Badminton is a sport that not only requires skills but also a lot of agility and speed from its players. Being a fast paced game, it requires quick direction changes and lateral movements. Any slip or delay will hurt your performance and your body as well. As a player on a badminton court, you should be able to run from one corner to another corner of the court with speed to defend or make a shuttle smashing shot back towards your opponent.

To be best at any game, with skill you need the best gear to support you. Most people tend to think about racquets as the most important requirement in terms of badminton gear. But this is not the case as shoes are equally important. A good pair of shoes will help in moving across the court efficiently. As this sport requires certain specific actions like shortstops, quick change in directions, jumps, etc., your shoes must be designed to withstand all this along with providing support to your feet. If you wear shoes that are not designed for these you are more prone to injuries and possibly not do well in your game. We have also written a complete guide about the best basketball hoops.

Features of Shoes Best suited for Badminton

A good pair of badminton shoes should have certain specific features and characteristics. A good badminton shoe will maximise your performance in the game and prevent injuries. Regular running shoes or any other kind of sneakers will not be able to support your feet while you’re playing. Check out our complete guide about the best basketball shoes under 100.

The most important features to consider while selecting a shoe for playing badminton are discussed below.

Traction and Grip

It is the most important factor to consider which is essentially a choice about the sole of shoes. The type of sole depends on the court you are playing on. The badminton courts are made with either hard wood, PU, or rarely cement court. Shoes with gum rubber soles are best for playing on wood or PU court. For playing on cement surfaces, normal rubber shoes are ideal. Shoes with gum rubber soles  provide ample traction on the court but they attract dirt easily. Presence of dirt will reduce traction and make the shoes slippery so it is important to wear the shoes only on court. Another important point to note here is the outsole pattern. A sole with deeper grooves will provide better grip as compared to a smoother sole which is more likely to slip on the court surface. A good traction will allow you to move easily around the court.

Good Cushioning and Support

While playing badminton, shoes that provide cushioning to your feet are better. A good cushioning system can absorb any impact on your feet as you are moving around quickly in different directions. A shoe with good cushioning system should ideally distribute your weight all over the bottom of the shoes to ensure that your joints are not impacted. It will also reduce stress on your joints and provide excellent comfort to your feet allowing you to focus on your game.

Lightweight

As it is primarily a sport that focusses on player’s agility and skill, lightweight shoes are better as they add very less weight to restrict your motion. Shoes that are too heavy tend to slow you down, reduce your speed and cause unnecessary fatigue in your feet and legs. Ideal weight of badminton shoes is 250-400 grams.

Size

Not only the size but the width of the shoes selected is quite important. This sport involves movement in all directions – forward, backwards as well as left, right. This requires proper sized shoes so that it does not hinder your movement or makes it hard on the foot.

Additional Features

In addition to these primary features, there are some other additional features that usually make the shoe more comfortable. Shoes with heel cups have a longer lifespan as compared to other shoes. Another factor to consider is good ventilation. As badminton is a rigorous activity, your feet tend to sweat and this makes the internal shoes environment unhealthy. A good air flow in the shoes will help to keep your feet cool and dry and also prevent any foot odour. Flexibility is another feature to look for. Shoes that allow flexible ankle movement are better suited as they ensure that the ankle is free to shift so that the player can move around quickly. Ideal badminton shoes have a thinner sole which lowers your centre of gravity. This is required to reduce the risk of injuries with fast paced movements around the court. Proper shape of the shoes also adds to the flexibility, stability to movements and keeps your feet comfortable.

The shoes chosen for badminton must be light in weight, have a sole that provides good grip and traction on the surface of court and have good cushioning. These features not only help you perform well and reduce risk of injuries but they also keep you comfortable on your feet. A good pair of shoes is a good investment irrespective of a beginner or an expert player.

The list given below covers ten best badminton shoes for men and ten best for women. Even though some of the shoes in the list are meant for other sports like volleyball, they are designed in such a way that they can be worn while playing badminton as well. Both of them being an indoor court based sports, the features required are quite similar.

