What shoe when · Sports
Four sports, four surfaces, four different soles. Using the wrong one is where rolled ankles and short shoe lives come from.
A non-marking indoor court shoe with gum-rubber grip and real lateral hold. Never a running shoe.
Look for
- Gum rubber, non-marking
- Lateral support
- Low to the ground
Not this
- Running shoes (ankles roll)
- Outdoor soles indoors
On our wall
Firm-ground studs. Light boots for pace, more structure for contact.
Look for
- FG or MG plate
- Fit that locks the heel
- Upper for touch
Not this
- FG studs on hard, dusty ground
- Futsal shoes outdoors
On our wall
Turf or hard-ground soles with many small studs. FG plates hurt and wear out on this.
Look for
- TF or HG sole
- Durable toe
- Cushioned insole
Not this
- FG and SG boots
On our wall
We stock shoes for this; ask the store team.
A tennis shoe with herringbone outsole and lateral support for slides and stops.
Look for
- Herringbone grip
- Reinforced toe and medial side
- Durability guarantee on some lines
Not this
- Running shoes
- Indoor badminton shoes outdoors
On our wall
A basketball shoe built for landings and cuts; low or high depends on how you play, not on fashion.
Look for
- Court traction
- Cushioned heel and forefoot for landings
- Secure midfoot
Not this
- Running shoes
- Soft indoor outsoles on rough concrete
On our wall
A volleyball shoe with forefoot cushioning and gum-rubber grip.
Look for
- Forefoot cushioning
- Gum rubber
- Stable landing platform
Not this
- Running shoes
- Outdoor use
On our wall
The single most useful question in sports footwear is "where do you play?" The answer picks the outsole, and the outsole picks the shoe.
Still not sure?
Send a photo of your current shoes and tell us what you do. A fitter replies, or come in and try.