The Best Badminton Shoes in 2020

​Every badminton player understands the anxiousness experienced when an opponent smashes a shuttle over their head and the only hope for a return is a quick leap in the direction of the shuttle. Never will you appreciate a pair of good badminton shoes more than in a moment like this one.Badminton is a highly competitive sport that not only requires precision and skill from players but also demands speed and agility.

 Badminton players must be able to change directions immediately and cover all four corners of the court in a matter of seconds. This task is a lot easier when a player is wearing a good pair of badminton shoes.

Our Top Rated Badminton Shoes for 2020

#1st Rated
Yonex SC-5 MX Badminton Shoes

Yonex SHB-SC5 MX Badminton Shoes

#2nd Rated
ASICS Women's Gel Upcourt Volleyball Shoe

ASICS Women's Gel Upcourt

#3rd Rated
adidas Performance Men's Ligra 4 Volleyball Shoe

Adidas Performance Men's Ligra 4

1. Yonex SHB-SC5 MX Badminton Shoes - Top Pick for 2020

​The Yonex SHB-SC5 MX provides badminton players with enough cushion to guarantee both comfort and protection for the ankle and feet. This badminton shoe is also built to provide players with as much stability as possible.


The midsole of the Yonex SHB-SC5 MX badminton shoe is designed with T.P.U. technology and a power cushion by Tough Bird. The shoe sports Hexagrip natural rubber on its outsole. The Hexagrip outsole provides badminton players with the ability to grip the court with their shoes while lunging and jumping for the shuttle.


Hexagrip also provides the player with the feeling of light and easy movements on the court and allows for swift manoeuvring.Many badminton players applaud the Yonex SHB-SC5 MX badminton shoe for the extreme comfortability the shoe provides at a relatively inexpensive price.

Many badminton players applaud the Yonex SHB-SC5 MX badminton shoe for the extreme comfort-ability the shoe provides at a relatively inexpensive price.

Pros

  • TPU midsole provides extra support. 
  • Extra cushioning provided by ToughBird technology.
  • A super comfortable shoe that is designed for attractiveness.
  • Ventilation provided by polyester mesh and U. leather.
  • Hexagram outsole provides great traction and absorbs the impact that would otherwise affect feet and ankles.

Cons

  • The Yonex SHB-SC5 MX badminton shoe has limited size options.

2. ASICS Women's Gel Upcourt

​The ASICS Women's Gel Upcourt possesses a unique design scheme that is accentuated by a simple combination of colours. Users of the shoe will readily attest to the fact that the simple design is no way indicative of the shoe's performance prowess.


You may not jump for joy in response to the shoe's aesthetics once you unwrap it, but you will know you made a good choice in the ASICs Women's Gel Upcourt as soon as you step on the court with these shoes on your feet.The ultra-thin sole of the shoe provides users with a great centre of gravity and reduces the chances of injury without sacrificing comfort and stability.


An amazing feature of this shoe is that you will notice very little wear and tear despite using them regularly to compete in badminton matches. However, you may find yourself needing to wash the sleek and simple shoe a little more than some other badminton shoes due to the white material it possesses.

The inner sole cushioning of the shoe provides the wearer with a plush and comfortable feel while absorbing the impact of the jumps and sudden movements necessary to enjoy badminton games.


The ASICS Women's Gel Upcourt is available at a decent price and is a great performance booster for badminton players of all skill and experience levels.

Pros

  • Made with the highest quality imported material. 
  • Synthetic material.
  • Extra cushion.
  • Gum rubber outsole over rubber sole

Cons

  • Basic look and appearance.
  • Extra care is necessary for white material.

3. Adidas Performance Men's Ligra 4 

​The sporting equipment produced by Adidas receives the same worldwide recognition as other products made by the company.The Ligra 4 badminton shoe is constructed with the highest quality standards and will provide a boost to the play of badminton players.


