10 Best Volleyball Shoes For Hitters (Outsides, Middles, Opposites) 2026

LAST UPDATED ON

Having played volleyball for 15 years and represented my country in international tournaments around the world, I know exactly what makes a solid volleyball shoe.

I’m also a hitter, having started out as a middle blocker, moved to opposite, and finally transitioned into an outside hitter – so I know exactly what’s required from each of these positions.

My Top Picks:

Asics Sky Elite FF Mid Women's Volleyball Shoes

BEST OVERALL

ASICS Sky Elite Ff 3

ASICS

Mizuno Wave Momentum Volleyball Shoes

RUNNER UP

Nike Zoom Hyperset 2

NIKE

I’ve just spent the last couple days doing nothing but researching volleyball shoes in order to put this review together…

I probably went through 20-30 of the latest kicks on the market to see which would meet my grading standards for volleyball hitters.

I’ve also had first hand experience with many of the shoes I’ll be reviewing today so I can tell you with great detail why they’ve made my list.

Note that the shoe requirements for different volleyball positions varies massively.

A middle blocker should wear a very different shoe to a libero.

For that reason, I’ve included a number of basketball shoes in this list, as they often have superior shock absorption and ankle support for play around the net.

Best Volleyball Shoes For Hitters – At A Glance

IMAGE

PRODUCT

DETAILS

Best Overall

.

Asics Sky Elite FF 2 Mid Women's Volleyball Shoes

Asics Sky Elite FF 3

Elite cushioning, traction, and efficiency for high-volume competitive hitters. 

Runner Up

.

Mizuno Wave Momentum 2 Volleyball Shoes

Nike Zoom Hyperset 2

Explosive forefoot pop and secure lockdown for fast approaches and tempo play. 

Best For Outside Hitters

.

Mizuno Wave Momentum 2 Volleyball Shoes

Mizuno Wave Momentum 3

Lightweight, responsive, and comfortable for outside hitters who do everything.

Also Great For Outside Hitters

.

Mizuno Wave Momentum 2 Volleyball Shoes

ASICS Gel-Rocket 12

Stable, durable, and predictable for hitters who value control over bounce. 

Best For Middles Blocker

.

Adidas Dame 8 Volleyball Shoes

361° Joker 1

Ultra-stable high-top with strong ankle support for middle blockers and heavy landings. 

Best Budget

.

Adidas Dame 8 Volleyball Shoes

Adidas Ligra 8

Durable, no-frills indoor shoe offering strong traction at a budget price. 

Best For Opposite Hitters

.

Adidas Dame 8 Volleyball Shoes

Nike Unisex-Giannis Immortality 4

Responsive, well-contained basketball shoe that performs excellently for opposites. 

Best Budget

.

Nike Lebron 18 Volleyball Shoes

Asics Upcourt 6

Light, responsive, and affordable with excellent court feel for developing hitters. 

Also Great

.

Nike Lebron 18 Volleyball Shoes


adidas Unisex Dame 9

Maximum impact protection with a wide, grounded base for frequent jumpers.

Also Great

.

Nike Lebron 18 Volleyball Shoes

361° Big3 5.0 Quick PRO

Efficient energy transfer designed to maintain vertical jump consistency.

To see how the shoe requirements of each position differs, and exactly how I chose the shoes on this list.

Best Volleyball Shoes For Hitters

I’ve included a short guide at the end of this article.

Let’s dive right in!

Best Budget
ASICS Upcourt 6
Lightweight and affordable with excellent court feel and predictable movement. Best for developing hitters who value agility, easy transitions, and reliable traction over heavy cushioning.
Buy Now Men's Shoe Buy Now Women's Shoe
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Entry-Level Volleyball Shoe for Hitters

If you ask me to describe the ASICS Upcourt 6 in just 3 words, I’d call it simple, light, and affordable. But if you think that would mean it would fall apart under real match conditions, you would be wrong. 

I would say this volleyball shoe is the safest starting point for hitters, especially if you are looking to invest without draining your wallet. 

It doesn’t try to impress with flashy tech or exaggerated cushioning, but rather focuses on court feel, agility, and predictable movement, which is exactly what many developing and budget-conscious hitters need.

