Guys, I was shopping around for new shoes and was directed to Asics by the other posts in the site (Mizunos cost around $20 more at least).

I was looking at the Gel-Tactic (the most expensive) and the Gel Floater, which are apparently the popular models. Does anyone have any experience with these models and can tell me which is best in terms of preserving your knees?

There is also the Gel-Hunter and Gel-Rocket by the way.

The Asics websites are USELESS btw.

any comments on the asics gel bounce? It's the only asics vollyball shoe i can find.

If you want to preserve your knees then get the Gel Tactic. It has Asics Gel system in the rear of the shoe, which is where you'll need it most in badminton (eg. during hard lunges). The Gel Floater has the Asics Gel system in the forefoot. You'll only need Gel in the forefoot if you're an avid jump smasher since the first part of your feet to hit the ground upon landing will be your forefoot. However, since you want to preserve your knees, you shouldn't really be jump smashing anyway. I know this because I'm in the same boat as yourself, and have knee injuries that force me to play as conservatively as I can.

Besides the differences of the Gel system placement in those two shoes, there are other noteworthy points to mention. The Gel Tactic is designed off this years Asics top of the line shoe so it also shares similar characteristics, and water-downed features, such as the Asics arch support "trustic system" which basically help support the arch of your feet. This is important if you value leg/knee stability. It also has Asics Wet-Grip tread material, which in my experience has yet to slip on me. By the pictures on the net it looks like the Tactic might also have Asics Rhino-Skin which protects the stress points around the front of the shoe from ripping prematurely. It's a synthetic material that is ultra tough. The Gel Floater is based off last years designs. By the looks of the photos it looks like it has Rhino-Skin, as well as last years arch support designs (not this years Trustic system) but I could be wrong.

If you want my honest opinion, I'd go for the Gel Tactic just because it sounds as if you may have potential knee problems as I do. If you're relatively healthy then either shoe will do you just fine. However, try them both on at the store, and walk/shuffle around a bit. The one that fits and feels the best is usually the one that will work out the best for you on the court. Remember that before considering what features the shoes have.

I couldn't find any information on the Gel-Hunter, and I'm unfamiliar with that model so I can't comment on it. Regarding the Gel-Rocket however, if you're just a casual player then it will be fine but it also only has Asics Gel in the forefoot. The Gel Rocket is Asics low-end shoe this year and besides the Gel system, it doesn't have any other special features.

I agree that the Asics websites are pretty poor in terms of product information. You'll sometimes find more detailed information on volleyball websites that do shoe reviews. I had to go to a very expensive speciality sports shoe store and coerce them to show me the actual Asics and Mizuno catalogs to get all the information I wanted. Now I know more about Asics and Mizuno shoe technology than most sales staff :p.

Originally posted by stantan
Guys, I was shopping around for new shoes and was directed to Asics by the other posts in the site (Mizunos cost around $20 more at least).

I was looking at the Gel-Tactic (the most expensive) and the Gel Floater, which are apparently the popular models. Does anyone have any experience with these models and can tell me which is best in terms of preserving your knees?

There is also the Gel-Hunter and Gel-Rocket by the way.

The Asics websites are USELESS btw.

BRL! Surely in a great metropolis such as T.O. you can find more than just the Asics Gel Bounce! The Gel Bounce is designed off the same line as the Gel Floater. They share the same outsole and arch support system. I believe the Gel system is in the rear in that model. You'll probably find it cheapest in a large sport store chains. My wife owns a pair :D. She thinks they're great but mind you she's more of a casual player and is very easy on her shoes. However, last year I owned a pair of Gel Modesto's, which has similar features as the Gel Bounce. They were working just fine until I got injured, and required the stiffer support and cushioning of the higher end models.

If you want to find the better Asics volleyball shoes you'll probably have to go to specialty court sport stores or volleyball clubs etc. Indoor racquet court sports sure play a backseat to the big popular sports here in North America, and make it difficult for us to find good equipment and attire :(.


Originally posted by bigredlemon
any comments on the asics gel bounce? It's the only asics vollyball shoe i can find.

thanks for the comments. You're right in that i've only been looking at major chains because there's so many near me, and so few specialty stores are. Most of the chains seems to be pushing style rather than performance.

As for asics gel bounce, do you know if there's gel in the front of the shoe? I don't have any knee problems fortunately but I would like a pair of shoes whose shock-absorption in the front foot area don't lifelessly flatten after a couple months.

thanks, timeless. im getting fed up with my new balance shoes atm so i guess its time to change shoes.

one new pair of shoes a year isnt bad for a badminton player who plays 2-3 times a week, right? right? ;)

Hi.

My wife uses a pair of Asics Gel tactic And I use Yonex SHB 95.
Lets say"I'm jaleous of her shoes".
My Yonex wear off like mad and her's don't.
The snug fitting my Yonex had when they were new (5 month's ago) degrades every week and her's don't.
The cushioning in the Asics is much better.
The Yonex soles are loosening at the edges.
Need I say more?

Joop

I just took a look at my wife's 2002-2003 Gel Bounce and I'm pretty sure it only has Gel in the rear. If you want Gel in the front you'll probably have to find a speciality store that offers more models or that can order in something for you out of the catalog.

One thing to note is that Gel cushioning is designed to out-last the shoe itself. It's shock dispersion quality doesn't really degrade over time/use. However, all shoes, including Asics Gel, will feel like the softer cushy feeling is gone after awhile. But that is most likely due to the EVA midsole being packed down and your insoles being worn out. Replacing crummy insoles with quality sports insoles can do wonders for restoring that "new cushy shoe feeling". So if you own shoes with true shock dispersion technology in it but it feels hard under your feet, it's due to the EVA and insoles loosing their soft new cushy feeling, but the shock technology is still doing it's work. However, if your shoes depend on EVA-based "technology" to absorb shock (which isn't shock dispersion at all but just pure cushioning), then once the EVA looses it's magical softness, it's pretty much dead. This can happen long before the actual outside of the shoe looks worn out.

Originally posted by bigredlemon
thanks for the comments. You're right in that i've only been looking at major chains because there's so many near me, and so few specialty stores are. Most of the chains seems to be pushing style rather than performance.

As for asics gel bounce, do you know if there's gel in the front of the shoe? I don't have any knee problems fortunately but I would like a pair of shoes whose shock-absorption in the front foot area don't lifelessly flatten after a couple months.

My Asics Gel Modesto (equivalent in quality to about the Asics Gel Rocket/Bounce) lasted me about 8 months, playing fairly hard 3-5 times a week, before I retired it. However the inside and outside still looks fairly new, but the midsole no longer has that springy/cushy feeling. So I think one pair per year is fine :).

Originally posted by stantan
thanks, timeless. im getting fed up with my new balance shoes atm so i guess its time to change shoes.

one new pair of shoes a year isnt bad for a badminton player who plays 2-3 times a week, right? right? ;)

You should be an asics rep or something :)
I've searched all over the net and never can i even get a description of the gel bounce and yet you seem to know tons!

