Can You Use On Shoes for Volleyball?Just recently, a young volleyball player approached me and asked me, Can I use On shoes for volleyball?
My answer was simple: when it comes to volleyball, the type of shoes you wear can significantly impact your performance, comfort, and injury prevention.
Volleyball is not like every other sport where you can wear any kind of shoes. Irrespective of the brand of the shoes, it’s important to make sure that the shoe’s specifications meet the demands of volleyball.
Nevertheless, brands like ON SHOES are known for their innovative designs and cushioned soles, and this is one of the reasons many athletes wonder: Can On Shoes be used for volleyball?
In this article, we’ll explore and review whether On shoes are suitable for volleyball. We’ll also compare them with traditional volleyball shoes and help you decide if they’re the right fit for your game.
What Are On Shoes?
“On Shoes” is a Swiss brand renowned for its unique “CloudTec” technology, designed to provide exceptional cushioning and energy return. The On Shoes are primarily marketed as running and training shoes. Nevertheless, their versatility has gained them attention in various sports.
Key Features of On Shoes
- CloudTec Sole: Offers soft landings and explosive takeoffs.
- Lightweight Design: Reduces fatigue during prolonged activity.
- Durable Upper Material: Breathable mesh for comfort and longevity.
- Versatility: Designed for running but adaptable for cross-training and casual use.
We actually know that these features make On Shoes appealing, but the question remains: Are they good for volleyball?
See Also: What Makes Volleyball Shoes Different? Top 6 Key Features
Can You Use On Shoes for Volleyball?
Yes, but with limitations! While you can use On shoes for volleyball, they are not specifically designed for the sport. Volleyball shoes are made with specific features to handle the demands of the game, such as rapid lateral movements, frequent jumps, and quick stops.
On Shoes Pros for Volleyball:
- Cushioning: Great for players who prioritize comfort during high-impact movements like jumping.
- Lightweight: Helps reduce foot fatigue during long matches.
- Breathability: Keeps feet cool during intense play.
On Shoes Cons for Volleyball:
- Lack of Traction: On Shoes don’t offer the same level of grip as volleyball shoes, which is essential for indoor courts.
- Limited Stability: They may not provide adequate lateral support for quick directional changes.
- Durability Concerns: Prolonged use on indoor courts might wear out the sole faster than volleyball-specific shoes.
See Also: Best Shoes for Men’s Volleyball
Comparing On Shoes with Volleyball Shoes
To better understand whether On Shoes can substitute for volleyball shoes, let’s compare the two:
| Feature | On Shoes | Volleyball Shoes |
| Traction | Moderate; designed for running surfaces | High; optimized for indoor courts |
| Cushioning | Excellent; CloudTec technology | Excellent; targeted for jumping impact |
| Lateral Support | Moderate | High; designed for quick side-to-side movements |
| Durability | Suitable for outdoor running | Built for indoor volleyball surfaces |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight with added stability |
When Are On Shoes Suitable for Volleyball?
While On Shoes are not ideal for competitive volleyball, there are scenarios where they might work:
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Recreational Play
If you play casually with friends or in a non-competitive setting, On Shoes can be a comfortable option. Their lightweight design and cushioning are sufficient for light gameplay.
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Outdoor Volleyball
On Shoes perform better on outdoor surfaces like grass or sand, where traction and lateral stability are less critical.
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Cross-Training
On shoes are excellent for off-court training, such as running or gym workouts that improve your volleyball fitness.
Why Volleyball Shoes Are Better for Indoor Play
Volleyball shoes are specifically designed to address the demands of indoor play. Here’s why they excel:
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Gum Rubber Sole
Provides superior grip on indoor courts, preventing slips and ensuring quick stops.
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Lateral Support
Reinforced sides and a snug fit offer stability during rapid lateral movements.
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Shock Absorption
Targeted cushioning in the midsole absorbs impact from repeated jumping and landing.
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Durability
Built to withstand the wear and tear of hardwood courts. If you’re serious about volleyball, investing in proper volleyball shoes is highly recommended.
See Also: Best Volleyball Shoes 2025: Review of the Best Models
Popular Volleyball Shoe Alternatives to On Shoes
If you decide On Shoes aren’t the right fit, consider these volleyball-specific options:
| Brand | Model | Key Features |
| ASICS | Gel-Rocket 10 | Great traction, affordable, and durable. |
| Mizuno | Wave Lightning Z7 | Lightweight with excellent lateral support. |
| Nike | React Hyperset | Stylish design, great cushioning, and traction. |
| Adidas | Crazyflight X | Superior energy return and lightweight design. |
Tips for Using On Shoes for Volleyball
If you decide to use On shoes for volleyball, here are some tips to maximize their performance and to avoid injuries:
- Add Insoles for Stability
Using insoles with better arch support can improve lateral stability.
- Stick to Outdoor Play
Use them on grass or sand courts where traction isn’t as critical.
- Monitor Wear and Tear
Check the soles frequently to ensure they maintain adequate grip.
See Also: What Is the Average Work Environment for Pro Volleyball Players?
FAQs
Are On shoes good for indoor volleyball?
On shoes are not ideal for indoor volleyball due to their lack of traction and lateral support. They can work for casual play but are not recommended for competitive matches.
Can I use On shoes for sand volleyball?
Yes, On Shoes are more suitable for sand volleyball since traction and lateral stability are less critical on sand surfaces.
Are On shoes durable for volleyball?
On shoes are durable for running and cross-training but may wear out quickly on hardwood volleyball courts.
Conclusion
While you can use On Shoes for volleyball, they’re not the best choice for serious indoor play. Their cushioning and lightweight design make them comfortable for casual or outdoor volleyball, but they lack the traction and lateral support necessary for high-intensity games.
For competitive indoor volleyball, investing in specialized volleyball shoes is the better option. They provide the traction, stability, and durability needed to enhance your performance and protect against injuries.
Nevertheless, if you’re looking for versatile athletic shoes that double as running and casual volleyball footwear, On Shoes are worth considering.
Also remember to always keep your playing environment and intensity level in mind when making your decision, as On Shoes are not suitable for all playing environments.
Have you tried On shoes for volleyball? If yes, please kindly share your experience in the comments below for others to learn from.