Why I ranked it so high is because the Upcourt 6 naturally moves with your foot thanks to its lightweight and agile fit. The low-profile midsole keeps you close to the floor, so you can make approach timing easier to judge and defensive positioning more intuitive.

But besides sudden movements, passing or digging is also easy as the shoe feels stable and responsive rather than bulky or overbuilt. That means, outside hitters who are still refining footwork and transition speed will find this shoe forgiving to their awkward movements. 

Cushioning isn’t its strongest suit, but it’s rather consistent. The midsole doesn’t collapse or feel unstable during moderate jumping, and the rubber outsole delivers reliable traction on clean indoor courts. 

Grip is predictable rather than overly aggressive, which helps reduce awkward stops and slips during quick lateral movements. Finally, the breathable mesh upper also does a great job of managing heat during long practices or multi-set matches.

Now for the drawbacks– this shoe is not designed for heavy impact workloads. During high-volume jumping sessions, the lack of premium cushioning becomes noticeable, particularly for players with knee sensitivity. 

But for its price point, the Upcourt 6 performs exactly as intended: it stays light, comfortable, and dependable while allowing hitters to focus on movement and technique.

Best choice if you want low court height and natural foot movement

Recommended Use

Great for outside hitters, developing attackers, and budget-conscious players who prioritize speed, agility, and court feel over maximum impact protection.

The Good

Lightweight, agile feel that supports quick movement

Excellent court feel for timing approaches and defensive positioning

Breathable upper stays comfortable during long sessions.

Very affordable for a reliable volleyball shoe

The Bad

Limited cushioning for high-volume jumpers

Not ideal for players with knee or joint issues


Best For Outside Hitters
Mizuno Wave Momentum 3
A lightweight, responsive shoe built for outside hitters who need smooth transitions, secure lockdown, and all-day comfort while constantly switching between passing, defense, and attacking.
Buy Now Men's Shoe Buy Now Women's Shoe
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Volleyball Shoe for Outside Hitters

Outside hitters are hard to please, often demanding much more from their shoes than any other position. This is why the Mizuno Wave Momentum 3 makes it to the list: a perfect solution to those constantly switching roles within a rally.

Whether you are passing, defending, or approaching full speed, your shoe will handle that workload with a super impressive balance of responsiveness, comfort, and support. 

But what makes the Momentum 3 stand out is how natural it feels in motion. The Enerzy foam midsole delivers a lively, springy response without becoming unstable, helping outside hitters stay light on their feet while still feeling protected during tough landings. 

Unlike shoes that feel either too soft or too rigid, this one finds a middle ground that works across every phase of play. Plus, the lockdown of the DynamotionFit bootie wraps the foot securely, creating a sock-like fit.

Hard pushes, sudden stops, and aggressive takeoffs these are all safer with Momentum 3. Plus, your foot will not feel like it’s sliding around inside the shoe, and that builds confidence during those high-impact, full-commitment approaches or dives. 

On court, the Momentum 3 feels fast without being twitchy. Defensive movements are smooth, transitions are fluid, and approaches feel controlled rather than forced. The traction provides a reliable grip during lateral slides and cuts without feeling overly sticky. 

The shoe also remains impressively lightweight for the amount of support it provides, which helps reduce leg fatigue over long tournament days. It’s super comfortable, thanks to its breathable upper and ventilation system. 

All these make the Momentum 3 a strong option for players with wider feet who often struggle to find a secure yet comfortable fit in volleyball shoes. Especially if you can afford it.

Recommended Use

Designed for outside hitters who need speed, responsiveness, and comfort while handling constant transitions between passing, defense, and attacking.

The Good

Enerzy foam provides lively, controlled energy return. 

Excellent lockdown with a comfortable bootie fit. 

Outstanding traction for both offense and defense.

Lightweight feel with strong overall support.

The Bad

Premium price point. 

Not as aggressive in jump enhancement as carbon-plated options. 


Best Budget
Adidas Ligra 8
A durable, no-frills volleyball shoe that delivers stable landings and reliable traction, making it a smart budget pick for middles and opposites who need performance without premium pricing.
Buy Now Men's Shoe Buy Now Women's Shoe
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Budget Shoe for Middles & Opposites

I put the Adidas Ligra 8 on this list because it does something most budget volleyball shoes struggle with: it actually holds up under real match conditions. If you’re a middle blocker or opposite hitter who wants a dependable shoe without spending big, this is it.

