Badminton Shoes

Why do you need badminton shoes?
Grip on the court is important in the fast-paced game of badminton - you don't want to be slipping and sliding as you race for a shot. You’ll be changing direction quickly and jumping around, so you’ll want supportive shoes that are well cushioned, to reduce shock to your feet and ankles. For beginners and casual players, non-marking trainers or running shoes will get you started, while you familiarise yourself with badminton. But once you've decided to commit to the game, you’ll want comfortable specialist badminton shoes that are designed to help you play your best at any level. Have a look at our recommended top ten badminton shoes, to get an idea of the range of features on offer.

What is special about badminton shoes?
Badminton shoes are designed specifically for the game. Good grip will help you keep your footing as you dart around the court. Foam and padded soles reduce impact as you leap and land for those smashes and volleys. Support for your feet will help you avoid injury - specialist badminton shoe brands design in technical features that balance stiffening with flexibility, to protect your feet in the most common badminton moves around the court. Breathable materials and ventilated designs help to keep badminton players' feet cool and comfortable.

How do I choose the right badminton shoes?
It's best to buy trainers that are specifically designed for badminton. Other indoor racket sports shoes are a good option if you play multiple sports or only take to the badminton court occasionally. Comfort is key - if your badminton shoes are the wrong fit or shoe size, they'll distract you from your game play and can cause minor injuries like blisters. All the quality brands we stock offer good grip, support and flexibility. But everyone's feet are different: you may need to try more than one pair to find your ideal badminton shoe. Take advantage of our two week returns policy if you'd like to order more than one pair to try - you can return the others. (For a full refund, return within 14 days of receiving your order - items must be unworn, in their original packaging, with labels or shoe tags still attached.)

How much does a pair of badminton shoes cost?
Good quality badminton shoes start from around £35 on our website - look out for promotional deals and exclusives as well. Men's, women's and juniors' badminton shoes come in a range of styles and prices to suit every budget. You can spend as much as £150 on a top of the range pair of badminton shoes. When you consider the cost per wear, if you're playing badminton once a week or more often, you may decide it's worth paying a little more for year-round comfort and support that will help you play your best game!

How are badminton shoes and tennis shoes different?
Shoes for different racket sports are designed to suit the court surface and the style of play in each discipline. Grass or outdoor court tennis shoes have different soles from indoor racket sports shoes, so they're not suitable for indoor badminton. In tennis, players run around the larger court more, so tennis shoes are designed to support sprints and changes of direction over a longer distance. Badminton players pivot, leap and twist, so they need shoes that are supportive but lightweight and flexible, to protect and cushion their feet in a fast-paced game.

Can you play badminton in trainers?
You can play badminton in trainers, as long as they have non-marking soles, so they won't damage or discolour the indoor court surface. High quality sports trainers will perform better than fashion versions, which can be flimsy and lack protection for sporting use. We advise you to invest in specialist badminton shoes if you're likely to be playing regularly. They will help to support your feet better for the dynamic movements of badminton, so you can move around the court in comfort, forgetting about your feet and playing your best game at any level!