Best Shoes for Pickleball: Best 8 Options for Performance in 2023

Close-up of a player's lower legs and bright orange shoes on a pickleball court.

Best Shoes for Pickleball: Top Options for Optimal Performance in 2023

Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is gaining popularity among people of all ages due to its simplicity and inclusivity. To fully enjoy the game and perform at your best, it is essential to wear the right footwear, specifically designed for pickleball. The ideal pair of shoes not only provides support and comfort but also improves agility and stability on the court.

When selecting shoes for pickleball, the critical factors to consider are cushioning, support, durability, and traction. Good cushioning enhances shock absorption, reducing the impact on your knees and ankles during quick movements. Support is vital to prevent injuries like ankle sprains, and a well-fitting shoe helps maintain balance and stability on the court. Durability is essential, as pickleball involves constant lateral movements and sudden stops, which can wear out shoes faster. Lastly, proper traction ensures that the shoes grip the court surface effectively, enabling swift movements and reducing the risk of slipping.

Pickleball courts can be indoor or outdoor, with different surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or wooden flooring. It is essential to choose shoes that cater to these court variations, as an inappropriate pair may cause injury or hamper your performance. While some players wear tennis shoes, it is important to note that pickleball-specific shoes are designed to address the unique demands of this sport.

We spent considerable time researching and testing numerous shoes to find the best options tailored for pickleball, ensuring comfort, support, and performance. In this article, we present our top picks that will elevate your game and keep you safe on the court.

A player's vibrant orange athletic shoes in action on a green pickleball court.
Enhance your court presence with the right pair of shoes – essential gear for any serious pickleball player looking to improve their game in 2023.

Pickleball Shoes Buying Guide in 2023

When looking for the best shoes for pickleball, there are several aspects to consider. In this buying guide, we will provide some helpful insights to make your decision easier.

1. Comfort and Fit

First and foremost, ensure that the shoes are comfortable and provide an optimal fit for your feet. A pair of pickleball shoes should have ample cushioning and support, as well as the ability to absorb shock during swift movements across the pickleball court. Remember to consider the width and size of the shoes, as this can significantly affect comfort levels during gameplay.

2. Traction and Stability

Pickleball shoes should have excellent traction and grip to allow for quick changes in direction and prevent slipping on the court. Ensure that the outsole of the shoe is made from a durable, non-marking material that provides ample grip on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. Additionally, the shoes should offer lateral support and stability for improved performance.

3. Breathability and Ventilation

As with any athletic footwear, breathability is essential for pickleball shoes. Look for shoes with proper ventilation and moisture-wicking capabilities to keep your feet cool and dry during extended play. Mesh fabric or perforated uppers can help achieve this by allowing for air circulation within the shoe.

4. Durability and Quality

Investing in a durable pair of shoes is paramount to provide long-lasting performance on the pickleball court. High-quality materials and good craftsmanship ensure that the shoes can withstand the wear and tear of regular play. Pay attention to the stitching and construction of the shoe, as these elements affect the shoe’s overall durability.

We hope that our buying guide has given you some useful pointers on how to choose the best pickleball shoes for your needs. Remember to consider comfort, support, traction, breathability and durability when making your decision. Happy shopping, and enjoy your time on the court!

The 8 Best Shoes for Pickleball Sporting in 2023

We have compiled a comprehensive list of the best shoes for pickleball to enhance your game and keep you comfortable on the court.

1. Best for Optimal Comfort and Support: Skechers Men’s Viper Court-Athletic Pickleball Shoes

Best for Optimal Comfort and Support

Skechers Men’s Viper Court-Athletic Indoor Outdoor Pickleball Shoes

  • Exceptional arch support
  • Goodyear Performance Outsole for traction and durability
  • Lightweight and comfortable

These shoes are a reliable choice for pickleball players seeking comfort, support, and durability on and off the court.

Pros

  • Exceptional arch support
  • Goodyear Performance Outsole for traction and durability
  • Lightweight and comfortable

Cons

  • Insole is glued in and thin
  • Tight fit across the toe box
  • Might run large for some users

We recently put the Skechers Men’s Viper Court-Athletic Indoor Outdoor Pickleball Shoes to the test and were quite impressed with their performance. With Skechers’ patented Arch Fit insole system, our feet enjoyed great support throughout our games. The podiatrist-certified design has been developed using 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans, ensuring that these shoes are built with your comfort in mind.

