICS Shoe from the Gel-Rocket series is the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9. This pair of shoes is lightweight and durable. It has most features from its predecessor, i.e., Gel-Rocket 7 and Gel-Rocket 8, only that it is modified. This shoe gives an extra boost to volleyball players on the court. Although it is lightweight, it can land on surfaces nicely with its Trusstic System Technology. It is available for use by both men and women players.

ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 is breathable and stable, as agreed with the kind of features it has. For instance, it has a human-made mesh upper that allows the flow of air to prevent sweat and odor. Also, the mesh lining contributes to aiding proper ventilation of the feet. The rubber soles, on the other hand, allows smooth movement and stability on a volleyball court. Shock absorbing properties is aided by Rear and Forefoot Technology as well as Molded EVA Midsole. A cushioned footbed is available for extra cushioning as well.

Key Features:

  • Fabric Material
  • Foam Padded Collar and Tongue
  • Traditional Lacing Closure
  • Rubber and Gum Rubber Outsole
  • Rear and Forefoot Technology
  • Lightweight Mesh Upper
  • Breathable Mesh Lining
  • Trusstic System Technology
  • Molded EVA Midsole

Specification:

  • Men’s/Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Black/White Color
Pros
  • Lightweight shoe with ultra-durable body
  • Ventilated against sweat and odor
  • Nicely cushioned for comfort and stability
  • Offers shock absorption properties at the extreme
  • Traction against the surface us excellent
  • Convenient to use by beginner players
Cons
  • Sizing issues

5

Nike Women’s Air Zoom Hyperace

If you have to consider another brand for quality shoes, Nike could just be a choice. With over many years in the business, Nike has provided high, active shoes for Volleyball. An example is the professional, low-profile design Nike Women’s Air Zoom Hyperace. This pair of shoes is remarkable with stability, comfort, and durability. It is a perfect choice for professional volleyball players. It is quite different from most volleyball shoes because of its fashionable, “chic” design. However, it has exceedingly attractive features to be considered one of the best volleyball shoes for women.

Nike Women’s Air Zoom Hyperace has a lightweight mesh material that enhances breathability and natural movement on the court. Also, it has a TPU Cage that gives proper support and stability to a player, in conjunction with a pull tab for convenience. Further, the kind of sole (i.e., rubber) designed with this makes it easy to control movement with ease. The foam midsole enhances soft comfort. It can be worn both to practice as well as for matches because of its responsive cushioning and speed. It is an ideal shoe to boost the confidence level.

Key Features:

  • Rubber Sole
  • Foam Midsole
  • Lightweight Mesh
  • Durable TPU Cage
  • Low-Profile Design
  • Responsive Cushioning

Specification:

  • Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: Nike
  • Wolf Grey/Volt/Black Color
Pros
  • Durable body and stylish design
  • Improved with simple, exquisite features
  • Suitable for professional women volleyball players
  • Traction is top-notch
  • Stability and support are aided in the best way possible
  • Lightweight for easy mobility
  • Comfortable and convenient to pull on and off
Cons
  • Only designed for indoor hard courts

6

Mizuno Women’s Wave Hurricane 3

In volleyball, if you are a hitter, you need a special kind of shoe. Mizuno Women’s Wave Hurricane 3 is one of the best volleyball shoes for hitters. It is a pair of shoes made from a combination of tech and fantastic craftsmanship. It is quite exceptional, based on design and performance. It is a women’s shoe filled with endless possibilities as well as features for maximum performance. Indeed, it is a good choice if you want to “up” your game.

Mizuno Women’s Wave Hurricane 3 has features like a padded tongue and collar for support, and a parallel wave plate for stability. Also, the air mesh upper enhances breathability. Additionally, it has a non-marking sole for easy mobility as well as DynaMotion Fit for a secure and stable fit. The traditional centralized lace-up closure also keeps the feet together and secure. In essence, this pair of shoes is not only comfortable, lightweight, and durable, but it possesses extraordinary features to aid them.

