Pickleball Shoes

When choosing a pickleball shoe, you're looking for performance, safety, and comfort. Pickleball requires fast lateral movements, quick starts/stops, and stable footwork—so your footwear should support that. Here's a checklist of what to look for:

1. Lateral Support

Why it matters: Pickleball involves a lot of side-to-side movement.
Look for: Reinforced sidewalls, firm midsoles, and durable uppers that prevent ankle rolling.

2. Outsole Grip (Tread Pattern)

Why it matters: Good traction prevents slipping on indoor or outdoor courts.
Indoor courts: Go for gum rubber soles or non-marking soles like volleyball or indoor court shoes.
Outdoor courts: Look for more durable rubber and herringbone tread patterns, like tennis shoes.

3. Cushioning

Why it matters: Helps reduce stress on knees and joints from sudden movements and impacts.
Look for: EVA or gel midsoles, responsive foam (like Adidas Boost, Nike Zoom, etc.).

4. Stability & Structure

Why it matters: Prevents ankle injuries and ensures balance during quick direction changes.
Look for: Wider base, midfoot shanks, TPU supports, or shoes specifically designed for court sports.

5. Weight & Breathability

Why it matters: You want a balance between being lightweight and supportive.
Look for: Mesh uppers or perforated panels that offer ventilation without sacrificing structure.

6. Durability

Why it matters: Pickleball wears down shoes fast, especially outdoors.
Look for: Reinforced toe guards, durable rubber soles, abrasion-resistant overlays.

7. Fit & Comfort

Why it matters: Poor fit leads to blisters and poor performance.
Tips: Try shoes on with your game socks, and ensure a snug heel with room in the toe box.

When looking to purchase pickleball shoes there are several videos available on You Tube that compare different pickleball shoes and their pros and cons.