In a professional badminton game, players run twice the distance in half the amount of time as tennis players do in their matches. It ends up being about four miles within a little over an hour, as opposed to two miles in over three hours in a tennis game. To cover such a distance in a limited amount of time takes great speed and agility. Having the right shoes can mean the difference between quick explosive movements and a twisted ankle.
Proper badminton shoes alone will not make you a stellar player, but they will facilitate your movement by allowing you to change direction quickly and without injury. Comfortable shoes that allow you to move forward, backward and laterally are key.
What to Look for
Look for a shoe that allows the players' feet to stay low to the ground. A thin sole with supportive cushioning that contains shock absorption is a crucial component in badminton shoes because it allows the player to change directions fast without stressing the ankle. Lightweight shoes with good traction are also essential so the player can move quickly without slipping. The forefoot area of the shoe should be wide for added stability.
Yonex, Wilson, Asics, Hi-Tec, and Mizuno are all good brands, but there are many more. Yonex is a popular brand that carries a wide range of support for the shoe ranging from a power cushion to ergoshape features (a contour in the front of the shoe that supports lateral movement). They are also one of the more expensive brands. Badminton shoes cost anywhere from $40 to over $100.
The best place to get badminton shoes is through a badminton club in your area or online, since many stores don't carry them. They come in both men's and women's versions. Wearing your badminton shoes only on the court will help them last longer.
Common Pitfalls
Substituting running sneakers, or even squash or tennis shoes, for badminton shoes could be really detrimental to your joints and muscles. They are either not made to facilitate lateral movement or do not support jumping, both of which are essential in top-level games. Badminton players are at high risk for joint injuries and wearing the right shoes is a large factor in helping to diminish that risk.
Remember to monitor your shoes and buy new ones every three to six months if you play regularly. Wearing old shoes with worn out soles or traction could also lead to injuries.
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