Q: I just started playing volleyball in a league. I've never played before and I'm picking it up really quickly. Is there a need to buy a real volleyball shoe, or will regular nike trainers do the job. I'm tall, so almost every play in the front court I'm blocking and hitting. I've also always wondered why no one ever wears basketball shoes? The sports seem to have a lot in common, except for all the running. Thanks for the responses! Also, if you could suggest a few of the best volleyball shoes that would be great. $'s not a big deal. Thanks!
A: Volleyball shoes provide more support for lateral movement; helping you go to "any" direction while other shoes (especially running shoes) would only help you move "forward". Volleyball shoes can only help protect your toes, so that after several hours of playing you don't feel soreness in your toes. Basketball shoes can do almost the same as volleyball shoes, moving you in all directions and help you jump higher. Basketball shoes are a little (if no too much) heavier, and would prevent you from rolling to your sides for some digs. Good volleyball shoes, such as Mizuno and Asics, are made with really light materials, can give your feet more breathing, and can last longer. They are usually more expensive than other training or running shoes, but are worth the money. You may check out Eastbay.com for their promotions, and sometimes deep discounts. http://www.eastbay.com/catalog/advancedSearch.cfm?keyword=volleyball+shoes I would highly recommend Mizuno Wave Tornado ( 2, and 3; larger number goes to nearer version), and Mizuno Wave Lightning (4 is probably the latest version). Women's shoes also got Mizuno Women's Wave Spike 11. Personally I own Tornado and I love them. If you sign up with your email with Eastbay, you will probably receive (like I did) a code for free shipping even if your purchase is not over $99. The difference of those shoes is listed on Mizuno's website. Tornado is more for Strength, and Lightning and Spike are more for speed. On the market, Tornado appears to be the most expensive one. http://www.mizunousa.com/equipment.nsf/product?openform&div=volleyball&cat=womensfootwear Please make sure you don't wear your volleyball shoes outside of the gym, as they are made for indoor use.