Top 10 Best Badminton Shoes for Men in 2022

Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
	1. YONEX – SHB 65 Z	Upper: P.U. Leather	$$$	4.8
	2. ASICS – Gel Upcourt 2	Gum Rubber Outsole	$$	4.8
	3. ASICS – Gel Upcourt 2	Double Reussel Mesh	$$$	4.7
	4. YONEX – Aerus 2	absorb 30% more shock	$$	4.6
	5. YONEX – SHB CFAX	P.U. leather, polyster mesh	$$	4.6
	6. YONEX – SHB 02 LTD	Outsole Materials: Rubber	$$	4.5
	7. HEAD – Grid 2.0 Low	Non-Marking Gum Rubber Outsole	$$	4.5
	8. HEAD – Grid 2.0 Low	Shaft measures approximately low-top from arch	$$	4.5
	9. BABOLAT –Shadow Spirit	Durability And Traction	$$	4.4
	10.BABOLAT – Shadow Team	Rubber sole	$$	4.3

1. YONEX – SHB 65 Z

Design

TheYonex SHB 65 Z shoes for men belong to the Yonex Power Cushion series of badminton shoes. With the new Power Cushion and construction, it enables the players to have a faster and lighter footwork on the court. The shoes have a toe-centric design which provides the midfoot with improved and additional support and the heel is more stable. The upper is made with PU leather. There are two colour options – black/yellow and black/red.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

There are several unique and advanced features that make this pair of shoes one of the top choice. The midsole of the shoes is made up of solid EVA and there are other unique materials which add on to its shock absorbing qualities. The ToughBrid Light helps in significant reducing the stress on knees and legs. The Power Graphite plate in the middle foot region increases stability and reduces the weight of the shoes. The Power Cushion+ provides the shoes with exceptional shock absorption and repulsion. A special elastic resin is added to the Power Cushion, which absorbs shock and then rebounds the energy for a smoother transfer into next step. The grooves are designed in a lattice pattern with optimal spacing and depth which adds on to the shoe resilience. The Yonex Round Sole provides support all around the feet for smoother and quicker movements. Any sliding of foot at the edge of the shoe is prevented by the Lateral Shell which is located outside of the forefoot. The rounded sole and the shell support help in reducing power loss that you might experience as you move around the court quickly. The insole of the shoes is designed so as to create a secure contact between the soot and shoe thereby reducing the energy wastage. The Yonex Synchro-Fit Insole offers an improved fitting and the heel is securely placed against the insole.

2. ASICS – Gel Upcourt 2

Design

The Asics Upocourt 2 is from the multi-court Upcourt™ series with a full length rubber outsole for the best traction. It is perfect for any indoor court sport for which the athlete has to jump, move quickly and make lot of lateral cuts. The shoes is mainly meant for amateurs to the game. The upper features a combination of synthetic leather overlays and mesh underlays. This makes the shoes extremely breathable and durable. The feet are kept cool and dry for the superior forefoot comfort. The padded collar and tongue make the overall feel of the shoe comfortable. The shoes weigh 9.9 oz. which is 0.5 oz. lighter than the previous version. The colour options are white and black with different colour accents.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The shoes have a gum rubber outsole which makes them perfect for playing badminton in a PU or wooden court. The outsole is non-marking meaning that they won’t leave any marks on a court floor and it provides exceptional grip on the court surface. It is also abrasion resistant and flexible. The shoes have a Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System® which helps in reducing shock during impacts and allows for a smoother transition in movements. The shoes have a removable insole that can be replaced with custom orthotics. The interior of the shoe is lined with mesh and a cushioned sockliner provides comfort to the feet. The sockliner is made with EVA and it ensures that the shoes are securely fit around your feet. There is a 1 cm heel to toe drop which makes the movements easier. The textile insole is padded for comfort.

