What are the best pickleball shoes | Ultimate Guide – 2023

Pickleball is a popular racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is a fast-paced game that requires quick movements, agility, and stability, and as such, it is essential to have the right equipment, including shoes. Pickleball shoes are specially designed to provide the necessary support, traction, and comfort to players during the game. In this outline, we will explore the key features of the best pickleball shoes on the market and provide guidance on how to choose the right pair for your needs.

Definition of “What are the best pickleball shoes”

400;”>Pickleball shoes are specialized athletic shoes designed to provide the necessary support, stability, and traction for players of the game of pickleball. 

These shoes are typically lightweight and have features specific to the game, such as durable soles, good lateral support, and excellent grip on the court surface. Pickleball shoes are designed to improve the player’s performance and reduce the risk of injury during play. They come in a range of styles, from low-cut to high-top, and are available for both men and women.

Importance of proper pickleball shoes

Having the right pair of pickleball shoes is essential to your performance and safety during play. Here are a few reasons why proper pickleball shoes are important:

1. Traction: The right shoes provide good traction on the court surface, preventing slips, falls, and other accidents.
2. Stability: Pickleball requires quick lateral movements, which can put a strain on your ankles and feet. The right shoes offer good lateral support, reducing the risk of injury.
3. Comfort: Pickleball matches can be long and physically demanding. Proper shoes provide the necessary cushioning and support to keep your feet comfortable throughout the game.
4. Performance: Good pickleball shoes are designed to enhance your performance on the court, providing the necessary grip, stability, and support to make quick, precise movements.
5. Durability: Pickleball shoes are specially designed to withstand the wear and tear of the game, providing long-lasting performance and protection for your feet.

Key Features of Pickleball Shoes

Here are some of the key features of pickleball shoes to look for when choosing the right pair:

• Sole: The sole of a pickleball shoe should be made of a durable, non-marking rubber compound that provides good traction and grip on the court surface. The sole should also be thin and flexible, allowing for quick movements and changes in direction.

• Traction: The outsole of the shoe should have a pattern or design that provides good traction on the court surface, preventing slips and falls.

• Cushioning: Pickleball shoes should have sufficient cushioning in the midsole and/or heel to absorb shock and provide comfort during play.

• Breathability: Good pickleball shoes should have breathable materials that allow for airflow, keeping your feet cool and dry during play.

• Support: Pickleball shoes should have good lateral support to prevent ankle sprains and other injuries, as well as overall support to keep your feet stable and comfortable during play.
• Durability: Pickleball shoes should be made of high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of the game, providing long-lasting performance and protection for your feet.

Sole

The sole of a pickleball shoe is one of the most important features to consider when choosing the right pair. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Material: The sole should be made of a durable, non-marking rubber compound that provides good traction and grip on the court surface. Some brands use specific rubber compounds that are specially designed for pickleball courts, so it’s worth checking out these options.

• Thickness: The sole of a pickleball shoe should be thin and flexible, allowing for quick movements and changes in direction. A thick sole can make it harder to feel the court and may slow down your reaction time.

• Flexibility: The sole should be flexible and allow for natural movement of the foot. This helps to prevent injuries and also improves your performance by allowing for quick and agile movements.

• Pivot points: Some pickleball shoes have pivot points on the sole, which can help you make quick turns and changes in direction during play. These pivot points are usually found near the ball of the foot or the heel.

• Toe protection: Some pickleball shoes have reinforced toes to provide extra protection and durability in this area. This is particularly useful for players who tend to drag their toes during play.

When choosing a pickleball shoe, it’s important to consider the court surface you’ll be playing on, as some shoes are designed specifically for certain surfaces.

 For example, shoes with a herringbone pattern on the sole may be better suited for indoor courts, while shoes with a more aggressive tread pattern may be better for outdoor courts.

Traction

Traction is another crucial factor to consider when choosing pickleball shoes. Here are some key considerations for traction:

• Court surface: The court surface you’ll be playing on will determine the type of traction you need in your pickleball shoes. For example, indoor courts usually have a smooth surface, so shoes with a herringbone pattern on the sole may be more suitable. Outdoor courts may have a rougher surface, so shoes with a more aggressive tread pattern may be more appropriate.

