Can You Use Other Sports Shoes for Fencing?
- Octav fencing
- Jan 2, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Can I Use Running or Tennis Shoes for Fencing? What Parents and New Fencers Need to Know.
For many young fencers—and especially their parents—fencing equipment can be a mystery. One of the most common questions we hear is:
"Can I wear running, basketball, or tennis shoes for fencing?"
The short answer: Yes, but with caution. Some court shoes like tennis or badminton shoes can work as budget-friendly alternatives. But running or basketball shoes are a no-go.
Why Tennis or Badminton Shoes Can Work (But Still Aren’t Ideal)
Fencing footwork shares similarities with racket sports—like quick lunges and changes in direction—so shoes made for tennis or badminton offer decent shock absorption and heel support. However, they lack fencing-specific features:
No rubber wrap-ups at the heel or medial sides, which means faster wear—especially for fencers who drag their feet during lunges.
Less protection in high-impact zones like the toe box and ankle.
This leads to shorter durability and higher risk of injury over time.
What Makes a Good Fencing Shoe?
Fencing shoes are designed for the unique motions and surfaces in our sport. A proper fencing shoe offers:
Balanced heel cushioning — not too thick, not too thin, to protect your heel without compromising stability.
Reinforced rubber wrap-ups — at the medial heel and toe joint for durability.
Hard heel cups — to support your foot during intense movements.
Toe protection — to absorb force during lunges.
Anti-abrasion outsoles — specially made for fencing pistes, which are harsh on regular soles.
Also: Avoid shoes that resemble running shoes or have soft, squishy midsoles—they’re not built for the directional force and precision required in fencing.
Care Tips
Fencing shoes are indoor shoes—not meant for outdoor use. Keep them clean and dry, and store them in a cool place after each session. With proper care, they’ll last longer and protect you better.
Why Octav Excel 2025 Was Built Differently
At Octav, we design for fencers—because we are fencers. Our latest shoe, Octav Excel 2025, is the world first fencing shoe featuring Nitrogen Supercritical Foaming technology. It’s built with:
NitroImpact™ Foam – 3x lighter than EVA for unmatched cushioning and energy return.
Stabilix™ Heel Support – stabilizes your foot and helps reduce injury.
Duron Tech Rubber – durable grip for training and competition.
Anti-Torsion Plate – enhanced agility and faster reaction time.
We worked with top designers from Adidas and elite fencers across the UK, France, China, and Bulgaria to make sure this shoe performs on every level.
Ready to Upgrade?
If you're looking for fencing shoes that combine performance, comfort, and durability, explore the Octav Excel 2025.