Hahaha I'm just trying to be a 'smart' consumer that wants to know exactly what I was getting for my money, just like yourself :).

It's hard to find information on shoes that are from previous year lines because companies always bring out something 'new and improved'. Sometimes more than once a year.

If you have trouble finding other models from Asics, then I suggest you give Mizuno a try. One thing about Mizuno is that even though they are sometimes priced a little higher than their Asics counter-parts, they sometimes include more of the higher end features even in their low-end to mid-level models. Everyone I know who have tried Mizunos feel they are the most comfortable. However, because Mizuno is not as popular in N. America, that isn't a lot of people.

Man, I've called Rackets&Runners and The Run Inn, but it looks like if you want a Asics Gel Typhoon or 5000V, it'll have to be ordered.

Greater Vancouver is pretty dry for these shoes.

Oh, and thanks again, timeless, for the review on these shoes.

-dave

Mizuno in my area cost about the same as asics actually. The chain near me also carries the Mizuno Blocker. Do you think it's better than the asics bounce in terms of front foot shock dispersion and grip?

Btw, about 1/3 of players i see wear asics, 1/3 basketball shoes (ie nike), and the rest is all over the place, including "fashion" skateboard shoes, the kind you see at Aldo or stoneridge. Mizuno is defiently underrepersented.

woot. Just found a volleyball store in TO with a pretty good selection of vball shoes, and great prices too.

TOers should check it out. I heard some praise about this place.
http://www.canuckstuff.com/html/prodlist.html

The Mizuno Blocker is a really good shoe. It's actually one of their top models and easily blows the Asics Bounce away in terms of features and overall quality. The Bounce is about a mid-entry shoe.

I don't know why Mizuno is so unpopular here, in Japan it is considered the best along with Asics for sports shoes. Asics and Mizuno even make casual shoes for the Japanese market.

I checked out that website, and wow those are awesome prices! Are those prices in CAD or USD? If those prices are in CAD, then those are amazing deals for great shoes, even if they are from last year. If you're looking for maximum forefoot (and rear) shock dispersion though, I'd go for the 2002 Mizuno Stratosphere. Their top of the line shoe at only $79 (if CAD) is just soooo cheap! They wanted almost $200CAD at my local speciality shop to order those in for me when they first came out.

Looks like you found "your" badminton shoe shop :D!

yes the prices are in CDN. Shipping is only $5 too! That's about the same round trip bus fare for me. :)

:)

BRL:

Woops, in my previous post I stated that the Mizuno Blocker was one of their top of the line models. It's actually not, at first glance, I mistook it for the Mizuno Epic (which is their top model along with the Stratosphere). The Blocker is around the same mid-level shoe as the Bounce but better in terms of features. The Mizuno Blocker also has Mizuno's VS-1 cushioning in the forefoot, which is something that should interest you. VS-1 is sorta like EVA but has greater shock absorption properties. The Stratosphere also has VS-1 in the forefoot but most likely even more of it. Sorry for the mistake. Whichever shoes you end up getting, it looks like you'll get a great deal :).

i am from the philippines and the asics models available here are kinda outdated. i am particularly interested on the asics gel pro clear. i assume its a badminton specific sport shoe considering the name. does anyone know of an online store where i can purchase this shoe model?:confused: i've tried searching using google and i can only find this model on german websites. thanks in advance guys!:D

Yes, the price looks great. In US, the lowest prices I found for 2003 models are:
Mizuno Wave Spike 6: USD $65
Mizuno Wave Epic : USD $85
Asics Gel-VTR : USD $65
Aiscs Typhoon: USD $85

Timeless, thanks to all the research you did, I ordered Mizuno and Asics
shoes last week.

Cool, I'm sure you won't be disappointed by the quality. Which models did you get?

I hope you remembered to order your Asics a half size bigger than your regular shoe size.


Originally posted by clinton
Timeless, thanks to all the research you did, I ordered Mizuno and Asics
shoes last week.

Sorry, I've never heard of that model before since they don't offer it here in North America. I found a few sites that sell it online, however they were all in Denmark. Pretty far away from you and the shipping costs would most likely be too high to make the shoes worth while to purchase. Probably best to try to find shoes locally or in nearby asian countries. Looks like a pretty nice shoe though, definitely designed with badminton/squash in mind rather than volleyball by the looks of the thinner sole.

Originally posted by boji_lazaro
i am particularly interested on the asics gel pro clear...

Well in Oz we can get Block, Flame, Floater and Rocket. The Rocket looks a little low end, but I need a shoe that can handle being used with an orthotics without being torn apart in a month (like my last pair :P).

Any comments on these shoes? Well the Block and the Flame anyway since the floaters been covered enough.

Actually I'm willing to bet these just have a different names in Oz:
http://www.asics.com.au/

The Block looks almost identical to the Typhoon here in North America both cosmetically and by features. Most likely the same shoe with different name and colors. The Block/Typhoon is the top of the line Asics shoe for 2003-2004. It has all the lastest Asics technologies. It's extremely comfortable, responsive, and shock cushioning is great. I haven't used mine to any great extent yet so I'm only able to say that it seems to be everything a top of the line indoor court shoe should be.

I haven't personally tried the Flame but I do know it was designed in Europe by professional volleyball players. So I'm sure it meets the high level of expectations of professionals in regards to all aspects of shoe performance.

I also wear orthotics so I have the same problem as you do in that the insides of my shoes get really torn up by the edges of my graphite orthotics, particularly around the heel area. Although my current 5000V (similar in design to the Flame) lasted a few months before the insides started to really tear, but as you know, once they start tearing it really goes fast after that. I honest think no pair of shoes has a strong enough inside covering to withstand orthotics. However, because of the high quality of the higher end Asics shoes, they do tend to last a little longer. I'm thinking of going in and asking them to somehow round off the graphite edges or at least cover it with some material that has less friction. If you find a solution to our dilemma I would sure love to hear it! :D

stan the man! I definitely agree that you should retire your old new balance shoes. :) I think you've had them forever.

I've been using the Gel-Tactic for 4 months now and I'm pretty happy with it. I think it has gel at the heel and the forefoot. It has Rhinoskin which is suppose to make the toe area stronger. My experience with my previous shoes is it tears easily at the toe area, due to constant lunging in badminton.

I got a new Mizuno Wave Blocker last week in HK. I dont really need new shoes yet but since it was 30% cheaper in HK than here in the Phils, I decided to get a pair and keep it till I need it. :D I tried to compare the cushioning with my Gel-Tactic and the Tactic has a bit of an edge over the Blocker in terms of cushioning at the heel and forefoot. However, since I have wide feet, the Blocker fits me better since it is wider at the forefoot than the Tactic. The design of Gel-tactic tapers off at the toe area which is not very comfortable for people with wide feet.

Mizuno is getting popular here in Manila. I see more and more people wearing it. I think that the more popular badminton shoes now are Asics, Mizuno and Yones. I hardly see people get Adidas anymore.

