Best Volleyball Shoes For Big Kids Girls

Nov 12, 2025 by Alex Braham 41 views

Finding the right volleyball shoes for big kids girls is crucial for their performance, comfort, and safety on the court. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pair. This article will guide you through the key features to look for and recommend some of the best volleyball shoes for young female athletes.

Understanding the Importance of Proper Volleyball Shoes

Volleyball shoes are specifically designed to provide the necessary support, cushioning, and traction for the sport's unique demands. Unlike running shoes, which are built for forward motion, volleyball shoes offer excellent lateral support to facilitate quick side-to-side movements. They also feature enhanced cushioning to absorb impact from jumping and landing, reducing the risk of injuries. Investing in a good pair of volleyball shoes can significantly improve a player's agility, stability, and overall performance.

Proper volleyball shoes are more than just footwear; they are essential equipment that can greatly impact a young athlete's performance and safety on the court. These shoes are engineered with specific features designed to meet the unique demands of volleyball, a sport characterized by rapid lateral movements, explosive jumps, and frequent landings. The right pair can provide the necessary support, cushioning, and traction to enhance agility, stability, and overall performance, while also minimizing the risk of injuries. One of the primary distinctions between volleyball shoes and other athletic footwear, such as running shoes, lies in their construction and purpose. Running shoes are primarily designed for forward motion, with emphasis on cushioning and energy return to propel the runner forward. In contrast, volleyball shoes prioritize lateral support, allowing players to make quick side-to-side movements without losing balance or risking ankle sprains. This lateral support is typically achieved through reinforced sidewalls and supportive overlays that wrap around the foot, providing stability during rapid changes in direction. Furthermore, volleyball shoes feature enhanced cushioning systems to absorb the impact of jumping and landing, reducing stress on joints and preventing overuse injuries. These cushioning systems often incorporate advanced materials such as gel, foam, or air pockets to provide optimal shock absorption and comfort. The outsole of a volleyball shoe is another critical component that contributes to its performance. It is typically made of non-marking rubber with a specialized tread pattern that provides excellent traction on indoor court surfaces. This traction allows players to maintain a firm grip on the floor, enabling them to make quick cuts, accelerate rapidly, and maintain control during intense rallies. Investing in a high-quality pair of volleyball shoes is an investment in a player's long-term health and performance. By providing the necessary support, cushioning, and traction, these shoes can help young athletes reach their full potential on the court while minimizing the risk of injuries that could sideline them. Therefore, it is essential for parents and coaches to prioritize the selection of proper volleyball shoes for their young players, ensuring that they have the right equipment to perform at their best and stay safe.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for volleyball shoes for big kids girls, consider the following features:

Cushioning: Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the midsole to absorb impact and provide comfort during long practices and games. Popular cushioning technologies include Gel, foam, and air.
Lateral Support: Ensure the shoes offer excellent lateral support to prevent ankle sprains and provide stability during quick side-to-side movements. Features like reinforced sidewalls and supportive overlays can enhance lateral support.
Traction: Choose shoes with a non-marking rubber outsole and a specialized tread pattern for optimal grip on indoor court surfaces. Good traction is essential for quick cuts and explosive movements.
Breathability: Opt for shoes with a breathable upper to keep feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort.
Fit: Ensure the shoes fit properly, with enough room in the toe box to allow for natural foot movement. A snug fit around the heel and midfoot will provide added support and stability.

