5 Best Grass Volleyball Shoes

It’s a sunny day, a gentle breeze in the air, and you are ready to hit the grass volleyball court.

But hold on!

What shoes would you wear on a grass surface to excel like an indoor volleyball court?

That’s the puzzle I am going to solve here.

Let’s get one thing straight: you won’t find shoes labeled explicitly as “grass volleyball.”

You would not easily find that in your favorite retail or online stores.

Now, I know your frustration.

But don’t worry!

I am here to guide you in this quest for the best grass volleyball shoes.

Also, I will share the top picks that will improve your overall performance on the grass.

These shoes have been handpicked with care and consideration to help you make an informed choice.

So, if you’re a seasoned player or just starting your grass volleyball journey, my list is your roadmap to finding the perfect pair.

What types of Shoes are Suitable for Grass Volleyball?

You might have noticed that I haven’t specifically mentioned volleyball-specific shoes in my list of recommendations above.

That’s because when it comes to playing on grass, two types of shoes can work like magic:

1. Turf Shoes
2. Trail Runners.

I’ll provide brief insights on each type, making it easier to choose your favorite shoes.

The turf shoes (or cleats) are typically baseball shoes, but we choose them for grass volleyball for a reason.

They perfectly balance stability and traction, offering exceptional grip and lockdown.

Regarding ankle support, turf shoes may not match the dedicated features of volleyball-specific footwear.

Cushioning?

Well, it’s not their strength, but that’s not a deal-breaker on the grass. 

On the bright side, many grass volleyball fans love trail runners for their fantastic grip.

They might not be the best choice for quick movements and side-to-side stability, which are crucial in volleyball.

But they have a solid reputation and are famous for lengthy volleyball matches on grass surfaces.

Here’s a bonus: If you go for trail runners with extra grip and a midfoot TPU shank, they’ll give you better stability on uneven ground.

They can even help you with the prevention of foot and ankle injuries.

So, trail runners are a smart pick for your volleyball game, just like turf shoes.

Interestingly, some people like to play barefoot on the grass in volleyball.

But this can lead to slipping, especially on uneven surfaces.

That’s why when you invest in the shoes I mentioned, you’re boosting your confidence and getting that much-needed grip!

Comprehensive Reviews of Grass Volleyball Shoes

1) Best Overall: WHITIN Cross-Trainer

The WHITIN Cross Trainer is my top pick for grass volleyball shoes.

I am a big fan of its brown/gum color variant, which adds a rugged touch to the look.

These are advertised as barefoot shoes and live up to the claim.

With their minimalistic design and lightweight feel, it’s like not wearing shoes at all.

They fit snugly, providing excellent comfort.

You need durable shoes with maximum grip on the uneven grass court, and the WHITIN delivers.

I am 100% sure you won’t be disappointed with its grip and traction.

In terms of pricing, it offers excellent value.

You can acquire these shoes at an expectively cheaper price than many other grass volleyball shoe options.

This affordability doesn’t compromise the quality or performance they deliver on the grass court. 

The outsole features geometric patterns with thick treads, ensuring the grip you need.

These shoes also stand out because they’re gentle on your feet, thanks to their high-quality sole.

The wide toe box is a definite plus for volleyball players with wider feet.

In short, I’m delighted with the WHITIN Cross Trainer for grass volleyball and would recommend it without hesitation.

They are notably better than other minimalist shoes in terms of foot comfort and protection.

2) Runner Up: Salomon Speedcross 5

The Solomon Speedcross 5 trail runner shoes have secured the #2 position in my recommended list of grass volleyball shoes.

They are the game-changers on the grass court.

One of the standout features is the 5-millimeter lugs on the sole.

These bad boys provide an exceptional grip crucial for those quick moves and sudden changes in direction while playing volleyball.

You won’t find yourself slipping and sliding with these on your feet.

The lace lock technology is a brilliant addition.

It lets you snug your shoes just right, ensuring a secure fit.

You’ll feel confident knowing your shoes won’t come loose during the game.

Have you ever had the problem of grass, sand, or dirt sneaking into your shoes during a match?

The extra debris shield beneath the laces is your solution.

It’s like a protective barrier, keeping your shoes clean and your focus on the game.

The cushioning in these shoes is remarkable.

It’s not just about comfort but about impact protection.

When jumping and landing during a game, you’ll love the cushioning that eases the impact on your feet and joints.

These shoes have an aggressive design to withstand the demands of grass volleyball.

Yet, they won’t weigh you down.

At just 320 grams, they’re incredibly lightweight, allowing you to move swiftly and effortlessly on the court.

3) Budget-Friendly: WHITIN Minimalist Trail Runner

The WHITIN Trail Runner stands as the budget-friendly option in my recommended list.

Despite its price, it packs some impressive features that make it ideal for grass volleyball.

One standout feature is the removable sock liner (insole).

If you prefer a more barefoot experience, you can easily remove it.

But if you love that extra cushioning or padding like me, just keep it in place.

I am also impressed with the rubber sole of WHITIN Trail Runner.

It offers superb protection while ensuring you still get the essential ground feedback during your game.

One fantastic design feature of this shoe is that it includes a velcro strap alongside the laces, providing extra fitting options.

Your shoes will stay securely in place no matter how intense the match gets.

The lug pattern on the outsole provides excellent traction and helps you make those agile moves without slipping.

The breathable upper keeps your feet cool, which is crucial when you are giving it your all during grass volleyball matches.

Lastly, the knit upper of the shoe allows some stretching, giving your toes room to move without worrying about shoes slipping off.

