Netball is a fast-paced sport that involves quick changes of direction, sudden stops, jumping, and lateral movements. Wearing the right netball-specific shoes is crucial for players of all levels – from beginners to elite athletes – to stay safe and perform their best. Proper netball footwear helps prevent common injuries, enhances on-court performance, provides comfort and support for extended play, offers better durability (saving money over time), and ensures you have the right grip for indoor or outdoor courts. Below, we break down these benefits and why investing in quality netball shoes is a smart choice for players and even parents shopping for their kids.
SB Netball below takes a step to analysing what is best for you, or your kids, no matter what level you are at. Also, if you live in the Northern Rivers of NSW, the Gold Coast, or Brisbane you can book your netball coaching sessions here.
Injury Prevention
Netball puts significant stress on the lower limbs, so injury prevention is a top priority. Wearing proper netball shoes can greatly reduce the risk of common injuries by providing the support and stability that general runners or trainers lack. Here are some frequent netball injuries and how the right shoes help prevent them:
Ankle Sprains
Ankle rolling is one of the most common netball injuries, often caused by sudden twists or landings. Netball shoes are built with lateral stability features – like wider, flatter soles with rounded edges – to keep your foot from tipping over on sharp cuts. This design makes it harder to land on the shoe’s edge (a problem with flared-edge running shoes) and helps prevent inversion sprains. Simply put, a good netball shoe braces your ankle during side-to-side movements, reducing the chance of a sprain. In fact, wearing supportive footwear is a key strategy podiatrists recommend to avoid ankle injuries on the court.
Shin Splints
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome) cause pain along the front of the lower leg, often from repetitive impact on hard surfaces. Netball shoes help by offering superior cushioning and support under the foot to absorb shock. This extra padding reduces stress on the shins during running and jumping, lowering the risk of shin splints. In contrast, playing in shoes with insufficient cushioning (or in worn-out shoes) can contribute to this overuse injury. Proper footwear with adequate shock absorption is therefore an important preventative measure.
Knee Injuries
Netball involves plenty of jumping, pivoting, and sudden stops, which can strain the knees. Specialized netball shoes come with features like shock-absorbing midsoles and sturdy uppers that help stabilize the foot upon landing. This means less jarring force travels up to your knees with each jump or hard stop. Good shoes also have strong arch support and heel stability to keep your knee aligned over your foot, which is crucial in preventing issues like patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee). Additionally, a grippy outsole prevents your feet from slipping out on court, reducing awkward movements that could twist a knee. Overall, wearing shoes with proper support and traction can help protect you from knee pain and serious injuries (like ACL tears) that might occur if your foot slides or your shoe doesn’t support a safe landing.
Note for Parents and Juniors
Children’s developing feet need appropriate support to avoid injuries. Many kids play in regular sneakers, but those often use cheaper materials and provide little stability. Investing in a proper pair of netball shoes for young players can protect them from ankle twists and knee strain as they learn the game. It sets a good foundation for injury-free play as they grow.
Performance Enhancement (Agility, Speed, Balance)
Lower heel drop and pivot points for quick direction changes and smooth rotation.
High-grip outsoles with sport-specific tread patterns for acceleration and stopping.
Broader base with reinforced sides supports lateral movements and prevents wobbling.
Rigid soles resist twisting to convert energy into movement rather than shoe deformation.
Beyond injury prevention, the right shoes can significantly improve your performance on the court. Netball-specific footwear is engineered to handle the sport’s high-intensity, multi-directional demands, which helps players move more efficiently and confidently. Here’s how proper shoes boost your agility, speed, balance, and overall movement:
Quick Direction Changes & Agility
Netball requires rapid side-to-side movements, pivots, and sudden stops. Netball shoes facilitate this with features like a lower heel-to-toe drop and a stiffer forefoot, which keep you balanced and stable during fast direction changes. The shoes often include a pivot point on the sole (usually under the ball of the foot) to aid smooth rotation when you pivot, allowing you to turn swiftly without your shoe catching on the floor. All these design elements mean you can cut, dodge, and change directions with speed and control, which is vital for outmanoeuvring opponents.
Traction for Speed & Stops
A high-traction outsole gives you the grip to explosively accelerate for interceptions and to stop on a dime without sliding. Netball shoes use grippy rubber compounds and tread patterns optimized for court surfaces, preventing the slips that could slow you down. By keeping your footing secure, you can transfer power into each stride or leap more effectively. This reliable grip lets players push off faster for sprints and safely brake when needed, enhancing both speed and safety. In short, you can play at full throttle knowing your shoes will hold the court.