As we played, the Goodyear Performance Outsole kept us grounded and stable in our movements. The outsole delivered excellent traction on both indoor and outdoor courts, providing reliable performance in all conditions. Furthermore, these shoes are incredibly lightweight, thanks to the responsive ULTRA FLIGHT cushioning, which helped keep us agile during fast-paced play.

However, we found a few downsides to these shoes as well. The insole, for instance, is glued in and on the thinner side. Some users might prefer to replace it with a more substantial cushion for added comfort. Additionally, the toe box can be tight for people with wider feet, and the sizing might run a little large for others. It’s essential to carefully consider this when selecting the right size.

Overall, the Skechers Men’s Viper Court-Athletic Indoor Outdoor Pickleball Shoes offer a solid combination of comfort, support, and durability. If you’re in the market for pickleball shoes that will keep you on top of your game, these are definitely worth considering.

2. Best for Traction and Durability: ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes

Best for Traction and Durability

ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes

  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Excellent traction on court surfaces
  • Durable synthetic leather overlays

These ASICS Gel-RENMA shoes are a great choice for pickleball players seeking comfort, stability, and durability.

Pros

  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Excellent traction on court surfaces
  • Durable synthetic leather overlays

Cons

  • May feel narrow for some users
  • Slight odor reported by few customers
  • Upper material may feel a tad plastic-like

We recently tried out the ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes and were impressed with their overall performance. The shoes provided us with excellent comfort during extended periods of play, thanks to their well-cushioned soles and supportive construction.

The traction offered by these shoes is noteworthy, as they gripped court surfaces well during fast-paced games that involved quick starts and stops. This gave us more confidence in our footwork, knowing that we had a reliable level of grip beneath us.

Additionally, the synthetic leather overlays contributed to the shoes’ durability. We believe they will hold up well during regular use, making them a solid investment for avid pickleball players.

On the downside, some players may find these shoes to be a bit narrow, especially if they have wider feet. However, we didn’t experience any significant discomfort, and our feet adjusted to the shoes after some initial usage.

A few customers have mentioned that these shoes emit a slight odor when new. While we did notice a faint smell, it wasn’t overpowering or a deal-breaker for us.

Lastly, the upper material may feel somewhat plastic-like for some. But in our experience, it didn’t compromise the overall performance or quality of the shoes.

In conclusion, the ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes are a comfortable, reliable, and durable option for players looking to improve their game. Although they may not be perfect for everyone, they’re worth considering for those who value performance and durability.

3. Best for Durability and Performance: K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe

Best for Durability and Performance

K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickle Shoe 7.5 Highrise/White

  • Excellent durability with AOSTA 7.0 rubber compound outsole
  • Added protection from toe-dragging with DURAWRAP feature
  • Enhanced mid-foot stability with 180 PSC technology

The K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe is ideal for players seeking comfort, durability, and performance on the court.

Pros

  • Excellent durability with AOSTA 7.0 rubber compound outsole
  • Added protection from toe-dragging with DURAWRAP feature
  • Enhanced mid-foot stability with 180 PSC technology

Cons

  • Potential rubbing from the heel, causing blisters for some users
  • Shoe laces may be considered too short for some preferences
  • Might need a break-in period for maximum comfort

We recently tried out the K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe and were impressed by its performance features. The AOSTA 7.0 rubber compound outsole provides excellent durability, which is especially important for players who spend a lot of time on the court. We appreciated the additional protection from excessive toe-dragging, thanks to the DURAWRAP technology, which also extends the shoe’s lifespan.

The 180 PSC (Plantar Support Chassis) offered enhanced mid-foot stability, which is crucial for quick lateral movements and agility on the pickleball court. Since overheating can be an issue during intense matches, the Ortholite sock liner comes in handy for keeping our feet cool and minimising the effects of perspiration.

However, we did notice that some users experienced discomfort from the heel rubbing against their ankle, which may cause blisters for some individuals. In addition, the shoe laces could be a bit short for some preferences, so you may want to consider replacing them if this is an issue for you. Lastly, this shoe may require a brief break-in period to achieve maximum comfort.

