Proper equipment is the key to playing racquetball. This article reviews one of the essential requirements for playing racquetball: women’s racquetball shoes, mainly for indoor courts. Players often concentrate on the racquet and ball and ignore footwear.
Think about those quick bursts to the left, right, forward, backward, and other smaller unidirectional movements. Typically, you will be placing more pressure and tension on your feet.
This calls for the proper footwear – a shoe that offers a decent grip and supports your body while allowing quick movements in all directions.
We understand that every pair of feet has specific needs, and therefore, we’ve selected five women’s racquetball shoes from different manufacturers. Each shoe has something unique to offer. Check their specs, and we are sure you will find what is suitable for your feet and play style.
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Why You Choose Racquetball-Specific Shoes
There is no doubt that the best women’s racquetball shoes are shoes designed for racquetball. Racquetball shoes are created with the court type, support, and movement in mind. Ideally, they have the proper grip on the racquetball court floor, reducing the chances of sliding and falling or dangerous sudden stops.
Besides, their inner, mid and outer sole is designed to support and cushion the feet against pressure resulting from the racquetball game. But while selecting women’s racquetball shoes, be specific about your needs, especially the shape of your feet.
It is worth noting that shoes for sports having a court similar to racquetball’s court can be used as racquetball shoes. However, they are not ideal because racquetball has unique movements that require specific shoes.
What is the Difference between Men’s vs. Women’s Racquetball Shoes
Men’s and women’s racquetball shoes have some differences, though not so obvious. Color preference is a significant consideration; pink shoes will resonate well with women more than with men.
Apart from the color used in styling, men’s racquetball shoes are usually wider than a similar length to women’s racquetball shoes. Unless your feet are wide, the shoe may not fit you well. Most men’s racquetball shoes are in a standard D width – its wider options are 2E and 4E. On the other hand, women’s racquetball shoes have a standard width of B, and D is their wider option. But if your feet are narrower, you can shop for size 2A.
Also, the width of the toe box differs considerably. In men’s shoes, the toe box is wider and more squared, while women’s racquetball shoes are narrower and somewhat rounded or oval at the toes. The round toe box in these shoes allows players to have an extra push off the court with an additional surface area. This is not vital for men because their legs are much more robust, and their foot muscles offer enough push.
The sole construction differs from carter to how they land on the ground. Women usually land on their heels more often than men. In women, the Q angle, i.e., the leg angle extending from the hip, is wider, thus, causing them to pronate more. That means that their feet will tilt inwards more than men’s feet. The best women’s racquetball shoes should have a good midsole stabilizer to compensate for stability.
Although it is not very important, styling can be an issue too. In terms of color and design, there is much more thought placed on women’s shoes than on men’s shoes. Women can be instantly turned off or on by looking at them for the first time. However, while finding a nice-looking shoe is essential, choosing the right women’s racquetball shoes can mean the difference between a comfortable fit and constant visits to a podiatrist.
How Socks and Blistering Play Important Roles in Racquetball
While socks may serve as part of a sports uniform, they play a critical role in protecting your feet against harm. Typically, their benefits go beyond their requirement to complete attire. Racquetball is fast-paced and has a lot of twists and turns. This exposes your feet to multiple abuses, resulting in blisters, bunions, ankle twists, etc.
Without socks, your feet will slide around the racquetball shoes, resulting in blisters. Blisters are excruciating and, therefore, very uncomfortable. So, to prevent your feet from moving around the shoes, wear a comfortable pair of socks. If your principal aim is to reduce friction, use worn-in sports socks. These socks will give you a snug fit and reduce friction.
Top 5 Best Women’s Racquetball Shoes Review
Here are our racquetball women’s shoes:
Racquetball Shoes Women’s Adidas
The Adidas Originals Women’s Crazyflight X 2 shoe boasts a grippy rubber outsole to handle the somewhat slippery indoor court floor. Additionally, it features an S-shaped molded heel counter to offer rear foot stability. Remember, most women will land on their heels after a jump; therefore, the addition of this structure ensures you will safely land.
