Types of Shoes for Volleyball

Volleyball is one of the fastest growing sports in the world, and the equipment is constantly evolving to take players to the highest levels. When choosing volleyball shoes, it's important to look at several characteristics that will help improve performance, including the soles, midsoles and uppers. There are several choices for players looking to play in something other than a basketball or running shoe.

  1. Soles, Midsoles and Uppers

    • All volleyball shoes feature a rubber sole that feels like gummy bears. This helps ensure ultimate consistency when running from place to place and setting up volleys. And traction is improved for quick stops.

      The midsole area has an extra foam pad of support designed to alleviate the pressure on the middle part of the foot as players jump or push off the ground when diving for a ball or going for a spike.

      The uppers part of a volleyball shoe is made of leather or sometimes mesh. This helps comfort the players' toes as they jump off the ground.

    High Top

    • Old school volleyball shoes could be described as a combination basketball and running shoe, and some models still possess those characteristics. For players who are prone to ankle injuries, a high-top shoe similar to those found on the basketball court is recommended.

      Also players can choose to wear an ankle brace instead of the high top shoes to protect from injuries.

    Pricing

    • Volleyball shoes can be purchased at any sporting goods store such as Dick's or Sports Authority but are cheaper on the Internet. They range in price from $40 to $120 depending on the type of shoe, size, brand name and year the shoe was manufactured.

    Brands

    • Some of the more popular and well-respected brands include Asics, Mizuno and Nike. Many reputable volleyball websites have high-ratings for the Asics Gel Rocket and the Nike Multicourt.

    Basketball or Running Shoes

    • While typically not recommended for volleyball competition, some people choose to wear basketball or running shoes. Basketball shoes provide the extra ankle support, while running shoes are light and not cumbersome. A good volleyball shoe combines the two elements, but some players enjoy the type of shoe they grew up playing with, which might be specifically designed for other sports.