When I first tried to get into volleyball, I felt a little overwhelmed by all the gear options out there. It seemed like everyone had their favorite shoes, kneepads, and even specific types of water bottles. But don’t worry, getting started doesn’t have to be confusing! This guide will break down exactly what you need to buy for volleyball, whether you’re a complete beginner, heading to tryouts, or looking to step up your game. We’ll cover everything from the absolute essentials to helpful extras and even some great gift ideas for the volleyball players and coaches in your life. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to grab to feel confident and ready to hit the court.
Essential Volleyball Gear: The Must-Haves
Let’s kick things off with the stuff you absolutely can’t play without, or at least shouldn’t! These are the foundational pieces of your volleyball kit.
Volleyball Shoes
Let’s talk shoes. You might be wondering, “Do I really need special shoes for volleyball?” The short answer is, yes, if you’re serious about the sport, you definitely do! While running shoes might be okay when you’re just starting out, they won’t give you the support and protection you need for the unique movements in volleyball. Basketball shoes are a bit closer, but even they aren’t quite the same. volleyball shoes are generally lighter and designed for constant lateral movements, quick bursts, and explosive jumping with specific cushioning for landings.
Look for shoes with a gum rubber sole, which gives you awesome traction on indoor courts and helps prevent slipping. You’ll also want good ankle support to prevent twists and sprains during those quick side-to-side movements and powerful jumps. Brands like ASICS the Sky Elite FF 2 is a top pick!, Mizuno the Wave Momentum 3 is really popular, and Nike check out the HyperSet 2 or Zoom Hyperace series are super popular and well-regarded for their volleyball-specific designs.
- What to look for:
- Excellent traction on indoor courts.
- Good ankle support for lateral movements and landings.
- Lightweight design for agility and quickness.
- Forefoot cushioning for shock absorption during jumps.
- Try on Tip: Make sure they fit snugly but comfortably, with less than a finger’s width between your toes and the end of the shoe. You don’t want your foot sliding around inside!
- Shopping suggestion: Check out Volleyball Shoes on Amazon to see a range of options from these top brands.
Knee Pads
Seriously, if you’re playing indoor volleyball, knee pads are non-negotiable. Many players, especially those who love to dive for the ball, consider them the most crucial piece of protective equipment. Bruising and floor burns are super common without them, and frankly, it just hurts!
When choosing knee pads, you want ones that offer great protection without feeling bulky or restricting your movement. They should fit snugly, stay in place, and provide ample cushioning for those hard landings and dives. Some even have moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry.
* Optimal cushioning for shock absorption.
* Breathable material to prevent overheating.
* A snug fit that doesn't slide down your leg.
* Look for designs with good patella kneecap protection.
- Shopping suggestion: You can find great options for Volleyball Knee Pads that will keep your knees safe.
Athletic Apparel
Having the right clothes isn’t just about looking good though that helps!, it’s about comfort and performance. You need gear that lets you move freely and keeps you cool and dry.
- Volleyball Shorts/Spandex: For women, spandex shorts are pretty much the standard. They’re super stretchy and let you move without any fabric getting in the way. For men, look for athletic shorts that fit well and allow for a full range of motion.
- T-shirts/Jerseys: You’ll want lightweight, moisture-wicking tops. Avoid cotton, as it traps sweat and can make you feel heavy and uncomfortable. Polyester blends are usually a good bet. If you’re on a team, you’ll likely have specific jerseys, but practice shirts are great to have.
- Sports Bra for women: This is essential for support and comfort during all the jumping and quick movements. Look for a high-impact sports bra that fits well.
- Volleyball Socks: These might seem minor, but good socks can prevent blisters and offer extra cushioning. Look for moisture-wicking athletic socks.
Volleyball
Seems obvious, right? But there are different types of volleyballs!
- Indoor Volleyballs: These are typically made of leather and are molded together. They have a softer touch and are designed for indoor play.
- Outdoor/Beach Volleyballs: These are usually stitched and made from a composite material that’s resistant to water. If you’re playing outside, grab an outdoor volleyball like the AVP GRX Grass Official Game Volleyball for grass or the AVP OPTX for beach.
- For Practice: Having your own volleyball is fantastic for practicing serves, passes, and setting at home. If you’re a beginner, it’s a great investment to help build your skills.
Training & Practice Gear: Level Up Your Game
Beyond the absolute essentials, some gear can really help you improve your skills and get the most out of your practice sessions.
