Best Shoes For Grass Volleyball: Our Editor’s Picks And FAQs

Like basketball, volleyball was invented as a sport to be played in a gymnasium when the weather was bad. It was invented in 1895 in Holyoke, Massachusetts by William G. Morgan, a physical education director from the YMCA.

At first, it was called Mintonette due to its similarity with badminton. In time, it became a staple game at beaches as well as an Olympic sport. Of late, grass volleyball has become more popular.

best shoes for grass volleyball

What Is Grass Volleyball?

It’s your basic volleyball game just played on grass rather than sand or in a gym. It’s a very laid-back game, typically accompanied by picnics. The teams may be the typical six-player lineup or as few as two players on each team.

Indoor Vs. Grass Volleyball

The balls themselves tend to be very different. Outdoor balls are stitched together and indoor balls are molded. Grass volleyball, of course, has to have rainout rules.

Do You Wear Shoes For Grass Volleyball?

Yes. Some may want to try barefoot, but bare feet on grass have a tendency to slip. The rules state that these shoes must not have spikes. This is for the safety of all the players.

Our Picks:

Here is a list of the five shoes that we believe will help you while playing volleyball on the grass. Comparison shop to find out which one is best for you.

1. Salomon Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoe

Salomon Men's Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes

Click Here To See More Images of the Men’s Shoe

Salomon Women's Speedcross 4 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes

Click Here To See More Images of the Women’s Shoe

The Salomon Speedcross 4 is a firm favorite for athletes of many stripes. It’s a standard shoe for a vast range of off-road terrain and conditions. It performs as expected and is a superbly comfortable fit. There are a few drawbacks but not enough to put many athletes off buying a good deal of these in different colorways.

Features and Benefits:

  • The upper is water-resistant and abrasion so that it will keep the foot dry and not be damaged easily.
  • The PVC toe box is durable and will last a long time.
  • The Quicklace system makes for a secure and adjustable.
  • The Sensifit system securely cradles the foot for comfort and support.
  • The lightweight, shock-absorbing midsole compound makes the shoe easy to wear for a long time.
  • The EVA is injected for both further shock absorption and underfoot cushioning.
  • The OrthoLite sockliner makes for plush underfoot cushioning.
  • It is treated with anti-microbial protection to prevent bad odors.
  • The Contagrip rubber outsole is flexible and has good traction.
  • The mudguard keeps mud from building up on the outsole.

What We Like:

  • The shoe is very comfortable.
  • The traction is excellent.
  • There is plenty of cushioning in all the right places.
  • It fits perfectly with no rubbing.

What We Don’t:

  • The laces come loose easily.
  • It is on the narrow side.
Salomon Men's Speedcross 4 Trail Running Shoes, Black/Black/Black Metallic, 11.5
  • Agressive Grip : Obvious and penetrating traction on soft ground
  • Precise Foothold : Close to foot and comfortable feel
  • Contragrip rubber sole; MIDSOLE HEIGHT : 30mm/20mm (10mm drop);WEIGHT: 310g
  • Aggressive Grip : Obvious and penetrating traction on soft ground , minimalistic and strong lace for one pull tightening. Easy on, easy off
  • EVA midsole provides lighweight cushioning and stability
Salomon Women's Speedcross 4 GORE-TEX Trail Running Shoes, Black/Black/Metallic Bubble Blue, 9.5 M US
  • TRAIL RUNNING SNEAKER: Featuring an aggressive grip, precise foothold, & GORE-TEX protection, the Salomon Speedcross 4 GTX is the ideal shoe for runners who want to conquer soft, technical trails.
  • ALL THE WILD PLACES: With a monster grip for soft trail conditions, the lightweight, weatherproof Speedcross 4 GTX is the perfect shoe for trail runners who aren't afraid of wet & dirty terrain.
  • GO THE DISTANCE: Whether you love daily road running in your neighborhood, an escape to a local trail, or something more rugged, Salomon makes shoes that ensure you have a smooth ride on any & all terrain.
  • TIME TO PLAY: Whether you are into trail running, hiking, backpacking, or mountaineering, Salomon has shoes & gear for kids, men & women to help you conquer a new distance, personal record, or event!
  • SINCE 1947 Salomon has used our passion for outdoor sports & innovation to create progressive gear. Our road & trail running shoes, hiking sneakers, boots, & water shoes help make any path your own.

2. New Balance 3000 V4 Turf Baseball Shoe / New Balance Women’s Fresh Foam Velo V2 Turf Softball Shoe

New Balance Men's 3000 V4 Turf Baseball Shoe

Click Here To See More Images of the Men’s Shoe

New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Velo V2 Turf Softball Shoe

Click Here To See More Images of the Women’s Shoe

The New Balance Turf Shoe is essentially a pro-level turf shoe that comes at an affordable price and will aid players in living up to their complete potential on the field. No matter the turf, you should be able to find both comfort and precision in these shoes.

