Why Choosing the Right Netball Shoes Matters: A Podiatrist’s Perspective

Netball is a fast-paced, high-impact sport that requires agility, speed, and stability. The right footwear plays a crucial role in preventing injuries and enhancing performance on the court. At Umina Podiatry, we understand the biomechanics of netball and the importance of choosing the right shoes to support your feet and ankles during dynamic movements.

One of the leading brands in netball footwear is ASICS, which continues to innovate and develop shoes specifically designed for the sport’s unique demands. Their latest release, the Netburner™ 21, is a testament to the ongoing advancements in netball shoe technology, focusing on stability, durability, and comfort.

Why Running Shoes Aren’t Enough for Netball

Many players make the mistake of wearing running shoes for netball, but these shoes are not designed for the sport’s lateral movements, sudden stops, and quick direction changes. Running shoes are built for forward motion, whereas netball shoes, like the ASICS Netburner™ 21, offer:

  • Increased lateral stability to support side-to-side movement
  • Enhanced durability to withstand toe drag and high-impact landings
  • Superior grip to prevent slipping during fast-paced play

What’s New in the ASICS Netburner™ 21?

The latest Netburner™ 21 model has been engineered with innovative features that support netball players of all levels:

  • Improved Upper Design: A reinforced mesh upper with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) overlay keeps your foot securely in place, reducing excessive movement inside the shoe.
  • FLYTEFOAM™ Midsole: This lightweight cushioning material is firmer and sits lower than a typical running shoe, creating a more stable platform for netball-specific movements.
  • Asymmetrical TPU Trusstic System: Extending through the midfoot and lateral forefoot, this system enhances side stability and responsiveness, making quick direction changes smoother and safer.
  • Durable Outsole: A thick, solid rubber outsole wraps around the midsole to prevent wear from toe drag, improving overall longevity and stability.

Other ASICS Netball Shoes to Consider

ASICS offers a variety of netball shoes tailored to different playing styles and preferences. Some other popular options include:

  • ASICS Gel-Netburner™ Academy: A great option for intermediate players, offering lightweight cushioning and enhanced forefoot flexibility for fast-paced play.
  • ASICS Gel-Netburner™ Professional: Designed for elite players, this model provides superior grip, shock absorption, and responsiveness for high-intensity games.
  • ASICS Gel-Netburner™ Ballistic: Known for its stability and comfort, this shoe is ideal for players who require extra ankle support and durability during matches.
  • ASICS Gel-Netburner™ Shield: Features reinforced toe protection and extra durability, making it a solid choice for players who experience high wear and tear on their footwear.

How Umina Podiatry Can Help You Find the Right Fit

At Umina Podiatry, we regularly treat netball players for common foot and ankle injuries such as ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, and achilles tendonitis. Wearing the right shoes is a key factor in reducing injury risk and ensuring you can play at your best.

If you’re unsure about the best netball shoes for your feet, we offer professional gait analysis using our Zebris gait analysis treadmill to assess your movement patterns. We can also provide expert advice on shoe selection and orthotic support if needed.

Take the Next Step Towards Injury-Free Play

Investing in high-quality netball shoes like the ASICS Netburner series can make a significant difference in both performance and injury prevention. If you want to ensure you’re playing in the best footwear for your feet, book an appointment with our team at Umina Podiatry today. Let’s keep you on the court—strong, stable, and pain-free!

Where can healthy feet take you...

Can I Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home?

If symptoms are very mild, you may be able to:

  • Soak the foot in warm salt water
  • Keep the area clean and dry
  • Wear wider footwear
  • Avoid digging at the nail with scissors or sharp tools

However, attempting "bathroom surgery" often makes the problem worse and can introduce infection.

If pain, swelling, or infection is present, professional treatment is recommended.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Ingrown Toenails

1. Will an ingrown toenail go away on its own?

Sometimes a very mild ingrown toenail may settle with proper nail care and reduced pressure. However, many cases progressively worsen without treatment.

2. What does an ingrown toenail feel like?

Most people experience tenderness along the side of the nail, especially when wearing shoes, walking, or touching the area.

