We investigated the effects of footwear on the biomechanical characteristics of the metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) during badminton critical foot motion， specifically during push-off in order to provide a scientific basis for badminton training programs to prevent and cure sports-related injuries， as well as to design new badminton footwear. The biomechanical characteristics of the MPJ in either bare feet or shod with Yonex shoes (SHB-99 limited) or the prototype footwear were tested during the Right Front-court Lunge Step critical footwork sequence in eight badminton athletes. We found that suitable footwear was beneficial to metatarsophalangeal (MP) dorsiflexion and improved sport performance. Thus， the MP should be considered during badminton shoe design， in order to protect the functionality of the lower extremities and improve performance