Asics Sky Elite Handball Shoes
Three steps back, the call, the jump shot above the block: the Asics Sky Elite shoes are made for this moment, and their cushioning upon landing supports the handball player as they take their shots.
Jump and landing shoes, the Sky Elite FF comes in a low-cut or mid-top version, for both men and women.
Sky Elite FF 4: FF Blast Max and Risetruss
Asics presents the Sky Elite FF 4 as a powerful jump shoe for top-level players. Its FF Blast Max midsole, a soft and bouncy foam, cushions landings and provides energy return for the push-off. The Risetruss, a support that runs from the forefoot to the midfoot with a compressible space upon landing, supports the foot during jumps and directional changes.
DynaLacing and curved heel
The DynaLacing locks down the forefoot so it doesn't slide inside the shoe at take-off. The curved heel helps in transitioning from the back to the front of the foot and assists in converting the run-up into a jump. The energy comes from the foam and the Risetruss.
Sky Elite low or MT: the ankle choice
The Sky Elite FF MT 4 incorporates all these technologies with a mid-cut upper, providing extra ankle support. The low version allows for more freedom around the ankle. Players who have previously suffered an ankle sprain often opt for the MT, although the upper does not replace good strapping.
The Sky Elite for handball: what you need to know
Asics classifies the Sky Elite among its volleyball shoes. However, specialized retailers do mention handball as one of its uses, and it makes sense: a back player shooting while airborne benefits from its cushioning. It is, however, less geared towards lateral stability than a Gel-Tactic. It's a good choice for a winger or back who jumps a lot, but less so for a pivot who is constantly in contact.
Sky Elite: for which positions?
As a jumping shoe, the Sky Elite is suitable for positions that often leap: backs, wingers, and playmakers who shoot in suspension. A pivot who thrives on contact will seek more lateral stability.
FF 3 and FF MT 3: the other generations on the page
Alongside the FF 4, the page also offers Sky Elite FF 3 and FF MT 3 in various colours, as well as a FF MT 2. The principle remains the same, a jumping shoe, with technologies that have evolved from generation to generation. Compare the specs if you're torn between two colours of different generations.
Sky Elite sizing: true to size
Buyer reviews vary on its sizing: compare your foot length to the size chart. The women’s versions follow Asics' women's size chart: a female player moving from a unisex model to a women's version should refer to her foot length.
After the Sky Elite, the other Asics
The Metarise takes the idea of jumping even further, with a reinforced carbon-fibre plate. For speedy players, the Gel Netburner focuses on acceleration. If you mainly play handball, the Gel Tactic offers better side support. The entire brand is featured on the page shoes Asics.
Sky Elite on sale
The special shoe offers change throughout the year, and the Black Friday shoes page gathers the autumn sales.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Sky Elite suitable for a beginner?
Asics targets it at top-level players, but there’s nothing stopping a beginner from wearing it. For discovering the sport, a simpler shoe like the Gel-Rocket or the Upcourt works very well.
Can it be worn for beach handball?
No, beach handball is played barefoot on the sand. The Sky Elite is an indoor shoe, made for hardwood floors.
Can you play as a goalkeeper in Sky Elite?
It's possible; its cushioning helps with jumps and extensions. A goalkeeper who makes a lot of lateral movements will, however, be better supported in a stability shoe like the Gel-Tactic or the Powerbreak FF.
Is the MT version heavier?
A mid-cut upper adds a little more material around the ankle. The difference is mostly felt at first: most players forget it after a few sessions.
How can you tell if the foam is worn out?
When landings become hard and your knees take more impact after jump sessions, the cushioning has lost its effectiveness, even if the sole still looks good.
