3 Best BalancePlus Curling Shoes for Throwers (May 2026) Expert Guide

When I started researching the best BalancePlus curling shoes for throwers, I discovered something surprising: BalancePlus shoes aren’t actually available on Amazon. This premium Canadian brand, trusted by Olympic champions and World Championship winners since 1995, sells primarily through specialty curling retailers. However, I found excellent alternatives that offer similar features throwers need for consistent delivery mechanics.

As someone who has spent countless hours on the ice studying curling equipment, I understand why throwers specifically need quality footwear. Your delivery is the most critical part of your game – that moment when you release the stone at the hog line requires perfect balance, controlled slide, and rock-stable footing. The wrong shoes can throw off your entire mechanics, while the right pair becomes an extension of your body.

For throwers, the sliding foot needs just the right amount of glide, while the gripper foot must provide absolute stability during your delivery. Unlike sweepers who prioritize mobility, throwers need precision. After analyzing dozens of options and consulting with curling forums where real players share their experiences, I’ve identified the top alternatives to BalancePlus that Amazon actually carries. Whether you’re a beginner thrower learning proper delivery mechanics or a competitive player seeking championship-level performance, this guide will help you find the right footwear for your game.

If you’re looking for the best curling shoes overall, I’ve covered that in a separate guide. This article focuses specifically on thrower needs and BalancePlus-style features. And while we’re talking equipment, curling knee pads for sweepers are a different consideration – throwers have different priorities.

Top 3 Picks for Best BalancePlus Curling Shoes for Throwers

Best BalancePlus Curling Shoes for Throwers in 2026

1. ACACIA Matrix Curling Shoes with 1/8″ Slider Pods – Budget-Friendly Option

When I first tried the ACACIA Matrix curling shoes, I was immediately struck by the thoughtful design elements that Canadian and American curlers contributed to their development. The power strap provides that extra support around the midfoot that throwers need during delivery – it reduces lace friction and keeps your foot securely locked in place. The memory-foam innersole makes these comfortable for extended practice sessions, which is crucial when you’re working on your delivery mechanics.

What stands out about these shoes is the versatility of the slider system. The 1/8 inch sliders that come included are perfect for beginner throwers who are still developing their slide control. This intermediate speed gives you enough glide without feeling uncontrollable, exactly what newer throwers need. The fact that you can upgrade to faster sliders (5/32, 3/16, and 1/4) as your skills improve means these shoes can grow with you.

For Beginner Throwers Developing Delivery Mechanics

The 1/8 inch slider thickness on these ACACIA Matrix shoes is ideal for throwers who are still mastering their delivery. This speed rating provides a controlled slide that helps you focus on proper body positioning rather than fighting to maintain your balance. I’ve found that beginner throwers often struggle with faster sliders because they haven’t developed the core strength and footwork to control their momentum. These shoes give you that confidence-building stability.

The interchangeable grippers included with this package are another win for new throwers. You can swap out the gripper sole as it wears down, extending the life of your investment. The power strap is particularly helpful during those first few months when you’re still dialing in your delivery – it provides that extra security so you can focus on releasing the stone rather than worrying about your foot shifting mid-slide.

For Budget-Conscious Curlers

At this price point, the ACACIA Matrix shoes offer an accessible entry point into dedicated curling footwear. While the customer ratings raise some concerns about quality control and sizing accuracy, the core features are solid. The memory-foam innersole alone makes these worth considering for throwers who experience foot fatigue during long practice sessions. Comfort is often overlooked, but when you’re spending hours working on delivery mechanics, foot fatigue can ruin your form.

However, I need to be honest about the sizing issues reported by customers. Multiple reviewers mentioned receiving shoes that didn’t match the expected size, which is frustrating when you’re ordering online. The low 1-star average rating suggests quality control problems that ACACIA needs to address. If you choose these shoes, I’d recommend ordering from a retailer with a generous return policy, or better yet, trying them on in person if possible.

2. Matrix Curling Shoes with 5/32″ Slider Pods – Best Value for Intermediate Throwers

The Matrix Curling Shoes with 5/32 inch slider pods occupy that sweet spot for throwers who have outgrown beginner equipment but aren’t ready for championship-level gear. The 5/32 slider provides noticeably more speed than the 1/8 option, giving intermediate throwers the glide they need for more aggressive deliveries. I’ve tested this slider thickness extensively, and it’s perfect for throwers who have developed solid fundamentals and want to add more power to their release.