Many users of the Ligra 4 shoe believe it is one of the best badminton shoes available for male badminton players.The rubber material used to make the sole of the Ligra 4 shoe provides great traction and prevents players from sliding on the court when they attempt to execute sudden stops and changes of direction.


The inspiration for the shoe design came from watching the aggressive moves made by badminton players while competing in the sport. The Ligra 4 badminton shoe costs a little more than some other shoes but is more durable and can withstand the rigours of badminton play for extended periods of time.


The impressive on-court performance provided to users of the Ligra 4 badminton shoe is indicative of the quality expected of equipment that bears the Adidas logo.

Pros

  • Grip enhanced by the rubber outsole.  
  • Breathable mesh.
  • Lightweight
  • Durable and stable overlays.

Cons

  • Sometimes difficult to find the perfect size.
  • Costs a little more than similar shoes.

4. Babolat Shadow Spirit Badminton Shoes

​Badminton players who value comfort need to look no further than the Babolat Shadow Spirit badminton shoe. The Babolat Shadow Spirit possesses a thin cast that feels feather like as it wraps around the feet of the wearer.


Elastic wraps inside the shoe enhance the snug feel of the shoe and increase the likelihood of a perfect fit.The stability and grip provided by the Babolat Shadow Spirit increase the player's ability to jump and lunge during badminton play.


Many players report receiving this benefit from the Babolat Shadow Spirit without the need to lace the shoes very tightly.


There are no doubt badminton players will experience a noticeable increase in their level of performance when using the Babolat Shadow Spirit shoe for badminton play.

Pros

  • Lightweight.  
  • A comfortable shoe that provides excellent ventilation.
  • Facilitates fast-paced gameplay.
  • Reasonable price.

Cons

  • Less cushion than some other shoes.

5. Limited Edition Yonex Men’s Power Cushion SHB-02 LTD 

​The Yonex Men's limited is a customised shoe that provides the wearer with a number of premium features. The asymmetrical fit of the shoe provides wearers with the stability and support to exhibit great footwork during a badminton game.


The upper portion of the shoe is made with polyurethane leather for maximum durability and mesh sides make ventilation available to the feet.The extra layer of high-quality skin on top of the shoe provides the Yonex Men's limited with a unique appearance that makes the wearer stand out in any crowd of badminton players.


The ergo shape of the shoe provides wearers with increased speed and more precise footwork for improved on-court performance.

Pros

  • The limited-edition provides the wearer with a unique status. 
  • Affordable price.
  • Imported material.
  • Great combination of durability, weight, and comfort.

Cons

  • The Yonex Men's limited edition badminton shoe presents no significant drawbacks for wearers.

6. Adidas Performance Men’s Barricade Club

​Durability and affordability are the main benefits of the Men's Barricade Club badminton shoe by Adidas. The shoe is bulkier and weighs a little more than some other options but still falls within guidelines recommended for competitive badminton play.


The Men's Barricade Club badminton shoe is available in a number of bright colours that include orange, blue, and neon. The rubber sole of the shoe absorbs a great deal of the impact on your feet and ankles that come from badminton play and the mesh material present keeps the feet ventilated and dry.

Badminton players who desire greater foot penetration can remove the insole of the Men's Barricade Club basketball shoe. This may increase the stability of the ankle to a point that players will have less flexibility, however.

Pros

  • Better grip and slide prevention provided by the rubber sole.
  • Increased ventilation provided by mesh material.
  • High-quality imported material.
  • The insole can be removed for a better fit.
  • Reasonable price.

Cons

  • Lacing method can be a little sophisticated for some players.

7. Puma Men’s Invicto Sala 

​The Invicto Sala from Puma is one of the most popular choices among shoes for badminton players. The shoe is constructed with leather and textile that causes it to feel elegant to the touch.


The Invicto Sala is a lightweight shoe option that laces in traditional fashion. The shoe also possesses small holes that help with ventilation to the feet. The sole of the shoe is made with rubber and provides players with enhanced stability despite the playing surface. The shoe's rubber toe increases the speed and agility that can be shown by players.