3. YONEX – Aerus 2

Design

The Yonex Power Cushion Aerus 2 shoes for men are designed to be maximise your performance and provide excellent support to your feet while playing. The shoes are designed to be well ventilated and provide excellent structural support for enhancing your game performance. The shoes have a Flexion upper made up of PU leather, polyester mesh and a durable skin light. The asymmetric design of the lace up system with curved eyelets creates a snug fitting around the inner arch. These shoes are extremely lightweight, weighing only 270g. There are two colour options available for this shoe – red and blue.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The lightweight designed shoes are perfectly designed with many features that make this pair of shoes a good choice for playing badminton. The shoes have a unique feature of reversing shock energy that can be used in moving around. This is provided by the three layers of Yonex Power Cushion. As the shoe receives an impact, the soft middle layer of the shoe quickly returns to its original shape. The energy from the impact is also returned and it helps the player in the next move. To increase stability and reduce overall weight of the shoe, a super-light graphite plate is inserted in the midfoot. The Yonex Synchro-Fit Insole construction reduces any loos of energy by improving the shoe fitting. The outer sole of the shoes come with a Yonex Round Sole which provides support for smooth footwork and it has hexagrip patterns that help in agile and stable movements. These pair of Yonex shoes are highly ventilated and have superior breathability. This makes wearing them a comfortable experience and your feet stay cool, dry and odour-free while you are showing talents on the court. This is because they have double the amount of see-through mesh as compared to its predecessor.

4. YONEX – SHB 03 Z

Design

The Yonex SHB 03 Z shoes for men are designed with a unique upper and an improved fit and stability. These badminton shoes are part of the Power Cushion series that makes these shoes good at shock absorbing and then rebounding it. The upper is made with an asymmetrical design and curved eyelets. This provides a natural and snug fitting around the inner arch when the laces are tightened. The upper is made with PU leather, polyester mesh and a durable skin. There are two colour options – white and coral red.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The shoes have a solid EVA midsole with ToughBrid Light, Power Graphite Shet and Power Cushion technologies. The Power Cushion layers absorb shock and then rebound the absorbed energy which can be used by the player for his or her next moves. This helps in fast and light footwork on the court. The Power Graphite sheet in the middle region of the shoe increases the stability and makes the shoes lighter. The TPU support reinforces the support to the feet for quick lateral movements. The Yonex Round Sole is designed to ensure smooth movements and maximum energy transfer upon impact. The Hexagrip pattern on the rubber outsole provides grip on the court surface and it make the sole lighter as well. The shoes have an inner bootie style design where the shoe tongue is connected with the shoe opening reducing the overlapping layers and provide a more snug fitting. The insole is made with Synchro-Fit technology where there is secure contact between the foot and the shoe which reduces the energy wastage. Shoes have a toe-centric design which offers the midfoot and the heel greater support and stability. This results in reduced power loss and faster footwork.

5. YONEX – SHB CFAX

Design

The Yonex SHB CFAX is a top end model of the SHB series. The shoes have a newly designed upper made with PU and leather. Both of these materials make the shoes durable and give the player a comfortable feel. These shoes are designed to give the player’s feet a soft and cushioning environment so that he or she can focus on their game. The colour options available for this pair of Yonex are – white/blue and green. Both the shoes have highlights in blue and white respectively. The shoes have an attractive design with black contrast accents.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes by Yonex are equipped with all the advanced and high tech features of the Yonex footwear technology. This pair of shoes has new outsole made with 100% rubber material. The Power Cushioning at the midsole helps the player by absorbing shock and transferring that energy as rebound for the next move. This helps in smoother and faster movements. The shoes have a Rounded sole with Hexagrip tread patterns. The Rounded sole helps in fluent movement in all directions and also helps in rebounds. The Hexagrip pattern treads provide grip on the court surface and it makes the shoes lighter. The Lateral Shell helps in reducing the power loss during intense footwork. It is placed on the forefoot and it helps in preventing the foot sliding at the edge of the sole with any lateral movement. The shoes are designed with an Ergoshape which removes pressure and provides a comfortable fit around the toes.

6. YONEX – SHB 02 LTD

Design

This pair of Yonex Power Cushion SHB 02 Ltd. shoes provides a snug fitting with great structural support and an attractive design. It has an asymmetrical fit with comfort and helps in enhancing your performance. These are limited edition badminton shoes which were worn by Lin Dan, former World No. 1 player. The shoes have an attractive design along with all the important features packed together. The leather and the mesh upper make the shoes durable. There are limited options in colour selection as these are ‘Limited edition’ shoes.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