• Outsole design: The outsole of the shoe should have a pattern or design that provides good traction on the court surface. Some shoes have a circular pivot point under the ball of the foot or a triangular pivot point at the heel to aid in quick movements and changes in direction.

• Rubber compound: The rubber compound used in the outsole should be durable and non-marking, meaning it won’t leave scuff marks on the court surface. Some shoes use specific rubber compounds that are designed for pickleball courts.

• Grooves: The outsole should have grooves or channels that help to disperse water and improve traction on wet surfaces. This can be particularly important for outdoor play, where weather conditions can change rapidly.

• Fit: The fit of the shoe is also important for traction, as a loose or ill-fitting shoe can cause your foot to slide inside the shoe, reducing your grip on the court surface.

When choosing pickleball shoes, it’s important to prioritize traction to ensure you can move quickly and safely on the court. Always try on shoes and test their grip on the court surface before making a final decision.

Cushioning

Cushioning is an important feature to consider when choosing pickleball shoes. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Type of cushioning: Pickleball shoes may have cushioning in the heel, midsole, or throughout the entire footbed. Some shoes have gel or air pockets in the midsole for added comfort and shock absorption.

• Thickness of cushioning: The thickness of the cushioning can vary between shoes, and it’s important to choose a level of cushioning that’s comfortable for you. Some players prefer a thicker cushion for added comfort, while others prefer a thinner cushion for better court feel.

• Material: The material used for cushioning can also affect its performance. EVA foam is a common material used in pickleball shoes and provides a good balance of cushioning and support.

• Arch support: Some pickleball shoes have additional arch support to provide added comfort and reduce foot fatigue during play. This can be particularly important for players who have high arches or who experience foot pain during play.

• Fit: It’s important to choose a shoe that fits well and provides a snug, comfortable fit around the foot. This will help to ensure that the cushioning is properly aligned with your foot, providing maximum support and comfort.

Overall, cushioning is important for keeping your feet comfortable and reducing the impact of repetitive movements during play. Choose a shoe with the right level of cushioning for your needs and ensure it fits well for maximum performance and comfort on the court.

Breathability

Breathability is an important factor to consider when choosing pickleball shoes, especially if you play in hot and humid conditions. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Upper material: The upper of the shoe should be made from a breathable material, such as mesh or perforated synthetic leather that allows air to circulate around your foot and keep it cool.

• Ventilation: Some shoes have additional ventilation features, such as mesh panels or perforations in the upper that enhance breathability and help to keep your feet dry.

• Moisture-wicking: Pickleball shoes with moisture-wicking properties can help to draw sweat away from your feet and prevent them from becoming damp and uncomfortable during play.

• Sockliner: A breathable sockliner can also help to enhance breathability and keep your feet dry during play.

• Fit: The fit of the shoe is also important for breathability, as a snug, well-fitting shoe will allow air to circulate around your foot more effectively than a loose-fitting shoe.

Overall, breathability is important for keeping your feet cool and comfortable during play, which can help to prevent blisters, chafing, and other foot injuries. Look for shoes with breathable materials, ventilation features, and moisture-wicking properties to enhance breathability and ensure maximum comfort on the court.

Support

Support is an important factor to consider when choosing pickleball shoes, as it helps to keep your feet stable and reduce the risk of injury. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Lateral support: Pickleball requires a lot of lateral movement, so shoes with good lateral support are essential. Look for shoes with a sturdy outsole, a secure lacing system, and a stable midsole that will keep your foot from rolling during quick lateral movements.

• Ankle support: Ankle injuries are common in pickleball, so shoes with good ankle support can help to reduce the risk of injury. Look for shoes with a high-top design or additional padding around the ankle that provides extra support and cushioning.

• Arch support: Shoes with good arch support can help to reduce foot fatigue and prevent injuries such as plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes with a supportive midsole or additional arch support features.

• Cushioning: Shoes with good cushioning can help to absorb shock and reduce the impact of repetitive movements during play. Look for shoes with a well-cushioned midsole or additional padding in the heel or forefoot.

