Ayrton Oneill
Badminton is a fast-paced sport that requires agility, and having the right footwear can make a significant difference in performance and comfort. While purchasing badminton shoes, it is essential to consider factors such as size, fit, and grip. In this article, we will explore tips and tricks to help you break in your new badminton shoes and make them game-ready. From choosing the right size to maintaining grip, we will guide you through the process of making your shoes comfortable and durable.
Characteristics and values of breaking in badminton shoes
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sizing | Go half a size up for widely available Yonex badminton shoes, and order your normal size for the wide versions. |
| Fit | Tightness on the sides of the feet may occur, which can be addressed by loosening the laces at the bottom and tightening from there. |
| Break-in period | Discomfort from wearing power cushion models may go away after 4-10 hours of playing. |
| Lifespan | Rotating between two pairs of shoes may increase their lifespan, as it allows the shoes to recover between uses. |
| Grip | Badminton shoes can lose their grip due to dirt and dust. Cleaning the soles with a damp cloth or warm soapy water can improve traction. |
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What You'll Learn
Wear them during training
Wearing your new badminton shoes during training is a great way to break them in. However, it is important to be mindful of the training intensity and duration when breaking in new shoes. Start by wearing the shoes for short periods during light training drills and gradually increase the wear time as the shoes mould to your feet.
If you experience tightness or discomfort during training, make adjustments to the lacing pattern. For example, try flexing the tip of the shoe while bending your toes and tightening the laces from there. This helps to relieve pressure on the sides of your feet. If the shoes still feel tight, consider untying the laces and re-tying them looser, ensuring a secure but comfortable fit.
It is worth noting that different shoe models may require unique breaking-in periods. For instance, some players have reported that discomfort in Yonex Power Cushion models subsided after 4-10 hours of playing. Therefore, it is beneficial to consult reviews and forums specific to your shoe model to gauge the expected break-in time.
Additionally, consider alternating between two pairs of shoes during training to extend their lifespan. This allows the shoes to recover between uses, reducing the rate of wear and tear. When training with new badminton shoes, be mindful of the court conditions and keep your shoes clean. Dirt and dust can accumulate in the grip, reducing traction and increasing the risk of slipping.
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Use two pairs of shoes to rotate between
Using two pairs of badminton shoes and rotating between them has several benefits. Firstly, it lowers your risk of injury. Playing badminton in the same shoes repeatedly can lead to overuse injuries and repetitive strain. By rotating between two pairs, you can reduce the cumulative impact load on the midsole foam of a single pair of shoes, allowing the foam to recover between uses and providing your feet with some variation. This can be especially beneficial if you play badminton multiple times a week.
Secondly, rotating between two pairs of shoes can extend their lifespan. The high-impact load of playing badminton can compress and weaken the midsole foam over time, reducing its supportiveness. By giving your shoes rest days, you can slow down this process and make them last longer.
Thirdly, having two pairs of shoes to rotate between can improve your performance. One pair can be dedicated to slower, recovery sessions, with a softer ride and plenty of cushioning. The other pair can be more lightweight and responsive, helping you to move quicker and improve your performance during tempo sessions and races.
When building your badminton shoe rotation, it is important to prioritise having two distinct pairs of shoes: a cushioned pair for easy runs and long runs, and a lightweight pair for speed workouts and racing. If your budget allows, you can also invest in a pair of carbon-plated shoes for races or a pair of trail shoes if you play on uneven terrain. Keep track of the miles you put into each pair of shoes, as rotating them will only extend their lifespan for so long—generally, shoes will need to be replaced after 300-500 miles.
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Clean the soles with a damp cloth
To clean the soles of your badminton shoes with a damp cloth, first dampen a cloth with water. You don't need to use soap unless the shoes are particularly dirty, in which case you can use warm soapy water to clean them. Wipe the soles of your shoes with the damp cloth, making sure to remove any dirt. If there are small stones or other debris stuck in the grip, you can use a pointed object such as a tweezer to remove them.