Have fun shopping and tell us what you shoes you finally get. :)

Hey Timeless,

Just wanna say thanks for sharing your wealth of information on BC/BF/BR. On your advice, I have taken an interest in Mizuno and bought a pair of Stratosphere 2003 from Volleyballstuff.net.

Upon first trial, my feet were in their initial "breaking in" phase... ie. loads of pain while adjusting to the new shoes. However, shoes fit very well and so far alleviate pain on the balls of my feet thanks to new cushioning and impact dispersion features.

As for my recently bought Yonex 89M, the great feeling of lightness or cushion is gone. Even adding my old Dr. Scholls Sport Advantage insoles would not improve the situation. I think the stock insoles in the SHB 89M couldn't stand repeated verticals (I jumpsmash alot), so my feet began to hurt after two months of regular use. BTW, the 89M's are still in good condition despite the wore out cushioning, so it'll remain my backup shoes.

One question: Will applying drying powder(Gold Bond) adversely affect the cushioning material of the shoes? I came across a booklet enclosed in the shoe packaging warning against using chemicals to clean the shoes, thus the question.

Same here. I picked up a stratosphere too (older model though.) They are great shoes, esp. for the price I paid. :) It has great support without ever feeling limited in movement.

Thanks again.

Your welcome guys. Perhaps you guys can give us a nice review of the shoes after a month of wear :).

As for the Gold Bond Drying Powder... hmmm... I don't know a whole lot about Gold Bond powder as I've never used it, but my initial instincts tell me to advise against it. The last thing you would want is the drying chemicals in the powder to actually dry out your rubber cushioning, possibly making it hard and brittle? I'm not sure how potent that stuff is but I'd be cautious... perhaps test it first on some old, nasty sneakers you have lying around :D. If you're using the powder to fight shoe odour, I use regular baking soda that you buy for refridgerator odour. It works great. I pull out my insoles, sprinkle a little on the insoles, and then rub it around so the entire insole is covered by a very thin layer of powder. I leave it over night and the next morning I tap all the powder off my insoles over the bathtub. There's always a light layer left on the insoles but after wearing the shoes once, your socks seem to absorb it all off. Probably doesn't hurt combating that foot odour too :D. After I first repeated this process for 3 days, all the odor that was in my insoles from half a year of use, was completely gone. I couldn't believe how well it worked! Now I just do this 'system' about once a month since I'm getting used to wonderfully odourless shoes :).

As for the insides of the shoes, I haven't this tried yet, but next time I'm thinking of carefully inserting my baking soda powdered insoles back into my shoes so that I get dual odour fighting action of my insoles and shoes :).

If you're concerned with cleaning the outside of your shoes, I heard using a damp cloth was the best way. But not to use soap or any chemicals... probably because of the risk it might discolor, harden/damage the uppers & rubber materials. I've never had to clean my badminton shoes though because I only wear them indoors. On the outside, my shoes always look relatively new. It's the insides that gets trashed :D.

Hello Timeless

What's the different between a Volleyball (Gel Typhoon) & Badminton (Gel Block) shoes? Is it adviseable to use Volleyball shoes for Baminton & vice versa?

Cheers
Mel

Hey Timeless,

Thank you for your insight! No wonder my SHB 65 lasted longer than my "new" SHB 89M. I was using "Extra Strength" Gold Bond for a period of time and later switched back to "Original Strength" Gold Bond due to flaky skin. In that time, I felt that the cushioning provided by the stock insoles were significantly reduced:( Also, the transition between the two shoes happened when I started doing more jump shots. I have never felt the adverse effects of the drying powder on the insoles until recently. My footwork was deteriorating due to pain on the balls of my feet and the shoes never felt the same as before. Anyways, I think I will switched to baking soda for my court shoes from now on:).

Hi Mel,

I believe the Asics Gel Typhoon and Asics Gel Block are both designed for volleyball. From what I can see, they are basically the same shoe with only a few esthetic differences (mainly in colour), but the features are identical. I think asics designed the Gel Block for the asian & UK market whereas the Gel Typhoon was designed for North America. So ultimately, they are pretty much identical shoes, so depending on where you live it will be easier to buy one model over the other.

Using volleyball shoes for badminton is fine. Volleyball shoes are generally more durable, and have greater stability, and shock absorption or dispersion. However, be aware that they also generally have thicker soles and are a bit heavier so it is easier to roll your ankles. Use your better judgement as to which is best for you.

I would not recommend badminton shoes for volleyball at all. Badminton shoes do not have adequate shock dispersion properties to combat the tremendous forces of repeated landings from high verticals. Badminton shoes are generally light and have thinner soles, which is great for that light footed feeling on the badminton court, but they weren't designed for big 6'-7' tall men jumping 3'-4' high. Again, use your better judgement, as both shoes are designed with a particular sport and athlete in mind. Not everyone fits that mold and ideal, so sometimes cross use of either type of shoe will work for certain individuals.

Originally posted by Mel
What's the different between a Volleyball (Gel Typhoon) & Badminton (Gel Block) shoes? Is it adviseable to use Volleyball shoes for Baminton & vice versa?

Hey Cappy75,

Wow Gold Bond must be some potent stuff if it even flaked your skin, considering how moist feet get in shoes while playing badminton! Even with baking soda, I'd recommend trying to keep it off the actual shoe itself, and isolate it to use only on the insoles. Tonight after my badminton session I'm going to try inserting my baking soda covered insoles back into my shoes over night and see if it helps clear out the inside of my shoes as well. I'm going to repeat it after tomorrow's training as well. Keep me posted on how it works for you too as we may get different results.

Oh, there's one thing I tried a while back which you might find amusing. I tried spraying Febreeze in my shoes since the company says it can remove any odour regardless of how strong. Well I'm not sure what happened but the perfume smell of the Febreeze must have mixed really poorly with the shoes and the result was a whole different odour that was far worse than the original! :D hahahaha~

Hello Timeless

Thanks for your advise. You really knows about shoes. Great contribution.

Cheers
Mel

Hey Timeless,

Yes, extra strength gold bond is pretty strong (blue bottle)... the effect is probably more pronounced in the dry winter as well. Hmm... what about talcum powder? Would it be gentle enough on the material? I hate to take out my insoles for cleaning, since baking soda works out so well for you... I might wanna try other milder powder to put in my shoes. I will keep you up to date with my progress.

Your welcome Mel, I'm glad to have been able to help out.

Originally posted by Mel
Hello Timeless

Thanks for your advise. You really knows about shoes. Great contribution.

Cheers
Mel

Hey Cappy75,

I think you should just stick to baking soda since it seems to work quite well, and as far as we know, it's friendly to various shoe materials. Plus I don't think baking soda really drys things out as much as other powders, though I could be wrong. It certainly does a great job with odours though. I figure if it's safe enough to be in our fridge with the food we eat, it's got to be safe for shoes.