But this shoe isn’t trying to compete with high-end models in terms of bounce or fancy cushioning systems. Instead, it focuses on the basics that matter when you’re around the net all the time: durability, stability, and reliable traction. 

On court, the Ligra 8 feels firm and controlled, meaning the landings are stable, and the platform doesn’t feel sloppy or unstable during quick transitions. Cushioning is basic, yes, but it’s consistent, which is more important than it sounds. 

For me, durability is easily one of the shoe’s strongest points. The reinforced toe area holds up well against foot drag during approaches and defensive slides, which is often where cheaper shoes fail first.

Other than that, traction is highly dependent on indoor courts, giving you reliable grip during jumps and lateral movement without annoying squeaks or overly sticky stops.

The Ligra 8 runs true to size, which makes buying on a budget much less of a gamble. The upper balances ventilation and structure well, keeping the shoe comfortable during long sessions while still providing enough support for consistent net play.

But let’s get one thing straight: it won’t feel premium or luxurious, and it doesn’t try to. The Ligra 8 focuses on getting the basics right, delivering reliable, no-nonsense performance exactly where budget volleyball shoes usually fall short.

Reinforced toe area holds up well against foot drag

Recommended Use

Best for middle blockers and opposite hitters on a budget, or as a durable training shoe that can handle frequent use.

The Good

Excellent durability for the price

Reliable traction on indoor courts

True-to-size, no-fuss fit.

Solid option for training and match play

The Bad

Limited cushioning for heavy or high-volume jumpers.

Lacks premium responsiveness and bounce.


Outside Hitters
ASICS Gel-Rocket 12
A stable, durable volleyball shoe built for control and consistency, offering reliable impact absorption and lateral support for hitters who prefer a grounded feel over explosive bounce.
Buy Now Men's Shoe Buy Now Women's Shoe
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Stable All-Around Volleyball Shoe

The ASICS Gel-Rocket 12 earns its place on this list by being one of the most dependable shoes a hitter can wear over a long season. Its focus is more on delivering stability, consistency, and durability instead of extreme bounce and cutting-edge tech. 

This shoe is built for players who value control, explaining why it has remained popular among hitters year after year. It feels grounded and predictable, so hitters can depend on this shoe for balance during approaches, blocks, and lateral movements at the net. 

While some hitters prefer aggressive lifts, the Gel-Rocket 12 focuses more on keeping them stable and composed, especially when you are landing repeatedly and are in need of quick recoveries. Defense is good offense. 

This is because the GEL cushioning in the midsole does an excellent job of absorbing impact without creating a soft or unstable feel. Landings feel controlled, and the shock absorption is noticeable during longer sessions when fatigue begins to build.

This, combined with the TRUSSTIC system, reinforces the midfoot, the shoe resists twisting and helps maintain alignment during aggressive side-to-side movement along the net.

But, in my humble opinion, the Gel-Rocket 12 shines during lateral play. Shuffles, slides, and block closes feel secure, and traction remains reliable across indoor surfaces. The flex grooves in the outsole allow natural movement through the forefoot.

This shoe does not feel stiff or restrictive during transitions from defense to attack, which is perfect for hitters. The breathable mesh upper keeps airflow steady, adding to comfort during extended matches and practice sessions.

But like any other shoe, it’s drawbacks can be deal-breakers for some athletes. The fit is slightly narrow, particularly through the midfoot, although many might find the shoe to feel more snug and supportive rather than cramped. 

Obviously, it doesn’t deliver the explosive feel of premium models, but it compensates well with reliability and longevity, making it a strong choice for hitters who want a shoe they don’t have to think about once the game is underway.

Recommended Use

Best for middle blockers and outside hitters who prioritize stability, durability, and a grounded feel over maximum bounce.

The Good

Excellent lateral stability near the net. 

Reliable shock absorption during repeated landings. 

Consistent traction on indoor courts.

Durable construction for frequent use.

The Bad

Slightly narrow fit. 

Lacks the explosive energy return of higher-end shoes. 


