Attacking, running, passing, shooting – these are all easier when you wear the correct footwear. Thankfully, with netball standing among the top three preferred sports for women in Australia, the market is full of great choices for netball shoes.
From supportive court shoes to lightweight runner-style models, you have plenty of options.
After the reviews below, we’ll take you through the key things to look out for when choosing.
Our top pick: Asics Netburner Super FF 3
Width: Standard (B)
Arch: Neutral to high
Technology: GEL, X-GROOVE forefoot, AHAR plus outsole, TRUSSTIC, FLYTEFOAM
GEL: Forefoot and rearfoot
Player type: Speed, Support, Smooth Transitions
Why we chose them: The Asics Netburner Super FF netball shoes are the perfect choice for any player looking to take their game to the next level. These shoes have a lightweight and durable synthetic leather upper for breathability and support.
This premium court shoe offers improved shock absorption and durability with its AHAR plus outsole, while its FLYTEFOAM midsole and forefoot X-grove help you change direction at high speed with ease.
The removable moulded sock liner provides great comfort that lasts all day long, while the TRUSSTIC system offers midfoot support for ultimate control.
Runner up: Mizuno Wave Stealth V
Width: Standard (B) and Wide (D)
Arch: Neutral to high
Technology: Wave Plate, AP+ SR Touch VS-1, Air Mesh Durashield, X10 outsole
Player type: Centre third or Goal third
Why we chose them: The Wave Stealth netball shoes are the perfect blend of comfort and performance. They feature Mizuno’s Wave Plate technology, which provides midfoot and lateral support, along with extra cushioning. The Dynamotion Groove in the forefoot allows for more flexibility, so you can move faster on the court.
The shoe’s air mesh upper is breathable and offers support, while the X10 netball-specific outsole is 80% more durable than normal rubber.
Note the Wave stealth is a B width (standard) but also comes in a wider D width.
Best value: Asics Gel-Netburner Academy
Width: Standard (B)
Arch: Standard
Technology: GEL, AHAR plus outsole, TRUSSTIC, FLYTEFOAM, SPEVA
Player type: All-rounder (Speed, Quick Transitions, Agility)
Why we chose them: The Gel-Netburner Academy is the perfect shoe for netball players of all levels, especially those looking for a lightweight and affordable option.
The upper feels lighter than ever before, thanks to new design elements that reduce stitch lines and seams. Flytefoam provides comfort and stability, while GEL technology in the forefoot and rearfoot provides shock absorption.
The AHARPLUS outsole is the same as on the high-end Asics Netburner professional FF shoe, providing excellent traction and durability.
The SPEVA foam midsole provides cushioning and support, while a removable EVA sock liner makes for easy cleaning. A non-marking solid rubber outsole ensures traction on any court surface, while four colour choices make it easy to find your perfect pair.
Also great: Mizuno Wave Phantom
Width: Standard (B)
Arch: Neutral to Low
Technology: Wave Plate, Air Mesh Durashield, X10 outsole
Player type: Centre third
Why we chose them: The Wave Phantom is the most versatile netball shoe in the Mizuno range. It’s lightweight, but also very stable thanks to its moulded sock liner and Wave technology for lateral support and cushioning. The carbon rubber outsole adds durability on any court surface.
This shoe is designed for players of all abilities and positions, so no matter your experience, the Wave Phantom will help you take your game to the next level.
Also great: Asics Netburner Ballistic FF MT 2
Width: Standard (B)
Arch: Neutral to high
Technology: GEL, AHAR outsole, FLYTEFOAM, Flexion forefoot, Twistruss
Player type: Speed, Support, Smooth Transitions
Why we chose them: This shoe is designed for quick movement on the court without sacrificing comfort and stability. The outsole offers more support and durability than previous versions, and it also features flex grooves for sharp direction changes.
The mid-cut top around the ankle provides extra support and protection during play. A visible rearfoot GEL pad cushions impact from jumping or landing hard on your feet throughout a game. The lightweight breathable mesh upper helps you stay cool during warm weather games so you can focus on your game without worrying about overheating!
Best for Kids: Asics Netburner Super GS
Width: Medium (M)
Arch: All arch types
Technology: GEL, TRUSSTIC, FLYTEFOAM
GEL: Forefoot and rearfoot
Player type: Speed, Support, Smooth Transitions
Why we chose them: If you’re a parent of a young netballer, you know how hard it is to find shoes that work for your child’s growing feet. That’s why we love this shoe from Asics. The Netburner Super GS is perfect for young netballers—it provides premium durability and stability so they can keep up with the action on the court without feeling weighed down by their gear.
The shoe works to protect the growing foot through its wrap-up heel construction and TRUSSTIC SYSTEM for stability, as well as with GEL technology for all-important cushioning. The thicker sole and PU upper add durability, while FlyteFoam midsole helps with responsiveness, so your kid can keep up with the play.
This shoe is stylish enough that your kid will want to wear it off-court as well and comfortable enough that they’ll be able to do just that.
Netball shoe buying guide
Today’s market offers a bountiful range of netball shoes. When picking your pair, make sure to check the following essential features.
Fit
The foremost important feature of a good netball shoe is fit. Even the best design will fail if you don’t feel comfortable in your footwear. Good netball shoes must offer a combination of support, structure, and durability.
Your toes must move freely without the shoe feeling loose. Laces must have equal tension across the top, and the soles must provide traction both indoors and outdoors.
Thanks to the popularity of this sport, manufacturers produce netball shoes in all styles and sizes, so finding the right fit should not be too daunting.
Model
A specific model of netball shoes may or may not be a good fit depending on what type of player you are.
Runner style shoes facilitate sharp movements and change of directions and are ideal for attackers. Defenders may favour heavier shoes with higher shock absorption.
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Materials
The best netball shoes must be breathable but also waterproof if you’re aiming to use them both indoors and outdoors. Rubber outsoles have higher traction and improve stability on all surfaces.
The interior of the shoe is as important as the exterior. You’ll need a good insole and a midsole able to provide adequate shock absorption.
verdict
Beyond personal and game considerations, our favourite netball shoe is the ASICS Gel-Netburner Super FF.
This shoe combines outstanding design with unrivalled performance and is ideal for both experienced players and beginners. Excellent balance and stability, great shock absorption and durability are just some of the highlights.
FAQ
When it comes to netball footwear, Asics and Mizuno are at the top of the heap, and most professional players wear either brand. The Australian Netball Diamonds mostly wear Asics.