Balance & Stability
Good netball shoes keep you grounded and improve balance during play. They often have a broader, more stable base and reinforced sides to support the foot during lateral moves. This stability prevents wobbling or tipping over when you land from a jump or stretch for a pass. Many netball shoes also have a snug, “locked-in” fit that stops your foot from sliding inside the shoe. Together, these features give you a confident sense of footing. Whether you’re a beginner still developing coordination or an experienced player executing complex footwork, a stable shoe platform helps maintain control and balance through every play.
Efficient Energy Transfer
Because netball shoes are designed not to bend or give out under lateral pressure, they help convert your energy into movement rather than losing it to shoe deformation. The soles are typically more rigid than running shoes to resist twisting, which means when you push off to jump or sprint, the shoe responds immediately. Some models even use responsive foams that return energy with each step or jump. The result is better movement efficiency – you expend less energy stabilizing your feet and more on actual performance. Over a full game or training session, this can reduce fatigue and improve your consistency on court.
In summary, wearing proper netball shoes equips you to move better. From quick footwork drills in practice to high-pressure game moments, the right footwear enhances your agility, speed, and balance, giving you a performance edge while also keeping you safe.
Comfort and Support for Prolonged Play
Netball matches and training sessions can be long and demanding, so comfort is key – and that starts with the right shoes. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can cause blisters, foot pain, or general fatigue, which detracts from both enjoyment and performance. Netball shoes are designed with comfort and foot support in mind, allowing players (especially beginners who are still getting used to the sport, and kids whose feet are growing) to play longer and more comfortably.
Proper Fit
Netball shoes generally offer a secure, glove-like fit to keep your foot in place without chafing. A good fit prevents your foot from sliding forward or sideways inside the shoe during quick stops and turns. This reduces the risk of blisters and bruised toenails that can come from excess movement inside the shoe. Many netball shoe brands also offer a range of widths or lacing techniques to fine-tune the fit. For any player – and particularly juniors – taking the time to get a proper fitting shoe means better comfort on court and fewer foot problems.
Cushioning
Unlike casual trainers, netball shoes come with enhanced cushioning systems (e.g. proprietary foams or gels) that are strategically placed to absorb impact in high-stress areas of the foot. Every jump and hard landing in netball generates force that travels up through your feet and legs. Quality shoes soften this impact, which not only protects your joints but also makes each landing feel softer and less jarring. This cushioning is important for comfort over a full game; it helps delay fatigue in your feet and legs by reducing the pounding they take on the court. Players with previous foot or heel pain (like plantar fasciitis) especially benefit from the superior shock absorption of netball shoes, as it can alleviate stress on the arch and heel with each step.
Arch and Ankle Support
Netball-specific footwear is built to support the foot’s anatomy during intense play. They often include features like midfoot support bridges or firmer midsole materials to bolster the arch, as well as robust heel counters to secure the rearfoot. Good arch support in a shoe helps maintain proper alignment of the foot, which can prevent arch collapse and overpronation during play – factors that can lead to pain or injuries over time. The ankles are also supported by the shoe’s design; some netball shoes even come in mid-cut versions to provide extra ankle support for those who need it. Even low-cut models prioritize stability in the heel and midsole to keep the ankle from excessive rolling. This means players (young and old) can dart around the court with confidence that their shoes are supporting their feet properly. For example, a shoe like the ASICS Netburner Shield is noted for its excellent arch and ankle support, which in turn helps reduce injury risk and foot fatigue.
Breathability and Comfort Features
Many modern netball shoes use breathable mesh uppers and moisture-wicking linings to keep your feet cooler and drier during play. While support and cushioning are crucial, it’s also important that feet don’t overheat – especially in a fast game or in warm indoor venues. Breathable materials and ventilation zones in the shoe help prevent excessive sweating, which improves comfort and can reduce blistering. Some models also have padded collars and tongues to cushion the top of the foot. All these details contribute to an overall comfortable experience, meaning you can focus on the game, not your aching feet.
Tip
Even the best shoe won’t be comfortable if it’s the wrong size or shape for your foot. Always ensure you have the correct size and a bit of wiggle room for your toes. When trying on netball shoes, wear the same socks you’d use in a game and walk or jog a bit to feel for any rubbing. A well-chosen shoe will feel secure and comfy right away or after a brief break-in, allowing you to play for extended periods without discomfort.
