If you enjoy several sports, you might think buying a different pair of shoes for each one is a hassle. Besides, they all look and function the same, protecting your feet well enough for any indoor and outdoor sport… Or do they?
You should not use badminton shoes for basketball, especially if you plan to play the sport seriously or spend many hours on the basketball court. Badminton shoes have thinner midsoles, providing less cushioning, which can cause fatigue to set in early or, worse, lead to injury.
If you’ve been using your badminton shoes to shoot some hoops, read on to learn why you should keep those badminton shoes for when you’re hitting a shuttlecock.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Badminton Shoes for Basketball
To the discerning eye, basketball shoes have noticeable differences from badminton shoes–and they don’t just exist for aesthetic purposes either. Sport-appropriate shoes are designed to give players the best support and aid in maximum game performance.
And just as tennis is a totally different sport involving different movements and skills, badminton is also completely different from basketball. This means that a pair of badminton shoes that helps keep your game strong may dull your performance on the basketball court.
Badminton Shoes Have Thinner Midsoles
One of the most significant differences between badminton and basketball shoes is the midsole. Badminton shoes have much thinner midsoles, which helps a great deal in allowing for quick movements typical in badminton.
On the other hand, basketball shoes have thicker midsoles to provide better cushioning necessary in a high-impact sport.
You will immediately notice the difference if you use badminton shoes on the basketball court. Your feet will hurt, and any attempts you make at a jump shot will be uncomfortable. What’s worse, you could even end up injured.
Moreover, you will eventually get tired faster when wearing badminton shoes when shooting some hoops. Without proper midsole support, every high-impact movement will cost you in game hours and stability.
Basketball Shoes Are Made for Ankle Support
The design of basketball shoes is such that they cover the ankles and have a rigid herringbone outline that hugs the feet while protecting the ankles during those difficult shots. Dunks, for one, are very high-impact and, without the right gear, can cause the all-too-common ankle sprain in a player.
While badminton shoes are pretty comfortable, they don’t provide enough support and protection for the ankles and don’t help in controlling movement as much as basketball shoes do.
Better Traction With Basketball Shoes
Another critical feature of basketball shoes is better traction and movement control. This is crucial in preventing slips, falls, and controlled yet quick movements on the court. You won’t get as much control with badminton shoes, which very often results in serious knee and leg injuries.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to spend a considerable amount of time on the basketball court, invest in the appropriate footwear to improve your game and avoid injuries. Buying an extra pair of shoes is an additional expense, but it could save you money on doctor’s bills in the long run.