• Fit: The fit of the shoe is also important for support, as a shoe that fits well will keep your foot stable and prevent it from sliding inside the shoe during play. Look for shoes with a snug fit that provide good support around the heel and midfoot.

Overall, support is essential for preventing injuries and maintaining good foot health during pickleball play. Look for shoes with good lateral support, ankle support, arch support, cushioning, and a snug, secure fit to ensure maximum support and stability on the court.

Durability

Durability is an important factor to consider when choosing pickleball shoes, as you want a shoe that will last through many games and practices. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Outsole: The outsole is the part of the shoe that comes into contact with the court, so it’s important to choose a shoe with a durable and non-marking outsole. Look for shoes with a thick rubber outsole that can withstand the abrasion of the court surface.

• Upper material: The upper of the shoe should also be durable and resistant to wear and tear. Look for shoes with a high-quality synthetic leather or mesh upper that can withstand frequent use and exposure to the elements.

• Stitching: The stitching on the shoe should be strong and well-constructed to ensure that the shoe doesn’t fall apart over time. Look for shoes with reinforced stitching in high-stress areas such as the toe box and heel.

• Toe cap: A toe cap is a protective layer of rubber or other material that covers the toe box of the shoe. This can help to prevent damage to the shoe and extend its lifespan.

• Brand reputation: Choosing a shoe from a reputable brand can also be a good indicator of durability. Look for brands that are known for producing high-quality athletic shoes and have a track record of durability and longevity.

Overall, durability is an important factor to consider when choosing pickleball shoes. Look for shoes with a durable outsole, upper material, strong stitching, a protective toe cap, and a reputable brand to ensure that your shoes can withstand the demands of regular play and last through many games and practices.

Top Pickleball Shoes on the Market

There are many pickleball shoes on the market, but here are some of the top picks:

• ASICS Gel-Resolution 8: The Gel-Resolution 8 is a popular choice among pickleball players, thanks to its excellent support, cushioning, and durability. It features ASICS’ signature Gel cushioning system, a durable outsole, and a snug, supportive fit.

• Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4: The Adizero Ubersonic 4 is a lightweight and responsive shoe that offers excellent support and traction on the court. It features a breathable upper, a sturdy outsole, and a responsive midsole that helps to propel you forward during quick movements.

• Nike Air Zoom Vapor X: The Air Zoom Vapor X is a popular choice for its combination of comfort, stability, and style. It features Nike’s Zoom Air cushioning system, a supportive fit, and a durable outsole that provides excellent traction on the court.

• New Balance Fresh Foam Lav: The Fresh Foam Lav is a comfortable and supportive shoe that offers excellent cushioning and traction on the court. It features a Fresh Foam midsole, a durable outsole, and a supportive upper that keeps your foot stable during quick lateral movements.

• Prince T22: The T22 is a classic pickleball shoe that has been a favorite among players for many years. It features a durable outsole, a supportive upper, and excellent cushioning that helps to reduce the impact of repetitive movements on the court.

Overall, these shoes offer excellent support, cushioning, traction, and durability, making them top picks for pickleball players of all levels.

ASICS Gel-Rocket 9

The ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 is a popular choice among pickleball players for its combination of comfort, support, and affordability. Here are some key features of the Gel-Rocket 9:

• Cushioning: The Gel-Rocket 9 features ASICS’ signature Gel cushioning system in the forefoot, which helps to absorb shock and reduce the impact of repetitive movements on the court.

• Support: The shoe features a supportive midsole that helps to keep your foot stable during quick lateral movements. The Trusstic System technology also reduces the weight of the sole unit while maintaining structural integrity.

• Traction: The shoe’s gum rubber outsole provides excellent traction on indoor court surfaces.

• Breathability: The Gel-Rocket 9 features a breathable mesh upper that helps to keep your feet cool and dry during play.

• Affordability: The Gel-Rocket 9 is a budget-friendly option that provides excellent value for its price point.

Overall, the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 is a solid choice for pickleball players looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe at an affordable price. Its Gel cushioning system, supportive midsole, and gum rubber outsole provide excellent cushioning, stability, and traction on the court.

