just wondering how much is the difference playing wise? currently i'm using some Nike shoes, think the name is Nike Pivot Plus. dont know whether it is a normal indoor shoes or if it's for some specfic sport. what i do get is a good grip on the court anyway.
The difference is certainly noticeable, and can be very significant. Badminton has a multi-directional aspect to it like no other, involving quick and unexpected direction changes, and puts a lot of stress on the shoe in places that are not conventional in other sports. If you look at what happens to the shoes of high-level players, eventually their foot will come through the side of the shoe near the front if they play enough. I have never heard of this kind of damage happening in any other sport. Most athletic shoes are designed to minimize the pounding effects of running, jumping, etc. Many people use volleyball shoes for badminton, however, volleyball is a static game when compared to the running requirements of badminton. No, badminton is unique in the toll it takes on your feet (which is transferred to other muscle groups), and thus requires uniquely supportive shoes. You will find that badminton shoes are a great advantage compared to any other type.
