Best badminton shoes: from Yonex to Babolat and Asics

Your opponent just hit the shuttle over your head and you need to jump at it quickly to avoid it hitting the ground.

What you need…?

Perhaps some of the best badminton shoes!

Badminton is an extensive sport that requires not only skill and precision, but also requires speed and agility from its players.

As a badminton player, you need to be able to run from one corner of the court to another in the blink of an eye to defend or smash the shuttle back to your opponent.

The best brand to choose right now is Yonex, makers of some of the top rackets in the sport, and with these Eclipsion X shoes, which have been specially developed for badminton, you have the perfect support for those fast actions.

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You need badminton shoes for these reasons… and not only sneakers, but also a good pair of badminton shoes.

Also looking for something to play with? View our review of the best badminton rackets

Badminton Shoes Buyer's Guide

Most badminton players are more focused on buying an excellent badminton racket with a shiny grip or a cool forearm band.

What they neglect is their footwear that it most crucial is part of your game.

You may not notice the insane amount of stress that runs through your legs and feet. It's just really weird and you probably won't even think about it.

Here are some key things to look for that basically define a good pair of badminton shoes.

Shoe weight

While design, sole type and other factors are equally important, the weight of your badminton shoes will drastically affect your performance on the court.

Heavy shoes will only slow you down and worse, divert your attention to some extent. You'll be late to defend those bullet speed battles.

On the contrary, lighter shoes help increase your speed, make it easier for you to jump or jump and turn around a lot during the game.

In addition, lighter shoes give you a great and comfortable feeling. The ideal weight is 250 to 400 grams.

Ankle support

When you jump, turn or walk backwards, all angular shifts come from your ankle, meaning your ankle should have a free range of motion.

For this reason, badminton shoes are designed with less ankle support to ensure that the player can quickly move forward, backward, jump or even quickly sideways.

Although some ankle support is needed, if your badminton shoes have too much, your ankles will not be flexible and will not develop good strength for the game. It can even lead to an ankle injury because your ankle is not used to extreme physical stress.

Look for badminton shoes that allow flexible ankle movement.

Ventilation

You'll be sweating like a sweat from head to toe in no time. Because badminton is a very intensive game and requires rigorous movements all year round, your feet often sweat and your shoes get wet quickly.

This moist condition is a perfect place for mold and bacteria to grow, resulting in a very bad odor and much worse, athlete's foot.

For this, your badminton shoes must be sufficiently ventilated so that your feet stay cool and dry and avoid an awkward situation that distracts you from the game.

Any thickness

We have discussed the most important features of a badminton shoe, but the design also plays a crucial role in improving your performance.

Because badminton requires a lower center of gravity for balance and responsiveness, your shoe sole must be thin for a lower center of gravity.

This way you can move fast, jump fast and even do those unexpected sprints.

Thicker sole is not recommended for badminton players. They are made for runners and will not help you play badminton.

Kind Type

Badminton shoes have two main soles:

1. Rubber soles
2. Gum rubber soles

Which type to choose depends on the badminton court you play in.

Today most badminton courts are PU or wood. If you play on one of these courses, Gum Rubber Soles are your best choice in your badminton shoes.

This sole does not only provide extra grip, but also offers the player extra freedom of movement.

But if you play on the cement floor, rubber soles are perfect.

Your badminton shoes are designed to have a non-marking rubber sole to avoid markings on the floor. Otherwise, if you drag your legs, you'll leave big ugly spots on the floor.

Damping

Badminton shoes with good cushioning can better absorb the impact of your movements, and this would ultimately lead to a better overall performance on the court.

A good and smartly designed pair will not only make you feel comfortable, but also protect your feet during the game by absorbing these powerful effects.

This also reduces pressure on your knees, especially when jumping or lunging. The cushioning on the inside actually acts like a spring, helping to prevent unexpected injuries during the game.

ergonomic shape

It offers the best stability for your feet and toes. During the game, the flexibility in the toes is very important for making those firm movements.

Badminton shoes with Ergoshape not only keep your feet comfortable, but they also provide extra stability during explosive movements in the front or back.

Extra moisture control

This is definitely a premium feature that doesn't come with all badminton shoes.

The “Double Russel Mesh” in badminton shoes increases the ability to fight against moisture by eight times compared to the standard shoes.

It offers better ventilation and gives you a very comfortable and dry feeling during the game.

