If you’ve ever scrolled through ASICS volleyball shoes trying to work out what actually separates one from the next, you’re not alone.
ASICS has been making proper indoor court shoes for decades, and you’ll see them everywhere, from school gyms to the pro leagues. The shoes are great. Choosing one is the hard part.
There are more than ten ASICS volleyball shoes available in the US right now, and if I’m being completely honest, the names don’t help… Most of them read like a Wi-Fi password, with an FF here, an MT there and a version number on the end. Two shoes that look almost identical can be built for completely different players.
So for this 2026 update, I started from scratch. I went through every volleyball shoe on ASICS’s US website, checked which ones come in men’s, women’s and kids’ sizes, and read what owners say about fit, cushioning and how long they actually last.
And if you read the last version of this guide, you’ll notice every single shoe has changed. ASICS has replaced all five of my old picks with newer models, so this needed a proper rebuild, not a quick touch-up.
In this article I’ll take you through the 6 best ASICS volleyball shoes in 2026, with a pick for every position, men’s and women’s options, a shoe for kids and beginners, and honest sizing notes. If you’re open to other brands too, my list of the best volleyball shoes covers them all in one place.
Let’s begin!
6 Best ASICS Volleyball Shoes At A Glance
Best Overall
.
ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3
ASICS’s jump-focused shoe, with FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, RISETRUSS for a powerful lift-off and a mid-top collar. A great fit for almost every position.
Best for Speed & Stability
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ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4
Built for quick, multi-directional movement, with SPEEDTRUSS for fast acceleration and a PRECISION SOLE outsole that balances grip and flexibility. Ideal for setters and liberos.
Best for Maximum Jump
.
ASICS Metarise 2
Made for outside and opposite hitters, with a carbon fiber reinforced plate, a curved toe and FF BLAST PLUS foam for higher, more powerful jumps.
Best All-Court Stability
.
ASICS Gel-Tactic 13
A stable, grippy shoe with a large STABLETRUSS sidewall, a wrapped-up outsole and GEL cushioning. A solid choice for players who stay low and move side to side.
Best for Recreational Players
.
ASICS Gel-Rocket 12
A comfortable indoor court shoe with GEL cushioning and TRUSSTIC support for quick transitions. Great for rec leagues, PE class and casual games.
Best for Beginners & Kids
.
ASICS Upcourt 6
A light, flexible first volleyball shoe with a soft, adaptable mesh fit, available in adult and grade school sizes.
The best ASICS volleyball shoe for most players in 2026 is the ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3. It pairs bouncy FF BLAST PLUS cushioning with RISETRUSS technology for a powerful lift-off, and its mid-top collar sits higher around the ankle. Setters and liberos should look at the Netburner Ballistic FF 4, and beginners at the Upcourt 6.
How I Picked These Shoes
I only included shoes ASICS still sells in its US volleyball range, used ASICS’s own product pages for every technical detail, and left out any shoe without a solid base of owner feedback. Then I matched each one to the positions and playing styles it’s actually built for.
This is a research-based list, and our product review policy explains exactly how we review gear.
Now let’s look at each shoe in detail.
ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3: Best Overall
ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 | Cushioning | FF BLAST PLUS |
| Support | RISETRUSS, Energy Lock System |
| Cut | Mid-top |
| Fit note | Generally true to size |
| Best for | Outside hitters, opposites, middle blockers and all-round players |
If you only buy one ASICS volleyball shoe this year, the Sky Elite FF MT 3 is the one I’d point you to. It’s built around jumping, but it’s balanced enough to work in almost every position on the court.
Underfoot, ASICS uses FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, a bouncy foam made with at least 20% bio-based material, to soften your landings and add a bit of spring to every jump. Alongside it sits RISETRUSS technology, which ASICS designed to turn the forward power of your approach into vertical lift.
The upper uses ASICS’s Energy Lock System, an energy-returning mesh that keeps your foot locked in from take-off to landing. There’s also a curved heel shape that helps you cut in smoothly on your last step before you jump.
The MT stands for mid-top. The collar sits higher around your ankle than a regular low-top, which gives you a more secure, wrapped-in feel when you land in traffic at the net. It won’t replace a brace if you’ve had a bad sprain, but if ankle support is high on your list, it’s a nice extra layer of confidence.
Owners are really positive about it. Comfort and build quality come up the most, followed by ankle support and traction, and one middle blocker says it takes the load off their landings. Owners who mention sizing say it fits true to size.
It’s not perfect, though. A few owners say the collar took some getting used to, and on volleyball forums, some players say Sky Elite cushioning starts to flatten before the end of a heavy season and that the grip can slip on dusty floors.
