Does your young athlete leap, dive, and spike their way across the volleyball court with boundless energy? Watching them play is amazing! But when it comes to the shoes on their feet, are you feeling a little lost? It’s tough to know exactly what makes a great volleyball shoe for kids. You want them to be comfortable, safe, and ready to play their best, but the sheer variety can make your head spin. You worry about blisters, twisted ankles, and shoes that just don’t perform well on the court.
Choosing the right volleyball shoes for kids isn’t just about picking a cool design; it’s about giving them the support and grip they need to excel and stay injury-free. This post is here to help you navigate the world of kids’ volleyball footwear. We’ll break down what truly matters, so you can confidently pick out shoes that will help your young star shine.
Get ready to discover the secrets to finding fantastic volleyball shoes for your child. We’ll explore the key features that make a difference, offer tips for fitting, and highlight some great options. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to make a smart choice and get your kid ready for their next game!
Our Top 5 Volleyball Shoes For Kids Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Volleyball Shoes For Kids Detailed Reviews
1. ASICS Kids Unisex Upcourt 6 GS (Little Kid/Big Kid) White/Black 3.5 Medium
Rating: 9.3/10
The ASICS Kids Unisex Upcourt 6 GS in White/Black is a fantastic choice for active youngsters. Designed with growing feet in mind, these shoes offer a great blend of comfort and durability for all sorts of adventures, from playground fun to school sports.
What We Like:
- These shoes flex easily, making them super comfortable for running and jumping.
- The polyester upper and lining feel soft and breathable.
- A cushioned EVA insole adds extra comfort with every step.
- More mesh panels help keep feet cool and dry.
- The round toe design gives plenty of room for toes to wiggle.
- They have a cool low-top style that looks great.
- You can easily spot the classic ASICS branding on the sides.
- Stitched rubber and overlays make these shoes tough and long-lasting.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the white and black is classic, more color options would be exciting.
- For very wide feet, the medium width might feel a bit snug.
Overall, the ASICS Upcourt 6 GS delivers excellent comfort and durability for active kids. These shoes are built to keep up with any adventure.
2. adidas Ligra 8 Indoor Sneaker
Rating: 8.7/10
The adidas Ligra 8 Indoor Sneaker is a fantastic choice for young athletes hitting the indoor court. Designed specifically for volleyball, these shoes offer a great blend of comfort and support. They come in a classic White/Black/White colorway and are available in a unisex Little Kid size 1.5. These sneakers are built to help kids play their best.
What We Like:
- These shoes have a breathable mesh upper. This keeps feet cool and comfortable during intense games.
- Synthetic overlays add extra support where kids need it most.
- The abrasion-resistant toe protects against wear and tear from foot drag.
- An EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning. This absorbs shock with every step, making them comfortable for long periods.
- The non-marking outsole is perfect for indoor courts. It won’t leave scuffs behind.
- These sneakers are made with at least 20% recycled materials. This is a great way to help the planet by reducing waste.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for indoor courts, these shoes are not designed for outdoor play.
- The unisex sizing might require careful measurement for the perfect fit.
Overall, the adidas Ligra 8 Indoor Sneaker is a solid option for young volleyball players seeking performance and comfort. They’re a good choice for young athletes serious about their game.
3. ASICS Kid’s Upcourt 5 Grade School Volleyball Shoes
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready for the court with the ASICS Kid’s Upcourt 5 Grade School Volleyball Shoes in White/Pure Silver! These shoes are built to help young athletes perform their best. They offer great support and comfort for all those quick moves and jumps. Plus, they’re made with the planet in mind!
What We Like:
- The supportive overlays keep feet stable during fast movements, helping prevent ankle rolls.
- Mesh panels let feet breathe, keeping them cool and comfortable even during long games.
- The toe and heel are extra tough, so these shoes will last through many practices and matches.
- The sockliner uses a special dyeing process that saves a lot of water and cuts down on pollution. This is a big win for the environment!
