Handball shoes

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How to choose

Every position needs its own shoe

Wings

They prioritise lightness and explosive response. You need an outsole with strong lateral grip for turns on the wing and impact cushioning for finishes. Recommended models: Puma Accelerate Nitro SQD 5, Adidas Crazyflight 7.

Pivots

Physical contact is constant: you want maximum lateral stability, grip in every direction and joint protection. Weight matters less than sturdiness. Recommended models: Adidas Stabil 16, Adidas Stabil Next Gen, Asics Gel-Netburner Ballistic FF 4.

Centre backs

The position that covers the most ground. You need a balance of running cushioning, stability in changes of direction and good grip. Recommended models: Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo 2, Adidas Stabil 16.

Backs

A mixed profile: speed to beat the defender and stability for the jump shot. A medium-stud outsole and a good hold of the foot are key. Recommended models: Puma Accelerate Nitro SQD 5, Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo.

Goalkeepers

Movement is purely lateral: from post to post. You need maximum traction in short starts and cushioning for save jumps. A roomy upper helps. Recommended models: Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo, Hummel HB Powerstrike Pro.

First shoe

If you are just starting, you do not need to spend much: the Asics Gel-Rocket 12 and the Puma Varion II give you plenty of grip and stability for training. If you already compete and want a pair that lasts several seasons, the Adidas Stabil 16 is the benchmark, although it is a high-end shoe.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best handball shoes in 2026?

The highest rated by our reviewers are the Puma Accelerate Nitro SQD 5 and the Adidas Stabil 16 (both with 9.4/10), followed by the Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo 2 (9.2), the Asics Sky Elite FF 4 (9.1) and the Adidas Crazyflight 7 (9.1). The best one for you depends on your position and playing style.

Which handball shoes are best for wings?

For wings: the Puma Accelerate Nitro SQD 5 (the grip on the wing is brutal), the Adidas Crazyflight 7 (the lightest at 250 g) and the Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo. All three prioritise lightness and explosive response over short distances.

Which handball shoes are best for pivots?

For pivots, the Adidas Stabil 16 is the benchmark in 2026. Behind it come the Adidas Stabil Next Gen and the Asics Gel-Netburner Ballistic FF 4. All three offer the lateral stability and joint protection that physical pivot play demands.

How much do competition handball shoes cost?

It depends on your level: high-end models such as the Puma Accelerate Nitro SQD 5, the Adidas Stabil 16 or the Mizuno Wave Stealth Neo 2 are the most expensive; for beginners there are much cheaper options (Asics Gel-Rocket 12, Puma Varion II). Every card and product page shows today’s lowest price across the shops we check.

Can volleyball shoes be used for handball?

Some can. The Adidas Crazyflight is one example: many wings use it with excellent results. However, for pivots and centre backs who need intense lateral stability, a handball-specific shoe such as the Adidas Stabil offers better protection and hold.