Key Features:

  • DynaMotion Fit
  • Synthetic Non-marking Sole
  • 100% Synthetic Material
  • Parallel Wave Plate
  • Shaft is low-top from Arch
  • Padded Tongue and Collar
  • Centralized Lace-Up
  • Adjustable Fit

Specification:

  • Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: Mizuno
  • White/Black Color
Pros
  • Exceptional lightweight body
  • Highly durable and versatile
  • Excellent Traction against surface
  • Exceptional breathable quality
  • Reliable and comfortable
  • Stable and Fits to size
  • One of the best volleyball shoes for hitters
  • Suitable for practice and match
Cons
  • Too stiff for play

7

ASICS Volley Elite

For players who need something a little extra, like ankle support, ASICS Volley Elite is an ideal choice. This shoe combines two particular kinds of technology together – Trusstic and GEL Technologies for an amazing volleying experience. This mid-top pair of shoes has incredible features that enhance durability, support, comfort, and convenience. It is only available to intermediate men players in different colors. Unlike most volleyball shoes, it prepares you for transitional changes excellently.

ASICS Volley Elite can be used either for practice training and matches. It keeps you concentrated on the task and allows you to score points easily. The Traction and grip are exceptional compared to most ASICS Volleyball shoes available. One of its incredible new features is the FlyteFoam, which enhances proper cushioning and gives extra support to the feet. Other features include the Rear and Forefoot GEL Technology that acts as a shock absorber, and the synthetic open mesh upper for breathability. Additionally, this pair of shoes has impact and toe-off phases; hence, it is a good choice for players with wide feet.

Key Features:

  • Rubber Sole
  • Trusstic System Technology
  • Rear and Forefoot GEL Technology
  • Synthetic Open Mesh Upper Material
  • FlyteFoam
  • Shaft is Mid-top from Arch

Specification:

  • Men’s Shoe
  • Brand name: ASICS
  • Black/Dark Grey/White
Pros
  • Also, one of the best volleyball shoes for wide feet at an affordable price
  • Good cushioning and support
  • Improved with extraordinary tech
  • Breathable and comfortable to put on
  • Excellent mobility and Traction
  • Provides good ankle support
  • Lightweight and Flexible
Cons
  • Runs too wide

8

Nike Volley Zoom Hyperspike

Another one of Nike’s finest in Volleyball is Nike Volley Zoom Hyperspike. This pair of shoes does not only have impressive features but the latest technology as well. It uses Flywire 3.0 Technology to elevate its performance. It is an ideal shoe for professional games. However, it is only available for women in Black and Royal Colors. The good thing is: the shoe has lightweight and durable attributes.

Nike Volley Zoom Hyperspike has synthetic mesh uppers, that enhances breathability. Another unique feature is the Phylon Midsole that works with a lockdown technology for shock absorption and security. It uses its Zoom Air Unit for the sole purpose of lightweight cushioning. Even though this shoe has a responsive, low-profile cushioning, it can be used to jump and spike with ease. Based on Grip and Traction, Nike shoes aren’t any less; therefore, so much should be expected from this volleyball shoe. It is indeed one of the best women’s volleyball shoes Nike made.

Key Features:

  • Flywire Technology
  • Mesh Rubber Synthetic Material
  • Low-Profile Cushioning
  • Rubber Sole
  • Zoom Air Unit
  • Phylon Midsole

Specification:

  • Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: Nike
  • Black & Royal Colors
Pros
  • Improved with top-level Flywire technology
  • Excellent Traction and Grip for Performance
  • Suitable to use on any volleyball court
  • Stable and well-cushioned
  • Breathable and comfortable to put on
  • One of the best shoes to put on for several purposes
  • Perfect fit and size
  • Durable and lightweight
Cons
  • This shoe has a long break-in time

9

ASICS GEL Netburner Ballistic

Still, on ASICS GEL Volleyball shoes, a model with synthetic technology and different sole material is the ASICS GEL Netburner Ballistic. This shoe is improved in several ways to be an ideal choice for both beginners and professional players of Volleyball. It is quite phenomenal, based on the kind of features it has. It uses a Natural Content Rubber Outsole, which is different from most of the ones used today. The sole makes it even easier to move around the court with ease. It is worth the money, indeed.