Nike Court Lite 2

The Nike Court Lite 2 is a popular choice among pickleball players for its lightweight design, excellent traction, and affordable price point. Here are some key features of the Court Lite 2:

• Lightweight design: The Court Lite 2 features a lightweight and breathable upper that keeps your feet cool and comfortable during play.

• Traction: The shoe’s rubber outsole provides excellent traction on the court, which helps to improve your footing and prevent slipping.

• Cushioning: The Court Lite 2 features a foam midsole that provides excellent cushioning and support during play, which helps to reduce the impact of repetitive movements on your feet and joints.

• Durability: The shoe’s upper is made of a combination of synthetic leather and mesh, which helps to provide durability and support during play.

• Affordability: The Court Lite 2 is an affordable option that provides excellent value for its price point.

Overall, the Nike Court Lite 2 is a solid choice for pickleball players looking for a lightweight, comfortable, and affordable shoe that provides excellent traction and support on the court. Its foam midsole, rubber outsole, and durable upper make it a great choice for players of all levels.

Prince T22

The Prince T22 is a classic pickleball shoe that has been a favorite among players for many years, thanks to its durability, support, and cushioning. Here are some key features of the Prince T22:

• Durability: The T22 features a sturdy, abrasion-resistant outsole that provides excellent durability on the court. The shoe’s upper is made of synthetic leather, which provides excellent durability and support during play.

• Support: The T22 features a well-cushioned midsole that helps to keep your foot stable during quick lateral movements on the court. The shoe’s TPU shank also provides additional stability and support.

• Cushioning: The T22 features a soft, cushioned lining and a plush footbed that helps to reduce the impact of repetitive movements on your feet and joints.

• Breathability: The T22 features a breathable mesh upper that helps to keep your feet cool and dry during play.

• Traction: The shoe’s herringbone pattern outsole provides excellent traction on the court, which helps to improve your footing and prevent slipping.

Overall, the Prince T22 is a solid choice for pickleball players looking for a durable, supportive, and cushioned shoe that provides excellent traction on the court. Its abrasion-resistant outsole, cushioned midsole, and breathable mesh upper make it a popular choice among players of all levels.

Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4

The Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 is a popular choice among pickleball players who value speed, agility, and comfort. Here are some key features of the Adizero Ubersonic 4:

• Lightweight design: The Adizero Ubersonic 4 is one of the lightest pickleball shoes on the market, which makes it an ideal choice for players who value speed and agility.

• Traction: The shoe’s rubber outsole provides excellent traction on the court, which helps to improve your footing and prevent slipping.

• Cushioning: The Adizero Ubersonic 4 features a responsive Boost midsole that provides excellent cushioning and support during play, which helps to reduce the impact of repetitive movements on your feet and joints.

• Breathability: The shoe’s mesh upper provides excellent breathability, which helps to keep your feet cool and dry during play.

• Support: The Adizero Ubersonic 4 features a supportive and stable TPU chassis that helps to keep your foot stable during quick lateral movements on the court.

Overall, the Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 is a solid choice for pickleball players who value speed, agility, and comfort. Its lightweight design, responsive cushioning, and supportive TPU chassis make it an excellent choice for players who want to move quickly and comfortably on the court.

New Balance Fresh Foam Lav

The New Balance Fresh Foam Lav is a premium pickleball shoe that offers a combination of comfort, support, and style. Here are some key features of the Fresh Foam Lav:

• Comfort: The Fresh Foam Lav features a Fresh Foam midsole that provides excellent cushioning and support during play, which helps to reduce the impact of repetitive movements on your feet and joints.

• Support: The shoe’s durable upper provides excellent support and stability during play, which helps to keep your foot secure during quick lateral movements on the court.

• Traction: The Fresh Foam Lav features a herringbone pattern outsole that provides excellent traction on the court, which helps to improve your footing and prevent slipping.

• Breathability: The shoe’s mesh upper provides excellent breathability, which helps to keep your feet cool and dry during play.

• Style: The Fresh Foam Lav is available in a range of stylish colorways, which allows you to express your personal style on the court.