Overall, the K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe offers a solid combination of durability, stability, and performance features, making it a great choice for pickleball enthusiasts. Just be prepared for a potential break-in period, and consider replacing the laces if you find them too short.

4. Best for Budget-Friendly Comfort: Condromly Lightweight Sneaker

Best for Budget-Friendly Comfort

Condromly Lightweight Sneaker

  • Breathable mesh and faux leather upper
  • Unique, non-slip sole design
  • Comfortable interior with rich sponge cushioning

We recommend the Condromly Lightweight Sneaker for pickleball enthusiasts seeking comfort and performance at an affordable price.

Pros

  • Breathable mesh and faux leather upper
  • Unique, non-slip sole design
  • Comfortable interior with rich sponge cushioning

Cons

  • Not waterproof, better suited for indoor use
  • May emit a plastic smell initially
  • Potentially insufficient arch support for high arches

We recently tried the Condromly Lightweight Sneaker and found it to be suitable for various indoor sports, including pickleball, badminton, table tennis, and volleyball. The shoe boasts a breathable mesh and faux leather upper that keeps our feet cool and comfortable during intense play. Furthermore, we appreciate the solid gluing and careful line technology for durability.

What impressed us about the sole is its non-slip pattern, which helps prevent us from slipping during fast movements on the court. The sole is also flexible and soft, ensuring it fits comfortably and supports our feet during exercises. We must mention, however, that the shoe is not waterproof, so it’s more suited to indoor venues and dry conditions.

The interior of the Condromly Lightweight Sneaker is filled with rich sponge padding for a comfortable and snug fit. This cushioning, alongside the lightweight design, lessens the burden on our feet while we play. However, we have noticed that players with high arches might need additional support, as the built-in arch support may not be enough.

In conclusion, the Condromly Lightweight Sneaker is a reliable and comfortable indoor court shoe for pickleball and other similar sports. Its affordability, breathability, and non-slip sole make it a valuable choice for players who prioritise value and performance. Please note that it might be necessary to address the shoe’s initial plastic smell or seek extra arch support if required.

5. Best for Superior Court Grip and Comfort: RIOHIOR Pickleball Shoes

Best for Superior Court Grip and Comfort

RIOHIOR Pickleball Shoes

  • Superior court grip and traction
  • Responsive cushioning and shock absorption
  • Lightweight and breathable design

The RIOHIOR Pickleball Shoes are a solid choice for any pickleball enthusiast seeking comfortable, durable shoes with excellent court grip and support.

Pros

  • Superior court grip and traction
  • Responsive cushioning and shock absorption
  • Lightweight and breathable design

Cons

  • Superior court grip and traction
  • Responsive cushioning and shock absorption
  • Lightweight and breathable design

The RIOHIOR Pickleball Shoes have become a major part of our pickleball game experience, and the first thing we noticed was their impressive court grip and traction. Thanks to the advanced traction patterns on the rubber outsole, we were able to make quick, agile movements without slipping or losing our balance.

The lightweight and breathable construction of these shoes is perfect for staying comfortable during long matches. We appreciated the breathable mesh uppers and lightweight materials, which help keep our feet cool and unrestricted. The shock absorption and cushioning also provide a responsive feel, which reduces fatigue and impact on our joints during extended play.

One potential downside is that these shoes may run slightly small, as we’ve noticed some users had to exchange for a larger size. Additionally, there may be a break-in period required for optimal comfort. Some users also reported limited cushioning, so if this is a priority, it’s worth considering.

Overall, we find the RIOHIOR Pickleball Shoes to be a reliable and high-performing footwear option for pickleball enthusiasts, providing good support, stability, and grip on the court.

6. Best for Comfort and Convenience: Feethit Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoes

Best for Comfort and Convenience

Feethit Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoes

  • Breathable and lightweight mesh upper
  • Stable shoe lacing and easy-on tongue
  • Durable and soft, slip-resistant sole

These Feethit Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoes are a great addition for any fitness enthusiast seeking comfortable and lightweight footwear.

Pros

  • Breathable and lightweight mesh upper
  • Stable shoe lacing and easy-on tongue
  • Durable and soft, slip-resistant sole

Cons

  • May require additional insoles for arch support
  • Not suitable for long distances or extended standing
  • Threads may come loose over time

We recently tried out the Feethit Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoes and found them to be an excellent choice, especially for those who enjoy light workouts and casual strolls. The breathable mesh upper was a standout feature, keeping our feet cool and comfortable throughout our activities.