Runner Up
Nike Zoom Hyperset 2
A fast, responsive shoe with explosive forefoot pop and strong lockdown, built for hitters who rely on speed, tempo, and sharp transitions rather than maximum cushioning.
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best for Explosive First-Step Power

If speed and timing are your cup of tea, look no further than the Nike Zoom Hyperset 2, which is built for hitters. This narrow-fit shoe is perfect for games based on fast approaches, quick transitions, and beating the block with tempo. 

The Hyperset 2 is super responsive, so every movement you make feels much sharper and is more efficient. This means you will get tired less easily and can stay at your peak during the longer matches.

If I were to pick a feature that sets the Hyperset 2 apart, I would easily choose the sensation under the forefoot during an approach. Its Zoom Air unit provides a noticeable pop right when you need it most, so you can convert horizontal speed into vertical lift with utmost ease. 

This also means the shoe feels less artificial or unstable during these transitions, as if the shoe responds instantly to your intent. So during those fast offensive systems where your every step matters, the Hyperset 2 is your best friend.

But that’s not all, because the lockdown is another strong pro of the shoe. The Flywire cables integrated into the lacing system pull the foot securely into the midsole, keeping everything centered during aggressive cuts and sudden direction changes. 

You can notice these during Scrabble plays or when adjusting late into imperfect sets. Your hill will not slip easily, and your foot will stay planted even when your movement becomes more chaotic. 

As for defense, the Hyperset 2 feels light, quick, and precise, keeping your movements smooth and transitions into attack feel seamless. The traction is reliable across most indoor surfaces, including dusty courts. As a highly responsive shoe, this is quite a feat.

Finally, the breathable upper helps manage heat well during long matches, keeping the shoe comfortable throughout.

But, yes, this is no miracle shoe. The fit is quite narrow, especially through the midfoot and forefoot. This means if you have wider feet, you will feel compressed, especially during long matches when your feet begin to swell. 

Although sizing up can help, this is a shoe that clearly favors a slimmer foot profile. Also, cushioning is tuned more for responsiveness than maximum impact protection, so very high-volume jumpers may prefer a more forgiving option.

Recommended Use

Ideal for outside hitters and opposites who rely on explosive approaches, quick transitions, and fast-tempo offensive systems.

The Good

Zoom Air delivers excellent pop and responsiveness. 

Strong lockdown during lateral movement and quick cuts. 

Lightweight feel supports fast, aggressive play.

Reliable traction even on slightly dusty courts.

The Bad

Narrow fit requires careful sizing. 

Less forgiving for heavy or high-volume jumpers. 


Also Great
Adidas Dame 9
A joint-friendly, stable shoe built to absorb repeated hard landings, making it ideal for hitters who jump often and prioritize long-term knee and ankle protection over explosive bounce.
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Impact Protection for Hitters

The adidas Dame 9 earned its place on my list because hitters need to know about this shoe. Many hitters only start thinking about joint protection once their body pushes back, which is harmful oversight. 

So, this shoe is built for players who jump a lot, land hard, and have long and stressful practices and multi-match days. Instead of chasing maximum bounce or speed, the Dame 9 focuses on keeping your body stable and protected over time.

What stood out immediately to me was how secure the shoe felt underfoot. The platform is wide and grounded, which creates a strong base during takeoffs and landings. 

Its stability is a key ingredient, as it becomes especially important during off-balance plays, late block closes, or broken sets where clean footwork isn’t always possible. The shoe doesn’t wobble or compress unpredictably, which helps reduce strain on the knees and ankles.

But the centerpiece of the Dame 9 is its Lightstrike cushioning. It absorbs impact efficiently without feeling mushy, allowing hitters to land repeatedly without the sharp jolt that softer or thinner midsoles can create. 

While it doesn’t necessarily add a noticeable spring to your jump, it does make repeated landings feel safer and more controlled, particularly late into matches when fatigue usually amplifies joint stress.

On court, the Dame 9 feels superbly composed. Transitions are smooth, lateral cuts feel secure, and defensive movement remains controlled no matter the environment.

The traction pattern bites aggressively into hardwood courts, which brings confidence during approach steps and sudden adjustments. Sadly, it does attract dust, but the grip is easily cleanable and restores with a quick wipe. 

The internal bootie construction helps keep the foot centered, minimizing internal movement once the shoe is broken in.