Best badminton shoes reviewed

Best Overall Badminton Shoes: Yonex Eclipsion X

The Yonex Eclipsion X badminton shoe is designed for maximum stability and provides the player with the ultimate cushioning for comfort and protection for their ankles and feet.

Yonex is a real badminton brand and you can see this in the shoes that are the only ones in the list that are specially made with badminton in mind.

It comes with an upgraded PU leather and polyester mesh. This leather not only adds to the durability but also gives it a nice look, while the polyester mesh provides better ventilation.

In the midsole is a ToughBird, Power Cushion and TPU technology. This cushioning absorbs the impact and takes the stress off the ankles and knees.

While a Hexagrip natural rubber is installed on its outsole that not only gives you a good grip when jumping or lunging, it also gives a very light feeling and increases your speed.

Overall, these shoes are very comfortable and have a very affordable price.

Benefits:

• ToughBird Power Damping Technology
• U. Leather with polyester mesh for better ventilation
• TPU midsole that adds extra support
• Hexagonal sole for better grip and impact absorption
• Attractive design and super comfortable

Cons:

• Limited size options

These Yonex shoes are available here

Best Badminton Shoes for Women: Babolat Propulse Fury

When it comes to comfort, you will only find it in Babaolat Fury. It features a thin cast that wraps around your feet like a feather. The elastic wraps on the inside provide a good grip and match the shoes perfectly.

You don't have to wear it tight.

Because stability and grip are most important, Propulse Fury offers it the best it can. Whether jumping, sliding or lunging, you get a perfect grip and do a great job.

Since it has flat soles, it holds firm enough and prevents you from tipping over in case you step on a sweaty spot.

The bottom sole has patterns that provide good lateral movement and braking power. Many badminton shoes lack a good pattern that gives a good grip on the floor.

Performance wise, you will immediately feel the speed and firm movements. It's not completely flat to the ground which is a plus as it offers a quicker change in direct as you won't be dragging your move.

Benefits:

• Light in weight
• Comfortable with excellent ventilation
• Excellent pace
• Affordable price

Cons:

• Less attenuation

These Babolat shoes are available for men and women

ASICS gel up court

This is the kind of badminton shoe that has a very different design and comes with a simple combination of colors. While the design is simple but performance wise, nothing beats ASICS and it's not for nothing that the brand is also in our top lists for squash shoes en padel shoes.

While your first reaction after unboxing this classic pair wouldn't be anything special once you step out on the court, you'll know you've invested in the right product.

Even though the sole is quite thin, this does not affect the comfort and stability it offers. A plus here is the better center of gravity and injury prevention.

The special thing about these shoes is that, despite rigorous use, you hardly notice and wear them.

While the white material can make it dirty and you need to be extra careful, overall it looks very sleek and simple.

The cushioning on the insole is pretty amazing. It quickly absorbs the impact of your jumps or other brisk movement, along with a soft feel when worn.

Overall, this pair is perfect for improving your athletic performance on the pitch and at a very reasonable price.

ASICS Men's GEL Upcourt Indoor Court Shoe

This is one of ASICS' cheapest shoes and has a unique design that makes it different from others.

Although this pair comes in a combination of red, black and white with a classic look, it still looks better and more attractive.

Don't be fooled with its mediocre look out of the box. As soon as you wear it and hit the field, you will know that this pair is a complete beast.

Aesthetically speaking, it has a thin profile which is actually great because it offers better ventilation. And because you are light, your speed increases and it also offers better stability.

The tough leather material on top prevents wear and tear, however you use it. Because of the white color, you have to be extra careful to keep it clean.

One thing you as a player wouldn't like is the thin padding, although the cushioning is comfortable and absorbs the impact. Still, I believe a thicker padding would have been more comfortable.

In general, you will have no problems playing badminton with these shoes on.

Benefits:

• Made of imported material and with the highest quality standards
• Rubber sole with gum rubber outsole
• Extra cushioning
• Synthetic

Cons:

• Very simple look
• The white material requires extra care

Both men and women variants are for sale here

Best Cushioned Badminton Shoes: ASICS GEL-Rocket 8

With amazing aesthetics and ergonomics, ASICS GEL-Rocket 8th Generation Men are the new things in the game of badminton and are guaranteed to improve your performance.

What sets it apart from other ASICS is its incredible design and neck-turning appearance with unbeatable features. They are also tops the list of best volleyball shoes.

The first wearing experience is comfortable, and this is what makes this pair outstanding.

