9 Best Volleyball Shoes in 2024. Tested by Pro
Looking for the best volleyball shoes? I’ve witnessed firsthand how well-chosen footwear can boost your performance, transforming you from a mere player into a veritable volleyball master. Welcome to my list, coupled with my top-nine volleyball shoe recommendations. Throughout my career, I tested dozens of pairs, so you can be sure you will get the best shoe recommendations.
As a bronze medalist in the European championship and having played in five professional leagues, I aim to provide you with the most comprehensive guide possible. Enjoy!
Best Adidas Volleyball Shoes
1. Adidas CrazyFlight
There is no question why many top-level volleyball players wear Adidas Crazyflights – a true standout in performance, comfort, stability, and durability. I give them the first place due to the winning combination of responsive cushioning using Boost technology, which ensures a light and agile feel on the court. The secure fit protects your feet, instilling confidence with every movement.
The traction technology is a game-changer, allowing quick turns and dashes without missing a beat. Whether you’re a hitter, setter, or libero, CrazyFlights is suitable for all positions. You don’t have to worry about your feet slipping around inside; the secure fit ensures comfort without cutting off your circulation. They take the top spot on my list with reliability, durability, and performance. For more ankle support, check out a mid-top version of Crazyflights.
Adidas CrazyFlight
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
9.3/10
2. Adidas Stabil
Next on my best volleyball shoes list is The Adidas Stabil. These volleyball shoes are meticulously designed to offer exceptional stability, support, and responsiveness on the court. They excel in providing the necessary features for players who demand peak performance.
However, there is one minor drawback: the durability could be improved. The front material wears out quickly, especially during intense dives and slides on the parquet floor. Despite this, I wholeheartedly recommend The Adidas Stabil, particularly for positions like liberos and outside hitters. They secured a well-deserved second place in my rankings, closely competing with the Crazyflights. Choosing between the two is no easy task!
Adidas Stabil Next Gen
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
9/10
Best Nike Volleyball Shoes
1. Nike Zoom Hyperace 2
These top-tier volleyball shoes are crafted to deliver ultimate responsiveness and unwavering support. During my time playing for the Frankfurt United Volleys, they proved their mettle by lasting nearly an entire season—an impressive feat in today’s footwear landscape. The forefoot Zoom unit ensures a responsive cushioning system.
They provide exceptional stability during lateral movements. The shoe’s upper boasts breathable mesh for optimal breathing (helps to reduce odor), and the durable rubber outsole offers outstanding traction on the court. Elite volleyball players favor the Zoom Hyperace 2’s exceptional comfort and performance-oriented design. I recommend them, especially to the liberos and setters, who could find these to be game-changers!
Nike Hyperace 2
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
8.6/10
2. Nike React Hyperset
The Nike React Hyperset is an excellent volleyball shoe renowned for its traction, support, and cushioning. It resembles the basketball model Hyperdunks. Its wave-pattern rubber outsole ensures a multidirectional grip for agility, while Flywire cables and a secure strap offer lightweight support without compromising flexibility. For high jumpers, the cushion will help protect your knees, too!
Nike React foam in the midsole absorbs impact, reducing fatigue and propelling players forward. The breathable mesh and synthetic upper keep feet cool during intense play, while durable construction withstands volleyball demands. The Hyperset appeals to players who value agility and stability. Potential considerations include sizing issues and a higher price point. I recommend them for outside hitters and setters. Take caution that shoes with a higher-profile sole can help with knee problems but can get stuck more easily on the floor and tend to be heavier shoes.
Nike React Hyperset
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
8.4/10
Best Asics Volleyball Shoes
1. Asics Gel-Rocket 11
Next on the list is Asics Gel-Rocket 11. It is designed for players seeking comfort, support, and agility. Its key features include the incorporation of Asics’ renowned Gel cushioning in the forefoot, providing responsive impact absorption during intense movements. These shoes offer excellent lateral stability, which is crucial for quick direction changes on the court. It is ideal for defensive movements and making quick blocking moves.
The breathable upper ensures proper ventilation, keeping your feet cool and dry during heated matches and training. The durable rubber outsole also provides reliable traction, allowing efficient movement on the court. When I tried them, the Gel-Rocket 11 felt comfortable, lightweight, and durable for a great price. The best fit would be for liberos or setters. Asics is a running shoe brand at its core, so you can expect stability in the footbed and comfort in the toe box (although room in the toe box isn’t ideal for volleyball).
