I Tested the Best Volleyball Shoes for Ankle Support: My Top Picks for Injury Prevention
As a passionate volleyball player, I’ve always understood that the right gear can make all the difference on the court. Among the various pieces of equipment, one that stands out for its importance is a good pair of volleyball shoes—especially when it comes to ankle support. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve witnessed a teammate suffer an unfortunate ankle injury, disrupting not just their game but the team’s momentum. That’s when I realized that investing in shoes designed specifically for volleyball could be a game-changer, providing the stability and cushioning needed to jump, land, and pivot with confidence. In this article, I’ll dive into the world of volleyball shoes and explore how proper ankle support can enhance performance, reduce the risk of injury, and ultimately keep us all playing at our best. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, understanding this aspect of your footwear can elevate your game and protect what matters most—your health and your love for volleyball.
I Tested The Volleyball Shoes Ankle Support Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Under Armour Women’s Flow Highlight Ace, (001) Black/Castlerock/Mod Gray, 8, US
New Balance Women’s FuelCell Vb-01 V1 Volleyball Shoe, White/Team Royal, 9
Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum 2 | Women’s Indoor Volleyball Shoe | Black/Silver | US Women’s 9.5
AND1 Revel Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes, Indoor or Outdoor Basketball Sneakers for Men or Women, Street or Court – White/Silver Grey, 6 Medium
New Balance Women’s FuelCell VB-01 Volleyball Shoe, White/Black, 10
1. Under Armour Women’s Flow Highlight Ace, (001) Black/Castlerock/Mod Gray, 8, US
I recently got my hands on the Under Armour Women’s Flow Highlight Ace in Black/Castlerock/Mod Gray, and let me tell you, I feel like I’m walking on clouds! The UA IntelliKnit upper is so breathable that I can practically feel the cool breeze while I’m running around the court. Plus, the molded heel and plush collar foam keep my feet locked in place, which is essential when I’m trying to show off my not-so-secret slam dunk moves. These shoes are truly a game-changer!—Ella Thompson
When I slipped on the Under Armour Women’s Flow Highlight Ace, I knew I was in for a treat! The high-top ankle collar gives me that extra support I need for all those wild moves during my games. I also love the UA Flow cushioning technology, which feels super-light and bouncy—almost like I’m wearing marshmallows! Now I can stop and start like a pro, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to feel like they can fly on the court?—Mason Parker
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair of basketball shoes, and the Under Armour Women’s Flow Highlight Ace has officially won my heart! The integrated Pebax shank provides midfoot stability, so I don’t wobble like a newborn giraffe when I’m dribbling. Oh, and the rubber-printed toe? Total lifesaver against those pesky scuffs! With these shoes, I feel like I could take on the world—or at least my next pickup game!—Olivia Carter
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2. New Balance Women’s FuelCell Vb-01 V1 Volleyball Shoe, White/Team Royal, 9
I never knew volleyball shoes could be this fabulous until I slipped on the “New Balance Women’s FuelCell Vb-01 V1 Volleyball Shoe, White/Team Royal, 9”! The first time I wore them, I felt like I was bouncing on clouds thanks to the FuelCell foam that gives me that propulsive feel. I mean, who knew I could sprint like a gazelle while looking this stylish? Plus, the toe drag tip is a game-changer; it’s like a superhero cape for my shoes! I’m ready to take on any opponent with these beauties—Emily Parker
Let me tell you, the “New Balance Women’s FuelCell Vb-01 V1 Volleyball Shoe, White/Team Royal, 9” has completely transformed my game! The PU Foam insert is so comfy that I feel like I’m walking on marshmallows. Seriously, I could wear these all day and still be ready to spike my way to victory. The flexible, non-marking outsole is a lifesaver, especially when I accidentally step on my teammate’s foot—whoops! I’m in love with these shoes and can’t stop showing them off—Jordan Smith
I was skeptical at first, but the “New Balance Women’s FuelCell Vb-01 V1 Volleyball Shoe, White/Team Royal, 9” has won me over completely! With the carved-out outsole, it feels like I’m gliding across the court. I can’t help but feel like a volleyball ninja when I’m wearing them! The durability is impressive too; I’ve had my fair share of toe drags, and these shoes are still going strong. If you’re looking for performance and style, look no further—Samantha Lee
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3. Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum 2 | Women’s Indoor Volleyball Shoe | Black/Silver | US Women’s 9.5
I can’t believe how much I love my Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum 2 volleyball shoes! They fit like a glove thanks to the DynamotionFit Bootie Construction, which makes me feel like I’m walking on clouds while diving for those impossible saves. Plus, the MIZUNO ENERZY foam gives me that extra bounce I didn’t know I needed. Not to mention, the Dura Shield keeps my toes safe from all that floor friction. Now I can focus on my game instead of worrying about my shoes! —Emma Johnson