The front curved portion of the shoe may feel less flat, but it has a plus during the game as you will put less effort into turning.

The inside of the shoes has an advanced gel cushion system that is not found in most badminton shoes. It gives a very comfortable feeling.

The rubber outsole also gives you great traction and a better grip when jumping or driving forward and backward on the court.

And despite the shoes seeming heavily loaded with features, they are still very light in weight and weight approx. 350g.

For lateral movements, you get the best stability and support that prevents injuries and stress caused by your knees and ankles.

Because the movement of the ankle must be extremely flexible during the game; these shoes don't have a very tight support around them.

Overall you will feel great and play even better with these badminton shoes.

Benefits:

• Imported material with rubber sole
• Molded EVA midsole for cushioning and extra support
• GEL cushioning that provides a super comfortable feel and absorbs impact
• Affordable

Cons:

• Limited size options

These Asics are available here

Best Badminton Shoes for Intermediate Players: Yonex Power Cushion 56

This badminton shoe pair is known for its powerful cushioning feature that absorbs the shock much more efficiently compared to the normal pads and instantly reverses the impact energy resulting in a smooth transition for your next move.

It comes with a fresh new color and style that will turn heads and keep you feeling comfortable while on the pitch.

These badminton shoes are virtually affordable and are scientifically contoured to provide more stability in the fore and toe area.

This is possible because the ergoshape is inside.

The front of the boot is slightly flat than curved, and while this may increase the effort to make a turn, overall, these boots will improve your performance and speed during the game.

Benefits:

• Great performance at a low price
• Put energy into action
• Grip and balance
• Ergoshape provides better stability

Cons:

• No cons

Check the latest prices here

Best Badminton Shoes for Flat Feet: Yonex Power Cushion Aerus 3

Say hello to one of Yonex's premium and high-end pair, constructed of PUT leather, double Russel, mesh and Kuraster.

The special thing about this pair is the rubber outsole with an elastic midsole, Power Grafite Lite and Power Cushion, which absorbs shocks, increases your speed and puts very little stress on your ankles and knees.

The hexagrip offers better stability during those rigorous movements and the power cushion is three-layer and cleverly designed.

The top and bottom layer is hard and absorbs more than 30% shock, while the middle plush layer acts as a transfer of energy for better reverse movement.

You will love its Double Russel Mesh which is not only incredibly lightweight but also durable. It offers eight times better ventilation and keeps your feet dry.

The Quattro Fit is a special technology designed by the YONEX team that provides the best level of comfort and grip for your feet during the game.

Benefits:

• Very comfortable
• Excellent grip
• Eight times better ventilation
• Better arch support

Cons:

• Design is somewhat conventional

View all colors here

Best Grip: Yonex Power Cushion SHB47

The Yonex men's edition is limited and that is due to the premium features. These shoes have an asymmetrical fit with an ergoshape that gives better support and stability, improving your footwork during the game.

The upper is made of PU Leather for durability and a double Russel mesh that offers better ventilation and keeps your feet dry.

The midsole is equipped with ToughBird Light, Power Cushion, Solid EVA and the TPU technology for comfort, impact absorption and grip.

What sets it apart from other shoes is the extra layer of durable skin on top. This also results in a better appearance.

The ergoshape, which I discussed earlier, also results in faster and more precise footwork and improves your performance on the court.

Benefits:

• Bright Red Limited Edition
• Very affordable price
• Made of imported material
• Provides a perfect balance between comfort, durability and weight

Cons:

• No cons

Check prices and availability here

Best Badminton Shoes for Wide Feet: Adidas Performance Ligra

Adidas is a globally recognized brand and their sports equipment is no exception.

The Ligra is probably the best badminton shoe for men built to the highest quality standards and to enhance your performance.

While these shoes are attractive, they also prevent them from sliding on the track. The traction it offers is very impressive, thanks to the combination of rubber material used in the sole.

The shoes are designed by observing how the badminton players make aggressive movements and spin on the court.

With regard to sustainability, it has no agreement. You get what you pay for, and it guarantees long-lasting strength that can withstand the rigors of rigorous movement on the badminton court.

The synthetic material used makes it strong, durable and extremely flexible.

When it comes to performance on the court, you get the best return on your money from the badminton shoes. The way they land and give you a firm grip is just impressive. It couldn't be better, and of course you deserve it if you have the Adidas logo on it.