I was thinking removing the insoles was becoming a pain too, so I thought of using a zip-lock plastic bag, fill it with baking soda, and make a ton of perforations in one side of the bag (the side that will be facing up) so that the powder can still absorb odours without the mess. I don't think it will be as effective as actually sprinkling the powder directly onto the insole, but the advantage of this method would be that since it's so convenient, you could put the powder-bag into your shoes every night without having to worry about cleaning the powder out of your shoes the next time you use them. So it might take a couple more days for the powder to do as an effective job but it's a heck of a lot more convenient. It would also solve our worries about the powder affecting the materials it comes into contact with as well.

Timeless,

I think there's something out there that acts like your device, I actually saw some guy put two plastic balls into his shoes. Perhaps, I could get it at the local dollar store.

I was gonna explore other forms of powders and even emailed Mizunos about the problem. I doubt that they'll respond to something as trivial as improving the durability of their products, since they make money selling their products to us afterall... more shoes being replaced meant more money for them:D. I guess I will use what's left of my Gold Bond on my street shoes. Thanks again! What would we do w/o you:)?

Those ball things you saw are called "Sneaker Balls" or something like that. They've been around for quite a long time, but I heard they don't do a very good job for strong odours and that they don't last very long. Perhaps there are different kinds out there of various quality. I'm going to try the ziplock bag with baking soda idea tonight. I'll let you know if it works out.

Hey Timeless,

Just got some Arm & Hammer Baking Soda and bought a pepper/salt shaker to dispense the baking soda. It's too troublesome to take out the insoles and put them back in later, so I am just gonna sprinkle some in my shoes after games and see how it goes. First impression of the baking soda effect is that it's alittle weak, I can still detect some odour. Will update later next week. Thanks again for your help and advice!

Originally posted by clinton
Yes, the price looks great. In US, the lowest prices I found for 2003 models are:
Mizuno Wave Spike 6: USD $65
Mizuno Wave Epic : USD $85
Asics Gel-VTR : USD $65
Aiscs Typhoon: USD $85

Timeless, thanks to all the research you did, I ordered Mizuno and Asics
shoes last week.


Hi, where can i do online order for Asics Typhoon shoes in the SF, USA?

- Mike

Originally posted by mikecuy
Hi, where can i do online order for Asics Typhoon shoes in the SF, USA?

- Mike

I got my shoes from:

http://www.fairwayvolleyball.com/

they're in San Diego, pretty good service so far.

Thanks Clinton. I checked out the website but does not have price for the Asics Typhoon. Which Asics and Mizuno did you buy and how much did you pay for it.

- Mike

Originally posted by mikecuy
Thanks Clinton. I checked out the website but does not have price for the Asics Typhoon. Which Asics and Mizuno did you buy and how much did you pay for it.

- Mike

I can't remember the exact price, the Typhoon is under USD $90 ($87 ?).
I eventually got the Typhoon and VTR (lighter than Typhoon) after trying
the Mizuno. I just happened to like the feel of the Asics shoes better.

if available, you should have a look at the asics gel- pro clear.


http://www.sportschuhe.com/out/oxbaseshop/html/0/dyn_images/asics_ry9034593g_p2.jpg

As per Timeless' request, here's my feedback on my Mizuno Stratosphere 2003.

Positive:

The shoe is pretty decent, durable after 4 months' usage (average 3.5 nights a week; approx. 1 playing hour usage a night). The cushioning gel is the selling point for me as I haven't experienced any soreness associated with my last SHB89M. I can jumpsmash all I want and not feel pain on my soles. Traction is excellent, but I tripped once because the flooring was slightly dusty. Stratos 2003 is very stable despite being a little elevated, I think there shouldn't be any rolling ankles if footwork is decent.

Here's the negative part:

The laces are long, so I have to do extra knots to shorten them. The shoe is alittle high and I often felt soreness around the ankles (especially my non-racquet side). I bought a Superfeet footbed and it just won't fit into the shoe w/o the original insoles. I got a huge blister on the heel of my racquet side foot as a result, and later junked the insoles in favor of the Superfeet. The aesthetic design of the shoe looks good for the first month or so, but easily gets dirty and yellowed on the linings after awhile (that's indoor only). The Strato 2003 is not as light as SHB89M. I think that maybe one of the reasons why I have developed heavy footwork (Badrad could attest to this), and the comfortable cushioning could be reinforcing it.

Cool, thanks Cappy. I guess I can get a good look at them in action when we'll meet for LB's trip to town :).

Just as long as cappy's not modelling them by walking on a runway, and timeless ooggling on the sideline ... it should get by with a PG rating.

-dave

Don't be jealous Dave, you'll be cappy's runway partner with your Asics!

Bwhahahahhaha ... Nice comeback ... you have the Typhoons too. You'd still be oogling cappy's shoes!

-dave

Heheh Dave, Dave, Dave...
At least I'm only interested in his shoes... what will you be oggling while walking behind him on the runway??? :eek: :p ;) :D

http://pages.prodigy.net/bestsmileys1/signs/15.gif

Hi everyone,


Recently I had a foot analysis by a specialist in a badminton expo. Found that I am flat-footed and wore the wrong shoes for badminton. (which explained why I kept spraining my ankle). Too bad the specialist carried only Adidas.

Can anyone recommend me Asics badminton shoes which is for flat-footed ? Appreciate your insights

I dont think that there is any specific model of shoes for flat footed people. What I would recommend instead is to get one of those nice sport insoles. Choose one that would fit you best. Giving you the best fit and support. This should minimize the chances of injury :)

Actually, the Mizuno Epic 2 is made for flatfoots :-D

hey timeless,

i have a few questions,
what are the differences between mizuno epic and stratosphere ?

and which one is more suitable for badminton..

I read quite a few posts.. and people have been saying that epic is kinda heavy and has this thick sole feeling, seems like its rolling around (ankle).. does stratosphere have the same thing? I am trying to find a pair that are lighter.. (than what was described).

thanks

The Epic, or now Epic 2, is Mizuno's most cushioned volleyball shoe. That's why the soles are a bit thicker and overall the shoe is a bit heavier. If you need absolute maximum shock dispersion and cushioning in a court shoe, then the Epic is the best Mizuno has to offer. Just be aware that you'll have to pick your feet up a bit more to prevent ankle injuries.

The stratosphere has a bit less shock dispersion than the Epic but the trade off is that you'll find it a tad lighter (although still relatively heavy compared to badminton specific shoes) and more agile.

If you want a really light shoe but with volleyball quality shock dispersion, check out the new 2005 Mizuno Lightning. It's a hybrid of agility and shock dispersion, with some latest features only found in the very top model Mizuno badminton shoe (only available in Japan), and the Lightning.

Perhaps Cappy75 can provide us with a review now that he's had his Mizuno Lightning long enough to break them in.


hey timeless,

i have a few questions,
what are the differences between mizuno epic and stratosphere ?

and which one is more suitable for badminton..