If you’re a libero or defensive specialist who likes to feel low to the floor, this much cushioning might be more shoe than you need. The Netburner Ballistic FF 4 below, or my guide to the best shoes built for liberos, is a better match. And if you want to compare it with other brands’ jump shoes, my list of the best volleyball shoes for hitters is a good next stop.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 to outside hitters, opposites and middle blockers, and to any player who wants one cushioned, supportive shoe that works across the whole court.
The Good
FF BLAST PLUS cushioning for soft landings and a bouncy push-off.
RISETRUSS technology helps turn your approach into vertical lift.
Mid-top collar adds coverage and a locked-in feel around the ankle.
Owners rate it highly for comfort, build quality and traction.
The Bad
The jump-focused cushioning can feel like too much shoe for liberos who want to sit low.
Some players say the cushioning starts to flatten before the end of a heavy season.
A few owners say the mid-top collar takes a few sessions to get used to.
ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4: Best for Speed & Stability
ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | Cushioning | FLYTEFOAM |
| Support | SPEEDTRUSS, PRECISION SOLE outsole |
| Cut | Low-top (mid-top MT 4 also available) |
| Fit note | Runs narrow, some go half a size up |
| Best for | Setters, liberos and defensive specialists |
Where the Sky Elite is all about jumping, the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 is all about speed. ASICS puts the Netburner line in its “faster” category of volleyball shoes, and it’s the one I’d hand to a setter or libero who lives on quick first steps.
The headline feature is SPEEDTRUSS technology, which ASICS designed for quick acceleration. It sits on a FLYTEFOAM midsole with a 15mm heel drop, which ASICS says helps with comfort and faster movement around the court.
The outsole uses ASICS’s PRECISION SOLE design, created with 3D modeling to balance grip and flexibility while keeping the shoe light. X GUIDANCE flex grooves add extra flexibility when you’re shuffling and changing direction.
Up top, you get a no-sew, film-covered mesh upper for a lighter fit, a loop lacing system, and a lean back heel structure that ASICS says makes the fit around your ankle more comfortable.
Owners love how quick and stable it feels. Comfort and grip come up again and again, and one reviewer credits the low stack height for letting them change direction quickly and with confidence. Several owners also wear theirs for squash and racquetball, which tells you how well it handles side-to-side movement.
Fit is the one thing to watch. The Netburner has a reputation for running narrow, and some owners, especially in women’s sizing, say they had to go up half a size. I’ll cover this properly in the sizing section further down.
Want more coverage around the ankle? ASICS also makes a mid-top version, the Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4, with the same speed-focused build and a higher collar. And if you’re a setter comparing brands, my list of the best setter shoes is worth a look.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4 to setters, liberos and defensive specialists who want a light, stable shoe for quick movements in every direction.
The Good
SPEEDTRUSS technology for quick acceleration off the first step.
PRECISION SOLE outsole balances grip and flexibility.
Light, no-sew mesh upper with a secure fit.
Owners rate it highly for comfort, stability and grip.
The Bad
Runs narrow, and some owners need to go up half a size.
Firmer feel than the Sky Elite, so heavy jumpers may want something softer.
This version is low-top only, so you’ll need the MT 4 for extra ankle coverage.
ASICS Metarise 2: Best for Maximum Jump
ASICS Metarise 2 | Cushioning | FF BLAST PLUS |
| Support | Carbon fiber reinforced plate, high curvature toe |
| Cut | Sock-style MONO-SOCK |
| Fit note | Can run slightly small |
| Best for | Outside hitters and opposites |
If your game is built around getting as high above the net as possible, the Metarise 2 is the most jump-focused shoe in ASICS’s volleyball range. ASICS designed it specifically to help outside and opposite hitters jump higher, and it shows in every part of the build.
The key piece is a plastic plate reinforced with carbon fibers in the midsole, paired with a high curvature toe. Together, they’re designed to set you up for higher, more powerful jumps, a bit like having a springboard under the front of your foot.
The midsole also uses FF BLAST PLUS foam, the same bouncy cushioning found in the Sky Elite, which adds energy to your take-off and softens your landings. Up top, a MONO-SOCK construction hugs the ankle and heel for extra stability, while ASICS’s Energy Lock System keeps your foot locked in.
The Metarise line has serious pedigree, too. The original launched in 2020 as the shoe Japanese star Yuji Nishida would wear in competition, and this second version keeps the same jump-first idea.