Features and Benefits:

  • The Fresh Foam design delivers great softness and comfort as well as an ultra-cushioned ride.
  • The midsole is full-length for both comfort and support.
  • It is built with New Balance’s new Super Nubby rubber outsole to provide good traction.
  • The midsole of the cleat uses fresh foam for an excellent comfort to lower pain and fatigue.
  • The lace cage in the upper section of boots is useful for tucking laces in to keep them from becoming untied mid-game.

What We Like:

  • It comes in a wide variety of attractive colorways.
  • It offers sufficient traction and grip.
  • It has a thick and debris-free tongue.

What We Don’t:

  • They aren’t as durable as we would like for grass volleyball.
New Balance Men's 3000 V4 Turf Baseball Shoe, Black/White, 10 M US
  • Designed for Comfort: This turf version of the New Balance 3000v4 baseball cleat is designed for comfort first, featuring super-soft Fresh Foam midsole cushioning and a synthetic/mesh upper
  • Fresh Foam Technology: These baseball turf shoes bring the extraordinary softness of Fresh Foam to the diamond. The Fresh Foam midsole is precision-engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned ride
  • Materials Inspired by Runners: These men's baseball shoes feature a traditional upper made of mesh and synthetic materials, creating a look and feel to remind you of your favorite running shoes
  • Versatile for Elite Players: These baseball shoes function well on gym floors, carpet turf, field turf and dirt. They boast a nubby rubber outsole that mimics the spike placement of the 3000v4 cleat
  • Built-In Lace Cage: These baseball turf shoes for men feature a lace cage on the tongue that lets you tuck in those laces for a cleaner look and a game-ready feel
New Balance Women's Fresh Foam Velo V2 Turf Softball Shoe, Black/Black, 7.5 Wide
  • FRESH FOAM midsole cushioning is precision engineered to deliver an ultra-cushioned, lightweight ride
  • Perforated synthetic upper for support and breathability
  • Synthetic material
  • Aggressive rubber turf outsole offers ideal traction and maneuverability on the field

3. WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner

WHITIN Men's Minimalist Trail Runner | Wide Toe Box | Barefoot Inspired

Click Here To See More Images of the Men’s Shoe

WHITIN Women's Barefoot & Minimalist Shoe | Zero Drop Sole | Trail Runner

Click Here To See More Images of the Women’s Shoe

Her is a good quality shoe with a lot of versatility. The Whitin’s Minimalist Shoes are powerful running shoes that will keep the wearer grounded at all times. Many people find minimalist shoes to be more responsive. Perhaps you will too!

Features and Benefits:

  • The wide toe box gives the toes ample space to spread and relax.
  • It has a removable insole sock liner that is easily removed for more of a barefoot feeling.
  • The flexible and rubber soles deliver not only great durability but also protect the feet as they hit the ground.
  • The lace-up system utilizes an ultra-lightweight, soft textile lining that provides a fast and secure fit.
  • Vegans will like that it is made with animal-free products.

What We Like:

  • The shoes are very comfortable.
  • They are constructed with highly durable materials.
  • They deliver great protection.
  • They are available in many color options.

What We Don’t:

  • The sizing tends to be off.
Sale
WHITIN Men's Trail Running Shoes Minimalist Barefoot Wide Width Toe Box Five Finger Size 7 Gym Workout Fitness Low Zero Drop Walking Jogging Black 39
  • A wide toe box lets your toes spread and relax
  • Produced using animal free products and processes
  • Removable sockliner (insole) if you want a “more barefoot” feeling
  • True rubber sole provides great protection while still getting the ground feedback
  • Note, if between sizes, order next size down
Sale
WHITIN Women's Minimalist Barefoot Shoes Zero Drop Sneakers Trail Running Five Fingers Size 9 9.5 Wide Toe Box Lady Minimus Comfort Lightweight Black 40
  • Zero-drop, non-elevated sole for proper posture and balance
  • Adjustable hook-and-loop closure at instep for a more secure fit
  • Removable sockliner (insole) if you want a "more barefoot" feeling
  • A Wide toe box is flexible enough to let your feet bend, move, and flex the way
  • SIZE ATTENTION: True to size! If between size, order next size down for snug fit or order next size up for comfort fit

4. Mizuno Players Trainer Turf Shoe

Mizuno Men's Players Trainer 2 Turf Shoe Baseball

Click Here To See More Images of the Men’s Shoe

Mizuno womens Players Trainer 2 Womens Fastpitch Softball Turf Shoe

Click Here To See More Images of the Women’s Shoe

Mizuno is one of the major leading manufacturers of some of the more upscale and one of a kind baseball equipment in the sportswear market. In line with this idea, the Trainer Turf Shoe for men by Mizuno provides a singular amalgamation of a fine appearance and unmatchable quality.