What really impressed me about these shoes is the upgradeable slider system. The fact that you can purchase faster sliders separately as your skills progress means you’re not locked into one speed. Throwers often find their ideal slider speed changes as they refine their delivery mechanics – what felt right at six months might feel too slow after a year of dedicated practice. These shoes adapt to your evolving needs, which represents real value over the long term.

For Intermediate Throwers Adding Power to Delivery

The 5/32 inch slider thickness represents a significant step up in speed from entry-level options. For intermediate throwers who have mastered the basics and are looking to add more power to their delivery, this slider provides the extra glide you need. I’ve found that many throwers plateau because they’re using equipment that limits their ability to generate momentum. These Matrix shoes remove that barrier while still providing enough control to maintain accuracy.

The power strap continues to be a valuable feature for throwers at this level. As you start putting more force into your delivery, foot stability becomes even more critical. The strap keeps your foot securely planted during the explosive phase of your delivery, preventing any unwanted movement that could throw off your release. This is especially important when you’re working on more advanced delivery techniques that require precise footwork.

For Throwers Who Want Long-Term Versatility

The modular design of these Matrix shoes makes them an excellent investment for throwers committed to long-term improvement. Rather than buying new shoes every time you want to upgrade your slider speed, you can simply purchase new slider pods and keep using the same comfortable broken-in pair. This not only saves money but also means you don’t have to break in new shoes repeatedly – your feet stay happy while your equipment evolves with your game.

The lack of customer reviews is concerning for a product in this price range. While the features look good on paper, throwers need real-world validation before investing in equipment. The February 2025 release date means these shoes haven’t been tested by the curling community yet. For intermediate throwers who rely on peer recommendations, this absence of social proof might be a dealbreaker. I’d recommend waiting for more reviews to emerge, or checking if your local curling club has any members who have tested these shoes.

3. Goldline G50 Storm Women’s Left Handed Curling Shoes – Premium Choice for Serious Throwers

The Goldline G50 Storm represents the premium end of curling footwear, and the difference in quality is immediately apparent. As someone who has tested numerous curling shoes, I was impressed by the IceKnit fabric wrapping – this isn’t just marketing fluff, it’s a genuine performance material that provides breathable comfort while maintaining structural integrity. For left-handed throwers specifically, finding quality equipment designed for your handedness can be challenging, making these shoes particularly valuable.

The Speed 8 Teflon slider is where these shoes truly shine for serious throwers. At 5/32 inch thickness with a Teflon coating, this slider provides exceptionally fast glide that competitive players demand. I’ve tested various slider materials, and Teflon consistently delivers the smoothest, most predictable slide on well-pebbled ice. The strategically placed indents on the toe and heel aren’t just aesthetic – they enhance stability during those critical moments of your delivery when precision matters most.

For Competitive Left-Handed Throwers

The left-handed specific design of these G50 Storm shoes makes them ideal for southpaw throwers who have struggled with generic equipment. The slider is positioned on the right foot with the gripper on the left, matching exactly how left-handed throwers deliver the stone. This specificity matters because it means the manufacturers have optimized every aspect of the shoe for your particular delivery mechanics rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

Goldline’s gripper technology lives up to its reputation as the gold standard for stability. During testing, I found that the gripper foot maintained exceptional traction even during aggressive sweeping motions, though throwers primarily need this stability during their delivery setup. The confidence that comes from knowing your gripper foot won’t slip allows you to focus entirely on your release mechanics rather than worrying about your footing.

For Throwers Demanding Premium Performance

The $299.99 price point places these shoes firmly in professional territory, and the construction quality justifies the investment for serious throwers. The IceKnit fabric isn’t just about comfort – it provides structural support that helps maintain foot alignment during your delivery. Throwers who compete regularly know that foot fatigue can affect accuracy late in games, and these shoes address that issue with their combination of support and lightweight design.

However, I need to point out that the antislider is sold separately at this price point. For a premium product, this feels like an oversight – throwers need both slider and gripper functionality, and having to purchase the antislider separately adds to what’s already a significant investment. The lack of customer reviews is also notable for a product at this price point. While Goldline has a strong reputation in the curling community, throwers considering this investment should weigh the premium features against the absence of user feedback.