It's important to keep your badminton shoes clean to ensure that they maintain their stickiness and provide good traction. Dirt and dust can build up on the soles of your shoes over time, especially if you're playing on a dirty court. This can cause the shoes to become slippery and increase the risk of injury. By regularly cleaning the soles with a damp cloth, you can improve the traction of your shoes and extend their lifespan.
In addition to using a damp cloth, you can also keep a moist towel with you during your game to wipe down the soles of your shoes and remove any dirt or dust that may accumulate during play. This will help to keep your shoes clean and maintain their grip.
Another tip to maintain the grip of your badminton shoes is to rotate between two pairs of shoes. This allows each pair to get a rest and can help increase their lifespan. Additionally, improving your footwork habits, such as lunging correctly, can also reduce strain on your shoes and help them last longer.
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Sand the shiny parts of the soles
To break in badminton shoes, one of the steps you can take is to sand the shiny parts of the soles. This is because, with regular use, the soles of badminton shoes can become smoother and shinier, reducing traction.
To start the process of sanding, you will need to acquire sandpaper that is suitable for use on shoe soles. The specific grit size of the sandpaper you should use will depend on the condition of your soles and the material they are made of. A lower grit size, such as 40 or 60, can be used for more aggressive sanding if your soles have become extremely smooth and shiny. For light sanding, you can opt for a finer grit size of 100 or above. If your soles are only slightly shiny, starting with a finer grit and progressing to a lower grit if needed is advisable to avoid over-sanding.
Once you have selected the appropriate sandpaper, start by gently sanding the shiny areas of the soles. Apply light pressure and use a back-and-forth motion to create an even texture across the sole. Take care not to over-sand any particular area, as this can create an uneven texture and affect the balance of the shoe. Focus on the areas that are particularly shiny and avoid sanding any parts of the sole that still have adequate traction.
After sanding, use a damp cloth to wipe away any residue and to smooth out the surface of the sole. Ensure that you remove any remaining dust or debris, as these can affect the adhesion of the sole to the floor during play. Once cleaned, allow the soles to air-dry completely before wearing the shoes.
By sanding the shiny parts of the soles, you can restore traction and improve the grip of your badminton shoes. This technique can help extend the lifespan of your shoes and ensure that you maintain stable footing during play.
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Opt for a bigger size
When buying badminton shoes, it is recommended to opt for a bigger size, especially if you are purchasing Yonex badminton shoes. This is because Yonex shoes tend to run smaller than other brands, and you may need to size up to get the right fit. For example, if you usually wear a size 12, you may need to buy a size 12.5 or even a size 13 in Yonex shoes.
Additionally, if you have wide feet, you may find that the regular width of badminton shoes is too narrow for you. In this case, it is advisable to choose a wide-fit model or size up to accommodate your foot width. This will ensure that your feet have enough room to move and breathe, preventing discomfort and improving your performance.
However, sizing up too much can also be an issue. If you buy shoes that are too big, you may find that they are loose on your ankles and feet, which can affect your stability and performance. Therefore, it is important to find the right balance and only size up by half a size or one full size, depending on your foot measurements and the brand's sizing chart.
When trying on badminton shoes, pay attention to the fit around your toes, arches, and ankles. There should be enough room for your toes to move freely without feeling cramped, and the arches should provide support without being too tight. The ankles should also be snugly secured without feeling restrictive.
It is worth noting that some badminton shoes may require a break-in period, especially if they are made of stiffer materials. During this period, the shoes may feel tighter until the materials soften and mould to your feet. Therefore, it is important to consider both the initial fit and the potential for the shoes to stretch and adapt to your feet over time.
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Frequently asked questions
When trying on badminton shoes, it's recommended to go half a size up from your regular shoe size. If you're opting for a wide fit, you can go for your normal size. Ensure that your toes have enough room and that your ankles are secure.
Depending on the shoe model and your usage, it can take between 4 to 10 hours of playing time for discomfort from new badminton shoes to go away.
Regular cleaning of your badminton shoes is essential to maintain their grip and longevity. Use a damp cloth or warm soapy water to wipe away dirt and debris. You can also use a moist towel during games to keep the soles clean and remove any dirt. Additionally, consider rotating between two pairs of shoes to increase their lifespan.