For cons, this is not the lightest shoe on the list, and it requires a short break-in period. However, once softened, it becomes a dependable workhorse for hitters who value longevity and injury-free careers over pure explosiveness.

Recommended Use

Great for outside and opposite hitters who jump frequently and want maximum landing safety and joint protection over long sessions.

The Good

Excellent impact absorption for knees and ankles. 

Wide, stable base for controlled landings. 

Strong traction on clean indoor courts.

Solid performance for the price.

The Bad

Requires some break-in time. 

Not ideal for players seeking maximum bounce. 



Also Great
361° Big3 5.0 Quick PRO
A firm, performance-driven shoe built to maximize jump efficiency and consistency, ideal for competitive hitters who rely on repeated verticals and want minimal energy loss late into matches.
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best for Maximum Vertical Jump Performance

The 361° Big3 5.0 Quick PRO earns its ranking by focusing on one thing exceptionally well: jump efficiency. Rather than relying on soft cushioning or exaggerated bounce, this shoe is engineered to help hitters get more out of each approach with less wasted energy. 

For competitive players who jump frequently and rely on consistency late into matches, that efficiency can make a noticeable difference. 

What I like about it is that it feels firm, responsive, and controlled, which lets you make clean transitions and jump more reliably. Instead of compressing deeply under load, the midsole maintains its structure, so you never lose momentum.

On court, the Big3 5.0 Quick PRO feels stable even during imperfect takeoffs and landings. This is particularly safer and valuable for hitters attacking out of system or adjusting late to sets. The shoe doesn’t twist or feel unstable when landing slightly off-axis

Over long sessions, the responsiveness remains consistent, and the shoe doesn’t feel “dead” as fatigue sets in.

Plus, during long sessions, the shoes’ breathability is a quiet strength. The upper allows good airflow, which helps manage heat during long practices and tournaments, especially in warmer gyms. 

But, be warned, because fit is something to pay close attention to. The shoe runs narrow, and players with wider feet may feel constrained unless they size up. And the cushioning is tuned for performance rather than comfort, so it’s for players who don’t prefer a softer, more forgiving ride.

Carbon plate minimizes energy loss, helping maintain jump height deep into long matches.

Recommended Use

Ideal for competitive outside and middle hitters focused on maximizing vertical jump efficiency and maintaining performance deep into matches.

The Good

Excellent energy transfer during approaches. 

Consistent responsiveness, even late in sessions. 

Strong stability during awkward landings.

Breathable upper suitable for hot gyms.

The Bad

Narrow fit may require sizing up. 

Firm ride may not suit players seeking soft cushioning. 


Best Overall
ASICS Sky Elite FF 3
An elite, all-around volleyball shoe that combines exceptional impact protection, efficient approach mechanics, and reliable traction, making it the best overall choice for high-volume, competitive hitters.
Buy Now Men's Shoe Buy Now Women's Shoe
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Volleyball Shoe for Hitters – Overall Winner

The ASICS Sky Elite FF 3 is a complete performance package for hitters across all positions. Rather than excelling in just one area, it balances impact protection, efficiency, traction, and stability in a way that consistently shows up during real match play. 

If you are a hitter who jumps often and plays long sessions, that balance matters more than any single standout feature. Trust me.

What immediately separates the Sky Elite FF 3 from most competitors is how well it manages repeated impact. Landings feel noticeably less jarring, even late into matches when fatigue usually amplifies stress on the knees and ankles. 

At the same time, the shoe never feels sluggish or overly cushioned. Your movement will remain fluid, and transitions from approach to takeoff will feel smooth.

As for approach efficiency, the shoe feels like it works with your natural movement instead of against it. Horizontal speed carries cleanly into vertical lift, and foot strikes feel guided rather than abrupt. 

But what I feel sets this apart is its on-court traction. Whether playing on clean hardwood or slightly dusty surfaces, the grip will hold you down. Direction changes feel controlled, and you can easily commit to aggressive movements near the net. 

Plus, the upper stays comfortable and breathable during long matches, while internal lockdown keeps the heel secure through hard takeoffs and landings.

Although the fit is generally secure, sizing is a problem, especially for women, as the fit runs smaller than expected. But if the shoe fits, it feels stable, supportive, and premium in every sense.