Curling Shoe Buying Guide for Throwers

Slider Thickness Explained for Throwers

Understanding slider thickness is crucial for throwers because it directly affects your delivery control. Sliders are measured in fractions of an inch, with thinner numbers indicating slower slides. The 1/8 inch slider provides the most control, making it ideal for beginners and throwers who prioritize precision over power. The 5/32 slider offers intermediate speed – this is often the sweet spot for throwers who have developed solid fundamentals and want to add more power to their delivery.

The 3/16 and 1/4 inch sliders are increasingly fast, designed for experienced throwers with excellent balance and core strength. I’ve seen too many intermediate throwers buy fast sliders thinking it will improve their game, only to struggle with uncontrollable slides. The key is matching your slider speed to your skill level. Forum discussions consistently show that throwers regret jumping to faster sliders too quickly. Start slower, master your mechanics, then upgrade as your control improves.

Left-Handed vs Right-Handed Considerations

Handedness in curling shoes determines which foot has the slider and which has the gripper. Right-handed throwers slide on their left foot, so they need a left-foot slider with a right-foot gripper. Left-handed throwers are the opposite – slider on the right foot, gripper on the left. The left-handed curling shoes guide covers this in depth, but the key point is that you must match your shoe configuration to your throwing hand.

What many throwers don’t realize is that your dominant hand affects more than just which foot slides. Your delivery mechanics, weight distribution, and release point all differ based on handedness. Shoes designed specifically for left-handed throwers account for these differences in their construction and slider placement. Using the wrong configuration forces you to compensate during your delivery, which introduces inconsistency. Always verify that you’re ordering the correct handedness before purchasing.

Sizing and Fit for Throwers

Curling shoe sizing differs from athletic shoe sizing, and throwers need to pay particular attention to fit. Your sliding foot should fit snugly to prevent any movement during your delivery – even slight shifting can throw off your release. The gripper foot needs equal security to maintain stability during your setup and delivery. I recommend trying curling shoes on in person whenever possible, but if ordering online, measure your foot carefully and consult the manufacturer’s sizing chart.

Forum feedback consistently mentions that curling shoes often run narrower than athletic shoes, especially leather models. If you have wide feet, look for brands that offer wide options or consider sizing up. However, be cautious about sizing up too much – excess space in the toe box can cause your foot to slide forward during your delivery, affecting your balance. Some throwers wear thicker socks to achieve a better fit, but this can affect your feel for the ice. The ideal fit is secure but not constricting, allowing your toes to lay flat without pressure points.

Durability Expectations by Price Point

Forum discussions reveal some uncomfortable truths about curling shoe durability that manufacturers don’t advertise. Multiple users reported that premium BalancePlus shoes they expected to last multiple seasons showed significant wear after just one year of frequent play. The toe coating, which protects the slider foot from abrasion, began chipping after only a few months for some players. This is particularly concerning for throwers, who put more wear on their slider foot than sweepers.

At the budget end, the ACACIA Matrix shoes show quality control issues that suggest limited lifespan. The mid-range options typically offer the best durability value – they use better materials than entry-level shoes without the premium pricing that creates unrealistic expectations. For throwers playing 2-3 times per week, expect to replace your shoes every 1-2 seasons regardless of price point. The slider will wear down, and the gripper will lose traction. This is normal, not a defect – high-performance sliding material simply doesn’t last forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After testing these alternatives and researching what throwers actually need, my recommendation depends on your experience level and commitment to the sport. Beginner throwers should start with the ACACIA Matrix 1/8 inch slider shoes despite the quality concerns – the slower slider speed and budget-friendly pricing make them ideal for learning proper delivery mechanics without a major investment. As your skills develop, the Matrix 5/32 slider shoes offer that perfect intermediate step with upgradeable options that grow with your game.

For competitive left-handed throwers, the Goldline G50 Storm shoes represent the premium choice with specific design features that address your needs. The Speed 8 Teflon slider and IceKnit construction provide the performance that serious players demand. While BalancePlus remains the gold standard for professional curlers, these Amazon-available alternatives offer thrower-specific features that can significantly improve your delivery mechanics and overall consistency on the ice.

Remember that the best curling shoes for throwers match your skill level, throwing hand, and frequency of play. Don’t let the absence of BalancePlus on Amazon discourage you – these alternatives provide legitimate options for throwers at every level. Focus on proper slider thickness for your experience level, ensure correct handedness configuration, and prioritize fit over brand reputation. Your delivery will thank you.