Owners are very happy with it. They talk about the bounce on their jumps, comfortable, supportive landings and the extra ankle support from the sock-like collar. One parent says it became their son’s new favorite shoe as he moved from middle blocker to the pins.
The trade-offs are just as clear. Players say the stiff plate takes a while to break in, and the thick stack of foam costs you some mobility and court feel, which makes it a poor choice for passing and defense. One owner also says it runs slightly small and went up half a size. It’s only sold in men’s sizing, too, so women will need to convert (more on that in the sizing section).
In other words, this is a specialist shoe. If you’re an outside or opposite hitter chasing every inch of vertical, it’s worth a serious look. Most other players will be happier in the Sky Elite FF MT 3. If jumping is your main focus, my guide to the best volleyball shoes for jumping compares it with other brands, and the highest vertical jumps in volleyball will show you what’s possible.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Metarise 2 to outside hitters and opposites who want maximum help with their jump and don’t spend much time passing or digging.
The Good
Carbon fiber reinforced plate and curved toe built for higher, more powerful jumps.
FF BLAST PLUS foam for an energetic take-off and soft landings.
MONO-SOCK upper wraps the ankle and heel for extra stability.
Owners praise the bounce and how supported their landings feel.
The Bad
The stiff plate needs a break-in period.
Less mobility and court feel, so it’s not built for passing or defense.
Sold in men’s sizing only, and it can run slightly small.
ASICS Gel-Tactic 13: Best All-Court Stability
ASICS Gel-Tactic 13 | Cushioning | GEL |
| Support | STABLETRUSS sidewall, wrapped-up outsole |
| Cut | Low-top |
| Fit note | Snug, some go half a size up |
| Best for | Setters, defensive players and middle blockers |
Not every player needs a shoe built for big jumps. If you spend most of your time shuffling, cutting and staying low, the Gel-Tactic 13 is the stability pick on this list.
ASICS puts it in its “stronger” playing style, for players who stay close to the court and need extra stability on every turn. The standout feature is STABLETRUSS, a large sidewall that supports your foot from the forefoot to the heel when you push hard to either side.
That’s backed up by a wrapped-up outsole, where the rubber climbs up the sides of the shoe for extra stability, and a circular outsole pattern with horizontal grooves. ASICS designed that pattern to grip during side-to-side movement and help you shift your weight quickly.
GEL cushioning in the midsole handles shock absorption, and a no-sew, film-covered mesh upper keeps the shoe feeling light.
Owners describe it as comfortable, supportive and snug, and one says it supports their arches well. One player who switched from the Gel-Rocket also says it fits noticeably tighter, especially across the width.
That snug fit is worth knowing about, though. A couple of owners say it runs slightly short, so if you’re between sizes, go up half a size.
The trade-off is bounce. GEL cushioning is built for shock absorption rather than spring, so hitters who want help with their jump will get more from the Sky Elite FF MT 3 or the Metarise 2. But for middle blockers shuffling along the net, setters and back-row players, that extra stability is a real advantage.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Gel-Tactic 13 to setters, defensive players and middle blockers who value stability and grip during side-to-side movement more than extra bounce.
The Good
STABLETRUSS sidewall supports your foot during hard side-to-side moves.
Circular outsole pattern built for grip when you shift your weight.
Wrapped-up outsole adds stability at the edges of the shoe.
Owners say it’s comfortable, supportive and snug.
The Bad
GEL cushioning gives less bounce than the Sky Elite or Metarise 2.
Runs snug, and some owners need to go up half a size.
Low-top only, with no mid-top version for extra ankle coverage.
ASICS Gel-Rocket 12: Best for Recreational Players
ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 | Cushioning | GEL |
| Support | TRUSSTIC, supportive upper |
| Cut | Low-top |
| Fit note | Comfortable out of the box, some women’s sizes run slightly small |
| Best for | Recreational players, PE and multi-sport use |
The Gel-Rocket is now in its 12th version, and there’s a good reason it keeps coming back. It’s comfortable, supportive and easy to get along with, which makes it a great fit for rec leagues, PE class and anyone who plays more than one court sport.
Underfoot, ASICS uses its classic GEL technology, a shock-absorbing material in the midsole that cushions every landing. A TRUSSTIC unit in the midsole helps keep the shoe stable during quick transitions, and the upper is built to support you through lateral movements.
Flex grooves in the outsole let the shoe bend naturally with your foot, and a breathable mesh upper keeps things cool during long sessions.
Owners are very positive overall. Comfort straight out of the box comes up most, followed by fit, support and grip. Several men say it works well for wider feet, and women’s owners often mention good arch support, with one saying she never gets blisters.