Recommended Use

Perfect for outside hitters, opposites, and middle blockers who jump frequently and want elite protection, efficiency, and consistency at competitive levels.

The Good

Outstanding impact protection without sacrificing responsiveness

Smooth, efficient approach-to-jump transition

Elite traction across varying court conditions.

Comfortable and stable during long matches.

The Bad

Premium price point

Women’s sizing runs small


Best For Middles Blocker
361° Joker 1
A rock-solid, high-top shoe built for middle blockers who need maximum stability, ankle protection, and controlled landings during frequent jumps and traffic-heavy net play.
Buy Now
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Best Volleyball Shoe for Middle Blockers (Maximum Stability)

Never thought you would see a basketball shoe in a list of best volleyball shoes, did you? Well, that should be a clear indication of the 361° Joker 1’s competency. 

The reason for such a high spot on this list is that this shoe addresses the most punishing demands of middle blocks better than most volleyball-specific options on the market. Blocking, quick attacks, landing in traffic, stability, protection, these are all places the Joker 1 excels.

But what stood out for me was how solid the shoe feels under load. Middle blockers jump more than anyone else on the court, and they often land without enough ideal space. Luckily, the Joker 1’s wide and stable base absorbs most of the imperfect landings without compromising its stability.

The platform doesn’t collapse under pressure, meaning blockers wearing them can jump with more confidence and commit to blocks or quick sets near the net without fearing breaking an ankle.

As for cushioning, I would say it’s firm but responsive, which strikes a good balance that works well for repeated jumps and other vertical movements. You don’t really get a soft, sink-in feel, but rather feel a consistent energy return and impact absorption, perfect for long matches.

The high-top design is beautiful, but also adds another layer of security for your ankle, which is more than you can say about oversold ‘padded fabrics’. This is a must for players who’ve dealt with ankle tweaks, and especially for those who want safer landings off-balance. 

On court, the Joker 1 feels controlled and powerful rather than quick and agile. Whether it’s stable lateral movement along the net or traction on hardwood courts, this shoe provides both in perfect levels. 

The weight is a bit heavier than traditional volleyball shoes, but that translates to more protection and durability, even during long matches. The Joker 1 always maintains its structure, and that means you will feel less tired from consistently having to stabilize yourself on landings. 

But fit is the main thing to be mindful of. The shoe runs narrow and snug, and it’s only available in men’s sizing (sorry, ladies). Plus, players with wider feet should take extra care when choosing their size. 

Excellent option if you’ve had ankle issues.

Recommended Use

Best for middle blockers, power hitters, and players who prioritize stability, ankle support, and landing protection over lightweight speed.

The Good

Extremely stable platform for blocking and quick attacks. 

Consistent cushioning that holds up under repeated jumps. 

High-top design provides real ankle support.

Strong traction and durability for net play.

The Bad

Runs narrow and snug. 

Heavier than volleyball-specific shoes. 

Only available in men’s sizing. 


Best For Opposite Hitters
Nike Giannis Immortality 4
A responsive, well-contained shoe that suits opposite hitters who attack and block frequently, offering strong traction and performance at a more affordable price than premium volleyball models.
Buy Now
If you make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Best Volleyball Shoe for Opposite Hitters

Finally, I would like to talk about the Nike Giannis Immortality 4, another basketball shoe making its way here. It is a strong option for opposite hitters who want solid performance without paying premium prices. 

Its design translates extremely well to volleyball, especially for opposites who attack hard, block often, and transition quickly within the same rally.

Furthermore, the internal support system keeps your foot locked in place during explosive movements. You won’t have to fear your heel slipping or internal shifting when jumping or landing near the net.

It’s also a beast on court, as it feels super responsive and controlled. The cushioning is firm rather than plush, helping maintain energy return during repeated jumps without feeling unstable. 

While it doesn’t offer soft impact protection, it supports quick takeoffs and controlled landings well for power-based hitters. Plus, its high traction on clean indoor courts lets you make quick approaches, defensive slides, and sudden stops.

This is perfect for opposites who move constantly between front and back row, especially with the lightweight upper that also helps keep the shoe feeling agile late into matches. 

Issues include the fit, as the shoe runs narrow, particularly in the toe box, so wider-footed players may need to size up. Once sized correctly, it performs well above its price point and holds up reliably over time.

