Best Badminton Shoes for Men and Women Reviewed

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
Babolat Shadow Spirit
Test Winner: Babolat Shadow Spirit
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What do you think of when you think badminton? A court? Racquets? Hitting a birdie over the net?


Have you ever thought about your shoes? Probably not. Just like any sport, badminton requires shoes that can withstand certain actions: shortstops, quick direction changes, jumps, etc., while offering the best support possible. When your shoes aren’t designed for these actions you are more likely to trip, roll your ankle, or simply have a bad game. No matter how competitive the game is everyone wants to have the best one they can, and that starts with having the best badminton shoes for the job.

Standout Picks

asics badminton shoes Asics GEL-Rocket 8
One of the best Badminton shoes on our list is the Asics GEL-Rocket 8. This design allows the sneaker to be lightweight while still maintaining good structural support and cushioning. It means that you will be able to move around quickly and easily while also keeping your balance and avoiding any stumbles or falls. The Gel-Rocket 8 Badminton shoes provide good ankle protection and reduces the risk of injuries making them one of the best Badminton shoes on the market.
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asics badminton shoes Asics GEL Tactic 2
Play to win - and look good while you’re doing it, too. These sneakers by ASICS are designed for volleyball but are amazing for badminton players as they provide excellent shock absorption. These Asics Badminton shoes are extremely durable and are ideal for those who train hard and play frequently. Combined with its cushioning and structural support, the Asics Gel Tactic 2 is a good choice for beginner, intermediate, and advanced players alike.
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mizuno badminton shoes Mizuno Wave Lightning RX3
Simple yet practical, this model by Mizuno redefines the concept of minimalism. Its clean design features a rubber outsole designed for maximum stability. Shock is absorbed equally throughout the sole to cushion your jumps and help you keep your balance when transitioning from move to move. These Mizuno Badminton Shoes will prevent injuries and maximize performance, rendering them a good pick for players of all level.
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Asics Badminton shoes GEL-Upcourt 3
Next on our list is a pair that’s perfect for beginner or amateur players. The Asics GEL-Upcourt 3 provides a balance of different features that are designed to enhance your every move. Its versatility renders it great for many other indoor activities as well. A wide range of color selections is available so that you can pick what best suits your preferences.
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Adidas Badminton shoes Barricade Club
If you’re looking for something comfortable and versatile, the Adidas Badminton shoes Barricade Club is definitely worth a try. Designed to ensure ease of intense lateral movements, these sneakers will prevent injuries and help you move around quickly. What’s more, a sleek design makes these excellent for everyday streetwear, so that you can look fresh and stay comfortable at the same time.
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Puma badminton shoes Invicto Sala
If you’re looking something that’s versatile and durable, the Puma Invicto Sala is for you. These Puma badminton shoes are light, agile, and provide amazing structural support that reduces both power loss and the risk of injuries. On top of that, Puma offers a variety of colors and styles for this model, ranging from yellow to mint green to red. This ensures that you’ll never have to sacrifice style for performance.
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Adidas Performance Ligra 4 best badminton shoes
The Adidas Performance Ligra 4 is by far the most underrated design by this brand. With rubber on the outsole, these sneakers provide a solid grip that will keep you steady on your feet. The material of the insole is soft and comfortable, and a mesh material ensures air-exchange so that your feet can remain fresh throughout the season. Additionally, its versatility makes it an ideal pick for those looking to save money - or who just can’t be bothered to go shopping.
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yonex badminton shoes Pro Cushion Eclipsion 2
Ideally, a comfortable pair of badminton sneakers should fit snugly enough that there is no extra space, but not so snugly that it prevents air-exchange. With its asymmetrical fit, this pair by Yonex badminton shos provides just that - a great fit to allow ventilation, along with superior structural support and attractive design. The balance of features of these Yonex badminton shoes will keep you swift and stable with every step you take. Overall, this is a good pick for comfort that will also enhance your performance.
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Yonex badminton shoes Power Cushion Aerus 2
When an egg is dropped from 7m above a Yonex Power Cushion sheet, it will bounce back 4m in the air without any damage. Not only can these Yonex badminton shoes reverse shock energy for use in the next movement, but their design also provides excellent ventilation and structural support for maximum performance. Weighing at 270g, they are also Yonex’s lightest option. They are guaranteed to literally - and figuratively - put a spring in your step.
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Babolat badminton shoes Shadow Spirit
The Babolat badminton shoes Shadow Spirit come equipped with a number of features to make sure you get the most out of your game. From the Active Sculpture technology to its ergonomic structure and the ability to adapt to you and your style, this is an excellent sneaker for the court.
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Criteria Used for Evaluation

Traction

In this section, we will take an opportunity to talk about both grip and traction, because both are equally important when it comes to this sport.