It’s also really versatile. Owners wear theirs for indoor sports like racquetball, table tennis and pickleball, and even fencing, which says a lot about how well it handles side-to-side movement.
It’s not a high-performance competition shoe, though. Owners are split on the cushioning, with some finding it good and others finding it lacking, and it doesn’t have the bounce or advanced support of the Sky Elite or Netburner. Some women’s owners also say it runs slightly small.
If you’re moving up from regular sneakers, I’ve broken down what makes volleyball shoes different and why it matters. And if you have low arches, my guide to volleyball shoes for flat feet goes deeper on arch support and insoles.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 to recreational and casual players who want a comfortable, reliable indoor court shoe, and to anyone who plays more than one indoor sport.
The Good
GEL cushioning absorbs shock on every landing.
TRUSSTIC unit adds stability during quick transitions.
Owners say it’s comfortable straight out of the box.
Versatile enough for other indoor court sports.
The Bad
Owners are split on the cushioning, and some find it lacking.
Less bounce and support than ASICS’s competition-level volleyball shoes.
Some women’s owners say it runs slightly small.
ASICS Upcourt 6: Best for Beginners & Kids
ASICS Upcourt 6 | Cushioning | Basic |
| Support | Mesh paneling with midfoot overlays |
| Cut | Low-top |
| Fit note | Mixed, some say it runs small or narrow |
| Best for | Beginners, youth players and casual games |
Every player has to start somewhere, and for a lot of them, that’s the Upcourt. It’s a simple, light and flexible indoor court shoe that makes a great first pair, whether you’re new to volleyball or buying for a young player.
ASICS keeps the design straightforward. The Upcourt 6 has a lightweight build with a broad section of mesh paneling, which gives it a soft, adaptable fit. It’s the kind of shoe that feels comfortable from the very first practice.
It also comes in grade school (GS) sizes, covering little kid and big kid sizing, which makes it one of the easiest ASICS volleyball shoes to buy for younger players.
Owners praise the comfort and build quality, and owners of the kids’ version say it fits well and looks great. Several women’s owners also point to the midfoot overlays for adding a bit of stability.
The fit and durability get more mixed feedback, though. Some owners find it true to size, while others say it runs small or feels narrow in the toe box. A few say the soles wear faster than they’d like, and arch support is basic, which is what you’d expect from a shoe built for beginners.
My advice is simple. The Upcourt 6 is a great shoe for learning the game, but once you’re training several times a week, it’s worth moving up to one of the dedicated shoes higher up this list. And if you’re brand new and still working out where you fit on the court, my guide to which volleyball position you should play is a good place to start.
Recommended Use
I’d recommend the ASICS Upcourt 6 to beginners, youth players and parents buying a first pair of volleyball shoes for a growing player.
The Good
Light, flexible build that feels comfortable from day one.
Soft, adaptable fit thanks to broad mesh paneling.
Available in grade school sizes for younger players.
Owners praise the comfort and build quality.
The Bad
Basic cushioning and arch support compared with the rest of this list.
Mixed sizing feedback, with some owners finding it small or narrow.
Some owners say the soles wear faster than they’d like.
Which ASICS Volleyball Shoe Is Best for Your Position?
The best ASICS volleyball shoe for your position depends on how you move. Hitters and middle blockers need jump cushioning, so the Sky Elite FF MT 3 or Metarise 2 fit best. Setters and liberos need speed and stability, which is where the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 shines.
ASICS actually sorts its own volleyball shoes into three playing styles, and it’s a handy way to think about it:
- Higher: for players who move vertically and need cushioning for big jumps and soft landings.
- Faster: for quick, multi-directional players who need a light, flexible shoe.
- Stronger: for players who stay close to the floor and need extra stability on every turn.
Here’s how that lines up with the volleyball positions and the shoes on this list.
| Position | What you need most | Best ASICS pick | Also consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outside hitter | Jump cushioning, plus enough stability to pass | Sky Elite FF MT 3 | Metarise 2 |
| Opposite | Maximum jump and soft landings | Metarise 2 | Sky Elite FF MT 3 |
| Middle blocker | Cushioned landings and stability along the net | Sky Elite FF MT 3 | Gel-Tactic 13 |
| Setter | Quick first steps and balance | Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | Gel-Tactic 13 |
| Libero / defensive specialist | A low, stable feel and fast lateral movement | Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | Gel-Tactic 13 |
| Beginner / youth player | Comfort and a forgiving fit | Upcourt 6 | Gel-Rocket 12 |
| Recreational / multi-sport | Comfort and versatility | Gel-Rocket 12 | Upcourt 6 |
Outside Hitters and Opposites
The best ASICS shoe for most hitters is the Sky Elite FF MT 3. Its FF BLAST PLUS cushioning and RISETRUSS help on every approach, and it’s stable enough for the passing an outside hitter has to do in serve receive.