Overall, the New Balance Fresh Foam Lav is a premium pickleball shoe that offers a combination of comfort, support, traction, and style. Its Fresh Foam midsole, durable upper, and herringbone pattern outsole make it a solid choice for players who value both performance and style.

How to Choose the Right Pickleball Shoes

Choosing the right pickleball shoes is important to ensure that you can play comfortably, safely, and effectively on the court. Here are some factors to consider when choosing pickleball shoes:

• Sole: Look for shoes with soles that provide good traction on the court surface. Most pickleball courts are made of smooth surfaces, so shoes with a herringbone or similar patterned outsole are ideal. The sole should also be durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of regular play.

• Cushioning: Look for shoes with adequate cushioning to absorb shock and protect your feet and joints from repetitive movements. A shoe with a responsive midsole will also help you feel more comfortable during long matches.

• Support: Look for shoes that provide good lateral support to help prevent injuries such as sprains or twists during quick lateral movements. A sturdy upper and midsole can help keep your foot stable and secure.

• Breathability: Look for shoes that have a breathable upper to keep your feet cool and dry during play. Shoes with mesh or perforated panels will allow air to circulate and help prevent sweaty feet.

• Fit: Choose shoes that fit well, with a comfortable amount of space in the toe box and a secure fit in the heel. It’s also important to consider the width of the shoe and any other specific fit features that you require.

• Style: While performance is key, it’s also important to choose shoes that you like and that fit your personal style.

By considering these factors and trying on different pairs of pickleball shoes, you can find a pair that offers the right combination of comfort, support, traction, and style for your needs.

Know your foot type and size

Before you start shopping for pickleball shoes, it’s important to know your foot type and size. This can help you choose shoes that fit well and provide the right amount of support and comfort.

• Foot Type: The first step is to determine your foot type. There are three main foot types: flat feet, neutral feet, and high-arched feet. Flat feet have little or no arch, neutral feet have a moderate arch, and high-arched feet have a very noticeable arch. You can determine your foot type by wetting your foot and standing on a piece of paper to see the shape of your arch.

• Size: Once you know your foot type, you should measure your feet to determine your shoe size. It’s best to measure your feet later in the day when they are slightly swollen, as this will give you a more accurate measurement. Measure both feet and choose the larger size to ensure a comfortable fit.

• Width: It’s also important to consider the width of your foot. Shoes come in a range of widths, including narrow, medium, and wide. If you have wider feet, it’s important to choose shoes that are wide enough to avoid discomfort or even injury.

• Try on Shoes: Finally, it’s important to try on shoes before you buy them. Walk around in the shoes and test them on different surfaces to ensure they provide the right amount of support, cushioning, and traction. Make sure there’s enough room in the toe box and that the shoe feels secure in the heel.

By knowing your foot type, size, and width, and trying on different pairs of shoes, you can find a pair of pickleball shoes that fit well and provide the support and comfort you need to play your best game.

Consider your playing style and court surface

In addition to knowing your foot type and size, it’s important to consider your playing style and the court surface when choosing pickleball shoes. Here are some factors to consider:

• Playing Style: Your playing style can affect the type of shoes you need. For example, if you play aggressively and make quick, lateral movements, you’ll need shoes that offer good lateral support to prevent injuries. On the other hand, if you play more defensively, you may not need as much lateral support but you may want more cushioning for comfort.

• Court Surface: The type of court surface you play on can also affect your shoe choice. Most pickleball courts are made of smooth surfaces, but some may have a slightly rough texture. Shoes with a herringbone or similar patterned outsole are ideal for smooth courts, while shoes with a more aggressive tread may be better for rougher courts.

• Climate: The climate where you play can also be a factor in your shoe choice. If you play in a hot or humid climate, you’ll want shoes with good breathability to keep your feet cool and dry. If you play in a colder climate, you may want shoes with a little more insulation to keep your feet warm.

• Weight: The weight of the shoes can also be a consideration, particularly if you value speed and agility on the court. Lighter shoes may be more comfortable and allow for faster movement, but heavier shoes may offer more stability and support.