The Originals Women’s Crazyflight X 2 feels comfortable and is performance-oriented. That makes them one of the best women’s indoor court shoes for anyone needing to push their game to the next level.
[amazon box=”B07KX86LHZ”]
Highlights
- Compatible Sports: Racquetball, Volleyball
- Brand: Adidas
- Sizes: 3.5 to 12.5 UK
- Upper: Mesh upper + molded TPU zones
- Sole: Rubber
- Color: Black/White, White/White, Linen/White/Glow Green, White/Silver Metallic/Grey, White/Power Red/White, Black/Silver Metallic/White, Shock Yellow/Ash Silver/White, White/Black/Power Red, White/Collegiate Royal/White, Collegiate Royal/Silver Metallic/White, Black-silver Metallic-white
- Department: Women’s
- Category: Sneakers
- Country of Origin: US
Unique Features
- Mobility: These shoes offer decent mobility courtesy of their rubber sole, which provides enough traction. Besides, the S-shaped heel counter cushions the heel while landing and ensures immediate takeoff without rolling ankles.
- Traction: The rubber outsole of this shoe is one of the stickiest around. Therefore, it grips the indoor courts perfectly when you want to. This puts you in control of your movement within the court. Another feature that makes the Women’s Crazyflight X 2 the best women’s indoor court shoes is the herringbone tread style that confers additional traction.
- Cooling Down: While using these shoes, there is no doubt that your feet will generate heat, and the cushioning on the inner sole may try to retain the heat. However, the mesh upper promotes the escape of this hot air. Yes, there will be some heat, but most of it will be dissipated, thus keeping your feet at tolerable temperatures.
- Durability: These shoes are made to provide the last you use on the indoor courts. Their outsole is designed from durable rubber to withstand the pressure of courts. Similarly, their mesh upper is pretty durable.
- Comfort: The Adidas original is comfortable out of the box. It won’t feel like you are directly stepping on the court – there is decent bounce and cushioning beneath your feet. Additionally, the adjustable lacing system allows you to tighten or loosen the shoe to your liking.
- Stability: With this shoe, you are assured of excellent stability from the different maneuvers you make. First, the grippy sole eliminates unnecessary slides, and second, the TPU reinforcement on the mesh upper keeps your feet in place.
What Needs Improvement
- The shoes run wide.
- The heel lockdown could be better as the heel slides up easily.
Python Racquetball Shoes
The Python Racquetball Shoes are an excellent option for women who have wide feet. This ultra-light pair of shoes comes with a grippy gummy sole, ideal for indoor racquetball courts. Therefore, these python women’s indoor court shoes allow excellent mobility without compromising the health and integrity of your feet.
The proprietary insole is designed to offer high-class shock absorption. Therefore, with every jump or sudden break, your feet remain in the realm of comfort. This shoe will eliminate all the impact of landing, regardless of your weight.
[amazon box=”B074ZN9G1R”]
Highlights
- Compatible Sports: Racquetball, Squash, Indoor Pickleball, Badminton, Volleyball
- Brand: Python
- Sizes: 7.5 to 14 UK
- Upper: Synthetic Leather
- Sole: Rubber
- Color: Black/White, White/Black
- Department: Men’s
- Category: Sneakers
- Country of Origin: US
Unique Features
- Mobility: Of most indoor court shoes, women’s Python racquetball shoes offer exceptional mobility because of their generally high-quality structure. The gummy sole, alongside a unique traction style, confers better traction on the shoe. This ensures you move when you want to. Also, the lightweight profile minimizes weight, allowing quick movements.
- Traction: The non-marking gum rubber sole may not be the stickiest of all women’s racquetball shoes, but definitely, it is made for indoor courts. Besides being durable, this outsole offers decent traction to allow braking whenever necessary.
- Cushion: The Python racquetball shoes for women feature an EVA insole, which offers better comfort than rubber insoles. Although lightweight and flexible, their cushioning reduces the step impact, making these sneakers very comfortable.