4) Best Design: Boombah Dart Digi Camo Turf Shoes

The Boombah Dart Digi Camo Turf Shoes have an outclass design, showcasing that rugged and tough look you want from outdoor footwear. 

With multiple colors and sizes available, my favorite one is royal blue.

The upper of these shoes features water-resistant qualities.

It means you can continue playing even when the skies decide to open up.

Rain won’t be a game-stopper, and that’s a big win for any dedicated player.

The Boombah Dart Digi Camo is exceptionally lightweight and only measures 11.25 ounces.

Whether making quick moves or serving with precision, the lightweight build will keep you agile.

One of the standout attributes of these turf shoes is their exceptional traction.

They excel at keeping you steady on the grass court.

I’m genuinely impressed by the grip they provide, making me a fan of their performance on the grass court.

On a side note, the Salomon Speedcross 5 is still my top pick if you want added cushioning.

This choice is because the Boombah Dart Turf Shoes emphasize a lightweight design over cushioning.

5) Worth Considering: New Balance Fuel Cell T4040V6

The New Balance Fuel Cell T4040V6 is a shoe you should definitely think about getting for your grass volleyball games.

First up, these shoes are made of solid and stretchy materials.

This means your NB Fuel Cell will fit like a glove and resist tearing.

The ankle area has a lot of cushioning, which is great because it keeps your ankle safe and snug.

You won’t have to worry about rolling an ankle during those intense games.

What about comfort?

This shoe has got you covered.

There’s a foam pad you can take in and out to make your feet feel even better.

The Fuel Cell foam in the shoe gives you a quick and bouncy feel, making you move faster on the field.

Now, about the metal pieces on the bottom of the shoe

The New Balance Fuel Cell T4040V6 gives you an excellent grip on the grass.

Whether you’re darting side-to-side or jumping, you’ll feel super stable.

The top part of the shoe is connected to the tongue, making it feel like a sock.

Pretty cool, right?

All in all, these shoes are rugged and comfortable, and they’ll last a long time.

What Should You Look For When Buying Grass Volleyball Shoes?

When choosing the volleyball shoes, consider these four key factors for an outstanding performance on the grass court.

1) Sole Design & Traction

When hunting for turf shoes or trail runners, you’ll notice they often have a rugged, sturdy look.

Here’s a golden rule:

Pick shoes with small studs or spikes on the sole, which grant you outstanding traction on the grass.

It means you can easily do swift movements, make precise cuts, and dig confidently.

Your grip on the grass is like your steering wheel, giving you control over every move and play.

Enhanced traction ensures you make the right moves, whether a quick dash or a sudden stop.

Moreover, the grass court can be uneven, and that’s where ankle injuries occur.

Shoes with excellent grip keep you from slipping and safeguard you from those nasty ankle twists.

Grip loss?

Not when you’ve got the right grass volleyball shoes.

2) Cushioning

Comfort can be your best friend on the grass court. 

Shoes with well-cushioned insoles and midsoles do a great job of protecting your feet from hard impacts.

They ensure a soft landing when making those vertical jumps and scoring aces.

But that’s not all.

Cushioning also helps reduce the strain on your feet and lowers the risk of injuries, especially during intense plays.

Also, the grass surface is sometimes more rigid than the usual indoor volleyball court.

In such cases, cushioning becomes your ultimate safeguard, ensuring you stay agile and well-protected.

3) Breathability

When you’re out on the grass court, breathability plays a more prominent role than indoor games. 

The sun shines brightly, and you’ll start to sweat.

That’s where your choice of shoes can make a real difference.

Always go for grass volleyball shoes crafted from breathable materials and with strategic mesh panels.

Why is this essential?

It’s because they keep your feet cool and dry, even when the game intensifies under the sun. 

The breathable shoes will act like natural air-conditioning for your feet.

They also help you avoid that unpleasant issue of nasty foot odor. 

With well-ventilated shoes, you’ll maintain a fresh and focused performance on the grass court, regardless of the weather conditions.

Your feet will thank you for it, especially when the sun shines its brightest.

4) Durability

On the grass volleyball court, your shoes must be rugged and reliable. 

That’s where turf shoes and trail runners shine.

Their built quality and material tackle the challenges of the outdoors and can endure harsh playing conditions of the grass.

With these reliable options, you’re always ready for action, game after game. 

In fact, they often outlast traditional volleyball-specific shoes, proving their durability on the field.

Can You Wear Indoor Court Shoes For Grass Volleyball?

Wearing indoor court shoes for grass volleyball mainly depends on the surface you play on.

If you’re playing on a well-maintained grass court or a turf surface, volleyball-specific shoes may work reasonably well, as the playing conditions are smoother.

However, they might not be the best choice on slippery or uneven grass surfaces. 

Playing under such conditions can be risky, as these shoes may lack traction and support.

Turf shoes and trail runners have robust materials and innovative designs.

These shoes can tackle unpredictable and harsh conditions of grass play.

If you still want to wear indoor shoes, choose the ones that are low to the ground.

The reason is that the high-top or mid-top shoes have relatively less stability for uneven surfaces.

In summary, turf shoes and trail runners are solid choices for the safest and most effective grass volleyball experience. 

Benefits Of Wearing Shoes For Grass Volleyball

Wearing the right shoes for grass volleyball offers several advantages, enhancing performance and safety.

However, I know there’s an ongoing debate among players about whether shoes are essential or if playing barefoot is the way to go.

So, let me discuss some of the advantages of wearing turf or trail runner shoes on a grass court to understand their benefits better.