By considering these factors, you can choose pickleball shoes that are tailored to your specific needs and playing style. This can help improve your comfort, performance, and overall enjoyment of the game.

Try on multiple pairs and test them on the court

Once you have an idea of the type of pickleball shoes that may be best for you based on your foot type, size, width, playing style, court surface, and climate, it’s important to try on multiple pairs and test them on the court. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Shop at a specialty store: If possible, shop at a store that specializes in athletic footwear, as they will have a wider selection of pickleball shoes and knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right pair.

• Try on multiple pairs: Don’t just try on one pair of shoes and make a decision. Try on multiple pairs to see how they feel on your feet, and walk around in them for a few minutes to get a sense of their comfort level.

• Bring your own socks: When trying on shoes, bring a pair of socks that you typically wear when playing pickleball. This will give you a better sense of how the shoes will feel during a game.

• Test on the court: Once you’ve narrowed down your options to a few pairs, ask if you can test them on the court or a similar surface. This will give you a sense of how the shoes feel during actual play.

• Pay attention to comfort and support: When testing the shoes, pay attention to how they feel on your feet. Do they provide enough cushioning and support? Are they comfortable and secure? Do they cause any pain or discomfort?

By trying on multiple pairs of shoes and testing them on the court, you can find a pair of pickleball shoes that meet your specific needs and preferences.

Read reviews and ask for recommendations

Another important aspect of choosing the right pickleball shoes is to read reviews and ask for recommendations. Here are some tips to help you with this process:

• Read online reviews: Check online retailers like Amazon, as well as pickleball forums and review websites for reviews on different pickleball shoes. This will give you an idea of what other players think of specific shoes and can help you narrow down your options.

• Look for recommendations from other players: Ask other pickleball players you know or meet for recommendations on good pickleball shoes. They may have personal experience with specific shoes and can provide valuable insights.

• Consider brand reputation: Research different brands to get a sense of their reputation within the pickleball community. Brands with a history of making high-quality athletic footwear may be a good place to start.

• Take note of common themes: As you read reviews and ask for recommendations, take note of common themes. For example, if multiple reviews mention that a particular shoe has poor traction, it may be a good idea to avoid that shoe.

By reading reviews, asking for recommendations, and researching brand reputation, you can gather valuable information about different pickleball shoes and make an informed decision about which pair to purchase.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pickleball shoes is essential to ensuring comfort, support, and safety during play. When selecting a pair of shoes, consider key features such as sole, traction, cushioning, breathability, support, and durability. It’s also important to keep in mind your foot type and size, playing style, and court surface. Try on multiple pairs and test them on the court to find the perfect fit. Lastly, read reviews and ask for recommendations to gather insights from other players and make an informed decision. With the right pickleball shoes, you can enjoy the game to the fullest while minimizing the risk of injury.

FAQs

• What is the difference between pickleball shoes and regular athletic shoes?

400;”>Pickleball shoes are designed specifically for the sport, with features such as specialized soles for court traction and support for lateral movement. Regular athletic shoes may not have these specific features, which can affect your performance and increase the risk of injury.

• Can I wear running shoes for pickleball?

While running shoes may be comfortable for walking or running, they are not recommended for pickleball due to their lack of support and traction on the court. It’s important to wear shoes specifically designed for pickleball to ensure proper support, stability, and grip on the court.

• Can I use tennis shoes for pickleball?

400;”>Tennis shoes are a popular choice for pickleball players due to their similar court surface and lateral movements. However, it’s important to choose tennis shoes that provide good traction and lateral support for optimal performance during play.

• How often should I replace my pickleball shoes?

The lifespan of pickleball shoes can vary depending on factors such as frequency of play, court surface, and personal wear and tear. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to replace your pickleball shoes every 6-12 months or as soon as you notice signs of wear and tear, such as worn-out soles or holes in the upper.

• Can pickleball shoes be washed?

Yes, pickleball shoes can be washed, but it’s important to check the care instructions on the shoe’s label to ensure you don’t damage the material. In general, it’s recommended to use a mild detergent, cold water, and a gentle cycle. Allow the shoes to air dry completely before wearing them again.