I read quite a few posts.. and people have been saying that epic is kinda heavy and has this thick sole feeling, seems like its rolling around (ankle).. does stratosphere have the same thing? I am trying to find a pair that are lighter.. (than what was described).

thanks

thanks for your advice timeless.. much appreciated!! :)

yes. cappy, it would be nice if u can write up a review =) very much thanks!!!

The Epic, or now Epic 2, is Mizuno's most cushioned volleyball shoe. That's why the soles are a bit thicker and overall the shoe is a bit heavier. If you need absolute maximum shock dispersion and cushioning in a court shoe, then the Epic is the best Mizuno has to offer. Just be aware that you'll have to pick your feet up a bit more to prevent ankle injuries.

The stratosphere has a bit less shock dispersion than the Epic but the trade off is that you'll find it a tad lighter (although still relatively heavy compared to badminton specific shoes) and more agile.

If you want a really light shoe but with volleyball quality shock dispersion, check out the new 2005 Mizuno Lightning. It's a hybrid of agility and shock dispersion, with some latest features only found in the very top model Mizuno badminton shoe (only available in Japan), and the Lightning.

Perhaps Cappy75 can provide us with a review now that he's had his Mizuno Lightning long enough to break them in.

The Mizuno Lightning fits like a dream for me. Almost as light as Yonex shoes, the Lightning has enough cushion and force dispersion system to withstand numerous pounding without fatigue coming on yet gives enough feedback for me to feel the floor so that I could adjust my footwork to minimise unnecessary force. Before break-in period, the arches on my feet actually hurts when I just stand upright. Pain's gone as soon as I start moving. The shoe has a hard plastic covering the toes area, so there won't be any problems associated with tearing in the toe area. Lots of mesh area on the shoe improves airflow so my feet stays relatively dry. Also, stability is quite good as it corrects itself when I had a slight roll on my ankle one time.

My only complaints are the laces are too long (but could be replaced) and the toes on my pushing non-racquet foot feel abit squashed (maybe my footwork). Pushing off, I feel pain in the area around the big toe of my non-racquet foot but have since corrected my pushing technique to spread the pressure more evenly.

The lightning doesn't tire me out as my old 2003 Stratosphere did and has the cushion of a new Yonex SHB89MX (its cushion lasts longer than the 89s). All in all, one of the best shoes I have had. I highly recommend it.

Cappy, how's the lateral support on the Lightning? It looks like it's built on a "running shoe" last, meaning it could have really good front-back movement support & stability, but little or no lateral support. Is this the case for the Lightning?

For example, my Asics Gel Tyhpoon have amazing lateral support with parts of the sole that actually come up over both sides of area where the balls of the feet are. So when I start and stop explosively side to side, I can really feel the extra support there. Without such lateral support the shoes will eventually really stretch there and you'll get lateral movement of the feet when you step down hard to stop and change directions.

Mizuno 2005 Wave Lightning
http://www.volleyballstuff.net/media/Wavelightning.jpg
^ The sole is just flat here and the only parts covering and supporting the sides of your feet where the balls of the feet are is the leather. Leather usually stretches quite quickly.

Asics 2004 Gel Typhoon
http://www.volleyballstuff.net/media/asicstyphoonblackm.jpg
^ Here the sides of the sole come up to the sides of the foot to add extra stability and support for lateral movement. Shoes that have strong lateral support, you can really feel it when you push off or have to stop suddenly.

hmm seems like the lightning is a good fit for me!!
i will try to find one around my area...
thanks timeless and cappy!!

the store near me (canuckstuff.com) only carries the 2004 version.. there is not MAJOR difference between the 2 right? (2004 and 2005)

The Mizuno Lightning is new for 2004 through to 2005. There's only the one model as it's a completely new design. The Canuckstuff website says $20 off, can you find out when you buy yours whether that's $20 off $129, or is $129 already the lowered sale price?

Looks really sharp too. Everyone is always eyeing Cappy's Lightnings at the club. I might mail order a pair from Canuckstuff.com as well if the lateral support proves good. Otherwise I'll order another pair of Typhoons.

Mizuno 2005 Wave Lightning
http://www.volleyballstuff.net/media/Wavelightning.jpg
Oh! Bravo! Fantastic! Gorgeous! So delicate!!!
This is too sexy!!!!!!!!!! It's beyond my extravaganza to have it, now!
Anyone knows how to get it in Hong Kong?:confused:

for sure, i will email them tonight =)

The Canuckstuff website says $20 off, can you find out when you buy yours whether that's $20 off $129, or is $129 already the lowered sale price?

Dear timeless,
I really admire your profound knowledge in these shoes. This thread sounds like a "Mizuno thread" dressed as "Asics": when people wants to buy "Asics" and come here to consult, after reading all the posts here they go home with a pair of Mizuno.

So I have a very serious personal question for you: I should buy Mizuno, right?

thank you and best regards

red

I am a recent Mizuno convert myself, having bought Yonex and HiTec shoes before. I think Mizuno and Asic are almost identical since they often copy one another's model names for their respective lines:p.

Timeless, the lateral support of the Lightning is pretty good although I suspect Stratosphere and Epic to be superior. It's pretty light, so there has to be some compromise made somewhere on the Lightning. Mizuno shoes are superior to Yonex shoes because of the technologies involved. Mizuno Wave technology is the edge over Yonex's Power Cushion and 3D Graphite Sheet composite. I suspect that Mizuno shoes, even with replaced insoles, outlast Yonex shoes because their shock dispersion system is so good.

My SHB89's cushion was really good for about 1-2 months and then it just goes down hill from there:(. Without Yonex original insoles, my 89 is just not the same. I get pain on the balls of my feet when I replaced the insoles with other brands.

I wanted to try out Yonex's 98 but changed my mind after considering Mizuno's longer experience and specialty in manufacturing athletic indoor shoes. So far, the Lightning has yet to fail me. I think I have found the "ONE":cool:.

BTW, the Lightning is a volleyball shoe... Mizuno has yet to release a badminton specific shoe in North America;).

For those interested in Mizuno shoes for badminton playing (instead of using Mizuno volleyball shoes), the following may be worth your attention:-

http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19895


http://www.badmintoncentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15091

I believe the following are talking about Mizuno volleyball shoes (which carried art. no. of 9KV-xxxxx) in the thread titled Asics Gel-Tactic or Asics Gel Floater? which started off on discussion Asics shoes for volleyball? or badminto? and then off track to discussion about Mizuno volleyball shoes :-

Mizuno Blocker in #15
Mizuno Epic & Mizuno Stratosphere in #18
Mizuno Wave Spike 6 & Mizuno Wave Epic in #20
Mizuno Wave Blocker in #25
Stratosphere 2003 in#26 
Mizuno Stratosphere 2003 in #45
Mizuno Epic 2 in #54
mizuno epic and stratosphere in #55
Epic, or now Epic 2, stratosphere, Mizuno Lightning in#56
Mizuno Lightning in #58
Mizuno 2005 Wave Lightning in #60
Mizuno Lightning in #62
Lightning in #66

I believe the following are talking about Mizuno volleyball shoes (which carried art. no. of 9KV-xxxxx)
Mizuno Lightning in #62
Lightning in #66leehsim,
Thank you for your help. I really appreciate your contribution to our knowledge in these shoes. With your super profound expertize in shoes, we indeed would not get a wrong pair. Thanks(also thank you for your help in another thread)
Best regards
red

Mizuno Volleyball shoes vs. Mizuno Badminton shoes? The only reason I got those volleyball shoes in the first place is because I have little choice. I could ask someone to get them oversea, but then I hate to wait... and one should never ever get a new shoe model online unless one's familiar with the brand and model. It's quite a hassle to return them if they don't fit.

