Volleyball

We've all seen the images of sun-tanned men, women and kids playing volleyball on a beach in paradise, but if you've ever played this team sport you know that there is so much more to it than that. Volleyball can be played both indoors and outdoors, and actually, playing on the sand is a lot more difficult than it looks.

Indoor and outdoor volleyball have gear specifically designed for the location. Indoor volleyball requires special shoes which are non-marking. Non-marking soles are required at volleyball matches because they will not leave black marks on volleyball court floors whereas regular tennis shoes would leave scuff marks. For outdoor volleyball, much depends on the medium on which you play. If you are playing on grass, you can wear whichever volleyball shoes or other shoes will give you the best grip, but try to avoid cleats. As active as volleyball is, you do not want to get hurt! Playing in sand is more difficult. It is very yielding and has no "spring-back" like a hard surface. Going barefoot or with tennis shoes will both work, but you will end up with a lot of sand in your shoes. Who said sports and fitness couldn't be fun?

Volleyball nets have a few different looks. Wired volleyball nets have two stakes at each end to stabilize the net; however these can pose a danger if you trip over them. Wireless volleyball nets provide stabilization without the use of stakes at each end. These reduce the risk of tripping.

When you dive for that winning point save, remember you found your volleyball gear at Overstock.com, your online outlet for great sports, and we didn't even make you wear those tiny volleyball shorts!