- They look sharp in white and silver, making them a stylish choice for any young player.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the cushioning might be a bit basic for players who need extra shock absorption.
- The White/Pure Silver color might show dirt easily on dusty courts.
These ASICS Upcourt 5 shoes are a solid choice for young volleyball players looking for reliable performance and a more eco-friendly option. They offer a good balance of support, comfort, and durability.
4. Hewcey High Top Boys Basketball Shoes Breathable Non Slip Outdoor Sneakers Comfortable Fashion Athletic Training Sport Shoes for Girls Pink
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready to hit the court or the streets in style with the Hewcey High Top Basketball Shoes. These sneakers are designed for active kids, offering comfort and support for all their adventures. The bright pink color makes them a fun fashion statement, perfect for both boys and girls.
What We Like:
- Breathable Mesh Upper: The lightweight mesh keeps feet cool and comfy, even during intense play.
- Wear-Resistant Rubber Sole: The sturdy sole grips well on different surfaces like plastic and cement, so they last longer.
- Comfortable Insole: A soft insole feels great and helps keep feet dry after long days of running and jumping.
- Secure Fit: Ripstop fabric and a molded heel shield lock feet in place, giving extra protection and stability for jumps and runs.
- Versatile Use: These shoes aren’t just for basketball; they’re great for gym workouts, running, or just everyday casual wear.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Sizing for Specific Needs: While they offer a good range, very specific foot shapes might require trying them on.
- High-Top Style Preference: Some younger children might prefer lower-cut shoes for easier on-and-off.
These Hewcey basketball shoes are a solid choice for active kids who need footwear that performs well and looks good. They provide the support and comfort needed for sports and everyday fun.
5. ASICS Kid’s Upcourt 4 Grade School Volleyball Shoes
Rating: 9.2/10
The ASICS Kid’s Upcourt 4 Grade School Volleyball Shoes in French Blue/White are built for young athletes ready to hit the court. These shoes are designed to give kids the support and comfort they need for fast-paced games. They help young players move with confidence and focus on their game.
What We Like:
- The synthetic leather and mesh upper is super light and lets feet breathe. This makes them comfortable for long practices and games.
- The special youth-specific cushioning helps young players feel the comfort of the shoe with every step. It’s designed just for them.
- Mesh underlays offer extra padding and a softer feel when their feet land. This is great for jumping and quick stops.
- The rubber sole gives them awesome grip on the court. They won’t slip and slide when they make quick moves.
- Synthetic leather overlays add extra support where it’s needed most. This helps keep their feet secure.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the cushioning is youth-specific, some older or heavier grade schoolers might want even more support.
- The French Blue/White colorway is stylish, but a wider range of color options could appeal to more kids.
These ASICS Upcourt 4 shoes are a solid choice for young volleyball players. They offer a great blend of comfort, support, and traction to help kids excel on the court.
Finding the Perfect Volleyball Shoes for Your Young Athlete
Choosing the right volleyball shoes for your child is crucial. Good shoes help them play better and prevent injuries. This guide will help you make the best choice.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for volleyball shoes, keep these important features in mind:
- Grip: Volleyball players move a lot. They jump, dive, and change direction quickly. Shoes need a sole that sticks to the court. This helps prevent slipping. Look for shoes with non-marking rubber soles.
- Cushioning: Jumping and landing can be hard on young feet and knees. Good cushioning absorbs shock. It makes landings softer and more comfortable. This protects your child’s joints.
- Support: Your child’s ankles need support. This is especially important when they are jumping and landing. Shoes with good ankle support help prevent sprains.
- Lightweight: Heavy shoes can slow down a player. Lighter shoes allow for quicker movements. They also make jumping easier.
- Breathability: Kids’ feet get hot when they play. Shoes made with breathable materials keep feet cool. This prevents discomfort and blisters. Mesh is a common and good material for this.
Important Materials
The materials used in volleyball shoes make a big difference.