Also, Yonex being a racquet company that make good racquets, does not necessarily make good shoes. Whereas Mizunos has specialise in shoes way before their racquets ever come out, so I get which ever brand that has the best track record on its respective area when it comes to equipment. So folks, it's up to you... footwork for volleyball and badminton is very similar especially in overheads and lateral movement. If I had a choice, I would definitely get a badminton specific Mizuno but such is not the case for me.

Mizuno Volleyball shoes vs. Mizuno Badminton shoes?
Don't be too worried: both are for wooden court. My friend has Mizuno's volleyball shoes too. He is very fussy about everything including shoes. He said that M's valleyball shoes is at least superior to YY's and a lot other famous "so called" "Badminton shoes".

Mizuno Volleyball shoes vs. Mizuno Badminton shoes? The only reason I got those volleyball shoes in the first place is because I have little choice. I could ask someone to get them oversea, but then I hate to wait... and one should never ever get a new shoe model online unless one's familiar with the brand and model. It's quite a hassle to return them if they don't fit.

Also, Yonex being a racquet company that make good racquets, does not necessarily make good shoes. Whereas Mizunos has specialise in shoes way before their racquets ever come out, so I get which ever brand that has the best track record on its respective area when it comes to equipment. So folks, it's up to you...I totally agreed to your observation about Yonex does not make good shoes. I used to wear Yonex badminton shoes before. After I was introduced to Mizuno badminton shoes (the only art.no. available in Singapore is 7KM-34009), I dumped all my old Yonex badminton shoes and switched to Mizuno Wave Gate (bought 2 pairs) and hoping that I can buy some other models of Mizuno badminton in Malaysia.

I understood your difficulty to own a pair of Mizuno badminton shoes at your place. May be youare lucky if your look hard enough for Mizuno badminton shoes.

I really envy those BFers in HK and Manila where they have quite a few models of Mizuno badminton shoes to choose from.

It's quite funny that during the World Jrs. in Richmond awhile back, a friend notice that the Japanese Junior squad wears everything Yonex but their shoes... guess which brand it is;)? Since the Japanese national team is so heavily sponsored by their own country's badminton company, so it seems to reason that everything should be YY. But that's certainly not the case here:p. Almost every other country's squad wears Yonex shoes except the Japanese national team:rolleyes:.

It's quite funny that during the World Jrs. in Richmond awhile back, a friend notice that the Japanese Junior squads wears everything Yonex but their shoes... guess which brand it is;)? Since the Japanese national team is so heavily sponsored by their own countrymen's company, it seems to reason that everything should be YY. But that's certainly not the case here:p.

Mizuno is also a Japanese company... :)

It's quite funny that during the World Jrs. in Richmond awhile back, a friend notice that the Japanese Junior squad wears everything Yonex but their shoes... guess which brand it is;)? Since the Japanese national team is so heavily sponsored by their own country's badminton company, so it seems to reason that everything should be YY. But that's certainly not the case here:p. Almost every other country's squad wears Yonex shoes except the Japanese national team:rolleyes:.
When my wife was working in Reebok HK, our only "allowed" sports shoes were Reebok, Reebok, Reebok and MIZUNO indoor.

Yes, but everybody outside of Japan would think YY to be the badminton company... not Mizuno. Despite their racquets, Mizuno is still known as an athletic shoe company:). So I guess sponsorship monopoly of national teams didn't include the Japanese squad:D.

Mizuno is also a Japanese company... :)

Yes, but everybody outside of Japan would think YY to be the badminton company... not Mizuno. Despite their racquets, Mizuno is still known as an athletic shoe company:).
Misuno is best known as the best indoor athletic shoes company in the sport World.

(By the way, we might get an offtopic warning soon even Kwun participated here. The warning might be issued by cheung though cheung also might put a few words about how good Mizuno before he issue the warning)

I would like to have a pair of mizuno badminton shoes too.. but I cant find find any around my area... and seems like alot of ppl are using mizuno volleyball shoes and have good things to say about them.. i assume that its not much of a big deal :o

if anyone know where to get mizuno badminton shoes in the toronto area.. please post here!

Just so no one gets the wrong idea, here are the plain and simple facts...

Mizuno and Asics are equal in quality. Try them on and see for yourself which you prefer! It is an honest choice of personal preference. One thing is for certain though, both Mizuno and Asics have made athletic shoes for almost all sports for decades. Both companies make superior shoes to Yonex. Everyone in Japan knows it, and now you all know it. It is not a coincidence that the Japanese national team always uses Mizuno shoes. If they weren't using Mizuno, they would most likely be using Asics.

Mizuno and Asics both make badminton specific shoes, just as they do for volleyball. However, their badminton specific shoes seem only available in Japan, and a few areas of Asia. For those who aren't fortunate enough to find the badminton specific shoes, their volleyball shoes are the next best choice, and are still far superior than Yonex. Just pick the volleyball shoes at your discretion and don't pick models with very high soles or you'll risk ankle injuries.

Well, my bro just bought for me the mizuno lighting. The only badminton model they were able to find in HK was the wave angle which I didnt fancy that much. The lighting for me was more slick in design :rolleyes:
I really wanted the WAVE SMASH SR but they didnt find it, they went to five shops already :confused: Man What is mizuno doing short stocking their dealers e??

If anyone know a shop in Hong Kong that sells the wave smash SR please let me know.

Anyways, im getting another pair here in Cebu, Philippines, which is the WAVE EPIC 2. Since I have sweaty feet and I play 2-3 times a week its better to alternate them to preserve the shoe. Who knows maybe a third pair if anyone can tell me where the wave smash is availble in HK :o

I heard from friends here that if you are flatfooted its better to get the volleyball shoes since they make your move more faster whilst the badmiton is sort of like flat makes your flatter feet flatter.

I think mizuno considers their badminton and volleyball sorta like the same since they are calling these shoes on some other mizuno sites as "INDOOR" shoes. Which makes me conclude, they are really the same. Come to think of it, indoor volley and badminton really have kinda the same footwork! :D

If you go around the many sports or shoes stores in Mongkok in HK, you will find a wider selection of Mizuno volleyball shoes than Mizuno badminton shoes. There are more people playing indoor badminton than indoor volleyball in Hong Kong. So you can deduce there are a lot of people who have been misled. This is not very ethical. I play badminton with two different groups of players, almost all wear Mizuno indoor shoes, and more than half of them wear 9KV volleyball shoes. When I told them so, they were mad as hell! This is not very ethical of the stores. :D

Now why would stores sell volleyball shoes when the majority of their clients play badminton? Is it more profitable for them to do that than to meet their clients needs? Perhaps they're limited to what they can bring in from Mizuno Japan. Volleyball shoes are usually heavier with more cushion but they're quite decent for badminton. Of course, nothing beats a shoe designed for badminton. I think those guys lose little in way of quality for getting what they got.