The grip of a design is what allows it to hold on to smooth surfaces, such as an indoor wood court. Depending on the material and pattern of the sole, some designs provide you with an excellent grip which allows you to stand more steadily.

On the other hand, traction describes the kind of friction between the sole and the floor. Slippery footwear can still be seen as having good traction. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is practical or suitable for the sport you are playing.

The floors used when playing badminton are usually completely smooth, making it exceptionally easy for the players to slip. This makes it much harder for them to change directions and will slow them down during crucial moments of the game.

Not only that but in extreme cases slipping or skidding may also cause severe injuries that will prevent a person from playing and cause them to shell out a lot of money at the doctor’s office. Prioritizing grip and traction when looking for a pair of badminton sneakers will prevent these problems before they arise.

When hunting for badminton shoes with a good grip, you must take your conditions into consideration. Different types of materials on the outsole will provide a better grip for different types of indoor courts. Most indoor courts are made of wood, in which case you should opt for a gum rubber sole to keep you steady and prevent slipping.

Another aspect of the sole to look for is the pattern on the bottom. A sole with deeper grooves will generally give you a better grip, while a smoother sole is more likely to slip on the floor. Hexagonal patterns, as seen in certain Yonex designs, are also good at providing grip.

Now, from what little we mentioned of traction, you may be wondering: “How could traction ever be practical?”

The truth is, good traction will allow you to move around more easily. To get from one end of the court to another, you’ll need to move fairly quickly – and that can’t happen if your sneakers are gripping so firmly to the floor that it’s slowing you down. More traction will give you more fluidity in your movements.

With all that said, both grip and traction are extremely important when playing any kind of sports on an indoor court. A balance of these two features is what you should look out for, as it would provide mobility while still keeping you steady.

Breathability

Ventilation or breathability is important in badminton shoes because of many different reasons. Good air-exchange will reduce the amount of bad smells accumulating in a design, as well as keep your feet comfortable by preventing them from sweating too much. Not only that, but breathability can also save you from getting unpleasant foot conditions.

By wearing footwear with bad ventilation for long periods, you run the risk of getting athlete’s foot – or tinea pedis. Simply put, a fungus that thrives in warm, moist environments will spread around the toes or the soles of the feet. Some symptoms include itching, burning, blistering, and discoloration. On top of that, this fungus is contagious and could even spread to other parts of your body.

Thankfully, all of this can be avoided by choosing the right footwear with proper ventilation. In the olden days, manufacturers used to put holes on the sides of their designs to provide air-exchange. Nowadays, the upper part of a shoe (unsurprisingly known as the ‘upper’) is made of mesh to provide maximum breathability. This material in the upper is ideal for indoor sports of all kind.

You should also consider the material of the sneaker lining. Some manufacturers use antibacterial sock liners, which help prevent infections. A lining made of goat or sheepskin will provide better ventilation while a lining made of bovine leather will trap moisture in.

It may be a good idea to search up the materials that were used in the construction of a design that you like before purchasing it.

Overall, breathable footwear is important to keep you comfortable, healthy, and smelling good.

Shock Absorption

While traction and grip are one of the key features of a good design for badminton shoes, it is also important to ensure that your soles are not so hard and unforgiving that they come in the way of shock absorption. Soft padding on the inside of a design is required to provide good cushioning, which helps absorb the impact that is created when jumping or running.

There are several different types of cushioning, most of which are constructed out of different types of foam.

When your foot touches the ground, a design with good cushioning evenly distributes your weight throughout the bottom of your foot. This way, your toes, arches, and ankles receive a minimal amount of shock that will not cause any harm to your joints. Over time, good cushioning will attenuate the stress on your joints and keep you away from knee and ankle pain.

A springy material is ideal for cushioning in any type of footwear. These are not only soft and energy-absorbent but will also revert back to their original shape after receiving impact. This shape reversal will give you a boost when you take your next step. Not only will you stay protected, but you’ll also be able to perform better.

Short term, cushioning also provides amazing comfort. It ensures that you can focus on the game instead of having to worry about any type of pain in your feet.

However, it’s also important to note that excessive cushioning isn’t always good. Footwear with lots of padding may not be suitable for wide feet, as it often provides a very snug fit. This can make it difficult to find the correct size and can take up a lot of time searching for the perfect pair.