Durability and Cost-Effectiveness
Quality netball shoes are designed specifically to handle the sport's lateral movements and abrasive court surfaces. While they may cost more upfront than generic running shoes, their extended durability means fewer replacements, saving money over a full season while also reducing injury risk.
Quality netball shoes are an investment up front, but they tend to be more economical in the long run due to their durability. The sport’s quick lateral movements and abrasive courts can destroy ordinary shoes quickly, whereas netball shoes are built to take this beating. Here’s why spending a bit more on the right shoe can save you money (and hassle) over time:
Built to Last
Netball footwear uses durable materials in both the upper and outsole. The uppers often have reinforced stitching, supportive overlays (even the logos and graphics can add structure), and tougher fabrics that resist stretching or tearing during sideways movements. The soles are typically made of high-abrasion rubber compounds and may even wrap up the sides of the shoe to prevent early wear from all that pivoting and dragging on court. For example, ASICS uses special hard-wearing rubber (like AHAR+) in their netball trainers, and Mizuno designs its netball shoe rubber to be extra durable for outdoor use while still gripping well indoors. These quality materials mean netball shoes can withstand the sport’s punishment far better than standard running shoes, which might start falling apart under lateral stress.
Long-Term Value
Because of their enhanced durability, a good pair of netball shoes won’t need to be replaced as frequently. Many players find that netball shoes last significantly longer than regular sneakers when used on the court. In fact, one netball specialist notes that netball trainers can last several times longer than running shoes, especially when comparing to cheaper running models. This longevity translates into cost savings – even if a netball shoe costs more upfront, not having to buy multiple pairs of ruined running shoes during the season saves money over time. High-quality netball shoes are designed to endure an entire season of weekly trainings and matches (or more), making them a smart economic choice for regular players. As one guide put it, “it really is an investment” – you’re paying for the research, technology, and materials that not only improve performance but also ensure the shoe holds up for the long haul.
Avoiding Injury Costs
Another aspect of cost-effectiveness is that durable, supportive shoes can help you avoid injuries – and thus potential medical or rehabilitation costs. An ankle sprain or knee injury can sideline you (or your child) and possibly require physio or braces. By using proper shoes that lower injury risk, you’re indirectly saving the costs that come with those injuries. In this sense, investing in good shoes is investing in your health and continuity in the sport. It’s always cheaper to prevent an injury than to treat one.
Versatility
If you’re on a tight budget and can only afford one pair of athletic shoes, choosing netball shoes gives you a versatile option. Netball shoes are not only great for netball; their support and durability make them suitable for other court sports (like basketball or volleyball), gym workouts, and general sports activities as well. They even provide enough cushioning for the occasional light run. So for parents buying shoes for their children, a netball shoe can double as a sturdy school sports shoe. Rather than buying a pair of running shoes and then finding they don’t hold up for netball, it can be more economical to buy the netball shoes upfront and use them across activities. Just remember: once the tread is worn out (you’ll notice less grip or visible smoothing of the sole), it’s time to replace them to ensure continued safety and performance.
In essence, quality netball shoes, while initially pricey, pay off by lasting longer and maintaining their supportive structure. You’ll likely spend less replacing shoes, and you’ll have the peace of mind that your footwear can handle the intensity of the sport week after week.
Surface Suitability: Indoor vs Outdoor Courts
Many modern netball shoes are designed with versatile outsoles that perform well on both indoor and outdoor courts. These "all-court" shoes typically feature:
- Medium-depth tread patterns that balance grip and durability
- Harder rubber compounds than indoor-specific shoes, but with pivot points
- Reinforced side walls for durability with enough flat surface area for indoor grip
Choose an all-court shoe if you regularly play on different surfaces or aren't sure where you'll be playing most often.