If you go around the many sports or shoes stores in Mongkok in HK, you will find a wider selection of Mizuno volleyball shoes than Mizuno badminton shoes. There are more people playing indoor badminton than indoor volleyball in Hong Kong. So you can deduce there are a lot of people who have been misled. This is not very ethical. I play badminton with two different groups of players, almost all wear Mizuno indoor shoes, and more than half of them wear 9KV volleyball shoes. When I told them so, they were mad as hell! This is not very ethical of the stores. :D

Those sales guys at Monkok just don't care much the client's need. I love walkling around sports shoes shop ever since I was 13. Most of the sales just wanted to close the deal!!!!! Poor service and poor product knowledge.

Monkok is exactly where my bro bought my shoes for me hehehe

I think mizuno considers their badminton and volleyball sorta like the same since they are calling these shoes on some other mizuno sites as "INDOOR" shoes. Which makes me conclude, they are really the same. Come to think of it, indoor volley and badminton really have kinda the same footwork! :D
To support you conclusion that Mizuno badminton shoes and volleyball shoes are really the same, may I suggest that you try to play badminton wearing 9KV series Mizuno volleyball shoes and then 7KM series Mizuno badminton shoes. Then you can put up your review on their performance.

This certainly would be helpful to others.

I do not agree with your view that indoor volley and badminton really have kinda the same footwork.

I play badminton and don't play indoor volleyball. However I watch both games. There are similar footwork in certain aspect of badminton and indoor volley but there are certainly difference in other action.

Furthermore Badminton have single playing game. One player have to footwork to cover the whole court.
Footwork of badminton double may have similarity with indoor volley (played by six player) on each side but there are also some difference.

I welcome other BFers who play indoor volleyball and badminton to contribute their views on this.

I think badminton shoes should be for badminton and volleyball shoes should be for volleyball.

Most Mizuno I tried were more Volleyball oriented than badminton.

I think badminton shoes should be for badminton and volleyball shoes should be for volleyball.

Most Mizuno I tried were more Volleyball oriented than badminton.
So we are very lucky in Hong Kong. So difficult to get from your place. Anyway, the Mizuno volleyball shoes are still better than YY's.

Do you think you can get the real Mizuno badminton shoes from mail through HK?

volleyball and badminton
leehsim is our Mizuno expert here with profound knowledge.

I thought there were limited choices in Canada or somewhere overseas that our members had to make a compromise and suffer. Although these 9ks were meant to be for volleyballs, they were better than the YYs.

May be bluejeff or someone should start a mail service on Mizuno shoes.

leehsim:

so what do you suggest to people who doesnt have access to mizuno badminton shoes but only volleyball shoes..

i have yet to seen any here at Toronto, and i dont think any Bfer found any selling in Toronto either

i certainly dont want to buy yonex ones now.. from the things i have heard in the fourm.. they are way too expensive if they are not durable.

so what can you suggest to us?

newbi

leehsim:

so what do you suggest to people who doesnt have access to mizuno badminton shoes but only volleyball shoes..

i have yet to seen any here at Toronto, and i dont think any Bfer found any selling in Toronto either

i certainly dont want to buy yonex ones now.. from the things i have heard in the fourm.. they are way too expensive if they are not durable.

so what can you suggest to us?

newbiI suggest that you can scout around in your areas and personally try on Mizuno volleyball shoes and compare with other brand such as

Asics badminton shoes:Asics Combat, Asics Gel Rocket and Asics Gel
Hi-Tec badminton shoes:Adrenalin Pro, Adrenalin Ultra, Venom XP 04 and Viper 400
Karakal badminton shoes: XS-270
Victor badminton shoes: Victor 813 Duratec Combat 3000 817 Duratec Trium 3000
Wilson badminton shoes: Wilson Blitz or Wilson Boost

The important thing is to try them on personally, and judge whether they really have features which give good protection to your feet for playing badminton.

If there is no other brands of the above, I suggest you use Mizuno volleyball shoes which may be the next best choice.

Afterall I have been wasting my money using Yonex badminton shoes until I have the golden opportunity to use Mizuno badminton shoes (only model available in Singapore: Mizuno Wave Gate). If I happen to fly by Hong Kong or Manila, I would try to look and purchase other models of Mizuno badminton shoes.

I suggest that you can scout around in your areas and personally try on Mizuno volleyball shoes and compare with other brand such as


Asics badminton shoes:Asics Combat, Asics Gel Rocket and Asics Gel

Hi-Tec badminton shoes:Adrenalin Pro, Adrenalin Ultra, Venom XP 04 and Viper 400
Karakal badminton shoes: XS-270
Victor badminton shoes: Victor 813 Duratec Combat 3000 817 Duratec Trium 3000
Wilson badminton shoes: Wilson Blitz or Wilson Boost

The important thing is to try them on personally, and judge whether they really have features which give good protection to your feet for playing badminton.


If there is no other brands of the above, I suggest you use Mizuno volleyball shoes which may be the next best choice.

Afterall I have been wasting my money using Yonex badminton shoes until I have the golden opportunity to use Mizuno badminton shoes (only model available in Singapore: Mizuno Wave Gate). If I happen to fly by Hong Kong or Manila, I would try to look and purchase other models of Mizuno badminton shoes.leeshum,
you are so knowledgeable in this. do you consider to start a shoes mailing surface on Mizuno Bad shoes? your contribution to the member here will be unmeasurable.:D

leeshum,
you are so knowledgeable in this. do you consider to start a shoes mailing surface on Mizuno Bad shoes? your contribution to the member here will be unmeasurable.:DThanks to your compliment.

Your suggestion to start a shoes mailing order on Mizuno badminton shoes is not possible in Singapore as we have only 1 Mizuno model. In Singapore it is even quite difficult to persuade badminton player to switch from Yonex shoes to Mizuno.

I think there is potential for player in HK to take mail order for badminton playwer in North America region.

Thanks to your compliment.

Your suggestion to start a shoes mailing order on Mizuno badminton shoes is not possible in Singapore as we have only 1 Mizuno model. In Singapore it is even quite difficult to persuade badminton player to switch from Yonex shoes to Mizuno.

I think there is potential for player in HK to take mail order for badminton playwer in North America region.I mean selling the shoes worldwide: to satisfy the US/Canada's need. To my surprise, Mizuno is very inexpensive in HK but expensive in other part of the world. I went to Australia last month a running shoes pair (Creation 5 ) will cost aound HK1300 but HK is only half of the price.