With great many features, these shoes keep you moving swiftly and provide stability to your actions. The shoes are designed in a way that they are snug around your feet. There is no extra space in toe and the midfoot area. The reason behind this is that the snug fitting increases stability and minimizes power loss. This allows you to move across the court with maximum speed and power. This curved design hugs the foot properly and provides comfort and support. The asymmetrical fit of the shoes gives structural support to your feet that allows steady footwork which is the primary requirement of badminton shoes. Stability while moving around the court will help in preventing unnecessary injuries. The Yonex Power Cushion in the sole of the shoes reverses the shock energy that is created upon impact and returns it to the player to boost his or her next movement. The shoes are extremely light and durable as they are made with a mesh material. And because of this, they are also well ventilated. Your feet stay cool and dry as the moisture is constantly released with the air flow and it also prevents any odour to be accumulated.

7. HEAD – Grid 2.0 Low

Design

The Head Grid 2.0 indoor shoes are designed for indoor racquet ball sports. It is an entry level shoe with great features offering stability and durability. These shoes are mainly for tennis but they are suitable for badminton as well The inner of the shoes is lined with a comfortable textile material. This helps to keep your feet irritation free. The padded collar and shoe tongue cushion the feet more comfortably. The shoes weigh about 300g and have a wider toe box. There are two colour combinations available – white/navy and black/white.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes feature many unique technologies that help to support your feet and enhance your game. It has Head’s Cooling System maintains the breathability of the shoe. It absorbs and releases excess heat that is build up over time. It is essentially a shoe ‘climate control’ system. The Head’s HyBrasion Technology is designed for high stress regions of the shoe. It is a high abrasion compound rubber formula. It also provides superior toe drag resistance and hard wearing resistance on any surface. The shoes have a EVA midsole that has excellent shock absorbing features perfect for badminton. The shoes provide excellent impact dampening. The outsole is made with non-marking gum rubber which is appropriate for indoor court surfaces and provides good traction. There is a nylon anti torsion shank in the sole for supporting the feet by providing stability. These shoes have an upper made up of synthetic leather with different overlays. It is highly durable and there are regions made of breathable mesh material to support the Cooling System. These shoes have a heel strap also for additional heel support and toe protection for avoiding any injury.

8. ADIDAS – Barricade Club

Design

The Nike Barricade Club shoes are built for tennis, specifically for a clay court. They help the player to move all around the court freely and helps to your foot stable and steady. It has got an attractive design but it bulkier as compared to other shoes. Although they are primarily deigned for tennis, they are suitable shoes for badminton and they are designed to increase your speed in the court. These shoes have a padded collar and tongue to support your feet and ankle while playing. There are several colour options available in these – night metallic, footwear white and core black.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

With several features, these shoes are one of the good choice as badminton shoes. the 360-degree TPU support the feet and adds on to the durability of shoes in the key abrasion areas. It also helps with giving the foot a superior lateral foot stability when moving from side to side. An ADITUFF® toe, which is designed to be abrasion resistant, is wrapped around the toe and the medial forefoot. This helps to protect the foot against foot drags that occurs during movements like lateral movement and serves. The 3D TORSION® technology in the midsole helps to keep your foot stable on the court and provides the required midfoot support. It is made with lightweight and durable EVA material. The sole has ADIPRENE® from heel to toe which helps in optimal cushioning and also helps to rebound the energy after impact. This provides a propulsion force to the user upon impact, making the next move easier. The outsole of the shoes is made with ADIWEAR™ rubber which offers ultimate traction and durability. The shoes are designed to be breathable with a lightweight mesh upper.

9. BABOLAT –Shadow Spirit

Design

The Babolat Shadow Spirit shoes are designed with optimal support and safety for your feet as you play badminton. It is mainly designed for advanced players who are looking for a high-quality shoes for their games. The upper is made of mesh material. The shoes is not fully flat on the ground which offers the players the ability to quickly change their direction of movement. It is available in two colour combinations – blue/yellow and blue/orange It is very lightweight and is suitable for other indoor sport activities as well.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes have several features that make it a unique badminton shoe.