If you play opposite and rarely pass, the Metarise 2 is worth a look. Its carbon fiber reinforced plate is built purely for jumping higher, and the loss of mobility matters less when you’re not digging balls all match.
Middle Blockers
Middle blockers jump on almost every rally, so cushioned landings come first. The Sky Elite FF MT 3 gives you that, plus a mid-top collar for extra confidence when you come down in traffic at the net.
If stability matters more to you than bounce, the Gel-Tactic 13 is the alternative. Its STABLETRUSS sidewall supports you as you shuffle along the net to close the block.
Setters
Setters need quick first steps and good balance more than maximum cushioning, so the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 is the best ASICS pick. SPEEDTRUSS helps you get to the ball fast, and the PRECISION SOLE outsole gives you grip when you square up to set.
If you’re a setter who wants a bit more stability and doesn’t jump set much, the Gel-Tactic 13 is also worth a look.
Liberos and Defensive Specialists
Liberos and defensive specialists want to feel low, quick and stable, so the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 is the one to get. It’s light, flexible and built for fast lateral movement, without the extra cushioning a back-row player doesn’t need.
The Gel-Tactic 13 is a strong second choice if you’d rather trade a little speed for more side-to-side support. If you’re new to the role, here’s what a libero actually does on court.
Beginners and Youth Players
New players and younger athletes should start with the Upcourt 6. It’s light, flexible and comfortable, and the grade school version makes it easy to buy for growing feet.
If you’re an adult who plays casually or across several indoor sports, the Gel-Rocket 12 gives you a bit more support and cushioning than the Upcourt, thanks to its GEL and TRUSSTIC.
ASICS Sky Elite vs Netburner Ballistic: Which Should You Buy?
The ASICS Sky Elite is softer and bouncier, built for players who jump a lot, while the Netburner Ballistic is firmer, more responsive and closer to the floor, built for quick movement. Hitters and middle blockers should choose the Sky Elite. Setters, liberos and defensive specialists should choose the Netburner.
These are the two ASICS shoes players compare most often, and honestly, both are excellent. They’re genuine volleyball shoes, not crossovers, so you can’t really go wrong. The difference is what each one is built to do.
| ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 | ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS playing style | Higher | Faster |
| Cushioning | FF BLAST PLUS, soft and bouncy | FLYTEFOAM, firmer and more responsive |
| Support technology | RISETRUSS, turns your approach into vertical lift | SPEEDTRUSS, built for quick acceleration |
| Upper | Energy Lock System mesh | No-sew, film-covered mesh with loop lacing |
| Heel | Curved heel shape for a smoother last step | Lean back heel structure, 15mm heel drop |
| Collar options | Mid-top (MT 3) or low-top (FF 3) | Low-top (FF 4) or mid-top (MT 4) |
| Fit | Generally true to size | Runs narrow, some go half a size up |
| Best for | Outside hitters, opposites, middle blockers | Setters, liberos, defensive specialists |
Choose the Sky Elite if most of your work happens in the air. The extra cushioning softens every landing, and RISETRUSS is designed to help you get more out of every approach.
Choose the Netburner if most of your work happens on the floor. It keeps you low and quick, and the firmer ride gives you a more direct feel for the court when you’re chasing down a dig or racing to set.
Still torn? If you play a bit of everything, like an outside hitter who passes in serve receive, the Sky Elite is the safer all-rounder. And if you have wider feet, try both on before you buy, because the Netburner is the one owners more often describe as narrow.
ASICS Volleyball Shoe Technology, Explained Simply
ASICS volleyball shoes are built from three main parts: a cushioning foam in the midsole (FF BLAST PLUS, FLYTEFOAM or GEL), a truss unit that controls how your foot moves (RISETRUSS, SPEEDTRUSS, STABLETRUSS or TRUSSTIC), and an outsole designed to grip indoor courts.
Once you know what each part does, those Wi-Fi password names start to make sense. Here’s the quick decoder:
- FF stands for FlyteFoam, ASICS’s family of lightweight foams.
- MT stands for mid-top, meaning a higher collar around the ankle.
- The number at the end is the version, so a 4 replaced a 3.