The amazing thing about this pair is the comfort level. Whether just carrying, running or jumping, they provide maximum support so you won't be distracted.

The mesh material on the inside makes it breathable and keeps your feet maximally dry while you're on court.

Benefits:

• Rubber outsoles for traction
• Breathable mesh for dry feet
• Synthetic stable overlays for durability
• Light in weight

Cons:

• Finding the perfect size can be a problem
• Slightly expensive

Check the latest prices here

Best for Heavy Players: Mizuno Wave Lightning Z2

Mizuno is one of the best badminton shoes on the market, known for their comfort and a wide variety of styles. It offers three layers of seamless upper with a high degree of durability.

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Designed explicitly for women, this pair features Dynamotion Grove and Power + Bounce. Both collectively absorb the shocks.

The cushioning system works great and provides better stability as you throw the shuttle into the lane.

What's best is the extra quality rubber and non-marking sole, which results in a good grip during lunges or other fast movements.

Dura Shield is also installed which further protects your feet from dragging on the ground. The traction it has is just amazing.

Obviously, the ventilation is also better and you keep your feet cool and dry during the session. This prevents blisters and athlete's foot.

In general, these shoes are lightweight and durable.

Benefits:

• Lightweight, durable and comfortable
• Dura Shield and premium rubber provide excellent traction to prevent sliding
• 10+ colors to choose from with an updated style
• Can also be used to play volleyball

Cons:

• High price
• Some people say these shoes fit true to size, but some say they are a bit small

View all variants here

Best for Kids: Head Nitro Indoor

I would be surprised if you don't opt ​​for the Head Men badminton shoes. Why?

The level of comfort and the way they improve your performance on the pitch is simply impressive.

These shoes are very comfortable, have excellent cushioning and are quite stylish with lateral support and rubber sole for a great grip.

It uses Lateral Control technology, which increases the flexibility of your ankle and the natural flexion of your foot. As a result, you get a nice, snug fit and it prevents you from losing a step.

Being lightweight makes you feel great as soon as you wear and walk around.

The ventilation is also great, thanks to the extensive mesh panels on the top. This keeps your feet cool and dry during the session and keeps you laser-focused on the game.

Since stability is the most important thing in the game, get the most out of this pair. The rubber sole at the bottom is not only good for absorbing shocks, but also offers good stability and prevents sliding.

Overall, these are high performing shoes, light in weight and come with an excellent cushioning system.

Benefits:

• Very comfortable
• Good ventilation
• Excellent stability
• Deep aggressive tread for better traction

Cons:

• Slightly expensive

These Head shoes are available here

Best Stability: Diadora Speed ​​Blushield 3

Diadora is a very old brand of shoes, clothing and accessories for sports and leisure and the Dinamik III pair is probably one of their best manufacturers.

It is equipped with 77.3% leather and 22.7% polyurethane, which gives it the toughness and durability to withstand the harshness of this game.

All materials used in the construction are imported.

Instead of the mesh, it has a breathable leather lining that keeps your feet cool and dry for a long time.

When it comes to design, it has those killer looks to make heads turn when you hit the track.

Although it is simple, but sleek and stylish. However, as there is a limited color choice and it usually comes in white color, you need to take extra care to keep it clean.

Benefits:

• Comfortable and breathable
• Great stability and grip
• Simple and stylish
• Flat bottom with better traction

Cons:

• Limited color options

Check prices and availability here

Benefits of a good pair of badminton shoes

So we learned what to look for in badminton shoes and here's how it benefits you:

• Prevent injuries: from sprains to ankle and knee injuries, a good pair of badminton shoes absorbs the shocks efficiently and prevents such calamities.
• Prevents blisters: A good pair of badminton shoes will have good ventilation and a reliable sole that prevents blisters and the condition of the athlete's feet.
• Better performances: and on top of that you notice a dramatic performance change while playing in court

I've done my part in the extensive research into finding the best pair of badminton shoes based on their performance, quality and overall ratings.

The goal is to help you find the best footwear that will help improve your performance, speed and freedom of movement during the game.

Now it's your turn to make the most of the best, based on your personal preferences, needs and budget.

While these badminton shoes will help you improve your overall game, we cannot guarantee in any way how better you will perform as that is a lot based on your skills and practice.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of referees.eu is a content marketer, father and loves to write about all kinds of sports, and has also played a lot of sports himself for most of his life. Now since 2016, he and his team have been creating helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with their sports activities.