Features and Benefits:

  • The outsole is designed for the player needing acceleration, traction, and stability.
  • The full length “U4ic” midsole is a new lightweight midsole material that is well cushioned, resilient, and responsive.
  • The upper pattern is soft, flexible, and supportive in order to combine strategically constructed synthetic leather and mesh for ultimate stability and breathability.
  • The padded tongue and collar prevent chaffing and add to comfort.

What We Like:

  • There is ample cushioning in the forefoot.
  • The collar and tongue are well padded.
  • The traction is excellent.

What We Don’t:

  • They are not waterproof.
Mizuno Men's Players Trainer 2 Turf Baseball-Shoes,Navy/White,9.5 D US
  • Booty Construction: Located inside the shoe to provide a soft secure fit
  • Anatomical Last: Naturally fitting shoe shape that provides a superior fit, while minimizing power loss and mazimizing strong acceleration
  • Ousole design for baseball
  • Great for coaches
  • Great for artifical turf fields
Mizuno Women's Players Trainer 2 Fastpitch Turf Softball Shoe, Navy/White, 7.5 B US
  • Booty Construction: Located inside the shoe to provide a soft secure fit
  • Anatomical Last: Naturally fitting shoe shape that provides a superior fit, while minimizing power loss and maximizing strong acceleration
  • Outsole design for softball
  • Great for coaches
  • Great for artificial turf fields

5. ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes

ASICS mens Gel-rocket 9

Click Here To See More Images of the Men’s Shoe

ASICS Women's Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoes

Click Here To See More Images of the Women’s Shoe

While the ASICS brand originated in Japan, the name comes from the Latin phrase “Anima Sana In Corpore Sano”, meaning “A Sound Mind in a Sound Body.” The ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 Volleyball Shoe lives up to this motto by combining their patented Visible Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL® Cushioning Systems with a two-layered midsole in order to deliver exceptional cushioning from the highest of impacts.

Features and Benefits:

  • The rubber sole is flexible, responsive, and has good traction.
  • The rearfoot and forefoot GEL cushioning systems make a shoe that has great shock absorbing ability.
  • The NC rubber outsole makes a shoe that is flexible yet protective.
  • The shoes have ASICS High Abrasion Rubber in high-wear areas to ensure that they’ll be in great shape for a very long time.
  • The unique Clutch Collar System means the fit will be secure yet supremely comfortable.
  • The shoes were made for the purpose of agility and should serve well on the field.
  • The ASICS mixes court-specific demands with lightweight running technology.

What We Like:

  • The shoes are very comfortable.
  • The fit is true to size.
  • They are lightweight yet supportive.
  • The traction is great.

What We Don’t:

  • The shoes need to be broken in a little.
  • Some find them to be too narrow.
ASICS Gel-Rocket® 9 Black/White 11 D (M)
  • Take your performance to the court with the ASICS® GEL-Rocket® 9 volleyball shoe!
  • Lightweight mesh upper with synthetic overlays provide structured support and comfort.
  • Foam-padded collar and tongue.
  • Breathable mesh lining and a cushioned footbed provide added cushioning.
  • Traditional lacing closure for optimal fit. Molded-EVA midsole provide enhanced cushioning and shock absorption. Features a rear and forefoot GEL® Cushioning System that offers shock-absorbing support at toe-off and offers superior movement and support through the gait cycle. Designed with Trusstic System® Technology that reduces the weight without compromising the structural integrity of the shoe. Rubber and gum rubber outsole containing more natural rubber content than traditional soli
ASICS Gel-Rocket® 9 Black/White 7
  • Take your performance to the court with the ASICS® GEL-Rocket® 9 volleyball shoe!
  • Lightweight mesh upper with synthetic overlays provide structured support and comfort.
  • Foam-padded collar and tongue.
  • Breathable mesh lining and a cushioned footbed provide added cushioning.
  • Traditional lacing closure for optimal fit. Molded-EVA midsole provide enhanced cushioning and shock absorption. Features a rear and forefoot GEL® Cushioning System that offers shock-absorbing support at toe-off and offers superior movement and support through the gait cycle. Designed with Trusstic System® Technology that reduces the weight without compromising the structural integrity of the shoe. Rubber and gum rubber outsole containing more natural rubber content than traditional soli

How Big Is A Grass Volleyball Court?

Grass volleyball uses a standard outdoor court that measures sixteen by eight meters (Fifty-two feet and six inches by twenty=six feet and three inches). It typically uses the coed net that is seven feet and nine and seven-eighths inches tall.