- GEL in a name tells you the shoe uses ASICS’s GEL cushioning.
| Technology | What it does | Shoes on this list that use it |
|---|---|---|
| FF BLAST PLUS | Soft, bouncy midsole foam that cushions landings and adds energy to your jump. Made with at least 20% bio-based material. | Sky Elite FF MT 3, Metarise 2 |
| FLYTEFOAM | Lightweight midsole foam with a firmer, more responsive feel than FF BLAST PLUS. | Netburner Ballistic FF 4 |
| GEL | Shock-absorbing material in the midsole that softens impact. | Gel-Tactic 13, Gel-Rocket 12 |
| RISETRUSS | Helps turn the horizontal power of your approach into vertical lift. | Sky Elite FF MT 3 |
| SPEEDTRUSS | Built for quick acceleration off the first step. | Netburner Ballistic FF 4 |
| STABLETRUSS | A large sidewall that supports the foot from forefoot to heel during side-to-side movement. | Gel-Tactic 13 |
| TRUSSTIC | A midsole unit that improves stability during quick transitions. | Gel-Rocket 12 |
| Carbon fiber reinforced plate | A stiff plate in the midsole that, with a curved toe, sets you up for higher jumps. | Metarise 2 |
| PRECISION SOLE | An outsole pattern created with 3D modeling to balance grip and flexibility. | Netburner Ballistic FF 4 |
| Energy Lock System | An energy-returning mesh upper that keeps your foot locked in from take-off to landing. | Sky Elite FF MT 3, Metarise 2 |
| MONO-SOCK | A sock-like upper that holds the ankle and heel for extra stability. | Metarise 2 |
So which part matters most? If you jump a lot, focus on the foam, because that’s what takes the sting out of every landing. If you’re a setter or back-row player, the truss and outsole matter more, because they decide how quickly and confidently you move.
ASICS Volleyball Shoe Sizing and Fit
Most ASICS volleyball shoes fit true to length, but several run snug or narrow, especially the Netburner Ballistic, Gel-Tactic and Metarise. If you’re between sizes or have wider feet, go up half a size, and check whether the model comes in a wide width.
Getting the fit right matters more than most people think. A shoe that’s too loose lets your foot slide on hard cuts, and one that’s too tight gets painful fast during a long tournament day.
Here’s how each shoe on this list fits, based on what owners say.
| Shoe | How it fits | Sizing advice |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | Narrow | Go up half a size if you’re between sizes. A women’s wide version is available. |
| ASICS Gel-Tactic 13 | Snug | Go up half a size if you’re between sizes. |
| ASICS Metarise 2 | Can run slightly small | Consider half a size up. Men’s sizing only. |
| ASICS Upcourt 6 | Mixed, can feel narrow in the toe box | Try it on if you can, and size up if you have wider feet. |
| ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 | Generally true to size | Order your usual size. |
| ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 | The most forgiving fit on this list, according to owners | Order your usual size. A men’s wide version is available. |
Do ASICS Volleyball Shoes Run Small?
Some do. The Netburner Ballistic FF 4, Gel-Tactic 13 and Metarise 2 are the ones owners say run small or snug, so going up half a size is a safe move if you’re between sizes. The Sky Elite FF MT 3 and Gel-Rocket 12 mostly fit true to size.
Whichever shoe you pick, try it on with the socks you actually play in, and give new shoes a practice or two before you judge the fit.
Are ASICS Volleyball Shoes Good for Wide Feet?
Some ASICS volleyball shoes work well for wide feet, but not all of them. Based on owner feedback, the Gel-Rocket 12 has the most forgiving fit on this list, and several owners with wider feet say it fits them well.
At the time of writing, ASICS also sells wide versions of the men’s Gel-Rocket 12 and the women’s Netburner Ballistic FF 4 in the US. The standard-width Netburner, the Gel-Tactic 13 and the Metarise 2 are the ones to try on first. If ASICS just doesn’t suit your feet, my guide to the best volleyball shoes for wide feet covers other brands too.
Men’s, Women’s and Youth Sizing
ASICS women’s sizes are 1.5 sizes larger than men’s for the same foot length. So if you wear a women’s 9.5, you’d look for a men’s 8.
That matters for the Metarise 2, which only comes in men’s sizing, and for unisex listings like the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 on ASICS’s own website. Here’s a quick conversion from ASICS’s size chart:
| Men’s / Unisex (US) | Women’s (US) | EU | Foot length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7.5 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 8.5 | 40 | 25.25 |
| 8 | 9.5 | 41.5 | 26 |
| 9 | 10.5 | 42.5 | 27 |
| 10 | 11.5 | 44 | 28 |
For kids, the Upcourt 6 comes in grade school sizes, covering little kid and big kid sizing. Once a player outgrows those, they move into adult sizing.