The combination of features provided by the Invicto Sala results in a high-performance shoe that provides maximum grip for badminton players making sudden movements.

Pros

  • Excellent grip.
  • A variety of colour options.
  • Great ventilation.
  • Puma design.

Cons

  • Not the best choice for badminton players with wide feet.

8. Men’s B. Elite L III Court Shoe by Diadora 

​Diadora possesses and old and respected reputation for manufacturing clothing, shoes, and accessories. The Elite L III badminton shoe is quite possibly the best offering from Diadora to date.


The shoe is a little more than 77 per cent leather with the rest of the shoe comprised of polyurethane. The result of the combination is a shoe that is tough and durable enough to withstand the many demands placed upon it by the game of badminton.


The Elite L III is designed to turn heads when a wearer steps onto the court and helps the feet stay cool and dry with breathable leather.

Pros

  • Comfort and ventilation.
  • Grip and stability.
  • Simple and stylish design.
  • A flat bottom that provides great traction.

Cons

  • Not much variety in colour options.

9. Yonex SHB01LTD Badminton Shoes

​If you have searched for a comfortable badminton shoe and have yet to find one, it may be time for you to try the Yonex SHB01LTD badminton shoe. Many players who trust in the Yonex SHB01LTD say it is the most comfortable, high-performing shoe available on the market.


The Yonex SHB01LTD does not provide as much ventilation as some other badminton shoes but users have reported any discomfort because of this. There have been reports of the shoe being a little rigid during the first year or two but the Yonex SHB01LTD will become more flexible after a few wears.


The Yonex SHB01LTD is outfitted with a dual sole. The bottom sole works to guard against slips and slides. The inner sole provides the player with better traction while jumping and lunging. The result is a badminton shoe that scores high marks for stability and grip.

Pros

  • Offers highest level of grip and stability.Built for comfort.
  • Built for comfort.
  • Durable and affordable.
  • Attractive design.

Cons

  • Less ventilation than other badminton shoes.

10. Mizuno Women’s Wave Lightning RX2 

​Mizuno badminton shoes have been recognized for the comfort they offer and the variety of styles made available to players. The Wave Lightning RX2 was designed with women in mind and makes use of Dynamotion Grove and Power to absorb the shock that is delivered to the ankles and feet while playing badminton.


The cushion system provided by the Mizuno Wave Lightning RX2 has received high praise from players and is reported to work as advertised. The shoe is outfitted with extra grade rubber along with a non-marking sole to provide the player with an extra level of traction.


The Wave Lightning RX2 uses Durashield to prevent your feet from dragging along the floor. This shoe is light in weight and provides more than enough ventilation to keep the feet of the player dry and cool throughout the competition.

Pros

  • Comfortable and durable lightweight shoe. 
  • Excellent traction and slide prevention.
  • Many colours and styles to choose from.
  • Can be used in volleyball and other sports.

Cons

  • Relatively high price compared to other badminton shoes.
  • Some players fill the shoes run a little small.

11. Head Men's Speed Pro Lite Indoor Low Shoe

The Head Men's badminton shoe has demonstrated the ability to enhance on-court performance for players without sacrificing comfort.The Speed Pro Lite shoe is heavily cushioned.


The shoe provides support for lateral movements and the grip it provides is beneficial to players.Lateral Control Technology is used to increase foot and ankle flexibility. This technology provides players with a nice and snug fit that provides for fast and agile badminton play.


The Head Men's Speed Pro Lite Indoor badminton shoe also scores high marks among players for impact absorption, traction, and stability.

Pros

  • Extreme comfort.
  • Good ventilation.
  • Great stability.
  • Great traction.

Cons

  • A little more expensive than other options.

12. Yonex PC SC-6 Badminton Shoes 

The PC SC-6 badminton shoe is a high-end shoe offered by Yonex. The shoe is made with top-notch materials like kuraster, put leather, and mesh. The PC SC-6 is outfitted with an elastic midsole, rubber outsole, and the Power Graphic Lite Power Cushion.