Grass Volleyball Rules

  • Teams have to complete rounds of Pool Play against the other teams on their court. This consists of two games against opponents.
  • When the time cap is reached, the point is finished and the game ends with that score. Should there be a tie, the next point is played.
  • Disputes must be brought to the organizer table.
  • Teams may ask for rule clarifications, but the referees make the calls and have the final say unless overruled by an organizer.
  • There are strict calls for doubles teams. For quad teams, double contacts must be called a little less strict.
  • Sets over the net are allowed as long as shoulders are square to the net and the set is clean.
  • All net touches will result in the loss of a point.
  • No open-hand tips are allowed. The first contact cannot be with an open hand unless it is to receive a hard-driven ball.
  • All other regular outdoor volleyball rules apply.

What Makes Volleyball Shoes Different?

Volleyball shoes are made with a gummy rubber sole material. The rubber is engineered to supply a good amount of traction on the gym floor and to keep the shoe from sliding on the floor.

This keeps the footing solid and prevents injury as well as not marking up the floor. The midsole is made to support the ball of the foot. A volleyball shoe’s purpose is to deliver stability for lateral movements.

Volleyball Shoes Vs. Basketball Shoes

Basketball shoes are made with the purpose of running forward. Volleyball shoes are for more lateral movements. These motions put a good deal of stress on the balls of the feet and the rubbery midsole absorbs the majority of the shock. Because of these stresses, the midsole must be extremely strong while staying flexible.

Can You Wear Basketball Shoes For Volleyball?

They are two very different sports that need different shoes. Basketball shoes are known to be made with thick and leathery materials. This sort of structure limits the flexibility of the shoe for a volleyball player. The soles and cushioning are both made differently to suit the sort of movements done in these sports.

Can You Wear Running Shoes For Volleyball?

Sure, if you’re fine with staying in beginner mode. They don’t really have the traction for indoor gyms. Volleyball shoes need to be adequately cushioned and lateral support. Running shoes are made to have a front to back support rather than lateral movement. Thus, wearing them for volleyball can result in a player being more prone to injury to the feet, ankles, and knees.

Can You Wear Volleyball Shoes Outside?

It is not a good idea. Wearing them outside can wear down the grip. Many volleyball shoes are built with the purpose of giving the wearer advantage on indoor surfaces. A good deal of this can be taken away when they are worn outside or on concrete.

How Do You Break In New Volleyball Shoes?

Wearing your new shoes for about two or three hours at a time twice a day will very likely help. It shouldn’t take very much longer than a week.

How Should Volleyball Shoes Fit?

A volleyball shoe must be able to move along with a player’s foot. In order to do this, the shoe must fit snugly, with the foot not moving around at all inside. A helpful hint for trying on shoes is to get a finger width or less between the end of the shoe and the toes.

Conclusion

Grass volleyball is not the typical type of volleyball. Usually, it’s played at P.E. in an indoor gymnasium on rainy days or when the coach has a hangover. Volleyball also has a reputation as a beachside activity.

Grass volleyball is the sport for those who want the beach experience without the sand getting everywhere. The grass is a bit slicker than sand so that requires different footwear. At least one pair on this list is sure to be the kind right for you.

References:

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volleyball
  • https://www.volleyballcorner.com/footwear
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YG9sTlrKzE
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TaPgvbGjR-k
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogzcEKVIUac
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGJlO4RLn9w
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TJCTRvVyZQw
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EGOHut_uy0
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-C1yWHLPbU
  • https://www.quora.com/Can-I-use-running-shoes-for-volleyball
  • http://www.rallysocialsports.com/pages/grassvolleyballtournamentrules
  • https://www.reddit.com/r/volleyball/comments/624gsx/indoor_vs_grass
  • https://www.volley-pedia.com/post/can-you-wear-volleyball-shoes-outside
  • https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20080701104626AA0jsH2
  • https://www.realvolleyball.com/blog/volleyball-shoes-are-more-than-just-shoes
  • https://www.strength-and-power-for-volleyball.com/beach-volleyball-rules.html
  • https://www.mcall.com/sports/mc-grass-volleyball-story-0810-20150811-story.html
  • https://www.reddit.com/r/volleyball/comments/623z7s/training_shoes_vs_running_shoes
  • https://www.unlv.edu/sites/default/files/page_files/27/CampusRec_GrassVolleyballRules.pdf
  • http://files.leagueathletics.com/Images/Club/10789/Grass_VB_Rules_Stratman%20Sports.pdf
  • https://www.underdogportland.com/document/229/download/USL-Grass-Volleyball-Rules.pdf
  • https://live-bloginsider.mizunousa.com/blog/theinsider/2018/12/06/serving-truth-volleyball-shoes
  • https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/volleyball-introduction-invention-day-959863-2017-02-09
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