Cushioning in volleyball shoes is a critical feature that significantly impacts a player's comfort, performance, and risk of injury. Volleyball is a high-impact sport that involves repetitive jumping, landing, and quick changes in direction, all of which place considerable stress on the feet and joints. Adequate cushioning in the midsole of the shoe helps to absorb this impact, reducing the strain on the lower extremities and minimizing the risk of overuse injuries such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures. Various cushioning technologies are employed in volleyball shoes, each with its unique properties and benefits. Gel cushioning, for example, is known for its excellent shock absorption and ability to dissipate energy upon impact. It is often strategically placed in the heel and forefoot areas to provide targeted cushioning where it is needed most. Foam cushioning, on the other hand, offers a lightweight and responsive feel, providing a balance of comfort and support. Different types of foam, such as EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) and PU (polyurethane), are used in volleyball shoes, each with varying degrees of cushioning and durability. Air cushioning is another popular option, utilizing pockets of compressed air to provide a springy and responsive feel. Air cushioning systems can be found in various forms, such as encapsulated air units or full-length air soles, offering customizable levels of cushioning and support. The amount of cushioning in a volleyball shoe can also vary depending on the player's weight, playing style, and personal preferences. Heavier players or those who tend to land harder may benefit from shoes with more substantial cushioning, while lighter players or those who prioritize court feel may prefer shoes with less cushioning. Ultimately, the goal of cushioning in volleyball shoes is to provide optimal comfort and protection, allowing players to perform at their best without worrying about foot pain or injuries. By absorbing impact, reducing stress on joints, and providing a responsive feel, cushioning plays a vital role in enhancing a player's overall performance and enjoyment of the game.

Lateral support is another essential feature to consider when selecting volleyball shoes, as it directly impacts a player's stability, agility, and risk of ankle injuries. Volleyball is a sport that demands quick side-to-side movements, rapid changes in direction, and explosive bursts of speed, all of which place significant stress on the ankles and feet. Proper lateral support helps to stabilize the foot and ankle, preventing excessive pronation or supination and reducing the risk of ankle sprains or other injuries. Volleyball shoes typically incorporate several design features to enhance lateral support. Reinforced sidewalls, for example, provide structural stability to the shoe, preventing it from collapsing or twisting during lateral movements. These sidewalls are often made of durable materials such as synthetic leather or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) to withstand the rigors of intense gameplay. Supportive overlays are another common feature that contributes to lateral support. These overlays are strategically placed around the midfoot and heel areas to provide a secure and snug fit, locking the foot in place and preventing it from sliding around inside the shoe. This helps to maintain stability and control during quick changes in direction. A wider outsole can also enhance lateral support by providing a broader base of stability. A wider outsole increases the surface area in contact with the ground, improving balance and reducing the risk of rolling an ankle. In addition to these design features, the overall construction and materials of the shoe can also impact its lateral support. Stiffer materials tend to provide more support than softer materials, but they may also be less comfortable. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between support and comfort when selecting volleyball shoes. Ultimately, the goal of lateral support in volleyball shoes is to provide the necessary stability and control to allow players to move confidently and efficiently on the court. By preventing excessive pronation or supination, reducing the risk of ankle injuries, and enhancing overall stability, lateral support plays a crucial role in improving a player's performance and safety.

Top Volleyball Shoe Recommendations for Big Kids Girls

Here are some of the top-rated volleyball shoes for big kids girls, known for their performance, comfort, and durability:

ASICS Gel-Rocket Series: The ASICS Gel-Rocket series is a popular choice among volleyball players of all levels. These shoes offer excellent cushioning, lateral support, and traction, making them ideal for young athletes. The Gel technology in the midsole provides superior shock absorption, while the non-marking rubber outsole ensures a solid grip on the court.
Mizuno Wave Lightning Series: The Mizuno Wave Lightning series is known for its lightweight design and responsive cushioning. These shoes feature Mizuno's Wave technology, which provides both cushioning and stability. The breathable upper keeps feet cool and dry, while the durable outsole offers excellent traction.
Nike HyperAce Series: The Nike HyperAce series is designed for players who prioritize speed and agility. These shoes feature a lightweight design and responsive cushioning, allowing for quick movements and explosive jumps. The durable outsole provides excellent traction, while the breathable upper keeps feet cool and comfortable.

Tips for Choosing the Right Size and Fit

Measure Feet: Always measure your child's feet before purchasing volleyball shoes. Foot size can change over time, so it's essential to get an accurate measurement.
Try On: If possible, have your child try on the shoes before buying them. This will ensure a comfortable and secure fit.
Consider Socks: Have your child wear volleyball socks when trying on shoes to ensure an accurate fit.
Check Toe Room: Make sure there is enough room in the toe box to allow for natural foot movement. A thumb's width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe is generally recommended.
Heel Fit: Ensure the heel fits snugly and doesn't slip during movement. Heel slippage can lead to blisters and discomfort.