The shock absorbing feature in the outer sole is provided by the Active Sculpture technology. It is developed by Babolat in collaboration with Michelin to provide optimal adherence on the court. This allows the players to move and stop suddenly as the shoe adapts with the players feet. The outer sole of the shoes has 3D-shaped Michelin rubber outsole which provides excellent grip. The Ortholite insole of these shoes is removable and can be replaced once it is worn off or you need additional personalized inserts. The shoes has great cushioning all over its length, from heel to toe. Additional shock absorption is provided by the Compressor System. There is a thin cast that wraps around your feet and keeps your feel cool and well ventilated. The open sole in the mid-foot area also helps in making the shoe breathable. The feet are fitted well in the shoes by the internal elastic wrap which makes it a choice to lace up tightly or not. With its light weight design, it is easy to move around with sustained stability.

10.  BABOLAT – Shadow Team

Design

The Babolat Shadow Team shoes are designed for players looking for lightweight and comfortable shoes. These shoes do not compromise on the bounce, support and provide excellent cushioning to the feet. There are two colour combinations available in this shoe for men – black/yellow and blue/orange.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The features built in these shoes make it a good shoe for playing badminton. These shoes have outsoles that are designed with Babolat’s biomechanical knowledge about the game and Michelin’s expertise in rubber grip. The outsoles are durable and provide excellent grip with the help of Michelin’s tread designs. Additional grip on the court is provided by the high performance grip cells, the Optimized Cell System. The unique Komressor System in the heel of the shoe absorbs the energy upon impact with hard surface. There are tubes present which then extend to release the energy absorbed and it helps to propel your next movement by rebound. It is made with a mix of EVA and thermoplastic rubber. This makes it highly durable and it provides a strong and stable system for cushioning your heel strikes while playing. The HTS 360 provides complete foot stability. There are heel, ankle and lateral foot supports that provide support to the foot and helps in holding it inside the shoe with comfort. The Spring VK system in the forefoot is meant for cushioning as well as helps in rebound for enhanced performance. It is a mix of rubber and EVA material. To help in vertical movements, the Spring Flex System is present in the form of ripple on the base of the shoe. It helps in rebounding the base back into its shape after impact.

Top 10 Best Badminton Shoes for Women in 2022

Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
Picture	Name	Feature	Price	Rating
	1. YONEX – SHB 01 LTD “Lee Chong Wei” edition	fabric-and-leather	$$	4.8
	2. ASICS – Gel Blast 5	two layers of memory foam	$$	4.8
	3. two layers of memory foam	Gum Rubber Outsole	$$	4.7
	4. MIZUNO – Wave Hurricane 3	Parallel wave plate	$$	4.6
	5. ASICS – Gel Rocket 6	Rubber sole	$$	4.6
	6. ADIDAS – Ligra 4	Textile and Synthetic	$$	4.5
	7. BABOLAT – Shadow 2 W	Michelin OCS Technology	$$	4.5
	8. BABOLAT – Shadow 2 W	Padded collar	$$	4.5
	9. ASICS – Gel 1150V	Open Mesh Upper	$$	4.4
	10. YONEX – Aerus 2	3D Power Graphite Sheet	$$$	4.3

1. YONEX – SHB 01 LTD “Lee Chong Wei” edition

Design

The Yonex SHB 01 “Lee Ching Wei” limited edition shoes was used by badminton legend at the Rio Olympics. It is a shoe that helps to maximize your energy and smoothen out your footwork. It helps to enhance your performance in the game. The Ergoshape of the shoes removes pressure and provides a comfortable fitting around the toes. There is a layer of extremely durable wear-resistant synthetic leather in form of Tough Guard. The upper is made up with PU leather and double Russel Mesh. This makes the shoes extremely breathable and well ventilated. There is a single colour option which is dark pink.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The shoes are designed with several features that make is the best shoes for ladies playing the game of badminton. It has a stable yet agile design which helps to prevent injuries. It has three layers of Power Cushion that help in absorbing shock and the absorbed energy is rebounded back to your feet which helps to propel your movements forward. The ToughBrid in the midsole helps to cushion your feet while maintaining its shape retention and high elasticity. The Power Graphite sheet in the shoes helps to lighten the shoe weight and also support the feet. The EVA midsole provides cushioning to the feet along with absorbing shock. The Round Sole provides the support to your feet from all directions and it ensures smooth footwork. The Hexagrip pattern on the shoe sole help to provide traction on the court surface and make the shoes lighter. The Lateral Claw technology in the upper reduces the power loss when pushing hard against the court surface. It also improves stability by increasing the strength on the sides of the shoe.

