Best High-Top Volleyball Shoes: The Mid-Top Options Compared
Last updated November 3, 2026 · We may earn a commission on qualifying Amazon purchases. Disclosure
Short answer
True high-top volleyball shoes are rare. On the ASICS, Mizuno and adidas US men’s ranges, the tallest cut we found is the mid-top, so those are the shoes to compare.
- Best for jumping: ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 4 ($165 list)
- Best for quick movement: ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 ($155)
- Best for cushioning: Mizuno Wave Momentum Elite Mid ($170, 12.87 oz in size 9)
- Lowest list price: ASICS Beyond FF MT 2 ($130)
A taller collar is not proven to prevent ankle sprains. If you have sprained an ankle before, the stronger evidence is for a brace.
This guide is based on manufacturer specifications and published research, not hands-on testing. Specs and US prices were read from each maker’s site on October 31, 2026.
Mid-Top Volleyball Shoes Compared
“Not listed” means the manufacturer’s US page doesn’t publish that figure. We have left it blank rather than rely on retailer numbers, which often disagree.
| Shoe | Best for | Cushioning | Heel drop | Maker’s weight | US price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 4 | Jumping | FF BLAST MAX | Not listed | Not listed | $165 list, $139.95 sale |
| ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 | Quick movement | FLYTEFOAM | 15 mm | Not listed | $155 |
| Mizuno Wave Momentum Elite Mid | Cushioning and stability | ENERZY with forefoot ENERZY CORE | Not listed | 12.87 oz (size 9) | $170 |
| adidas Crazyflight 7 | An alternative to ASICS and Mizuno | LightstrikePro with Lightstrike | Not listed | 12.56 oz (size not stated) | $140 to $150 list by color |
| ASICS Beyond FF MT 2 | All-game comfort, lower price | FLYTEFOAM PROPEL | 5 mm | Not listed | $130 |
| Mizuno Wave Momentum 3 Mid | Older model, if you find a deal | Not confirmed | Not confirmed | Not confirmed | Not confirmed |
Why High-Tops Are So Hard to Find
The ASICS men’s volleyball range tops out at models labeled MT, which ASICS describes as mid-top construction. Where Mizuno’s US pages state a cut, they list the upper as half bootie or mid. adidas describes its Crazyflight 7 as mid-cut. Nike’s HyperAce 3 page doesn’t state a cut, though it does describe a padded, supportive collar.
So when people search for high-top volleyball shoes, the real options are mid-tops or basketball shoes. See volleyball shoes vs basketball shoes for how those differ.
The Best Mid-Top Options
1. ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 4 — Best for Jumping
This is the mid-top version of ASICS’s jump-focused shoe. ASICS pairs a thick FF BLAST MAX midsole with an updated RISETRUSS system, which leaves a small gap so the foam can compress on landing. DYNALACING keeps the forefoot wrapped during lateral moves. It suits hitters and blockers who want a higher collar. We could not find a clear Amazon listing for this version, so the button below opens a search.
2. ASICS Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 — Best for Quick Movement
The Netburner is built for speed rather than maximum jump. ASICS uses SPEEDTRUSS for acceleration, X-GUIDANCE flex grooves for multi-directional movement, and a lean back heel for ankle comfort. Its 15 mm heel drop is meant to keep you ready to move. Our full review compares it with the low version.
3. Mizuno Wave Momentum Elite Mid — Best for Cushioning
Mizuno lists the upper as mid and pairs ENERZY foam with a forefoot ENERZY CORE, a Wave plate and a Dyna-Heel Lock that works with the lacing to hold the heel. The sockliner is removable. At 12.87 oz in size 9, it is the only shoe here with a maker’s weight tied to a stated size. Its sizing shows both men’s and women’s equivalents.
4. adidas Crazyflight 7 — Best Alternative to ASICS and Mizuno
adidas calls this a mid-cut shoe focused on stability and support. It has a full-length LightstrikePro midsole with Lightstrike foam, a 3-in-1 torsion system, a reinforced heel and dual-thickness laces for lockdown. adidas lists 12.56 oz without naming the size. The wording on adidas’s color pages varies, so check that the color you choose is described as mid-cut.
5. ASICS Beyond FF MT 2 — Lowest List Price
ASICS aims this mid-top at players who value cushioning and comfort across a whole game. RISETRUSS adds control during jumps, FLYTEFOAM PROPEL provides rebound, and no-sew film overlays add support. It has a much lower 5 mm heel drop than the Netburner, so the two will likely feel different underfoot. We could not find a clear Amazon listing for this version, so the button below opens a search.
6. Mizuno Wave Momentum 3 Mid — Older Model
This earlier mid-top no longer appeared on Mizuno’s US men’s page when we checked, but it was still sold on Amazon. Mizuno’s regional sites give conflicting weights, so we don’t quote one. Read our Wave Momentum 3 Mid review, and compare it with the Momentum Elite Mid before buying.
Do High-Top Shoes Prevent Ankle Sprains?
The evidence is weak for shoes and stronger for braces. Most of it comes from basketball and general sport, and we did not find a volleyball-specific trial of collar height.
- A 10-year study of collegiate basketball ankle injuries notes that high-top shoes have shown no correlation with fewer ankle sprains and can’t replace bracing.
- A small landing study of 13 students found no significant difference in maximum ankle inversion between high-top and low-top shoes.
- A systematic review of external ankle supports found that braces cut sprains by 69% and tape by 71% among previously injured athletes.
- An overview of systematic reviews rated the evidence for bracing as strong for preventing repeat sprains.
That doesn’t make mid-tops pointless. Some players simply prefer how a higher collar feels. Just don’t treat one as protection on its own. If you have recurring ankle problems, ask a sports medicine clinician. Our guide to volleyball shoes for ankle support looks at stable shoes more broadly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are high-top volleyball shoes good for volleyball?
They can be comfortable, but true high-tops are hard to find, and the research does not show that a taller collar prevents ankle sprains. Mid-tops such as the ASICS Sky Elite FF MT 4 are the closest current option from the volleyball brands we checked.
What is the difference between a mid-top and a high-top?
A mid-top collar sits higher around the ankle than a standard shoe, while a high-top extends higher again. Brands don’t publish a shared measurement, and most makers we checked don’t publish collar heights at all.
Which brands make mid-top volleyball shoes?
ASICS sells the Sky Elite FF MT 4, Netburner Ballistic FF MT 4 and Beyond FF MT 2. Mizuno sells the Wave Momentum Elite Mid, and adidas describes its Crazyflight 7 as mid-cut. The Wave Momentum 3 Mid is an older Mizuno model still found on Amazon.
Can I wear basketball high-tops for volleyball?
Some players do, but basketball shoes are designed for a different game. Read why some volleyball players wear basketball shoes before you decide.
Do I still need an ankle brace with mid-top shoes?
If you have sprained an ankle before, the research favors bracing or taping over relying on a shoe. Ask a clinician which option suits your ankle. Leave enough room in the shoe if you plan to wear a brace.
As a US hitter with a passion for volleyball, I bring firsthand experience and insight into what makes the best volleyball shoes stand out. From powerful spikes to swift court movements, I know how crucial the right footwear is for peak performance.