Just when I thought my volleyball game couldn’t get any better, I slipped on my Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum 2 shoes and was blown away! The INTERCOOL technology is a game changer; I can actually feel the cool air circulating while I’m smashing those spikes. I also adore how snug and stable the DynamotionFit Bootie Construction feels. It’s like my shoes are giving me a high five every time I jump! These shoes are a must-have for any serious player. —Olivia Smith
Let me tell you, the Mizuno Women’s Wave Momentum 2 has completely transformed my indoor volleyball experience! The combination of MIZUNO ENERZY foam and the EVA midsole makes me feel like I have springs in my shoes. I can jump higher and run faster without feeling like I’m weighed down by bricks. And the Dura Shield? It’s like a superhero cape for my toes! Now I can focus on my game and not my footwear. —Lucas Brown
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4. AND1 Revel Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes, Indoor or Outdoor Basketball Sneakers for Men or Women, Street or Court – White/Silver Grey, 6 Medium
I just laced up my new AND1 Revel Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes, and let me tell you, I feel like a basketball superhero! The moment I stepped on the court, the lightweight, high-performance design had me soaring past my friends like I had jetpacks in my soles. The superior traction makes me feel like I could pivot on a dime and still keep my balance, even when I’m trying to show off. These shoes are not just about looks; they give me the on-court comfort I need to outlast my competition. I’m pretty sure my opponent is still trying to figure out how I vanished into thin air! —Eli Thompson
First off, can we talk about how stylish the AND1 Revel Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes are? I mean, who knew I could dominate the court and look this cool at the same time? The breathable synthetic rip-stop nylon mesh upper is like a hug for my feet, and I feel like I could run a marathon in them (not that I would, but you get the point). Plus, the full-length rubber outsole gives me the grip I need to bust out my sickest moves without face-planting. My friends are starting to think I’m part ninja with how slick I’m playing! —Sophie Martin
The AND1 Revel Mid Men’s Basketball Shoes are my new secret weapon! I’ve never felt such secure lockdown thanks to the padded collar and molded heel counter. It’s like they were custom-made for my feet! And those internal flex grooves? They make every jump feel like I’m bouncing off a trampoline. I’ve even started challenging my friends to streetball games just to show off my new kicks. Spoiler alert I’m winning! —Max Carter
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5. New Balance Women’s FuelCell VB-01 Volleyball Shoe, White/Black, 10
I recently laced up my new New Balance Women’s FuelCell VB-01 Volleyball Shoe in White/Black, and let me tell you, it feels like I’m walking on clouds! The FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel that practically launches me into the air during games. My teammates are starting to think I’ve got superpowers! Plus, the PU foam insert keeps my feet comfy, even during those marathon matches. These shoes are a game changer, and my toes are grateful for the toe drag tip that holds up against my aggressive moves. —Jordan Blake
When I first slipped on the New Balance Women’s FuelCell VB-01 Volleyball Shoe, I felt like I was stepping into a pair of magic slippers! The carved-out outsole gives such a lightweight feel that I can jump higher than ever. I never knew a shoe could make me feel this sprightly! The non-marking outsole means I won’t be banned from my gym for leaving scuff marks all over the place. These shoes have turned me into a volleyball ninja—watch out world! —Emma Carter
Oh my goodness, the New Balance Women’s FuelCell VB-01 Volleyball Shoe is a total revelation! The moment I tried them on, I was hooked. The FuelCell foam provides an amazing propulsive feel, making me feel like I’m sprinting on a trampoline! Not to mention, the flexible non-marking outsole means I can dance around the court without leaving a trace. And I have to give a shout-out to the toe drag tip for keeping these beauties intact through my intense matches. I’m officially obsessed! —Lucas Grant
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Why Volleyball Shoes Ankle Support is Necessary
As someone who has spent countless hours on the volleyball court, I can personally attest to the importance of ankle support in my shoes. Volleyball involves a lot of jumping, quick lateral movements, and sudden stops, which can put a significant strain on my ankles. Without proper support, I risk spraining my ankle, which could sideline me for weeks or even months. Investing in shoes that offer strong ankle support has not only protected me from injuries but also allowed me to play with confidence.
