Foot Volley, the volley played with the foot
Our page foot volley is dedicated to this sand sport invented in Copacabana, which is played with the foot, thigh, and head over a beach-volley net. You will find its essential rules, the dimensions of the field, the height of the net according to categories, and the criteria for choosing a footvolley ball: size five, waterproof cover, and a bladder that keeps its shape on the sand.
Football and volley combined on the sand.
Born in 1965 on Copacabana Beach
Foot volley, or futevôlei in Portuguese, was invented in 1965 on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro by Octávio de Moraes. Football was then banned on the sand, but the volley courts remained open: footballers continued to play with their feet over the net. Initially called pévolei, the game spread to major Brazilian cities in the 1970s, from Recife to Florianópolis, then to Europe via Portugal in the 1980s, before making its way to French beaches.
The other balls
Volleyballs are also available in:
All balls are gathered on the balls page.
Rules, court and net height
Foot volley consists of two teams of two players, with no substitutes, played on a sand court that is sixteen metres by eight, the same as beach-volley. The net is set at 2.20 metres for men and 2 metres for women. Each team has a maximum of three touches to return the ball, and the same player cannot touch it twice in a row. Feet, thighs, chest, shoulders, and head are allowed, but not the hands or arms. A point is lost as soon as the ball drops in your own side.
What ball to use for foot volley
Foot volley is played with a size five football, with a circumference of 68 to 70 centimetres. The models designed for this sport weigh around 420 grams and combine a soft synthentic leather cover, comfortable for both head and chest, with a double-layer butyl bladder that maintains its pressure and shape. Their waterproof surface does not soak up water or sand, ensuring the ball keeps its weight throughout the match. It is inflated slightly less than a match ball for a softer touch, and rinsed in freshwater after each session by the sea.
Good deals
Good bargains can also be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped within 24h are prepared and dispatched in 24 hours. The highlights of the year occur in a consistent order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the holiday season, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.
Frequently asked questions
Can you play foot volley with a regular football?
Yes, a size five football is suitable for beginners, provided it is waterproof and not too inflated. However, balls designed for sand maintain their touch better and do not become heavy when wet.
How to start foot volley if you come from football?
Start with some juggling with a partner without a net, alternating foot, thigh, and head, to get used to the footing on the sand. Lowering the net during the first sessions helps to string together rallies and build confidence.
What is the shark attack in foot volley?
This is the spectacular move in foot volley: the player rises near the net and strikes the ball with the sole, leg extended above the tape, to smash it into the opposing camp. It requires flexibility, jump, and lots of practice.
Do you need shoes to play foot volley?
No, foot volley is played barefoot, to better feel the ball and avoid sinking in the sand. In very hot weather, it’s better to play early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the scorching sand.
How is a point scored in foot volley?
A point is earned when the ball touches the sand on the opponent's side, when the opponent sends it out of the court, or when they commit a fault, such as a fourth touch or a hand or arm contact.