Recommended Use

Perfect for opposite hitters who attack from multiple zones, block frequently, and want a responsive, well-contained shoe at a more accessible price.

The Good

Excellent foot containment and heel security

Firm, responsive cushioning supports explosive play

Strong traction on clean indoor courts.

Great price-to-performance value

The Bad

Narrow toe box may require sizing up

Traction is best on clean, well-maintained courts


old start from here

Final Verdict?

Both the Asics Sky Elite FF 2 and the Mizuno Wave Momentums are great, generic options for all volleyball players, especially those playing in the front court.

If you play a specific position, I think you can dial in your shoe selection a little more so that you get something that caters to your specific needs as a hitter.

For the outside hitters out there, I would strongly recommend the Mizuno Wave Momentum 2s for their improved midsole tech stack.

For the taller players in the opposite hitter or middle blocker positions, my first preference would be the Dame 8s or if you’re looking to save a little money, opt for the tried and true Dame 7s.

What Should Each Different Position Look For In A Volleyball Shoe?

There are three different positions which specialize in hitting in volleyball and each of them is quite different, meaning their shoes should be slightly different as well.

Outside Hitter

The outside, even though they hit more balls than the other positions, are a only a part time hitter.

They also spend a lot of their time in the back court focusing on passing – something that opposites and middles don’t have to think about.

For this reason, outsides need a shoe that is a hybrid between something a libero would wear, and something an opposite would wear.

It needs to be fairly low to the ground, which will help with serve-reception.

For the same reason, it should also be highly responsive, meaning quick and precise foot adjustments can be made.

This also requires excellent traction.

At the same time, any hitter needs a shoe that has decent shock absorption to protect their joints from high impact movements like jumping and landing.

After comparing well over 20 shoes, I’ve determined the two best shoes for outside hitters are the Nike React Hypersets and Nike KD14s.

Feel free to read the above reviews to see exactly why those shoes best fulfill the needs of an outside hitter.

Middle Blocker

Middle blocker is the position I played when representing my country playing volleyball overseas.

It’s a unique position which requires no passing, minimal digging, and significantly more blocking than any other position.

I determined the best shoes for middle blockers would have excellent lateral containment and support around the ankle.

The primary function of a middle blocker’s shoe should be to prevent ankle sprains in the common event of landing on someone else’s foot when blocking.

This happens all the time and so we need a shoe that will prevent rolling.

As middle blockers we also do plenty of jumping which is very tough on the joints, so shock absorption/impact protection is extremely high on my list of priorities.

These shoes should also have a good amount of bounce in them which will allow us to get into the air more efficiently when blocking and spiking.

I recommend the Dame 7s, Lebron 18s, or Dame 8s for both male and female middle blockers.

Alternatively, they can select from any of the shoes I’ve recommended for opposite hitters.

Opposite Hitter

In terms of what our feet do, the difference between middle blockers and opposite hitters is fairly minimal.

Opposites do plenty of jumping and a bit of blocking. They don’t do much in the way of passing.

Because they’re blocking significantly less than the middle, they can get away with shoes that focus slightly less on lateral ankle support, but should still be quite bouncy.

Each of the shoes recommended for middle blockers are also ideal for opposites, as well as the Nike Lebron 18s or Nike KD14s, each of which are suitable for men and women alike.

What’s With All The Basketball Shoes?

Over the years, volleyball shoes have slowly started looking more and more like basketball shoes.

The Nike Hypersets are the current most popular volleyball shoe and they’re almost identical to the Nike Hyperdunks.

Low tops are quickly becoming mid tops and basketball shoes are eating the volleyball shoe market alive!

But there’s good reason for that.

The basketball shoe market is literally millions of times larger than the volleyball shoe market.

Each basketball shoe is extremely nuanced and has its own characteristics and a personality that separates it from the pack.

For this reason, it’s easier to find basketball shoes that fulfill the needs of different specialist positions on the volleyball court.

Aside from the two volleyball shoes I mentioned, there simply aren’t many shoes that cater to the needs of volleyball hitters as well as basketball shoes do.

ABOUT Harvey Meale

As a former international level volleyball player, I now spend my days working out and writing for Volleyball Vault. I look for ways to bring my wealth of experience and knowledge to create unique and insightful perspectives in my content.