ASICS GEL Netburner Ballistic is open to both men and women. It has a rearfoot and forefoot gel cushioning that enhances support and balance. These features also make it possible to reduce weight coming from the feet to the shoe for excellent stability and landing. With its durable, open mesh, it enhances breathability against sweat and odor from the feet. This pair of shoes is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around a volleyball court. It is the perfect choice to provide support for other parts of the body, such as legs, feet, and back.

Key Features:

  • Natural Content Rubber Outsole
  • Shaft is low-top from Arch
  • Fluid Ride
  • Trusstic System Technology
  • Rear and Forefoot GEL Technology
  • 100% Synthetic Mesh Upper Material
  • Lace-up closure

Specification:

  • Black/Silver Color
  • Men’s and Women’s Shoe
  • Brand name: ASICS
Pros
  • Extreme lightweight body
  • Protects the feet against odor and sweat
  • Comfortable and highly durable
  • Breathable and stable
  • Swift in performance
  • Improved with shock-absorbing and weight-reducing tech
  • Offers bounce back and cushioning properties
  • Supports other parts of the body
Cons
  • Feels small most times

10

Mizuno Men’s Wave Lightning Z2

If you play Libero position in Volleyball, you may want to consider Mizuno Men’s Wave Lightning Z2. This is one of the best volleyball shoes for liberos with maximum performance and design. This pair of shoes has two distinct technologies – DynaMotion Fit and AIRMESH. The former is suitable for ensuring a fluid motion on the court while the latter enhances breathability. Mizuno considers the fact that foot health is essential to stay fit for the game; hence, an INTERCOOL Ventilation System was added for extra breathability.

Mizuno Men’s Wave Lightning Z2 has a SENSORPOINT, suspension system that makes maneuverability and transitioning smooth. This works alongside the midsole to improve shock-absorbing properties. It is a quality shoe that gives the exact comfort needed for landing or jumping. Additionally, the comfort and stability of the mid-top shoe is none next to others. Therefore, it is a great choice for both liberos players and those who want to stay focused on the game.

Key Features:

  • 100% Synthetic Material
  • Parallel Plate wave
  • Breathable Air Mesh
  • SENSORPOINT Technology
  • Non-marking Rubber outsole
  • Mizuno INTERCOOL Ventilation System
  • SR Touch Midsole
  • DynaMotion fit

Specification:

  • Brand name: Mizuno
  • Men’s Shoe
  • White/Navy Color
Pros
  • A perfect shoe for liberos position
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Takes foot health seriously with the availability of breathing features
  • Excellent Shock absorption and Traction
  • Durable and efficient
  • An ideal choice for focused players
Cons

Buying Guide Questions

Knowing several incredible volleyball shoes in one thing, recognizing their importance, and how to choose a preferred type is another. Not to make things more complicated, here is a buying guide section on various volleyball shoes available. You must check the questions and answers out to identify features and factors to consider before choosing. Hopefully, the answers will help you discover what type of shoe to pick from the reviewed list above.

What are Volleyball shoes? What makes them special?

Volleyball shoe is different from a regular shoe in so many ways, even though the protective function remains the same. The main difference is the sole. A volleyball shoe has a gum rubber sole similar to hunting boots, but not nearly as heavy, which is a feature that enhances traction over the ground surface. The traction is superior to most sport or running shoes.

Volleyball shoes are special because the sole has been designed for sideward movement. Unlike regular shoes that can move in any direction, Volleyball shoes need to move from side to side. The reason for this is to ensure quicker movement while playing a game.

Also, the shoe has more padding at the forefront, and at the Rearfront on some occasions. Most Volleyball shoes are improved with Rearfront and ForeFront Technology for maximum performance. This padding provides shock absorption while jumping or landing during a game. It is with this that it is essential to use the right Volleyball shoes from the list.

What Features Do I Need from a Volleyball Shoe?

Before a shoe can be used to play volleyball extensively, it must have the following features:

Good Support and Cushioning

First of all, it should have features such as padding and a good cushioning system to provide support for the feet. The chances of standing for log and getting a sore foot is high; a good shoe for volleyball is needed, in this case.