Netball is played on a variety of surfaces – indoor courts (often polished wood or synthetic floors) and outdoor courts (such as asphalt, concrete, or textured synthetic surfaces). The right shoes will have sole designs and traction patterns tailored to these conditions, which is important for everyone from beginners to competitive athletes. Proper traction means better performance and fewer slips, while a mismatched shoe and surface can affect durability and safety. Here’s how netball shoes address different surfaces:
Indoor Courts
Indoor netball (or sports like indoor basketball/netball) typically use smooth, polished floors that require a specific type of grip. Netball shoes meant for indoor use generally have a non-marking rubber outsole that’s relatively flat with specialized tread. Often, you’ll see circular pivot zones or a herringbone pattern under the forefoot – these provide a suction-like grip on the smooth floor and assist with pivots. The rubber compound for indoor shoes is slightly softer to maximize stickiness on the court, giving you confidence in cuts and sprints without sliding. This soft, grippy rubber helps players of all levels keep their footing, which is crucial for swift, stable movements. However, using these soft indoor-specific shoes on abrasive outdoor surfaces can wear them down quickly, which is why they are best kept indoors. If you primarily play indoor netball, look for shoes marketed for indoor or all-court use, with features like a flatter tread and pivot point that facilitate quick moves on indoor courts.
Outdoor Courts
Outdoor netball courts (often asphalt or concrete) are rougher and can be slippery when dusty or wet, so the shoe requirements differ. Outsoles for outdoor play are made of tougher, high-abrasion rubber to withstand the coarse surface. The tread on outdoor-capable netball shoes is usually more pronounced (larger grooves or patterns) to bite into uneven or dirty surfaces and channel away debris or water. You might see a deeper herringbone pattern or added textured sections for grip. These design elements provide reliable traction outdoors, preventing the slipping accidents that can happen if your soles are worn or not suited to the surface. Outdoor shoes prioritize durability as well – the harder rubber won’t wear out as fast on rough ground, and many are also made to be non-marking in case you bring them onto an indoor court. If you mostly play on outdoor courts (like many social or school competitions), it’s wise to choose a netball shoe known for a durable outsole. Some shoes, like certain Mizuno or ASICS models, explicitly mention using enhanced rubber that performs well on outdoor courts.
All-Court Versatility
Many modern netball shoes are designed to handle both indoor and outdoor conditions to some extent, which is helpful if you play in mixed environments. These “all-court” shoes use a blend of the above features – durable rubber with a tread pattern that offers a compromise of grip and longevity on various surfaces. For example, a shoe might use a durable rubber compound (so it doesn’t wear down outside) but still feature a pivot point and sufficient flat surface area to grip indoor courts. If you split time between indoor and outdoor or are unsure of the surface, an all-court netball shoe gives you flexibility. Keep in mind that there might be slight performance sacrifices (an all-court shoe may feel a bit stiffer on indoor floors than a dedicated indoor shoe), but it saves you from needing separate shoes for each surface.
Traction Balance
It’s worth noting that while grip is good, too much grip can sometimes be an issue. Netball shoe designers aim for an optimal balance. If a shoe’s traction is too sticky on an indoor court, it could potentially make your foot “stick” and cause your knee to twist (in extreme cases contributing to ACL injuries). That’s why netball soles allow just enough slide for safety in certain situations – a slight give can be better than a hard stop that strains the joints. On outdoor courts, maintaining tread depth is important; a heavily worn outsole on asphalt, especially in wet conditions, can lead to slipping. Always check your shoe’s tread and replace the shoes once the grip pattern is worn flat to ensure you always have the traction you need for the surface you play on.
In summary, match your netball shoes to the surface: stick with the grippy, non-marking soles for indoor play, and ensure you have tougher outsoles with deeper tread for outdoor play. If you’re a parent buying for a child, consider where they play most – school courts are often outdoor, so durability and grip are key. Competitive indoor players should ensure their shoes have that reliable indoor traction. Fortunately, many high-quality netball shoes will clearly state if they are suitable for outdoor use or if they’re all-court, helping you make the right choice. With the correct shoes, you’ll have sure-footed confidence whether you’re on a polished gym floor or the local outdoor court.
Sources
- ASICS Australia – Netball Shoes Buying Guide 2025
- Blackwood Podiatry – Common Netball Injuries and Prevention
- Blueprint Podiatry – Netball Shoes vs Running Shoes – Key Differences
- Netball UK – Netball’s Sole Obsession (Why Netball Shoes Matter)
- NetballSmart (Netball New Zealand) – Why Netball Shoes Help
- Mizuno NZ – Netball Shoes vs Running Shoes (MakeTheSwap)
- Highett Podiatry – A Podiatrist’s Guide to Netball Shoes
- Sportitude – How to Buy the Best Netball Shoes to Improve Your Skills
- Sydney Sports Medicine Centre – Which Netball Shoe is Right for Me?
- Rackets & Runners – Indoor vs. Outdoor Court Shoes (Traction Patterns)