Training Aids
If you’re serious about getting better, there are some clever tools out there. What to Buy for UTI Relief: Your Essential Guide to Comfort and Care
- Volleyball Training Systems: These often include an adjustable belt and cord that holds the ball, letting you practice serves, spikes, and sets without constantly chasing the ball. It’s super helpful for solo practice at home, whether indoors or outdoors. You can find these by searching for Volleyball Trainer on Amazon.
- Ball Carts: For coaches or teams, a ball cart is a must for organizing multiple volleyballs during drills.
- Hitting Boxes/Targets: These are often used by coaches to help players work on their hitting technique and aiming.
- Resistance Bands & Jump Trainers: To improve your explosive power and agility, resistance bands and vertical jump trainers are excellent tools. They help strengthen the muscles you use for jumping and quick movements.
Cones or Markers
Simple but effective! Training cones are great for setting up agility drills, marking boundaries, or creating targets during practice. They’re inexpensive and incredibly versatile for solo or team training.
Tournament & Game Day Essentials: Be Prepared
Tournament days can be long and demanding. Being well-prepared makes a huge difference in your performance and overall experience.
Volleyball Bag
You’ll need a good volleyball bag to haul all your gear. Look for one that’s spacious, durable, and ideally has multiple compartments. Many volleyball-specific backpacks come with separate sections for shoes, dirty gear, and even a ball compartment. A good duffel bag can also work.
* Enough space for shoes, kneepads, uniform, water bottle, and snacks.
* Separate compartments for shoes or wet clothes are a big plus.
* Durable zippers and material.
- Shopping suggestion: Check out Mizuno volleyball backpacks or Nike duffel bags for popular and reliable choices.
Hydration & Nutrition
Staying hydrated and fueled is crucial, especially during long tournaments with multiple matches.
- Water Bottle: A reusable, labeled water bottle is an absolute must. Bring a big one, or even two, so you don’t run out.
- Electrolyte Drinks/Tabs: Water is great, but during intense activity, you lose electrolytes. Sports drinks or electrolyte tablets can help replenish what you’ve lost and prevent cramping.
- Snacks: Pack smart snacks to keep your energy up between games. Think easy-to-digest carbohydrates and some protein.
- Good options include: Mixed nuts, fruit bananas, oranges, applesauce pouches, trail mix, whole-grain granola bars, rice cakes with nut butter, or even a simple turkey wrap or PB&J sandwich.
- Avoid: Anything too greasy, heavy, or dairy-heavy right before a game, as it can upset your stomach.
- Shopping suggestion: Look for healthy snacks for volleyball tournament or energy bars for athletes to find good options.
Towel
A sweat towel might seem like a small thing, but you’ll thank yourself for bringing one. It’s great for wiping off sweat between points or just staying fresh during breaks.
Personal First Aid Kit
Minor scrapes, blisters, or headaches can pop up during a long day. A small personal first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, blister care, pain relief, and any personal medications is always a smart move.
Recovery & Injury Prevention: Take Care of Your Body
Volleyball is tough on the body, so taking care of yourself off the court is just as important as on it.
Ankle Braces/Sleeves
Ankle injuries are common in volleyball due to all the jumping and quick directional changes. If you have a history of ankle issues or just want extra support, ankle braces or compression sleeves can be a real lifesaver. They provide stability without overly restricting your movement.
What to Buy for Tacos: Your Ultimate Shopping Guide for an Epic Taco Night!
Foam Roller / Massage Ball
For sore muscles and tightness, especially after intense practices or games, a foam roller or massage ball can help with recovery and reduce inflammation. Using these regularly can also help prevent injuries by keeping your muscles flexible.
Ice Packs
Having reusable ice packs on hand is great for immediate relief of any minor aches or swelling after a game.
Compression Gear
Beyond ankle sleeves, other compression gear like arm sleeves or knee sleeves can help with muscle support, improve circulation, and reduce muscle fatigue. Some players wear arm sleeves to protect their forearms during passes, too.
Optional but Helpful Items: The Extras
These aren’t strictly necessary, but they can definitely enhance your comfort and performance. What to Buy for Sore Throat: Your Ultimate Guide to Relief
Headbands & Hair Ties
If you have long hair, keeping it out of your face is crucial. Extra hair ties and a comfortable headband or two are always a good idea.
Athletic Tape
For extra joint support or to cover small cuts, athletic tape can be really useful. Some players tape their fingers or ankles for added stability.
Sandals or Slides
After a long day in your court shoes, your feet will thank you for slipping into a pair of comfy sandals or slides.