Choosing the right size and fit for volleyball shoes is crucial for ensuring comfort, performance, and preventing injuries. Volleyball involves a lot of running, jumping, and quick lateral movements, so shoes that fit properly are essential for providing the necessary support and stability. One of the most important steps in selecting the right size is to measure your child's feet accurately. Foot size can change over time, especially during growth spurts, so it's essential to measure both feet regularly. Use a Brannock device or a ruler to measure the length and width of each foot, and compare the measurements to a shoe size chart to determine the appropriate size. When possible, it's always best to have your child try on the shoes before purchasing them. This allows them to feel the fit and ensure that the shoes are comfortable and supportive. Have your child wear volleyball socks when trying on shoes, as the thickness of the socks can affect the fit. Pay attention to the amount of room in the toe box. There should be enough space for the toes to wiggle freely without feeling cramped or restricted. A good rule of thumb is to have about a thumb's width of space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should fit snugly and securely, without slipping or sliding during movement. Heel slippage can cause blisters and discomfort, so it's essential to find shoes that provide a secure heel fit. Walk around in the shoes and perform some basic volleyball movements, such as jumping, shuffling, and pivoting, to assess the fit and comfort. Pay attention to any areas of rubbing or pressure, and make sure the shoes provide adequate support and cushioning. If your child has wide feet, consider looking for shoes that are specifically designed for wider feet. These shoes typically have a wider toe box and more room in the midfoot, providing a more comfortable and accommodating fit. Ultimately, the goal is to find volleyball shoes that fit comfortably and securely, providing the necessary support and cushioning to allow your child to perform their best on the court. By taking the time to measure feet, try on shoes, and assess the fit carefully, you can ensure that you select the right size and fit for your young volleyball player.

Caring for Volleyball Shoes

To prolong the life of your child's volleyball shoes and maintain their performance, follow these care tips:

Clean Regularly: Wipe down the shoes with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and sweat.
Air Dry: Allow the shoes to air dry completely after cleaning or if they get wet. Avoid using a dryer or direct heat, as this can damage the materials.
Store Properly: Store the shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the materials from deteriorating.
Use Shoe Trees: Consider using shoe trees to help maintain the shape of the shoes and prevent them from creasing.

Caring for volleyball shoes properly is essential for prolonging their lifespan and maintaining their performance on the court. Volleyball shoes are subjected to a lot of wear and tear during practices and games, so it's important to take steps to protect them and keep them in good condition. One of the most important things you can do is to clean your volleyball shoes regularly. After each use, wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and other debris. This will help prevent the build-up of grime that can damage the materials and reduce the shoe's performance. If your shoes get wet, it's important to allow them to air dry completely. Stuff the shoes with newspaper or paper towels to help absorb moisture and speed up the drying process. Avoid using a dryer or direct heat, as this can damage the materials and cause them to shrink or warp. Proper storage is also important for maintaining the condition of your volleyball shoes. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause the materials to fade or deteriorate. Consider using shoe trees to help maintain the shape of the shoes and prevent them from creasing. Shoe trees can also help absorb moisture and prevent odors from developing. In addition to these basic care tips, it's also a good idea to rotate your volleyball shoes regularly. If you play volleyball frequently, consider having two pairs of shoes that you can alternate between. This will give each pair of shoes time to air out and recover between uses, which can help prolong their lifespan. Finally, be sure to inspect your volleyball shoes regularly for signs of wear and tear. Check the soles for excessive wear, the uppers for rips or tears, and the cushioning for loss of support. If you notice any significant damage, it's time to replace your shoes. By following these care tips, you can help prolong the lifespan of your volleyball shoes and keep them performing their best on the court.

Conclusion

Choosing the right volleyball shoes for big kids girls is essential for their comfort, performance, and safety. By considering the key features discussed in this article and following the tips for choosing the right size and fit, you can find the perfect pair of shoes to help your young athlete excel on the court. Remember to prioritize cushioning, lateral support, traction, breathability, and fit when making your selection.