- Cooling Down: These shoes’ heat retention is one main concern because they are designed with synthetic leather uppers. However, the upper mesh in inserts and tongue ensures heat doesn’t build up to intolerable levels.
- Durability: Undoubtedly, the gummy rubber sole is made to last as it can withstand the wear and tear of the indoor courts for over a month. Similarly, the high-quality synthetic leather upper will give you service for a long time.
- Comfort: Among the many racquetball shoes, women’s Python racquetball has done a great job of ensuring player comfort. The die-cut Artholite insole, designed from EVA and other proprietary materials, offers top-notch shock absorption and comfort. Additionally, it confers breathability and deodorization for a better feel.
- Stability: While mobility is critical, stability is paramount for racquetball shoes. This Python racquetball shoe offers decent stability, even for the most vigorous play.
What Needs Improvement
- Mobility could be better.
Asics Racquetball Shoes Women’s
The ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 9 Racquetball is a gem. This pair of shoes boasts several unique features that will take your gameplay to the next level. Although it was designed for volleyball, it perfectly matches the needs of racquetball.
Players appreciate the ultra-light upper mesh with a strategically placed synthetic overlay, offering comfort and structured support. Besides, wearers get a cushioned footbed that reduces the step impact. And the highly breathable mesh lining ensures minimal heat buildup for maximum comfort.
[amazon box=”B07KDK8JPC”]
Highlights
- Compatible Sports: Racquetball, Volleyball
- Brand: Asics
- Sizes: 5 to 11.5 UK
- Upper: Mesh Upper + Synthetic Overlays
- Sole: Rubber
- Color: Black/White, Black/Black, White/Black, White/Classic Red, Blue (Asics Blue/White 400), Black Black Silver 002
- Department: Women’s
- Category: Sneakers
- Country of Origin: China
Unique Features
- Mobility: Asics has put much effort into ensuring exceptional mobility. Notably, the extra cushioning provided by the bouncy EVA midsole with an extra rebound gives you a boost to quickly race across the racquetball court. The improved traction lets you take off and break without any issues.
- Traction: The sole grip on the Gel-Rocket 9 is satisfactory. Though not the best, the tread design prevents sliding forward, backward, or lateral movement.
- Cushion: Cushioning is where the Asics Gel-9 shines. It features forefoot technology that perfectly absorbs shock while offering lasting comfort. Besides, the padded EVA midsole adds bounce to the shoe, cushioning against step impact.
- Durability: Asics has invested in shoe technology resulting in these durable shoes. This pair of shoes retain their comfortable profile along with proper use. Typically, you won’t feel the stones or bumpy areas in the court. Therefore, you won’t regret spending your money on these shoes.
- Comfort: These are very comfortable shoes, thanks to the unique sock liner. Ideally, the sock liner molds to your feet ‘ shape as you wear them. This is the much-needed comfort that every player needs. Besides, it has side support construction, and Gel cushioning offers decent shock-absorbing properties. Also, the lace-up system allows you to adjust to the proper fit.
- Stability: The stability of this shoe comes from its general shape. However, the Trusstic System technology under the midfoot offers additional support. This support comes in the form of torsion control that helps you change direction without twisting quickly. Additionally, side support construction provides extra support when making multi-directional movements.
What Needs Improvement
- The insole is very hard.
- Cushioning could be better.
Adidas Women’s Crazyflight Racquetball Shoes
The Adidas Women’s Crazyflight Racquetball Shoes are among the best women’s racquetball shoes because of their lightweight design alongside the stretch upper mesh. Adidas understands how sports shoes should behave.
Thus, it has incorporated the Adidas Boost technology that offers superior energy returns. That energy is vital in keeping you moving on the court. So, if you are a swift player, these could be the right shoes for you.
The shoe sports a grippy rubber outsole to ensure that you are in control of your movement. The sole perfectly grips the indoor floor for perfect stability and mobility.