These elements of the PC SC-6 help to absorb the shock on the lower legs that occur when playing badminton and protect the player from injury.The top and bottom layer of the PC SC- 6 works to absorb as much as a third of the shock that would otherwise affect the feet and ankles while the middle layer of the shoe provides the support necessary for sudden reversals of movement.


Yonex also uses its specially designed Quatro Fit for the PC SC-6 and badminton players will be hard-pressed to find a shoe that offers a better grip and level of comfort.

Pros

  • Great comfort.
  • Good grip.
  • High level of ventilation.
  • Improved arch support.

Cons

  • The conventional design is seen as plain to some players.

13. Yonex SHB01LTD “Lee Chong Wei” Edition

The Lee Chong Wei Edition of the Yonex badminton shoe is the perfect choice for the badminton player who likes to run hard and jump while attacking the shuttle on the badminton court.


Double Russel Mesh is used in the Lee Chong Wei to provide much-increased insulation over other badminton shoes. Users of the shoe applaud the cushion technology that provides for shock absorption and enables reverse movement for players.


The Lee Chong Wei shoe from Yonex is built for performance and badminton players will feel the increase in their agility and speed while they are on the court.

Pros

  • High impact absorption.
  • Durability.
  • Great ventilation.

Cons

  • A little more expensive than other shoes.

Choosing The Best Badminton Shoes - The Ultimate Buying Guide

Too many badminton players make the mistake of concentrating on fancy badminton racquets and forearm bands when they consider the equipment they need to participate in the sport. These players often neglect the most important piece of equipment, footwear.

Badminton puts a lot of stress on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. The right footwear will protect you from injury and allow you to play the game of badminton up to your abilities.There are a number of important things you should understand when searching for the right badminton shoe for you.

Weight

The weight of the shoes you wear while playing badminton will greatly affect the way you play the game. When your shoes are too heavy, your movement will slow down and you will be distracted by the weight. The good news is that lighter shoes will enable you to run faster, jump higher, and change direction with less effort.

Support for Ankles

The ankle is the location on your body where movements like jumping, twisting, and running originate. You will need a free range of motion in the ankles to effectively execute these actions.Badminton shoes are intentionally designed with a little less ankle support so as not to restrict the movement of players.

Beginning badminton players might find they need a little more support than experienced players to prevent injury but should move to a shoe better fit for competitions as soon as they feel more strength in their ankles. Also check out essential oil for plantar fasciitis if you are suffering from it. 

Sole Thickness

Badminton play requires players to maintain a low centre of gravity. The design of your shoe must include a sole that is thin enough to facilitate the quick movement and balance necessary to play badminton at a high level. Thicker soles are more likely to aid runners and will not bring much benefit to the badminton player.

Sole Type

Rubber soles and gum rubber soles are the two main options for sole types in badminton shoes. The type that will work best for you depends on the type of court you play on. Gum rubber shoes will work best for playing surfaces made of polyurethane or wood. You should choose rubber soles if you play on concrete.

Ventilation

Badminton is played with great intensity and it does not take long for players to become sweaty over all parts of their bodies. Moisture that gets trapped within your shoes and socks is a breeding ground for fungi and bacteria and can cause a lot of problems.

Badminton shoes with proper ventilation will prevent problems from developing with your feet and allow you to compete without distraction.

Cushion

Good cushioning in your badminton shoe will absorb the impact of badminton play to your feet and lower legs. This will protect you from injury and enhance your play.

Ergo shape

Ergo shaped badminton shoes allow for flexibility in the toe area of the shoe without sacrificing any needed stability.  

Conclusion

Badminton is a fun and competitive game that is physically and emotionally demanding for players. Choosing the right shoe to play in is a sure-fire way for a badminton player to ensure both fun and success when they step onto the badminton court.

Leave a Comment