The shoe lacing provides extra stability, while the long tongue makes it easy to slip the shoes on and off. This design adds a sense of both safety and energy to the overall appearance of the shoes.

However, it’s worth noting that for people with arch problems or those who are planning on walking long distances, these shoes may require the addition of supportive insoles. We also discovered that, after daily wear, some threads near the top of the shoe began to come loose. This may not be a significant concern, but it’s something to be aware of when considering the durability of the product.

In conclusion, the Feethit Women’s Slip-On Walking Shoes are an excellent option for individuals looking for lightweight, breathable workout shoes. Although they may need some additional arch support and may not be ideal for long distances, their overall comfort and ease of use make them a worthwhile investment.

7. Best for Durability and Support: K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe

Best for Durability and Support

K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe

  • Great durability and traction
  • Comfortable and supportive fit
  • Effective perspiration management

We recommend the K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe for its comfort, durability, and performance on the court.

Pros

  • Great durability and traction
  • Comfortable and supportive fit
  • Effective perspiration management

Cons

  • Potential for ankle rubbing and blisters for some
  • Short shoelaces
  • Slightly larger than expected for some sizes

We’ve put the K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe to the test and found them to be a reliable partner on the pickleball court. Made with a high-density AOSTA 7.0 rubber compound outsole and DURAWRAP technology, concerns about durability and toe-dragging have been addressed. They held up well throughout our playtime, with high traction keeping us stable across the court.

When it comes to fit and comfort, these shoes provide excellent support, thanks to the 180 PSC thermal plastic Plantar Support Chassis in the mid-foot area. We also appreciated the Ortholite sock liner that helped keep our feet cool and minimized the effects of perspiration, essential for long games and intense play.

However, a few concerns arose after extended use, primarily the potential for ankle rubbing and blisters. This issue seems to be more prevalent for those with certain foot shapes. We also found the shoelaces to be on the shorter side, which could pose challenges when tying securely. Lastly, some might find the shoe’s sizing a bit larger than expected, so it’s worth trying them on before purchasing.

Despite these minor drawbacks, we believe the K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe provides great value and performance for pickleball enthusiasts. The balance between comfort, durability, and support make them a worthy investment.

8. Best for Women’s Comfort and Stability: WILSON Women’s Rush Pro 3.0 Pb Pickleball Shoe

Best for Women’s Comfort and Stability

WILSON Women’s Rush Pro 3.0 Pb Pickleball Shoe

  • Enhanced breathability and comfort
  • Superior stability for pivot movements
  • Women’s specific support for added control

The WILSON Women’s Rush Pro 3.0 Pb Pickleball Shoe offers excellent comfort, stability and performance, making it a superb choice for pickleball players.

Pros

  • Enhanced breathability and comfort
  • Superior stability for pivot movements
  • Women’s specific support for added control

Cons

  • Slightly narrow toebox for some players
  • May run small in size, consider ordering half a size up
  • Initial snug feel, but break in with use

The WILSON Rush Pro 3.0 Pickleball shoe features a fresh design and modified structure that maximises both comfort and performance. The chassis is crafted specifically to control pivot movements, ensuring that players have excellent stability during play. Additionally, the shoe has a less severe heel-toe drop for a more cushioned feel.

One of the standout features of this shoe is the Sensifeel 2.0 technology, which uses a minimally-layered upper with engineered mesh to provide enhanced breathability and comfort. Furthermore, the Women’s Specific Support includes an asymmetrical and elongated medial side TPU heel counter specifically tailored for women, ensuring higher levels of stability, arch support and control.

With the Endofit inner sock construction, the shoe offers an intuitive fit, increasing comfort and stability even further. The increased rubber density on the outsole optimises durability for pickleball players, making this shoe a reliable choice for regular play. However, some users have mentioned that the toebox can be slightly narrow, so we recommend considering this if you have wider feet.

In conclusion, the WILSON Women’s Rush Pro 3.0 Pb Pickleball Shoe is a fantastic option for pickleball players seeking exceptional comfort, stability and performance. With its range of innovative technologies and thoughtful design, this shoe is well worth considering for your next pickleball match.

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