If you’re shopping by gender, my guides to the best women’s volleyball shoes and men’s volleyball shoes compare ASICS with every other major brand.
Low Top vs Mid Top ASICS Volleyball Shoes: What Actually Changes?
A mid-top volleyball shoe has a higher collar that wraps around your ankle for more coverage and a locked-in feel, while a low-top is lighter and lets your ankle move more freely. A mid-top isn’t a substitute for an ankle brace, so players with a history of sprains should still consider wearing one.
Mid-tops definitely feel more supportive, and plenty of owners love that. Sky Elite FF MT 3 owners regularly mention the ankle support, and the women’s Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 gets similar praise.
But it’s worth being realistic about what a collar can do. A well-known study of 622 college basketball players found no significant difference in ankle sprains between high-top and low-top shoes. That was basketball, not volleyball, but the takeaway is the same: a higher collar adds comfort and confidence, not guaranteed protection.
If you’ve rolled an ankle before, it’s worth reading my guide on whether volleyball players should wear ankle braces.
So which cut should you choose?
- Choose a mid-top if you’re a hitter or middle blocker who lands in traffic at the net, or if you simply feel more secure with something around your ankle.
- Choose a low-top if you’re a setter, libero or defensive specialist who wants the freest possible movement, or if collars tend to rub your ankles.
Here’s which cut each shoe on this list comes in.
| Shoe | Cut on this list | Other version |
|---|---|---|
| ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 | Mid-top | Low-top Sky Elite FF 3 |
| ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4 | Low-top | Mid-top Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 |
| ASICS Metarise 2 | Sock-style MONO-SOCK collar | None |
| ASICS Gel-Tactic 13 | Low-top | None |
| ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 | Low-top | None |
| ASICS Upcourt 6 | Low-top | Grade school (kids’) version |
And if you want even more coverage, my list of the best high top volleyball shoes covers mid and high-top options from every major brand.
Are ASICS Good for Volleyball?
Yes, ASICS makes some of the best volleyball shoes you can buy. Along with Mizuno, it’s one of the two brands most closely tied to indoor volleyball, with a full range that runs from beginner shoes like the Upcourt 6 to elite jump shoes like the Sky Elite and Metarise.
ASICS doesn’t make volleyball shoes on the side. It runs a full volleyball line, sorted into its own Higher, Faster and Stronger playing styles, and you’ll see its shoes at every level of the game, from school gyms to the pro leagues.
At the top level, ASICS works with stars like Italian outside hitter Alessandro Michieletto and Polish setter Joanna Wołosz, and Japan’s Yuji Nishida has worn ASICS since his early days in the sport.
Nike has grown fast in volleyball, but ASICS and Mizuno still offer the deepest ranges of volleyball-specific shoes. In my Mizuno vs ASICS comparison, ASICS comes out ahead on stability and durability and is the pick for maximum cushioning and all-day comfort, while Mizuno tends to win on weight, fit and grip.
That doesn’t mean ASICS is perfect. Based on what owners and players say, the main complaints are:
- Several models run narrow or snug, especially the Netburner Ballistic.
- Cushioning on some models starts to flatten before the end of a heavy season.
- Grip can slip on dusty floors if you don’t wipe your soles.
- The model names are confusing, as you’ve already seen.
None of those are deal-breakers, and the next section covers how to get the most life out of whichever pair you choose.
How to Make Your ASICS Volleyball Shoes Last Longer
To make ASICS volleyball shoes last longer, wear them only on indoor courts, wipe the soles during play, clean them by hand instead of in the washing machine, and let them air-dry away from heat. With regular indoor play, a good pair should get you through a full season.
Here’s what actually makes a difference:
- Keep them for the court. Indoor volleyball shoes use soft rubber outsoles built for gym floors. They’re fine for the odd game on a smooth outdoor court, but rough concrete and asphalt wear them down fast. If you play outside a lot, get a separate pair of outdoor volleyball shoes.
- Wipe your soles. Dust is the enemy of grip on indoor floors. A quick wipe of the soles between rallies brings the traction straight back.
- Clean them by hand. ASICS’s own shoe-care advice is to keep shoes out of the washing machine, because soaking can damage the fabric and adhesives. Use a damp cloth on the upper and a soft brush on the soles.
- Let them air-dry. ASICS also says to skip the dryer, radiators and direct sunlight, because heat can make shoes lose their shape or come apart.