Asics Gel-Rocket 11
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
8.5/10
2. ASICS Netburner FF MT 3
Next is The ASICS Netburner FF MT 3. Its key features include ASICS’ FlyteFoam technology, providing responsive cushioning and impact protection during jumps. The secure fit ensures a locked-down sensation, while the X GUIDANCE outsole pattern delivers exceptional traction on the court.
In my personal experience, the Netburner FF MT 3 offers an impressive court feel and stability. However, durability may be a concern, as signs of wear appeared after approximately three months of use. Despite this, the overall package—cushioning, stability, and support—makes it an attractive choice for liberos, setters, and outside hitters seeking agility and responsiveness. I think the heel support is more rigid compared to the Adidas CrazyFlight and Nike HyperSpike.
ASICS Netburner FF MT 3
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
8/10
Best Under Armour Volleyball Shoes
Under Armour HOVR Block City
Next on the best volleyball shoes list is the Under Armour HOVR Block City, which seamlessly blends performance and style, making it a standout choice for players seeking excellence on the court. Its lightweight upper provides a snug and supportive fit, while the Charged Cushioning midsole absorbs impact during jumps and landings.
The engineered herringbone traction pattern ensures exceptional grip and stability. I tried these, and Block City excels in both aesthetics and functionality. The gold and white colorway adds flair, and despite being labeled as a women’s model, men can confidently wear these shoes. Block City delivers style, substance, and performance, whether you’re a libero, setter, or outside hitter.
Under Armour HOVR Block City
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
7.5/10
Best Mizuno Volleyball Shoes
1. Mizuno Wave Momentum 2
Next on my list is The Mizuno Wave Momentum 2, a robust indoor volleyball shoe designed for elite players seeking maximum support. Its standout features include Mizuno’s Wave technology, which provides unparalleled stability and cushioning to reduce the risk of injuries during intense movements. Mizuno also tends to run narrowly and has less room in the toe box than Nike and Adidas models.
The Dynamotion Fit upper ensures a secure and comfortable fit, while the high-density midsole delivers excellent energy return. The durable Rubber outsole offers exceptional traction on various court surfaces. These shoes felt a bit heavy for a libero when I played in these, but I can assure you they would perform exceptionally well for opposite hitters or middle blockers.
Mizuno Wave Momentum 2
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
8/10
2. Mizuno Wave Lightning Z6
The last on the list is Mizuno Wave Lightning z6. Innovative design provides unparalleled stability and cushioning, crucial for intense movements on the court. Whether diving for a save or executing lightning-fast lateral shifts, the Wave technology has your back. The shoe’s upper ensures a secure fit without compromising comfort. As you jump and sprint, your foot stays snugly in place.
As a player who demands agility and responsiveness, I laced up the Wave Lightning Z6. And honestly, they did their job. The lightweight feel allows quick transitions, and the traction—oh, the traction—is exceptional. I felt glued to the court, ready to react to any play. Now, about the fit: they do run a bit narrow. As a libero, I appreciated the snugness during explosive movements. Shoes worth a try.
Mizuno Wave Lightning Z6
Pros:
Cons:
Rating
7.5/10
| Best Lists | Models |
|---|---|
| 1. Best Adidas Volleyball Shoes | Adidas Crazyflight / Adidas Stabil |
| 2. Best Nike Volleyball Shoes | Nike Hyperset / Nike Hyperace |
| 3. Best Asics Volleyball Shoes | Asics Gel Rocker / Asics Netburner |
| 4. Best Under Armour Volleyball Shoes | Under Armour HOVR Block City |
| 5. Best Mizuno Volleyball Shoes | Mizuno Momentum 2 / Mizuno Lightning z6 |
Looking for Men or women models?
Conclusion
I hope you liked my list of the best volleyball shoes. Remember, the best volleyball shoe for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and playing style. It’s recommended to try on different models to find the shoe that fits you the best and provides the desired performance on the court. I promise you will not be disappointed if you pick any of the shoes listed above. However, I understand that with so many products and stores to choose from, it can be hard to make a buying decision. So, what is the most important thing you are looking for when buying new volleyball shoes? Is it traction, support, cushion, or something else? Leave a comment down below and let me know.
This article provides affiliate links to the website All Volleyball, but I am not being sponsored in any way. I might get a small commission from each purchase you make through the links, and I will keep trying my best to produce as quality content as possible and expand our community.
