Best Badminton Shoes 2025: Don't Ruin Your Knees
⚠️ Critical Safety Warning
The most important piece of equipment in badminton isn't your racket. It's your shoes. Badminton involves rapid lateral (side-to-side) movements and heavy lunges. Running shoes are designed for forward motion and have thick, unstable foam. Wearing running shoes on a badminton court is the #1 cause of rolled ankles.
If you have ever twisted your ankle during a game, there is a 90% chance it was because you were wearing the wrong shoes. I learned this the hard way when I sprained my ankle three months into playing badminton—all because I thought my Nike running shoes were "good enough."
Here are our top picks for stability, cushioning, and durability in 2025, based on actual court testing and pro player preferences.
1. The "Gold Standard" – Yonex Power Cushion 65Z3
Used by: Kento Momota, Viktor Axelsen
Price: $140 - $160 USD
This is the most popular shoe on the pro circuit for a reason. It strikes the perfect balance. It is not too heavy, but it has excellent cushioning (Power Cushion+) that absorbs shock when you land from a jump smash.
The fit is incredible—like a glove. Your foot sits locked in place without any sliding, which is critical for fast directional changes. The heel counter is reinforced, so your ankle feels supported even during extreme lunges.
- Pros: Incredible "glove-like" fit, excellent shock absorption, very durable (6-12 months with regular play).
- Cons: Ventilation could be better. Your feet will get warm during long matches.
2. Maximum Stability – Yonex Eclipsion Z3
Price: $150 - $170 USD
If you have a history of ankle injuries, buy this shoe. It has a "semi-one piece" sole that prevents your foot from twisting during intense lateral movements. It feels stiffer than the 65Z3, but it is much safer.
This is the shoe I switched to after my ankle injury, and I have not had a single issue since. The trade-off is that it feels less "responsive" during quick net play, but the peace of mind is worth it.
- Pros: Best ankle stability in the market, very responsive heel cushioning.
- Cons: Heavier than other models (you will feel it after 2 hours of play).
3. The Speed Demon – Yonex Aerus Z2
Price: $130 - $150 USD
Weighing only ~250g per shoe, this is for the player who wants to feel like they are barefoot. It is incredibly fast. However, because it is so thin, the durability is lower than the others. Expect to replace these every 6-8 months if you play 3+ times per week.
These are popular with doubles players who prioritize speed at the net over raw power. If you play a defensive or control-based game, these might be perfect for you.
- Pros: Extremely lightweight, very breathable.
- Cons: Less cushioning (not ideal for heavy players), lower durability.
4. Best Budget Pick – Victor A362
Price: $50 - $70 USD
You don't need to spend $150 to get a safe, functional badminton shoe. The Victor A362 is a solid entry-level option. It has the essential gum rubber sole (for grip) and lateral support claws that prevent ankle rolls.
It lacks the fancy carbon fiber plates and advanced cushioning of the pro models, but it will do the job for beginners and recreational players. If you are just getting into badminton and are not sure you will stick with it, start here.
- Pros: Very affordable, good grip, decent lateral support.
- Cons: Cushioning is minimal (you will feel impacts more), less durable than premium options.
What to Look for When Buying Badminton Shoes
1. Gum Rubber Sole (Non-Negotiable)
The sole must be made of gum rubber—it is usually yellow or brown in color. This material grips wooden and synthetic courts perfectly. Black rubber soles (common in running shoes) will cause you to slip.
2. Lateral Support
Look for reinforced sidewalls or "support claws" on the sides of the shoe. These prevent your foot from rolling outward during lunges.
3. Snug Fit (Not Tight)
Your foot should not slide inside the shoe at all. There should be about a thumbnail's width of space at the toe, but the midfoot and heel should feel locked in.
4. Brand Sizing Tips
- Yonex: Tends to run narrow. If you have wide feet, go up half a size or consider Victor.
- Victor: Runs wider and more true-to-size.
- Li-Ning: Chinese sizing—often runs small. Order one full size up if buying from overseas.
Final Thoughts: Don't Skip This Purchase
I get it—spending $100+ on shoes feels excessive when you are just starting out. But badminton shoes are not optional. They are safety equipment. A single ankle injury will cost you weeks of recovery time and potentially hundreds of dollars in medical bills. The shoes pay for themselves by preventing that first injury.
If you can only afford one piece of quality equipment, make it the shoes. Play with a cheap racket if you have to, but do not play in running shoes.
Complete Your Equipment Setup
Now that you have proper shoes, make sure you're protecting your rackets too. Check out our badminton bags guide to learn about thermal protection and proper storage for your equipment.