2. ASICS – Gel Blast 5

Design

The Asics Gel Blast 5 is a top indoor court shoes suitable for sports like squash, badminton, and other indoor court sports. These attractively designed shoes are very comfortable and breathable. The upper of these shoes features a Flexion Fit® construction and a Personalized Heel Fit (PHF™) for enhanced upper fit and feel. The double layer of memory foam around the collar mould to the player’s feet creating a customized fitting. The RhynoSkin® on the medial side of the shoe is a abrasion and tear resistant synthetic leather for increased durability. It also protects against foot drag. There are several attractive colour options that you can choose from as per your preference – blue, dark pink and many others with different accent colours.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

There are several proprietary features packed in this shoe. With the Gel Blast 5 shoes you can easily move around and make quick movements without any discomfort. The shoes have a Wet Grip® outsole which is made from a special blend of organic and non-organic components. This NC Rubber outsole has an excellent traction and grip even on wet surfaces. The shoes have a Rearfoot and Forefoot Gel Cushioning System® which attenuates any shock absorbed during impact. It also cushions the feet during the toe-off phases and other transitions as you move around the court. The SpEVA® midsole material is resilient and it improved the bounce back characteristics of the midsole. It also prevents midsole breakdown after extensive use. The DuaMax® Support system, a dual density midsole system is included to enhance the support and stability. The Trusstic® System reduces the weight of the sole unit. But it does not compromise on the structural integrity of the shoe.

3. ASICS – Gel Upcourt

Design

The Asics Gel Upcourt shoes are primarily designed as volleyball shoes but they are good for playing badminton as well. They are versatile enough to be used for other indoor sport activities as well. This is a pair of shoes that is perfect for beginner and amateur players. This pair of shoes have a short ankle coverage and have a sturdy construction. The padded tongue and collar provide comfort to the feet of any active player. These shoes are available in a variety of colours to match your style and preference.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

This pair of Asics combines several features and is designed to maximize your every move. The outsole of these shoes is made with a full-length gum rubber. It provides superior grip on PU and wooden courts. This prevents any injuries or slips while playing. These shoes are perfect for fast paced foot work on the court and enhancing your performance. These shoes are quite breathable and allow the air to flow. This keeps your feet cool and dry while playing. With a upper that is made from synthetic leather and mesh, these shoes are lightweight and provide excellent structural support to your feet. The shaft for the sole is 2.75 inches and it provides sufficient support and lift. The Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System® provide shock absorption during jumps and snap movements. It protects your knees and legs from getting injured during impacts. The EVA midsole provides firm and comfortable support necessary for a comfortable experience while playing.

4. MIZUNO – Wave Hurricane 3

Design

The Wave Hurricane 3 by Mizuno is designed to be a volleyball shoe. The shoes are manufactured with several technical features making them perfect volleyball shoes. The proprietary Mizuno Wave technology provides right amount of cushioning and stability needed by players. It is a great shoe for beginners and works well as a practice shoe. This pair is also a choice of shoe for defensive specialists of the game. The shoes are lightweight due to the No-Dew design and high impact cushioning. The shoes are quite breathable with all the mesh upper. It is made durable with the synthetic overlays. There are a variety of colour options like classic black and white and other colours like Peacoat /White/Diva Blue and White/Safety Yellow/Blue Radiance. The shoes weigh 250g.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes have many features that makes this one of the best shoes for playing indoor court games. The shoe have cushioning and stability in the heel region which is provided by the Mizuno Wave technology which is inspired by nature. It provides flexibility in one direction and support in the other. It absorbs the shock without compromising the comfort or cushioning. It rebounds the energy back which can be used to guide the user’s next movement. It also prevents partial deformation and provides dynamic support to stabilise your foot. The outsole is made with gum rubber which has integrated flex grooves. The Dynammotion Groove technology improves stability and agility on court. This perfectly complements the dynamic midsole. The AP+ insert in the heel and a removable moulded sockliner provide superior comfort. The AP+ is the Mizuno’s midsole compound which is highly durable as compared to other midsole materials.

