The Right Footwear for Dog Agility Handlers: Stay Safe and Stay Fast

At Paws Academy, we train on grass, and thanks to the Irish weather, that often means wet, muddy conditions. If you’ve ever slipped, twisted an ankle, or just felt like you couldn’t move fast enough while handling your dog, the problem might be your shoes.

Good footwear (and ensuring the right footwear for dog agility) is essential for dog agility—whether it’s a dry summer day or a soggy training session after heavy rain. The wrong shoes can slow you down, make it harder to give clear signals to your dog, and even cause injuries.

Let’s look at the best footwear for agility handlers, why wellies (yes, even the fancy neoprene-lined ones) are a terrible choice, and why hockey shoes are fast becoming a go-to option.

Why Wellies Are a No-Go for Dog Agility

We get it. When the field is muddy, it’s tempting to grab your wellies. After all, they’re waterproof, easy to clean, and keep your feet dry. But for dog agility, they’re a disaster.

1. Zero Grip for Fast Movements

Wellies aren’t designed for running or quick turns. They’re fine for walking through puddles, but they have poor grip on grass, especially when it’s wet. Slipping in the middle of a run isn’t just embarrassing—it can lead to serious injuries.

2. Lack of Support

Dog agility involves a lot of fast-paced movements—sudden stops, turns, and sprints. Wellies offer no ankle or arch support, which can lead to rolled ankles or long-term discomfort.

3. Clunky and Heavy

Agility is all about speed and precision. Wellies are bulky, and no matter how well-fitted, they don’t allow the quick, flexible movements you need to guide your dog efficiently.

So, what’s the best alternative?

Why Hockey Shoes Are a Top Choice for Agility Handlers

Hockey shoes (designed for field hockey, not ice hockey!) are gaining popularity among dog agility handlers—and for good reason. These shoes are built for fast movements on grass and AstroTurf, making them perfect for the demands of agility.

Key Benefits of Hockey Shoes for Agility Handlers

✅ Superb Grip on Grass – Designed for quick turns and sprints, hockey shoes provide excellent traction on both dry and wet grass. No more slipping mid-run!

✅ Supportive and Lightweight – Unlike bulky trainers or wellies, hockey shoes offer great foot support without weighing you down.

✅ Water-Resistant Options – Some hockey shoes are made with water-repellent materials, helping to keep your feet dry even in damp conditions.

✅ Durability – Built for high-intensity sport, these shoes hold up well to regular agility training.

Recommended Hockey Shoes for Dog Agility

1. Adidas AdiPower Hockey 2.1

• Excellent grip

• Comfortable and supportive

• Water-resistant

2. Nike React Vapor Drive 2 Field Hockey Shoes

• Designed for fast direction changes

• Lightweight but durable

• Water-resistant

3. Osaka KAI MK1 Hockey Shoes

• Good balance of grip and comfort

• Suitable for wet grass and AstroTurf

• Stylish design

4. Dita Hockey Shoes (Waterproof Options Available)

• Known for durability

• Strong grip for wet and muddy conditions

• Waterproof versions available

Alternatives to Hockey Shoes

If hockey shoes aren’t your thing, don’t worry—there are other options that work well for agility.

🟢 Trail Running Shoes – Brands like Salomon and Inov-8 offer trail running shoes with deep treads and waterproof options. Great for handling wet, uneven ground.

🟢 Football or Rugby Boots (with Moulded Studs) – These can work if you want extra grip, but avoid screw-in metal studs as they can damage the field and make quick pivots harder.

Key Features to Look for in Agility Footwear

No matter what type of shoes you choose, make sure they have:

✔️ Good Grip – Essential for stability on grass.

✔️ Lightweight Design – Heavy shoes will slow you down.

✔️ Support for Fast Movements – Look for cushioned soles and ankle support.

✔️ Waterproofing or Water Resistance – Keeps feet dry in Irish weather.

Caring for Your Agility Shoes

To keep your shoes in good condition:

🔹 Clean them after every session – Mud and wet grass can wear down the grip over time.

🔹 Air-dry naturally – Avoid using direct heat sources like radiators to dry them.

🔹 Check for wear and tear – Replace them when the soles start losing grip.

Final Thoughts

At Paws Academy, we want handlers to feel confident and comfortable while training. The right footwear makes a massive difference—not just for performance, but for safety, too.

Ditch the wellies, invest in a solid pair of agility-friendly shoes, and enjoy training without worrying about slipping or sore feet.

Got a favourite pair of agility shoes? Let us know what works for you!

If you’re keen to put your new footwear to the test and improve your handling skills, get in touch with Paws Academy to book an agility training session—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced handler, we’d love to see you on the field!