
The Right Volleyball Shoes for your Playing Style
September 5, 2024
When you’re choosing a volleyball shoe, one of the most important things to consider is whether it fits your playing style.
Your playing style refers to the movements you make on the court, from high jumps to rapid turns. Picking the right shoe helps you maximize comfort, reduce your risk of injury, and make the most out of your game.
Volleyball Playing Styles
At ASICS, we categorize our volleyball shoes into three playing styles:
- Higher: you like to move vertically and need more cushioning for higher jumps and softer landings.
- Faster: you’re quick on your feet, requiring a lightweight, flexible shoe for multi-directional movements.
- Stronger: you stay close to the ground and need extra stability for confident turns.If you’re new to volleyball, you might not know which style fits you best. Don’t sweat it! An associate at one of our ASICS stores can help you narrow down the best options for your game.

Recommended for Higher Playing Style
Sky-high jumps: SKY ELITE FF™ 3 / SKY ELITE FF™ MT
The SKY ELITE FF™ shoe is designed to help you reach new heights (literally). Available as a low-top or mid-top shoe, each pair features RISETRUSS™ technology for faster acceleration and more powerful jumps. FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam provides a bouncier feel underfoot, and the upper is made with a unique energy lock system that keeps your foot in place from liftoff to landing.
Powerful performance: METARISE™ 2
If you’re looking for best-in-class performance, the METARISE™ 2 shoe is our top pick for outside and inside hitters. In addition to RISETRUSS™ technology and energized cushioning, the METARISE™ 2 shoe includes a carbon fiber reinforced plate to help evenly distribute pressure for stronger jumps. The plate pairs with a high-curve toe design for even more power while pushing off.

Recommended for Faster Playing Style
Rapid-fire speed: NETBURNER BALLISTIC™ FF 3 / NETBURNER BALLISTIC™ MT 3
Blink and you’ll miss it: the NETBURNER BALLISTIC™ shoe is ideal for serious competitors with a need for speed. Available in both low-top and mid-top silhouettes, it features our responsive FLYEFOAM™ PROPEL cushioning for impact absorption, TWISTRUSS™ technology to support quick side-to-side movements, and a higher heel drop that promotes fast acceleration.

Recommended shoes for Stronger Playing Style
Serious stability: POWERBREAK FF™
The POWERBREAK™ FF shoe provides advanced stability for both offensive and defensive players staying close to the court. Its STABLETRUSS™ technology is strategically positioned in the sidewall for lateral support, while the wider sole construction gives you a stable foundation with increased traction. Even with the extra support, the POWERBREAK™ FF shoe remains nimble thanks to its lightweight cushioning.
Versatile comfort: GEL-ROCKET® 11
Whether you’re new to volleyball or still developing your playing style, the GEL-ROCKET® 11 shoe is a versatile choice for casual players. TRUSSTIC™ technology in the midsole helps resist over-twisting for more stability, while the outsole construction supports your feet during side-to-side plays. Lastly, strategic grooves on the outsole provide better flexibility for smooth movements on the court.
Shop ASICS Volleyball Gear
Whether you’re looking for soft landings, extra speed, or confident stability, there’s a shoe for you in the ASICS lineup. Shop our full selection of volleyball gear for him and her to find your new favorite pair!