3. How do I know if my toenail is ingrown?

Common signs include pain along the nail edge, redness, swelling, and a sensation that the nail is digging into the skin.

4. Can children get ingrown toenails?

Yes. Ingrown toenails are common in teenagers and children, particularly during growth spurts or when nails are cut incorrectly.

5. Why does my ingrown toenail keep coming back?

Recurring cases are often linked to nail shape, genetics, footwear, sporting activity, or incomplete treatment of previous episodes.

6. Is ingrown toenail surgery painful?

The procedure itself is usually comfortable because a local anaesthetic is used. Most people experience only mild discomfort afterwards.

7. How long does recovery take after nail surgery?

Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days, although complete healing typically takes several weeks.

8. Can I still work after ingrown toenail treatment?

Many patients return to desk-based work the same day or the following day. Physically demanding jobs may require a short recovery period.

9. Can I play sport with an ingrown toenail?

Mild cases may allow continued participation, but painful or infected nails often worsen with sporting activity.

10. Are ingrown toenails hereditary?

Yes. Curved nails and certain toe shapes can run in families and increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.

11. What is the best way to cut toenails?

Trim nails straight across and avoid rounding the corners. Nails should not be cut excessively short.

12. Can tight shoes cause ingrown toenails?

Absolutely. Footwear that compresses the toes is a major contributing factor.

13. Can ingrown toenails become infected?

Yes. Broken skin around the nail creates an opening for bacteria to enter.

14. What happens if an infected ingrown toenail is left untreated?

The infection can spread into surrounding tissue and, in rare cases, cause more significant health issues.

15. Are antibiotics enough to fix an ingrown toenail?

Antibiotics may help manage infection but often do not address the actual nail causing the problem.

16. Can diabetics get ingrown toenails?

Yes, and they should seek treatment promptly due to the increased risk of complications.

17. Does soaking help an ingrown toenail?

Warm salt-water soaks may provide temporary relief and help keep the area clean but are not always a definitive treatment.

18. Why do teenagers get so many ingrown toenails?

Teenagers often experience increased sweating, changes in nail growth, sporting demands, and footwear pressures that contribute to ingrown toenails.

19. Can pregnancy increase the risk of ingrown toenails?

Pregnancy-related swelling and difficulty reaching the feet for nail care can increase the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails.

20. How successful is permanent ingrown toenail surgery?

Permanent nail procedures generally have very high success rates and are considered the gold standard for recurrent ingrown toenails.

21. Can I pull out the ingrown section myself?

This is not recommended. Attempting self-treatment frequently worsens pain, infection, and tissue damage.

22. How long should I wait before seeing a podiatrist?

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, are becoming worse, or show signs of infection, book an appointment promptly.

23. Will I lose my whole toenail?

Not usually. Most procedures remove only the problematic edge rather than the entire nail.

24. Can ingrown toenails affect both sides of the nail?

Yes. Some people develop ingrowing on both borders of the same toenail.

25. How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

Prevention strategies include:

  • Cutting nails straight across
  • Wearing properly fitted footwear
  • Managing sweaty feet
  • Avoiding trauma to the toes
  • Seeking early treatment when symptoms develop

 

Don't ignore a painful toenail

Don't let a painful ingrown toenail stop you from enjoying your daily activities. The earlier an ingrown toenail is assessed and treated, the easier it is to relieve discomfort, prevent infection, and avoid ongoing problems. Whether you're experiencing your first ingrown toenail or you're struggling with a recurring issue, professional podiatry care can provide effective, long-term solutions tailored to your needs.

If you have pain, redness, swelling, or signs of infection, contact Umina Podiatry today to book an assessment. Our experienced podiatrists can help you find relief quickly and keep your feet healthy, comfortable, and pain-free. Call our clinic or book online to take the first step toward lasting ingrown toenail relief.

 

 

Call us on 4342 2878 or jump online to book an assessment. 

 

Where can healthy feet take you...

You've put up with it long enough. 👣 Sore feet, heel pain, tingling, nail changes or aches that keep coming back deserve attention. This #PodiatryWeek2026, take the first step and get it checked. 💙 Umina Podiatry | Book today.
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