5. ASICS – Gel Rocket 6

Design

The Asics Gel Rocket 6 are the choice of shoes for court athletes. As compared to its predecessor, it has a lighter-weight upper and enhanced traction. It is a comfortable and a versatile shoe that can support players in a variety of indoor games including badminton, squash and volleyball. The upper is made from a combination of synthetic leather and non-leather natural fibres. The padded collar and tongue ensure that your feet are comfortable inside the shoes. These shoes weigh 8.9 oz. and the colour options for this style are several. You can easily choose the colour as you want based on your personal preference.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

This is a shoe loaded with signature Asics features. The Forefoot Gel® Cushioning System is involved in attenuating shock as your foot impacts with the court surface. The plush cushioning gives your feet ample support and comfort. The Trusstic System® Technology helps in reducing the weight of the sole unit. It maintains the structural integrity of the shoe. The EVA midsole offers plush cushioning. The outsole of the shoes is made with NC Rubber and it has more gum rubber as compared to regular rubber. Due to this the traction is increased on the court and it makes the shoes more durable. The inner sockliner is removable and can be removed to accommodate a custom or medical orthotic. The shoe has a minimalist design that makes it a lightweight shoe. the synthetic overlays on the upper provide stability and support to your feet. The mesh lining inside the shoe helps to keep your feel cool and dry and prevent any sweat accumulation.

6. ADIDAS – Ligra 4

Design

The Adidas Ligra 4 women’s shoes are designed with style and all features required to make it a good shoe for indoor activities. Adidas has designed these shoes to be versatile – they are perfect for any indoor activity, be it volleyball or badminton. They can also be used as gym shoes or even for your casual day to day wearing. The shoes have a sleek design and a narrow fit around the toe. There are two colour options available in these shoes – white/matte silver/black and pink/semi-solar slime/black.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes by Adidas are designed with several features that make them one of the best shoes for badminton. The outsole of the shoe is made up of rubber which provides excellent traction on the court surface and helps to keep you steady on your feet. The ADIWEAR® technology makes the outsoles extremely durable and reduces wear and tear in the heel landing and the push off zones of the shoe. The rubber soles boost your jumps, absorb any impact and cushion your landing. They offer excellent shock absorption as it is expected from a pair of volleyball shoes. These soles are designed to be non-marking and allow the player to respond quickly. The ADIPRENE® midsole heel insert provides comfort. It also helps in shock absorption and rebound of the energy after impact. The insole of the shoes is made with soft material and it provides comfortable cushioning around your feet. The mesh material inside ensures that the shoes are breathable and your feet remain cool and dry even after rigorous activity. The upper is made with tear resistant mesh which provides maximum airflow. The synthetic overlays add on to the support and foot stability.

7. BABOLAT – Shadow 2 W

Design

The Babolat Shadow 2 women’s court shoes are designed for playing any indoor sports. It has multiple layers of thin cushioning which helps in keeping the foot closer to the ground as required for a shoes suitable for badminton. This gives the shoes a greater responsiveness. There is additional padding in the shoe collar to provide comfort and cushioning to your feet. The extra wide tongue also helps to cushion the feet while moving around. These shoes are lightweight with weight of 315g because of the lightweight high tech materials used in its manufacturing. There are two colour options available for this shoe – pink/white and fluorescent pink/turquoise.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

These shoes are designed so as to offer badminton players the best features with the high end technologies. These shoes have been designed with Michelin inspired treads on the bottom of the shoe. The Michelin OCS Technology increases the stability and grip of the shoes by 20% as compared to other shoes. The soles are also abrasion resistant which makes them highly durable. The Spring Flex System in the outsole provides a spring effect and allows for excellent vertical rebound. Optimal support from heel to toe is provided by the HTS 360 Technology. It provides protective structural support to the feet and ankle. The Kompressor System helps in absorbing energy of impact and then subsequent redistribution for optimal heel cushioning. The Spring VK and Vibrakill technologies help in absorbing impact and its rebound effect. They are made up of exclusive EVA and rubber materials. The shoes are highly breathable with more than 50% mesh in the upper and because of the micro perforated insole. The upper is also made durable with a soft shield reinforcement.