- Uppers: Many shoes use synthetic leather or mesh. Mesh is very breathable and lightweight. Synthetic leather offers more durability and some support. Some shoes combine these materials for the best of both worlds.
- Midsoles: This is where the cushioning happens. EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) is a common material. It’s lightweight and provides good shock absorption. Some shoes use special foam technologies for extra comfort.
- Outsoles: The bottom of the shoe is usually made of rubber. Volleyball court rubber is designed for grip. It needs to be durable and non-marking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect how good a volleyball shoe is.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known sports brands often make high-quality athletic shoes. They invest in research and development. This means their shoes usually perform well.
- Construction: Look at how the shoe is put together. Are the seams strong? Does the sole look well-attached? Good construction means the shoe will last longer.
- Fit: This is very important. A shoe that doesn’t fit properly can cause pain and injuries. It can also reduce performance. Always try shoes on before buying. Make sure there’s a little room at the toe.
- Price: While expensive shoes aren’t always better, very cheap shoes might lack important features. They might not have good cushioning or support. They could also wear out quickly. Find a balance between cost and quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
Volleyball shoes are designed for specific movements on the court.
- On the Court: These shoes are perfect for indoor volleyball. They help with quick starts, stops, and jumps. They are designed for the demands of the game.
- Comfort: Kids will appreciate how comfortable their feet feel, even during long games or practices. Good cushioning means less fatigue.
- Durability: A good pair of volleyball shoes should last through a season or more. They should withstand the constant running and jumping.
- Versatility (limited): While best for volleyball, some shoes might be okay for other indoor court sports. However, they are specifically engineered for volleyball’s unique movements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in kids’ volleyball shoes?
A: The main Key Features are excellent grip for quick movements, good cushioning for jumping and landing, ankle support to prevent injuries, a lightweight design for agility, and breathability to keep feet cool.
Q: Are there specific materials that are better for volleyball shoe uppers?
A: Yes, mesh is great for breathability and keeping feet cool. Synthetic leather offers more durability and support. Many shoes combine both for the best results.
Q: How does the outsole material affect shoe quality?
A: The outsole is usually made of rubber. Good quality rubber provides excellent grip on the court, preventing slips. It also needs to be durable to last through games and practices.
Q: What is the role of the midsole in a volleyball shoe?
A: The midsole is responsible for cushioning. It absorbs shock when a player jumps and lands. Materials like EVA foam are common and effective for this.
Q: Does brand reputation really matter for kids’ volleyball shoes?
A: Often, yes. Reputable sports brands invest more in research and development, leading to better-performing and more durable shoes.
Q: How important is the fit of volleyball shoes for children?
A: Fit is extremely important. A proper fit ensures comfort, prevents blisters, and helps avoid injuries. It also allows the child to move freely and effectively.
Q: Can my child wear their volleyball shoes for other sports?
A: While they might work for some other indoor court sports, volleyball shoes are specifically designed for volleyball movements. It’s best to use them primarily for volleyball to get the most benefit and prevent wear and tear.
Q: How can I tell if a shoe has good ankle support?
A: Look for shoes with a higher cut around the ankle. They should feel snug but not too tight. The material around the ankle should be firm enough to offer support without restricting movement.
Q: What is the best way to test the grip of a volleyball shoe?
A: When trying shoes on, gently try to slide your foot on a smooth floor. The shoe should feel like it’s sticking slightly. The sole pattern also often indicates good grip.
Q: How often should I replace my child’s volleyball shoes?
A: This depends on how often your child plays and how quickly they grow. If the cushioning feels flat, the sole is worn down, or there are tears, it’s time for new shoes. Usually, a season of regular play is a good timeframe to consider replacement.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
David Ruperto is a Footwear Engineer with expertise in 3D printing, design, and pattern making. With a background in Fine Arts from CUNY and training from SLEM and Cordwainer’s Savannah, he blends creativity with innovation. Based in New York, he shares his knowledge on BestForShoes.com, helping others explore the world of footwear.