To be an effective volleyball player, you’ll want to look the part and you’ll want to feel the part. When it comes to getting dressed for a match, you’ll want to wear clothing that doesn’t get in the way of making agile movements.
Volleyball demands varying types of movement. You’ll need to be able to run, jump, and change direction. You’ll be expected to dive onto the ground and stretch your limbs as far as you can. That being said, you will want to avoid any kind of clothing that will rip if you extend your range of motion far enough.
In this article, we’ll go over some of the most common attire you would wear when playing volleyball.
Shorts
The most crucial piece of clothing you’ll wear for volleyball is a pair of shorts that have a lot of stretch in them. Because you’ll be taking wide steps, crouching, and jumping often, you’ll want to wear shorts that will not rip. Most volleyball players end up wearing the shortest shorts possible, making it near impossible for their legs to stretch the shorts apart.
This is the main reason why volleyball shorts are so short. Similarly, this is why beach volleyball players will often wear a bikini bottoms. Essentially, the closer you can get your shorts to feel like underwear, the less chance they will rip.
Athletic Tank Top
Tank tops have come a long way in recent years. Almost every major brand offers some kind of fashionable tank top that can be used in any athletic activity. They’re made to fit tight and have breathable material to reduce sweating and smelling.
Athletic tank tops are made for both men and women alike. If you’re going to be playing beach volleyball, then a loose-fitting tank top is what people will usually wear. When it comes to sand and the sun, you’ll take on a lot of sand inside your clothing. Having loose clothing will make it easier to shake off the excess sand.
Sports Bra
Wearing a sports bra is highly recommended for playing volleyball. You will be running and jumping enough that you’ll wish you were wearing one. Constant repetitive motion such as running and jumping can cause soreness, so wearing a sports bra can help reduce any pain brought by playing. Athletes also wear sports bras to prevent sagging, which is believed to be irreversible.
Volleyball Shoes
If you’re just looking to play a bit of volleyball with some friends, then a regular pair of running shoes will work just fine. If you’re going to be playing a lot of games, you should spend some money to buy an actual pair of volleyball shoes.
Volleyball shoes are designed much like basketball shoes. They take into account the contact you’ll be making on the court. The key difference between volleyball shoes and basketball shoes is the shape and fit. Basketball shoes are made for sprinting and jumping while volleyball shoes are made for pivoting and jumping. If you like the style of basketball shoes, you can get high top volleyball shoes to play in style.
Headbands For Sweat
If you think you’ll be hustling to get a win for your team, you’ll probably be sweating a lot from all the running and jumping. One of the worst feelings when playing volleyball is having to constantly wipe the sweat from going into your eyes and mouth. It stings and tastes unpleasant.
Wearing a headband can keep hair and sweat out of your face, allowing you to focus on the game. Alternatively, you can use the bottom of your shirt or bring a towel.
Should You Wear Wristbands For Sweat?
Keep your wrists clear as these are your biggest tools in the game of volleyball. You’ll be bumping, spiking, and serving with your hands and wrists. Any contact you make with the ball will instantly lose all accuracy because you’re hitting it with your wristband and wrist rather than your wrist alone.
Protective Gear
If you’re playing on the court, you’ll want to consider getting your hands on some protective gear. In this section, we’ll cover some of the gear you might want to look into and why you’ll want to use it.
Knee Pads
Volleyball is known to cause a lot of knee injuries. One of the biggest causes of knee injuries is how many contacts you make with the court when you dive or dig for the ball. Volleyball knee pads will absorb the shock of dropping down on your knees onto the hardwood floor. They’ll also protect you from any accidental contact you make with other players.
It’s common for knee pads to have a snug fit. For a more comfortable and loose fit, players will opt in to using XXL or 3XL knee pads. They are also more comfortable for players with larger legs.
Knee Braces
Knee braces help by providing players with compression. This helps to maintain good circulation throughout your leg, making it great for preventing injuries you may not expect. They also help to alleviate some pain if you have pre-existing knee conditions that may flare up from extensive volleyball play.
Knee braces can be used with knee pads. Some knee pads have a snug fit and can be used as knee branches in conjunction with the knee pad.
Elbow Pads
Elbow pads are not typically worn by volleyball players. Because a player’s arms and forearms are needed the most during the play, it’s best to keep them clear of any bulky equipment that might make it difficult to get into position.
If you find yourself diving and landing on your elbows, you should definitely try playing with elbow pads until you learn better form during play.
Hat Or Sunglasses
If you’ll be playing volleyball outdoors or on the beach, you’ll want to wear a hat or sunglasses to keep the sand and sun out of your eyes. It can be frustrating when you see where a ball is going and run your fastest to get to it only to be blinded by the sun, causing you to miss your shot. Get your hands on a baseball cap, a sports visor, or a pair of sunglasses that offer UV protection.