[amazon box=”B087B9D9KL”]
Highlights
- Compatible Sports: Racquetball, Volleyball
- Brand: Adidas
- Sizes: 5 to 15 UK
- Upper: Mesh Upper
- Sole: Rubber
- Color: Black/White/Black, White/Black/Grey, White/Black/Solar Red, White/Royal Blue/White, White/Team College Red/White, Halo Blue/Ink/Yellow
- Department: Women’s
- Category: Sneakers
- Country of Origin: US
Unique Features
- Mobility: Racquetball shoe mobility is a product of better traction and well-designed uppers. The Adidas Crazyflight features a rubber outsole and stretch uppers that ensure proper takeoff and breaking. Besides, the Adidas Boost gives you enough power to remain on your feet.
- Traction: The grippy outsole is designed from high-quality rubber. The rubber is grippy enough on indoor courts, thus allowing you to have control over your movements. Additionally, the unique tread patterns ensure that you get traction in lateral, backward, and forward motions.
- Cooling Down: This shoe features excellent breathability, thanks to the stretchy mesh upper. The mesh allows heated air to escape as soon as it starts forming. So, your feet remain comfortable regardless of the game intensity.
- Durability: These shoes were perfectly made for the indoor court. While the uppers are stretchy, they can perfectly hold up for extended playtime. Besides, the thick outsole retains its practicality for a long time, thanks to the brilliant artistry.
- Stability: Like the rest of the shoes on this list, the Adidas Women’s Crazyflight Racquetball Shoes offer decent stability for players of different skill levels. The shoes have a snug fit, which is a huge contributor to shoe stability. Besides, the well-engineered upper mesh keeps your feet in place as you maneuver on the court.
What Needs Improvement
- Ankle support is minimal.
- Mesh upper durability could be better.
Nike Racquetball Shoes Women’s Black
The Nike Women’s Zoom HyperAce 2 shoe comes with a decent comfort level. There is a generous layer of padding around the ankle, which ensures more angle support. The shoes aren’t stiff – that only means that they move very well.
The mesh upper ensures that your feet breathe well. Remember, hot air buildup is one reason for discomfort while playing. Concerning traction and stability, this women’s shoe from Nike works perfectly well. Its rubber outsole is grippy enough on those indoor courts. Even when you move laterally, your feet won’t shift. Thanks to the top-level support in these shoes, you will not feel the ground when you land.
[amazon box=”B078FGMY63″]
Highlights
- Compatible Sports: Racquetball, Volleyball
- Brand: Nike
- Sizes: 5 to 11 UK
- Upper: Synthetic + Mesh
- Sole: Rubber
- Color: Black/White, White/Black, White/Classic Red, Black/Black, White/White,
- Department: Women’s
- Category: Sneakers
- Country of Origin: US
Unique Features
- Mobility: These Nike shoes are very comfortable and allow you to move quickly on the court. Their unique rubber outsole and unique treads allow for the traction required to break and take off. Whether moving laterally or forward, you’ll fully control your movement.
- Traction: The rubber sole offers decent traction in all racquetball shoes. However, the Zoom HyperAce 2 has a unique outsole, courtesy of its unique tread patterns. These patterns cater to both sideways and forward traction needs, although they are not as sticky as the Nike Air Zoom Hyperattack.
- Comfort: Since the Zoom HyperAce 2 is a little higher off the ground than most other shoes, you won’t feel the ground as you play. It has pretty good shock absorption capabilities, making your landings firm, comfortable, and stable.
- Stability: Although the shoe has a much thicker sole than most other racquetball shoes, it is still stable. The responsive nature of the sole and the stiffer but snug upper immensely contribute to the shoe’s stability. Besides, it offers plenty of lateral support while allowing your ankle to move pretty well without the risk of twisting your ankle.
- Cushion: These Adidas shoes have decent cushioning on the interior, ensuring cushioned steps. So, however much you play in these shoes, there is no chance that the shoes will cause sores on your feet.
What Need Improvement
- The overall design is basic.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Final Thoughts
Finding fitting and comfortable women’s racquetball shoes can be an uphill task. While most shoes are generally designed for racquetball, each person has unique needs. You need support, stability, traction, comfort, and breathability for racquetball. All the shoes we have reviewed offer these features. Check them out and order the correct size.