One of the most common questions we receive is whether players in different positions need different types of netball shoes. The short answer is yes—or at least, they should prioritise different features. While any quality netball shoe will provide the basic requirements for all positions, understanding the specific demands of your role can help you choose footwear that enhances your performance.
In this guide, we'll break down the unique movement patterns and demands of each position group, and explain which shoe features should be your priority when shopping.
Understanding Position-Specific Demands
Netball positions can be grouped into three categories based on their movement patterns and physical demands: shooters (GS, GA), mid-courters (WA, C, WD), and defenders (GD, GK). Each group has distinct requirements that influence optimal footwear choice.
Shoes for Shooters (GS and GA)
Goal Shooters and Goal Attacks spend much of their playing time in and around the goal circle. Their movement is characterised by precise positioning, explosive vertical jumps, controlled landings, and extensive pivoting while holding position or preparing to shoot.
Key Movement Patterns
- Frequent jumping (for shooting and receiving high passes)
- Single-leg landings after shooting
- Pivoting on the ball of the foot while holding the pivot rule
- Quick changes of direction within a confined space
- Holding position against defensive pressure
Priority Features for Shooters
Stability and Support: This is paramount for shooters. When you're landing from a jump shot with a defender nearby, or pivoting under pressure, you need a shoe that keeps your foot and ankle secure. Look for shoes with firm heel counters, reinforced sidewalls, and secure midfoot lockdown.
Forefoot Cushioning: Since shooters do most of their pivoting and pushing off from the ball of the foot, forefoot cushioning is particularly important. It provides protection during repeated jumping and landing while also making pivoting more comfortable.
Dedicated Pivot Points: Many netball-specific shoes include reinforced pivot areas on the outsole. For shooters who pivot extensively, this feature helps facilitate smooth rotation while protecting both the shoe and your knee joint from excessive rotational stress.
Grip: Shooters need confident grip to hold their position and push off explosively, but the grip shouldn't be so aggressive that it restricts smooth pivoting.
Goal Attacks, who move more than Goal Shooters, should also consider cushioning for the additional running they do feeding into the circle. A shoe that balances stability with responsiveness works well for GA.
Shoes for Mid-Courters (WA, C, WD)
Wing Attack, Centre, and Wing Defence are the workhorses of the netball court. These positions cover the most ground during a game, constantly transitioning between attack and defence. The Centre position, in particular, is permitted in all areas except the shooting circles, meaning Centres can cover enormous distances during a match.
Key Movement Patterns
- Extensive running and sprinting
- Rapid acceleration and deceleration
- Frequent changes of direction
- Quick lateral movements
- Constant stop-start activity
Priority Features for Mid-Courters
Lightweight Construction: When you're covering significant distances during a game, every gram matters. Heavy shoes lead to faster fatigue. Mid-courters should prioritise shoes that feel light on their feet without sacrificing essential support.
Responsive Cushioning: You need cushioning that absorbs impact but also returns energy to help with your next stride or push-off. Technologies like ASICS FlyteFoam or Adidas Boost provide this responsive feel. Overly soft, plush cushioning can actually slow you down and feel sluggish.
Good Breathability: With all that running, your feet generate significant heat. Mesh uppers and breathable materials help keep feet cool and comfortable throughout the game, reducing the risk of blisters and general discomfort.
Durability: Mid-courters put more kilometres on their shoes than other positions. Consider shoes with durable outsole rubber and reinforced high-wear areas to extend the life of your footwear.
Shoes for Defenders (GD and GK)
Goal Defence and Goal Keeper positions combine elements of both other position groups. They need to match the movements of attacking players while also making explosive defensive plays—jumping for interceptions, quick lateral slides, and sudden changes of direction.
Key Movement Patterns
- Shadowing and mirroring attacking players
- Explosive vertical jumps for interceptions
- Quick lateral movements to block shots and passes
- Sudden sprints to recover position
- Holding ground against driving attackers
Priority Features for Defenders
Lateral Support: Defenders make extensive side-to-side movements while shadowing attackers. Strong lateral support prevents your foot from rolling and protects against ankle injuries during these demanding movements.
Heel and Ankle Cushioning: When jumping for interceptions and landing repeatedly, good heel cushioning protects your joints from impact forces. Many defensive plays involve unexpected landings that your body isn't perfectly prepared for, making cushioning even more important.
Superior Grip: Defenders need to plant and change direction at a moment's notice. Aggressive grip patterns give confidence in sudden stops and direction changes, allowing you to react quickly to what the attacking player does.
Ankle Support: Given the reactive nature of defending—often responding to unpredictable movements from attackers—ankle support becomes crucial. Shoes with higher ankle collars or additional ankle padding provide extra protection during unexpected movements.
Goal Keepers who specialize in holding the circle may lean more toward shooter-style shoes with stability features. Goal Defenders who actively pursue the ball across a wider area should consider features from both defender and mid-court categories.
What If You Play Multiple Positions?
Many netball players, especially at social and club level, rotate through different positions during a season or even during a single game. If this describes you, look for a well-rounded shoe that balances stability with responsiveness.
Shoes marketed as suitable for "all positions" typically offer:
- Moderate cushioning (not too soft, not too firm)
- Good lateral support without excessive weight
- Balanced grip pattern
- Reasonable breathability
These all-rounder shoes may not be perfect for any single position, but they're adaptable enough to serve you well across different roles.
Position-Based Quick Reference
Here's a summary to help guide your decision:
- GS: Maximum stability, forefoot cushioning, pivot points, moderate grip
- GA: Stability with responsiveness, good cushioning, moderate weight
- WA: Lightweight, responsive cushioning, breathable, durable
- C: Very lightweight, responsive, excellent breathability, durability priority
- WD: Lightweight with good lateral support, responsive cushioning
- GD: Strong lateral support, good grip, responsive cushioning, ankle support
- GK: Stability, heel cushioning, ankle support, strong grip
- Shooters should prioritise stability, forefoot cushioning, and pivot points
- Mid-courters need lightweight, responsive shoes with good breathability
- Defenders require strong lateral support, good grip, and ankle protection
- All-rounders should seek balanced shoes that don't sacrifice too much in any area
- Consider your primary position when budget limits you to one pair
While position-specific recommendations can guide your choice, remember that personal comfort and fit remain paramount. Use these guidelines as a starting point, but ultimately choose the shoe that feels right for your feet and your game. The best netball shoe is one that gives you confidence every time you step onto the court.