So if you do it from Singapore, the total cost after mailing might be even cheaper to buy in USA.

Thank you for your contribution from your superior knowledge in the Mizuno shoes. You really help to clarify the cloud in Mizuno shoes helping us to make a "righter" and more informed choice. I really learn a lot from you.
best regards
red

can i know whats the difference between

Wave Smash SR (7KM-40009)
and
Wave Smash RP (7KM-41014)

is one for women one for men?

timeless.. in case u still want to know

the mizuno lightning at canucks stuff
is $129.99 - $20
so its $109.99 + tax (15%)

i just got mine toady :D

u think its a good deal?

Damn! That's a GREAT deal:eek:! Even if they add on S&H, it's still cheaper than getting them at Racquets 'N Runners (local Vancouver specialty store). Do let us know about your Lightning experience:).

timeless.. in case u still want to know

the mizuno lightning at canucks stuff
is $129.99 - $20
so its $109.99 + tax (15%)

i just got mine toady :D

u think its a good deal?

Almost everything at Rackets and Runners are marked up. For example the same tennis grip selling for $10 at Tads, Racket and Runners price theirs at $11.25.

-dave

Not much choice here if you want the latest and greatest. Gotta be prepare to pay through the nose if you're not willing to wait:(.

Almost everything at Rackets and Runners are marked up. For example the same tennis grip selling for $10 at Tads, Racket and Runners price theirs at $11.25.

-dave

can i know whats the difference between

Wave Smash SR (7KM-40009)
and
Wave Smash RP (7KM-41014)

is one for women one for men?

The Smash SR is lighter by about 15%. Being lighter also means it costs more, although both are listed in Hong Kong at HK$560. However, both are 2004 models and will probably be replaced. These two shoes have holes at the bottom-strictly for indoor badminton.
I will be getting a new 2005 model, 7KM-33014, with two holes at the bottom, this friday. I think it is heavier than the Smash models, but its construction is very similar to the now discontinued 7KM-34014, which is tops in anti-twist, heel and bottom rigidity characteristics. It is more expensive than the old 7KM-34014, retailing at Hk$480.

Where are you buying it from taneepek? :-) Which store in HK? Or better yet do you have a link for a complete list of 2005 badminton models for mizuno?

Where are you buying it from taneepek? :-) Which store in HK? Or better yet do you have a link for a complete list of 2005 badminton models for mizuno?

You can find them at the bigger Tokyo Sports stores in Kowloon, Hong Kong. They will tell you which are the new models, but they said they have no catalogs for 2005 when I asked for one.
Normally, I check about Mizuno or Yonex badminton shoes at Tokyo Sports. I then buy them from two stores, one in Tuen Mun and the one in Kowloon (Inskysport). If these two stores don't have them, I end up buying from Tokyo Sports (only Mizuno) or from any one of the many stores in Mongkok.

i think its good cause my wife n i use it both for our badminton games during weekends :) any comments on the asics gel bounce? It's the only asics vollyball shoe i can find.

hm...lee's badminton in markham ontario seems to list two mizuno badminton shoe models on their website...http://www.leesbadminton.ca/modeng/name/onlinestore/category/8

it's the 7KM31051 ($115) and the 7Km 62009 ($120).

asics gel sensei 2.... is this good choice for badminton shoes? Or should I get asics gel tactic, asics gel rocket 4, mizuno wave tornado 3, mizuno wave lightning four. Or I can't go wrong with either of these choices. I'm currently using new balance 621 running shoes as badminton shoes :(.

Geez, any one of them is a hell lot better than your NB621. You better change out of those before you get injured. I got my first ankle injury from playing with running shoes and that ankle has been funny for over 20years already.

Geez, any one of them is a hell lot better than your NB621. You better change out of those before you get injured. I got my first ankle injury from playing with running shoes and that ankle has been funny for over 20years already.ok looks like ima get the gel sensei

It's a lot easier now to aquire Mizuno and Asics shoes in Canada. Just checked Sports Chek. They had a few models there, didn't realy see which one. Only problem is that it's pricey.

You are paying good money for good quality shoes. Those shoes would go a long way towards injury prevention and health. I wonder how many people would compromise their health and lifestyle for a good deal.

Hello, I'm looking for shoes which have proper cushioning without compromising balance. I jump a lot on court and currently suffer from periodic forefoot, ankle and knee aches. I have been recommended Asics Gel-Tactic by my coach. Please advise if it would be a good choice :) Thanks very much!

Asics Gel Beyond is what Joachim Person and Tine Rasmunsen use... Supposed to be high end indoor court shoes from Asics...:)

Hello, I'm looking for shoes which have proper cushioning without compromising balance. I jump a lot on court and currently suffer from periodic forefoot, ankle and knee aches. I have been recommended Asics Gel-Tactic by my coach. Please advise if it would be a good choice :) Thanks very much!

Yes, the Gel Tactic is specifically made for badminton with forefoot and rearfoot gel cushioning. Same goes for the Gel Beyond while the Gel Blade 2 has only forefoot gel.

I am using a pair of Gel Tactic right now (migrated from Yonex shoes). Definitely more cushioning then Yonex, as I do a lot of jump smashes. :D

Bear in mind, they are a tight-fit at the beginning but will readjust to your feet in about a month's time. :p

If u are looking for a shop with a lot of Asics models to try, go to Etakoh @ Pertama Complex. That's where I bought mine. :D

Yes, the Gel Tactic is specifically made for badminton with forefoot and rearfoot gel cushioning. Same goes for the Gel Beyond while the Gel Blade 2 has only forefoot gel.

I am using a pair of Gel Tactic right now (migrated from Yonex shoes). Definitely more cushioning then Yonex, as I do a lot of jump smashes. :D

Bear in mind, they are a tight-fit at the beginning but will readjust to your feet in about a month's time. :p

If u are looking for a shop with a lot of Asics models to try, go to Etakoh @ Pertama Complex. That's where I bought mine. :D

u bought which model & how much? coz i might take my bro there to get 1 :D

u bought which model & how much? coz i might take my bro there to get 1 :D

Gel Tactic for RM270 (stated in second para). :p

Also tried on the Gel Beyond but went for the Tactic as it felt more comfortable. :D

Yes, the Gel Tactic is specifically made for badminton with forefoot and rearfoot gel cushioning. Same goes for the Gel Beyond while the Gel Blade 2 has only forefoot gel.

I am using a pair of Gel Tactic right now (migrated from Yonex shoes). Definitely more cushioning then Yonex, as I do a lot of jump smashes. :D

Bear in mind, they are a tight-fit at the beginning but will readjust to your feet in about a month's time. :p

If u are looking for a shop with a lot of Asics models to try, go to Etakoh @ Pertama Complex. That's where I bought mine. :D

Hello again ulric, thanks for the feedback :)

Gel Tactic for RM270 (stated in second para). :p

Also tried on the Gel Beyond but went for the Tactic as it felt more comfortable. :D

Gel Beyond is now available in KL? wish its available in singapore