But despite the hassle, it’s worthwhile to make sure you find a design with solid cushioning. This will enable you to jump for smashes, move around quickly, and be on your best performance.

Weight

Like we mentioned in our previous sections, this type of footwear needs sufficient cushioning and a good rubber sole. However, you should also keep in mind that these features shouldn’t add up to too much weight.

Footwear that is too heavy will slow you down and make it hard to move with speed and precision. The added weight also puts extra strain on your muscles and joints, causing your feet and legs to tire out more easily. This will definitely take a toll on your performance, and you will find that you are not as explosive at playing this lovely sport as you used to be.

So what to look for in a design, if it needs to be lightweight?

Well, first of all, look at the amount and type of material that goes into its construction. Footwear with less fabric and coverage is generally lighter and enables you to move rapidly without feeling any strain in your feet or ankles. In addition, lighter fabrics provide better breathability which, as mentioned above, is crucial for a cool, comfortable experience.

There are options on our list which also have soles that are specially constructed to be light in weight. This is achieved through different technologies and manufacturing techniques that enable a design to retain all of its supportive and shock-absorbing qualities without becoming too heavy and dragging you down as you play.

Keep in mind as you browse that the importance of lightweight designs isn’t simply restricted to badminton. Other activities such as hiking, running and even standing require light footwear that will go easy on your legs and joints and reduce the risk of injuries or sore feet.

All of this certainly means that you should invest a bit more of your time in picking out a functional, light option that will make your feet happy and ache-free at the end of the match.

Comfort

There’s nothing like a pair of shoes that make you feel as though you’re walking on clouds, and the same applies to the court as well.

Comfort essentially requires a combination of all the features we mentioned above. For example, footwear cannot be comfortable if it doesn’t come with adequate cushioning, or if it weighs two pounds and barely allows you to walk. What you should look for is a balance of all these features - padding, weight, breathability.

However, with that said, the following things should also be considered:

  • Size: Size and width can vary between different types of designs as well as different manufacturers and materials used. You should always allow about a 5/8″ space between the end of your toe and the end of the sneaker. Also, keep in mind that footwear which provides a lot of cushioning will have thick padding in its lining. As a result, these designs tend to provide a more narrow fit that is unsuitable for wide feet.
    Also, keep in mind that your feet tend to swell a bit towards the end of the day. Because of this, most people tend to purchase footwear that is too small for them. However, it’s better to have a bit more space than to have to squeeze into tiny models. If you want to be on the safe side, go to the store instead of purchasing online, and wear socks when you try the footwear on.
  • Shape: Another factor to consider is the shape of a design. They can be curved, semi-curved, or straight, and it’s important to determine the shape of your foot so that you can find a design that has a similar form. If you’re unsure about the shape of your foot, try stepping onto a surface when barefoot and examining the shape of your footprint. Without the proper design shape, wearing ill-fitting footwear would feel like trying to put a round peg in a square hole.
  • Flexibility: Thirdly, you should consider how rigid your footwear is. Wide, flat feet will need a more rigid design that provides more stability. On the other hand, feet with high arches call for more flexibility and cushioning to provide the proper comfort.
    A good way to determine the flexibility of a design is to do the ‘twist test.’ The more it can twist, the more flexibility it provides. Keep in mind, though, that if it is overly flexible, this will interfere with its stability and provide less protection for the ankles, therefore increasing the risk of injury.

10 Top Rated Badminton Shoes

1. Asics GEL-Rocket 8

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asics badminton shoes Asics GEL-Rocket 8
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One of the best Badminton shoes on our list is the Asics GEL-Rocket 8. This design allows the sneaker to be lightweight while still maintaining good structural support and cushioning. It means that you will be able to move around quickly and easily while also keeping your balance and avoiding any stumbles or falls. The Gel-Rocket 8 Badminton shoes provide good ankle protection and reduces the risk of injuries making them one of the best Badminton shoes on the market.

With gum rubber on the outsole, this sneaker provides excellent traction on indoor court surfaces, particularly those made of wood. The design of these Badminton shoes will prevent you from slipping when moving swiftly.

The cushioning on this model will lessen the shock impact created when jumping to take a smash. This will enhance your performance by reducing fatigue in the feet and legs.

What’s great about the Asics GEL-Rocket 8 is that it is high quality, yet still reasonably priced. It has everything you need - support, cushioning, stability and traction - and all of that comes at a wonderfully low cost! What a great deal!

