How to choose sneakers for table tennis?

Table tennis is a popular game that develops arm muscles, dexterity, quick reaction. In addition, this is an excellent psychological unloading, which will cheer up after a hard day. Not everyone knows that special items of equipment have been developed for this sport, and the specifics of shoes are of great importance in the game. In special sneakers for table tennis, the player feels more plastic and dexterous, he is less tired and comfortable during the whole match.

A feature of tennis sneakers is the presence of a soft middle, which protects the feet and lower legs from bumps that occur during sudden movements. This pad is located between the heel and the foot. It is made from raw materials of different density. The outer part of the sneakers is made of genuine or artificial leather, and to reduce weight, manufacturers sometimes decorate instances with different inserts.

Sneakers made of leather or other natural materials are considered the most preferable option, since such shoes beat their synthetic competitors in both aesthetic and operational qualities.

The insole in special tennis shoes serves to mitigate the impact of the foot on the floor, more often it is made of gels, for example, PU or EVA. The density of the insole along its length may be uneven.

Sneakers for tennis can be classified by the type of sole, which, in turn, is determined by the type of coverage of the gaming hall or court. Accordingly, the sole can be divided into the following types.

• Hard. This variety is more suitable for tennis than for table tennis. The sole has an average herringbone tread.
• Priming. In this case, the sole is 70–100% covered with a recessed tread in the form of a small “Christmas tree”.
• Grass. The surface is strewn with miniature spikes.
• Carpet. Sneakers with a perfectly smooth sole.

You can divide the sneakers for table tennis into options made of genuine leather and artificial fabric. In this case, buyers should rely on the budget and on the condition of the feet, however, leather samples have a much longer service life and, in fact, with their durability are almost equivalent to the price of synthetic shoes.

You can also find tennis sneakers for men and women on sale. First of all, these models are distinguished by design. Women's options are made in delicate pastel colors, can have a floral print, while men's sneakers are made in more classic shades: black, blue, white, red, gray.

Going to buy special sneakers for table tennis, use the following recommendations.

Choose the type of shoe according to the type of foot. The following types are distinguished.

• Supinated. In this case, the foot usually steps on the outside of the shoe.
• Pronated. The opposite type, when the foot often steps on the inside. The most traumatic type.
• Ideal. With such a foot, the athlete steps on the central part.

Defining your type is easy. To do this, step wet on a paper sheet. If the imprint on the outlines is larger from the outside, then the foot corresponds to the Supinated type. With a pronounced trace that deviates to the inside and resembles a rectangle with a small curve, you should choose tennis sneakers for the type Pronated. If the print is even on all sides, buy shoes for the Ideal type.

Pay particular attention to shoe size. Tennis player's fingers should not bend during the game, therefore the length should be 1-1.5 cm longer than the foot.

• The main criterion when choosing sneakers is convenience. Be sure to carefully try on both sneakers, try to simulate the movements made during a tennis match. If you do not rub anywhere, your fingers do not bend, the sole does not slip, then these sneakers are suitable for your legs.
• Sometimes sneakers seem heavy when you buy, although for table tennis this should be a lightweight option. Such a feeling may arise if the tennis player decided to switch from special tennis slippers to sneakers. At first, this type of shoe really seems cumbersome, high, heavy compared to low soft special slippers, but this does not mean that the buyer chose the wrong model of sneakers.

Choosing the right sneaker for table tennis, Pay attention to the products of the following manufacturers.

• Butterfly For example, the Rifones model was developed in collaboration with the Japanese table tennis star Mizutani, so all the needs of a tennis player were taken into account when creating it. Owners appreciate the quality and reliability of the sneakers, and are also pleased with the colorful design. The presented model combines good grip of the sole with the floor surface, high-quality breathability, stable cushioning, and ease of use.

• Asics. GEL-Resolution 7 sneakers are considered a popular model of this manufacturer. This is a male version with a very flexible AHAR outsole.High protection is ensured by the SpEVA midsole and Asics GE gel cushioning. These are special tennis sneakers with a wide range of technical characteristics.

• Adidas. This company offers a wide range of both female and male models. Well-deserved bestsellers include the TTennium series. These sneakers are of very high quality. According to the owners, the model is virtually indestructible and allows you to enjoy reliability and comfort for many years.

• Li-ning. Sneakers from China belong to more budget options and are suitable for fans or beginners in the field of table tennis. The shoes are made of fabric and faux leather. According to customers, these are quite comfortable and convenient sneakers, however, their order is possible almost exclusively through Chinese online stores. However, according to user reviews, delivery is pretty fast.

• Mizuno. In this case, the company produces shoes for professional table tennis. For example, the best option for men is the Wave Medal Z2 model. The product is made of synthetic materials in a manly blue color. The popularity of these products is explained by the trust that a Japanese manufacturer with extensive experience has aroused among buyers. Sneakers are lightweight, soft, reliable.

See below for instructions on choosing sneakers for table tennis.