- Rotate two pairs if you train every day. Splitting your sessions between two pairs spreads the wear and helps both last longer.
Even with good care, every pair wears out eventually. It’s time to replace your ASICS volleyball shoes when:
- The grip is gone, even after you’ve cleaned the soles.
- The cushioning feels flat and your landings start to sting.
- The upper or heel no longer holds your foot securely.
- You can see deep creases or squashed foam in the midsole.
Heavy jumpers who train most days may notice the cushioning fading before the end of a season. For a deeper breakdown, here’s my guide on how long volleyball shoes last.
ASICS Volleyball Shoes FAQ
What is the best ASICS volleyball shoe in 2026?
The ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3 is the best ASICS volleyball shoe for most players in 2026. It combines bouncy FF BLAST PLUS cushioning, RISETRUSS for a powerful lift-off and a supportive mid-top collar. Setters and liberos should choose the Netburner Ballistic FF 4 instead.
Which ASICS volleyball shoe is best for jumping?
The ASICS Metarise 2 is the best ASICS shoe for jumping. Its carbon fiber reinforced plate, curved toe and FF BLAST PLUS foam are designed purely to help hitters jump higher. If you also need to pass and defend, the Sky Elite FF MT 3 is the better all-round jump shoe.
Do ASICS volleyball shoes run small or true to size?
Most ASICS volleyball shoes fit true to length, but some run small or snug. Some owners go up half a size in the Netburner Ballistic FF 4, Gel-Tactic 13 and Metarise 2, while the Sky Elite FF MT 3 and Gel-Rocket 12 mostly fit true to size.
Are ASICS volleyball shoes good for wide feet?
Some ASICS volleyball shoes suit wide feet better than others. Owners say the Gel-Rocket 12 has the most forgiving fit, and ASICS sells wide versions of the men’s Gel-Rocket 12 and the women’s Netburner Ballistic FF 4. The standard Netburner, Gel-Tactic 13 and Metarise 2 run narrower, so try them on first.
Which is better for volleyball, ASICS or Mizuno?
Neither brand is better across the board. ASICS is the pick for maximum cushioning, stability and comfort, which suits hitters and players who land a lot, while Mizuno tends to be lighter with better grip, which suits setters, liberos and quick defenders.
Is the ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 good for volleyball?
Yes, the Gel-Rocket 12 is a good volleyball shoe for recreational and casual players. It has GEL cushioning, TRUSSTIC support and a comfortable fit owners love, but competitive players who jump a lot will get more from the Sky Elite FF MT 3 or Netburner Ballistic FF 4.
Can I play volleyball in ASICS running shoes like the Gel-Kayano?
It’s not a good idea. ASICS running shoes like the Gel-Kayano are built for forward motion, so they don’t give you the court grip or side-to-side support volleyball needs. I explain why in more detail in my guide on whether running shoes are good for volleyball.
Can you wear ASICS volleyball shoes outside?
You can wear them for the odd game on a smooth outdoor court, but they’re not built for it. ASICS volleyball shoes use soft rubber outsoles designed for indoor floors, and rough concrete or asphalt wears them down quickly. Keep them indoors and use a separate pair outside.
How long do ASICS volleyball shoes last?
With regular indoor play, a good pair of ASICS volleyball shoes should last a full season. Heavy jumpers who train most days may notice the cushioning fading sooner, and wearing them outdoors shortens their life quickly.
What ASICS shoes does Yuji Nishida wear?
Yuji Nishida is an ASICS athlete and is usually seen in the ASICS Sky Elite FF line. ASICS also launched the original Metarise in 2020 as the shoe he would wear in competition. Like most pros, his exact pair can change from season to season.
Final Verdict: Which ASICS Volleyball Shoe Should You Buy?
The best ASICS volleyball shoe for most players is the ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 3. It’s cushioned, bouncy and supportive, and it works in almost every position on the court.
If you’re a setter, libero or defensive specialist, go for the ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF 4, which is built for quick first steps and sharp changes of direction. And if you’re an outside hitter or opposite who lives above the net, the ASICS Metarise 2 gives you the most help with your jump.
If you stay low and want the most stability, the ASICS Gel-Tactic 13 is the one. For rec leagues and casual games, the ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 is comfortable straight out of the box, and if you’re brand new or buying for a young player, start with the ASICS Upcourt 6.
Whichever pair you pick, check the sizing notes above before you order, especially if you have wider feet. And if you’re still weighing up other brands, see my guides to the best Mizuno, Nike, adidas and Under Armour volleyball shoes.
