Can you tell me what makes badminton shoes different to normal sneakers. Also, what should I look out for for good badminton shoes Thanks
Different type of sole. Good badminton shoes have a rubber sole like budi mentioned. When I look for a good shoe, I check for weight, good traction, and good cushioning. In fact, I'm looking for a good pair now but don't know what types are good. If anyone has any suggestions for an excellent shoe for badminton, and where to purchase them, please let me know. Thanks
Apart from what you already mentioned: If you can't find specific badminton shoes (such as Yonex SHB models) you could go for almost any indoor shoe. Stay away from tennis and basketball shoes though, their support is all wrong for badminton. Look for volleyball or handball shoes. You want good cushioning, but not as high as to create lateral instability -- go for a shoe with a "low" sole. (This rules out running shoes, by the way) Adidas, Asics and Adrenaline all have indoor shoes that are suitable for badminton.
Don't forget that Mizuno is a very good court shoe. I have the Mizuno Return Ti badminton show and it is very impressive. The sole is not rubber gum but is definitely very good on wood floors. The tread is like suction cups and I can gurantee that you won't slip. On dusty and clean wood floors the traction is very good. Good padding and great for wide feet. You would probably have to go to Asia to get them. I got them in HK when I was there for a trip.
I whole-heartedly recommend Yonex SHB-92. You can see them at yonex.com I have used them for about 3 months and I'm very impressed with their comfort, traction and resilience. I used to use some badminton shoes called "Aliph" but I don't think they are available now. If anyone knows please let me know.
Sure, the SHB-92 feel great, but mine broke after 4 months. The leather at the front is completely worn out (left shoe). There's a big hole... Strange that they haven't foreseen this and put in some extra protection. It's right at the point where you get the most friction when you make deep lunges. One would expect more from a badminton-specific shoe.
In terms of comfort, Mizuno is the best badminton shoes I've ever weared. In terms of performance, it also doesn't fall short too (especially for those with Wave function). If someone find Yonex SHB92 is good, then I can say SHB95 is better (I've both, mine is SHB95Mid). However both shoes are not very suitable for people with wide feet, you will find that they are a little bit tight.
Badminton shoes have gummi soles and you can push from the sides of the sole as well. Try pushing on sides of the sole of a regular shoe and you may end up getting hurt if you fall becuase they were not design for it.