Excellent Stability

Volleyball requires you to move from one side to another. It is a game of speed. The shoe must be able to provide that speed alongside stability. If you are unstable because of your shoe, there is a likelihood that you will lose the game.

Intense Breathability

Standing for long hours, especially in a shoe, is unhealthy. However, several shoes have made provisions with the help of air mesh for ventilation. This would keep the feet dry and pleasant while playing a game like Volleyball. If your Volleyball shoe is not properly aerated, it is not the right choice for you.

Perfect Sole and Traction

Most importantly, the Sole and Traction needs to be perfect. This is what makes the difference between a regular shoe and a Volleyball shoe. Superior Traction is all it takes to move, jump and land nicely on a volleyball court. Also, movement tends to be sideways; only special shoes like this can do that.

Can I play Tennis with my Volleyball Shoes?

Volleyball and Tennis are two different sports that require separate gears. However, they have similar functions. For instance, they both enhance speed movement and transition from one position to another. In some cases, these shoes can be used interchangeably at games.

The difference between a Tennis and a Volleyball shoe is the Arch. Generally, both tennis shoes and indoor soccer shoes have excellent arch support and can be used to move forward and backward. On the other hand, Volleyball shoes have sturdier arch support and can be used to move side-to-side. Moreover, the better the arch support, the easier it is to use and control.

There are a few Tennis shoes that can be used in place of a Volleyball shoe and vice versa. Adidas adiZero CC Feather III, Nike Air Max are the two top shoes that can be used for both sports effectively.

Do Volleyball Shoes make a difference? Are they worth it?

Volleyball shoes make an incredible difference. They are not your regular shoes that can be worn just anywhere. These particular sets of shoes require high maintenance because they are best suited to the court they are designed for. Volleyball shoes have better traction than most sports shoes; however, this traction is only superior when it is on the right surface. This is why you can’t use a running shoe for a Volleyball shoe and vice versa.

So, if you ask, Yes, they are worth it. They are good value for money. You don’t have to start paying every time for shoe repair so that you could play this sport. Just get a Volleyball shoe, maintain properly and enjoy it to the maximum. There is a choice for everyone – ages, gender, and shoe sizes. With the review of the best volleyball shoes, it should be easy to pick an option.

Can I wear running shoes for Volleyball?

There are limitations to the use of shoes for sports. Often, it is advisable to use a designated shoe for a particular sport. When a situation calls for you to play Volleyball with running shoes, you should. There are a few tricks running shoes can do in the game. However, you should be aware that there is little it can do compared to the original shoe designed for it.

Also, you will be in beginner mode with the use of running shoes for Volleyball. For instance, you won’t be able to move side-to-side with ease as well as land as you should. All this is because the Traction is different.

Why are volleyball shorts so short?

Volleyball is a game that requires speed and focus, i.e., no distraction. When the Volleyball sport was created, it was discovered that longer shorts moved too much. Most players had issues jumping, landing, or moving around on the court because of them. It was uncomfortable; therefore, spandex shorts were introduced. With these shorts, there is enough room to land, jump, and do several things undisturbed. This is why shorts are recommended for the sport, and not otherwise.

Can I play Volleyball with my basketball shoes?

Volleyball shoes and Basketball shoes have superior tractions. Both are designed for an exclusive performance on the court. They are almost similar in function but different in a few ways. For instance, Basketball shoes are available in several weights, sizes, and features. Lightweight basketball shoes and Volleyball shoes are equivalent. However, if you own a heavyweight basketball shoe, it may be difficult to move freely on a Volleyball court. Without a doubt, you will jump and land with ease, but movement will be limited.

Therefore, if you own a light basketball shoe, playing Volleyball with it shouldn’t be a problem.

Conclusion

Volleyball is one of the most popular and favorite sports to do. Why not take the chance to get one out of the 10 best volleyball shoes available, if you are new or a pro player? These shoes have superior qualities and outstanding performances than many others on the market. Each of them, as described above, is incredible, just the way they are.

Do you also need help choosing what is most suitable for you? The buying guide above has correctly identified questions you may be having. Without a doubt, you will be making a significant choice after reading them. Invest in Volleyball shoes today and become a better play thereon.