Sunscreen for outdoor play
If you’re playing beach or grass volleyball, don’t forget your sunscreen! Protecting your skin from the sun is super important. The Ultimate Guide to What to Buy for Rats: Your Happy Ratty Home Checklist!
Gifts for Volleyball Players and Coaches
Looking for the perfect gift for a volleyball enthusiast? There are tons of great ideas!
For Players
- Personalized Gear: A custom volleyball jersey with their name and number, or an engraved water bottle, can be a really special and thoughtful gift.
- High-Quality Apparel: A nice moisture-wicking shirt, supportive sports bra, or even a cozy team hoodie are always appreciated. Check out Nike Dri-FIT shorts or Under Armour Tech T-shirts.
- Novelty Items: Think volleyball-themed keychains, socks, or even a mini volleyball for their desk.
- Training Tools: A personal volleyball trainer for at-home practice is a fantastic gift for dedicated players.
- Gift Cards: If you’re unsure about sizes or preferences, a gift card for sports equipment lets them pick exactly what they need or want.
For Coaches
Coaches put in so much effort, and a thoughtful gift is a great way to show appreciation.
- Personalized Coach Gifts: An engraved coach clipboard, a custom coffee mug, or a water bottle with “Best Coach” can be very meaningful.
- Apparel: A comfortable team polo, a jacket, or even a funny volleyball-themed t-shirt can be a hit.
- Coaching Tools: A high-quality electronic whistle or a portable coaching board are practical gifts.
- Gift Baskets: Fill a basket with healthy snacks, a nice water bottle, and some recovery items like a small foam roller.
- Team-Signed Items: A volleyball signed by the whole team, or a photo collage, makes for a memorable keepsake.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do you need for volleyball tryouts?
For volleyball tryouts, you’ll definitely need appropriate athletic attire like a comfortable t-shirt, spandex or athletic shorts, and volleyball shoes or at least clean, non-marking athletic shoes. Knee pads are also highly recommended to protect you during dives and falls, especially if you’re newer to the sport. Don’t forget a water bottle to stay hydrated and some healthy snacks to keep your energy up. If you usually wear ankle braces or other protective gear, make sure to bring those too. It’s also a good idea to bring extra hair ties and bobby pins to keep your hair out of your face.
What shoes should I get for indoor volleyball?
For indoor volleyball, you should get shoes specifically designed for the sport. Brands like ASICS e.g., Sky Elite FF series, GEL-Rocket, Mizuno e.g., Wave Momentum series, Wave Lightning, and Nike e.g., HyperSet, Zoom Hyperace are top choices. These shoes offer excellent traction with gum rubber soles, cushioning for explosive jumps and landings, and lateral support for quick directional changes, which running shoes or even basketball shoes might not provide as effectively. Make sure they fit snugly to prevent your foot from sliding inside. Your Ultimate Road Trip Checklist: Everything You Need to Hit the Road Right
What do you need to bring to a volleyball tournament?
For a volleyball tournament, you’ll want to pack your uniforms multiple sets if it’s a multi-day event, volleyball shoes, knee pads, and extra socks. Essential items for your bag include a large water bottle, electrolyte drinks, and plenty of healthy snacks like fruit, granola bars, and mixed nuts. A towel, a small first aid kit, and any necessary ankle braces or compression sleeves are also crucial for comfort and injury prevention. Don’t forget comfortable sandals or slides for off-court wear, and a volleyball bag to keep everything organized. For outdoor tournaments, add sunscreen and perhaps a hat or cooling towel.
Do you need special shoes for beach volleyball?
Yes, the footwear needs for beach volleyball are different from indoor. While some players go barefoot, dedicated beach volleyball shoes or sand socks are popular choices for protection and grip on sand. Sand socks, in particular, protect your feet from hot sand, blisters, and potential debris while still allowing for natural movement. Regular indoor volleyball shoes are not suitable for beach volleyball as their specific rubber soles are designed for indoor courts and would wear down quickly on rough outdoor surfaces.
What snacks are good for volleyball tournaments?
Good snacks for volleyball tournaments are those that provide quick and sustained energy without upsetting your stomach. Focus on easily digestible carbohydrates and some protein. Excellent choices include: bananas, oranges, applesauce pouches, mixed nuts, trail mix, whole-grain granola bars, rice cakes with nut butter, and dried fruit. Small mini-meals like half a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or a turkey wrap can also work during longer breaks. Avoid anything too heavy, fatty, or sugary right before a match, as these can lead to sluggishness or energy crashes.
What to Buy for One Year Old: The Ultimate Guide to Gifts and Developmental Play|
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for What to Buy Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
Leave a Reply