8. ASICS – Gel 1150V

Design

The Asics Gel 1150V shoe is the update to the 1140V series. It holds true to the fitting and holds the performance standards set by this series. The shoes are extremely comfortable and the cushioning all over keeps your foot and ankles as you play and focus on your game. The shoes are not just restricted for indoor sport activities but can also be used for running or walking. This pair of shoes is a good choice for beginners who are just getting into this sport. These shoes weigh 10.5 oz and the colour options are several and you can choose according to your style and preference.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

The shoes are equipped with several features that make the shoes appropriate for playing badminton. The shoes have a SpEVA® Midsole and Rearfoot Gel Cushioning System provides cushioning in the heel for moving on the court. The Gel Cushioning in the rearfoot and forefoot regions provide support to the feet. This also helps to keep your feet feel less fatigue when you are playing for long hours. The shoes provide excellent arch support which adds on to the balance. The upper of the shoes is made with a combination of synthetic leather and air mesh. They improve the performance and breathability of the shoes. This ensures that the feet remain cool and dry after an extra tiring session in the court. The toe guard in the form of PGurad™ Toe Protector increases the durability of the shoes and helps to protect the toes from any accidental injuries. The rubber sole of the shoes helps to ensure smooth landing. With this shoe design, the feet have freedom to move in all directions.

9. Babolat Shadow Team 30S1805-298, EU Shoe Size:46 EU

Design

The Asics Gel Tactic shoes are designed primarily for volleyball but they are amazing for badminton as well. This is mainly due to the excellent shock absorbing features of the shoe. The shoes are designed to be extremely durable and are meant for hard and frequent trainings. These shoes are suitable for all kinds of players – from novice to advanced. The shoes are designed with a narrow fit design. This attractive pair of shoes is versatile in its looks as well as comfort. you can wear it as your everyday casual wear as well as on the court. The shoes weigh 10.4 oz. and there are several colour combinations available in these shoes.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

There are features unique to Asics that make these shoes good for badminton as well. There are two layers of plush SpEVA in the midsole region. It helps in absorbing shock on impact and prevent any injuries. It also provides excellent comfort to the players feet. The Trusstic System® increases the forefoot stability with a moulded component in the midfoot area. The outsole is made with NC Rubber® which contains more natural rubber content than traditional solid rubber. It provides more traction on the surface of the court. The Rearfoot Gel® Cushioning System delivers plush comfort in the underfoot region. These shoes are made durable with a supplemental toe guard. This also helps to protect the toe from any accidental impact and injury. The upper of the shoes is made with a combination of synthetic leathers and breathable mesh vents. This ensures that the upper is durable as it is designed to resist the wear and tear from the court. The mesh vents make the shoes breathable and helps to keep your feet cool and dry.

10. BABOLAT – Shadow Team

Design

The Yonex Power Cushion Aerus 2 shoes for ladies are designed to improve your game with its lightweight design that allows for a faster and steady footwork. The shoes are well ventilated and provide excellent structural support for enhancing your game performance. The asymmetrical upper design provides a better and a more comfortable fit. The eyelets are curved in the shape of the instep which gives your foot a snug fitting as it wraps around the natural foot contours. The upper is made with PU leather, polyester mesh and a durable skin light. The Flexible Durable Skin retains the shape of the upper shoe to prevent any lateral movement of the foot within the shoe. These shoes are one of the lightest by Yonex weighing only 270g. There are two colour options available for this shoe – pink and grey/yellow. The grey shoes has accents in fluorescent yellow colour.

What makes this specific pair of shoes one of the best for playing badminton?

This pair of lightweight Yonex is designed with many features. The Power Cushion technology in the midsole absorbs impact and it reverses the energy. This energy is smoothly transferred into the next motion made by the player. This is also lightweight and provides three times more shock absorption as compared to the standard urethane. A graphite plate is placed under the middle foot region for reduced weight and adding more stability on landing. The Yonex Round Sole is designed to provide all-around support for smooth footwork. It ensures quick movements and efficient energy transfer. The Hexagrip pattern on the rubber outsole provides excellent grip and is lighter than the regular sole materials. The extra synthetic mesh vents on the upper provide improved ventilation. your feet stay cool and dry and free from any foot odour build up.