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2. Asics GEL Tactic 2

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asics badminton shoes Asics GEL Tactic 2
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Play to win - and look good while you’re doing it, too. These sneakers by ASICS are designed for volleyball but are amazing for badminton players as they provide excellent shock absorption. These Asics Badminton shoes are extremely durable and are ideal for those who train hard and play frequently. Combined with its cushioning and structural support, the Asics Gel Tactic 2 is a good choice for beginner, intermediate, and advanced players alike.

This indoor court sneaker features Trusstic System technology. It is a special system which reduces the weight of the sole, while at the same time not compromising the structural integrity of the design. This means that the Asics GEL Tactic 2 is wonderfully lightweight while being sufficiently supportive as well.

A supplemental toe guard on this model ensures durability. These Badminton shoes will serve you well through all the thicks and thins you encounter. Additionally, they are made out of seamless materials. A seamless construction makes sure that you don’t suffer from any irritation or blisters that are otherwise caused by traditional stitches and seams.

The Asics Badminton shoes GEL Tactic 2 is an option that has it all! The shock absorption, the durability, the lightweight, and comfort - you will most definitely want for nothing when you step on the court in these well-rounded babies.

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3. Mizuno Wave Lightning RX3

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mizuno badminton shoes Mizuno Wave Lightning RX3
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Simple yet practical, this model by Mizuno redefines the concept of minimalism. Its clean design features a rubber outsole designed for maximum stability. Shock is absorbed equally throughout the sole to cushion your jumps and help you keep your balance when transitioning from move to move. These Mizuno Badminton Shoes will prevent injuries and maximize performance, rendering them a good pick for players of all level.

A seamless upper keeps the Mizuno Badminton shoes Wave Lightning RX3 light while also providing a comfortable fit. You’ll be able to move around quickly and freely so that you can focus on the game instead of on your feet.

The midsole ventilation system in this model reduces the build-up of heat and humidity. These badminton shoes greatly reduce odor and will prevent the discomfort (and embarrassment!) of sweaty feet.

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4. Asics GEL-Upcourt 3

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Asics Badminton shoes GEL-Upcourt 3
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Next on our list is a pair that’s perfect for beginner or amateur players. The Asics GEL-Upcourt 3 provides a balance of different features that are designed to enhance your every move. Its versatility renders it great for many other indoor activities as well. A wide range of color selections is available so that you can pick what best suits your preferences.

A full-length gum rubber outsole on this sneaker provides superior grip on the court and will prevent slips and injuries. Perfect for rapid footwork, the Asics Badminton shoes GEL-Upcourt 3 will ensure that you step onto the court with confidence. Moreover, it comes with a rearfoot GEL cushioning technology that disperses shock and enables a smooth transition.

The upper on this sneaker is made of synthetic leather and mesh that keep it nice and light. These materials also provide ventilation by allowing the air to freely flow in and out of the design. Additionally, it is outfitted with a padded collar and tongue for added comfort.

The Asics GEL-Upcourt 3 is admittedly designed for volleyball, but you won’t have any issues using these sneakers for a good racquet game as well. These Asics Badminton shoes come with superior traction, a cushioning technology that ensures your comfort and a flexible, breathable upper that will keep your feet sweat-free. What more could we possibly ask for! Get these best badminton shoes by following the link above.

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5. Adidas Barricade Club

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Adidas Badminton shoes Barricade Club
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If you’re looking for something comfortable and versatile, the Adidas Badminton shoes Barricade Club is definitely worth a try. Designed to ensure ease of intense lateral movements, these sneakers will prevent injuries and help you move around quickly. What’s more, a sleek design makes these excellent for everyday streetwear, so that you can look fresh and stay comfortable at the same time.

In these Adidas Badminton shoes, a synthetic upper with mesh inserts ensures maximum breathability. The air-exchange helps to manage moisture and will keep you comfortable when the game gets intense.

The toe area of these Adidas Badminton shoes is reinforced with a durable material meant to prevent foot drags during sports like tennis. In badminton, this translates to more endurance against excessive wear and can also protect your feet from injuries.

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6. Puma Invicto Sala

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Puma badminton shoes Invicto Sala
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If you’re looking something that’s versatile and durable, the Puma Invicto Sala is for you. These Puma badminton shoes are light, agile, and provide amazing structural support that reduces both power loss and the risk of injuries. On top of that, Puma offers a variety of colors and styles for this model, ranging from yellow to mint green to red. This ensures that you’ll never have to sacrifice style for performance.

A flexible upper made of suede, leather, and mesh will keep you swift on your feet. The low-profile rubber outsole also provides great traction and allows players to stay close to the floor.