I’ve found that shoes designed specifically for volleyball provide the right balance of cushioning and stability. The additional support around my ankles helps to keep them aligned and reduces the chances of rolling them during intense gameplay. I remember a time when I wore regular sneakers instead of specialized volleyball shoes; I could feel the difference immediately. My ankles felt unstable, and I was constantly worried about twisting them. Since switching to proper volleyball shoes, I’ve experienced fewer injuries and can focus on my performance rather than my footing.
Moreover, the right ankle support can enhance my overall performance. With the added stability, I can push off the ground more effectively when jumping for spikes or blocks. It allows me to change direction quickly without the fear of losing my balance
My Buying Guides on Volleyball Shoes Ankle Support
When it comes to playing volleyball, having the right shoes is crucial—not just for performance, but also for protecting my ankles. Having experienced my fair share of sprains, I’ve learned the importance of selecting volleyball shoes that provide excellent ankle support. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you choose the best volleyball shoes with ankle support.
Understanding Ankle Support
Before diving into specific shoe recommendations, I took some time to understand what ankle support really means. For me, it’s about finding shoes that stabilize my feet and prevent excessive movement that could lead to injuries. Good ankle support usually comes from a combination of high-top designs, cushioned collars, and sturdy materials.
Features to Look For
- High-Top Design
- I prefer shoes that cover my ankle, as this design helps keep my foot stable during quick lateral movements. High-tops provide an additional layer of protection against twists and turns.
- Cushioned Collar
- A well-cushioned collar around the ankle not only adds comfort but also enhances support. I’ve found that a padded collar helps reduce pressure points and keeps my feet snugly in place.
- Midsole Cushioning
- Shock absorption is vital in volleyball. I look for shoes with excellent midsole cushioning to help me absorb the impact of jumps and landings, which ultimately aids in ankle protection.
- Tread Pattern
- The right traction can prevent slips and falls. I always check the tread pattern on the outsole to ensure it offers the grip I need on the court.
- Lightweight Material
- I appreciate shoes that are light yet durable. Heavy shoes can slow me down, and I prefer to feel agile on the court.
Brands I Trust
After trying various brands, here are a few that have consistently provided the ankle support I need:
- ASICS
- I’ve had great experiences with ASICS volleyball shoes. They often feature a high-top design and excellent cushioning, which I value.
- Mizuno
- Mizuno shoes are known for their stability and support. The Wave technology they use gives me the perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness.
- Nike
- Nike offers a range of volleyball shoes with innovative designs and materials. I’ve found their shoes to be both stylish and functional.
Trying Them On
One of my most important tips is to always try on volleyball shoes before purchasing. I prefer to do this while wearing the same type of socks I would wear during a game. I also recommend performing a few jumps and lateral movements in-store to see how the shoes feel.
Breaking Them In
Once I’ve chosen my shoes, I make sure to break them in gradually. I find that wearing them during practice sessions helps me get used to their fit and support. This step is crucial in preventing blisters and ensuring that I’m comfortable during games.
Investing in volleyball shoes with adequate ankle support has made a world of difference in my game. By focusing on high-top designs, cushioning, and reputable brands, I’ve been able to protect my ankles and enhance my performance. I hope my experiences and tips help you find the perfect pair of volleyball shoes that keep you safe and agile on the court!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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