This Puma badminton shoe features a removable sockliner that keeps the sneaker nice and light. Additionally, it provides cushioning for shock absorption which will keep your feet comfortable and protected.

The Puma Invicto Sala is a quality option. It is made out of high-grade materials that are comfortable and ensure a healthy climate for your feet, and it also looks good, aside from feeling good as well. Despite its slightly higher price, you won’t regret investing your money in this elegant design!

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7. Adidas Performance Ligra 4

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Adidas Performance Ligra 4 best badminton shoes
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The Adidas Performance Ligra 4 is by far the most underrated design by this brand. With rubber on the outsole, these sneakers provide a solid grip that will keep you steady on your feet. The material of the insole is soft and comfortable, and a mesh material ensures air-exchange so that your feet can remain fresh throughout the season. Additionally, its versatility makes it an ideal pick for those looking to save money - or who just can’t be bothered to go shopping.

As they are originally designed for volleyball, these sneakers provide excellent shock absorption. The rubber soles will boost your jump and cushion your landing when making jump smashes.

The beauty of the Adidas Performance Ligra 4 is that it is adaptable to pretty much any other indoor activity. A pair of these can double as running footwear or even gym footwear, and can even be worn as an everyday street option thanks to its sleek design.

The Adidas Performance Ligra 4 may be the underdog here, but it is a design which offers everything you need to play badminton, and more! You can take these sneakers with you anywhere you go, and you will enjoy every second of wearing them!

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8. Yonex Pro Cushion Eclipsion 2

Where to buy
Amazon Link
yonex badminton shoes Pro Cushion Eclipsion 2
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Ideally, a comfortable pair of badminton sneakers should fit snugly enough that there is no extra space, but not so snugly that it prevents air-exchange. With its asymmetrical fit, this pair by Yonex badminton shos provides just that - a great fit to allow ventilation, along with superior structural support and attractive design. The balance of features of these Yonex badminton shoes will keep you swift and stable with every step you take. Overall, this is a good pick for comfort that will also enhance your performance.

The Yonex Pro Cushion Eclipsion 2 cuts down the amount of extra space in the toe and the midfoot area. This increases stability and minimizes power loss so that you can move around with maximum speed and explosiveness.

Made with an ultra fine mesh that is light and durable, these sneakers provide excellent breathability. The promotion of air flow allows moisture to be released and prevents odor from accumulating.

Unlike most other options on this list, the Yonex Pro Cushion Eclipsion 2 is a badminton specific design. It provides amazing lockdown and stability, as well as peak ventilation, and you will feel both comfortable and stylish as you take on the court in these badass Yonex badminton shoes.

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9. Yonex Power Cushion Aerus 2

Where to buy
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Yonex badminton shoes Power Cushion Aerus 2
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When an egg is dropped from 7m above a Yonex Power Cushion sheet, it will bounce back 4m in the air without any damage. Not only can these Yonex badminton shoes reverse shock energy for use in the next movement, but their design also provides excellent ventilation and structural support for maximum performance. Weighing at 270g, they are also Yonex’s lightest option. They are guaranteed to literally - and figuratively - put a spring in your step.

When receiving a shock load, the soft middle layer of this sneaker will quickly return to its original shape. This uses the energy of the impact to aid the player in his or her next move.

Compared to the previous model, the Yonex badminton shoes Power Cushion Aerus 2 features nearly double the amount of see-through mesh. This provides superior breathability that ensures comfort and prevents smelly feet.

Reasonably priced and with such a wide range of features, these sneakers are guaranteed to be worth your every penny.

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10. Babolat Shadow Spirit

Where to buy
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Babolat badminton shoes Shadow Spirit
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The Babolat badminton shoes Shadow Spirit come equipped with a number of features to make sure you get the most out of your game. From the Active Sculpture technology to its ergonomic structure and the ability to adapt to you and your style, this is an excellent sneaker for the court.

Developed in partnership with Michelin, the Active Sculpture technology in the Babolat Shadow Spirit provides premium grip and exceptional shock absorption. Whether you’re into those explosive changes of direction or suddenly stopping altogether - these Babolat badminton shoes will follow your every move without fail.

The Babolat Shadow Spirit will last through game after game, giving you the reliability you need to focus on your playstyle. Thanks to its lines that are designed to correspond with the shape of your foot, you will want to play in these sneakers over and over again throughout your badminton career.

For a mid-range price, you are getting durable, reliable Babolat badminton shoes that will improve your performance and support you no matter how fast you move. Not only that, but the Babolat Shadow Spirit will last for quite a few seasons of regular play, as well.

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