Best Shoes for Pickleball: Top 5 Picks for Men & Women

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, and for good reason. It's fun, social, and a great way to get exercise. No matter your experience, one thing is certain: having the best shoes for pickleball can make all the difference.

The right pair of sneakers won't just protect your feet from the wear and tear of the court. They'll also improve your performance and even help prevent injuries. But with so many options on the market, finding the perfect pair can feel overwhelming. That's where this guide comes in.

Let’s explore five of the best pickleball shoes for men and women to help you dominate the court in style and comfort.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Court Shoes for Pickleball

Finding the right pickleball shoes is all about balancing a few key things:

• Support and Stability: Pickleball involves quick side-to-side moves, sprints, and sudden stops. To prevent injuries and ensure stability, you need shoes that keep your ankles and arches supported. Look for features like reinforced heels and midfoot support.
• Grip: Pickleball courts can get slippery, especially outdoors. Choose shoes with a grippy outsole so you can change direction without wiping out.
• Cushioning: Long games can be tough on your joints. Look for shoes with plenty of cushioning in the midsole to soften the impact on your knees and ankles.
• Durability: Pickleball shoes should be built to last. Look for shoes made with durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular play.
• Fit: Proper fit is crucial for comfort and performance. Ensure your pickleball shoes fit snugly, but allow enough room for your toes to wiggle.

Bonus Tip: Investing in pickleball slides can extend the lifespan of your pickleball shoes. They're perfect for slipping on and off when you're heading to and from the court. These slip-on shoes protect your shoes from wear and tear and give you a chance to air things out between games.

The Top 5 Best Court Shoes for Pickleball

Women’s Edition

1. Asics Gel Resolution 8

The Asics Gel Revolution 8s are incredibly supportive sneakers. You can rely on these sneakers to provide impressive shock resistance, all while being lightweight enough to keep you on the move. Many reviewers note that these shoes are very durable and long-lasting.

2. NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro

The NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pros are impressive low-top sneakers that support playing pickleball. If you find yourself actively dashing across the court to make sure you’ll hit the ball, you’ll love these sneakers' comfortable cushioning and glove-like fit.

3. Wilson Rush Pro 4.0

The Wilson Rush Pro 4.0s are designed to keep up with the action. While these sneakers might have been designed for tennis, they make a perfect pick for analogous sports like pickleball. Some reviewers note that these shoes are slightly heavy, but they stand out for their flexibility and stability.

4. FILA Volley Zone

The FILA Volley Zone sneakers are the perfect option for women who need extra arch support. These sneakers are designed with a removable arched insole that provides vital comfort during pickleball. They are also particularly durable and easy to keep clean, making them popular among players. 

5. Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5 AC

The Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5 ACs are perfect for players who want to maneuver quickly across the court. These lightweight shoes are fitted perfectly to provide full support for all types of quick turns and movements, ensuring you can move seamlessly throughout the pickleball game without slipping or losing balance.

Men’s Edition

1. Yonex Sonicage 2

The Yonex Sonicage 2s are perfect for men who want plenty of cushioning in their sneakers. These quality pickleball shoes have an incredibly plush interior that effectively absorbs shock and reduces the soreness that many players experience after intense matches. As an added benefit, these shoes are offered in standard and wide fits.

2. KSWISS Express Wide

The KSWISS Express sneakers are perfect for players looking for comfortable, wide shoes. They are designed with an optional wide-toe box and comfortable internal contouring to perfectly accommodate wide feet. While lightweight, these shoes also provide excellent stability and shock absorption.

3. Asics Solution Speed FF 2

The Asics Solution Speed FF 2s are an excellent fit for anyone who needs pickleball sneakers with high traction. The lightweight and slim design of these Asics pickleball shoes improves their maneuverability, while the sole design provides a pleasing level of grip that makes it much easier to move throughout the court.

4. New Balance Fresh Foam LAV

The New Balance Fresh Foam LAV is a unique and durable medium-weight sneaker that provides excellent stability and control. While these New Balance men's sneakers aren’t exceptionally lightweight, the impressive cushioning and sole make them an excellent fit for anyone willing to compromise lightness for quality functionality and long-lasting performance on the court.

5. Adidas Barricade

The Adidas Barricades are great for those seeking a well-fitting shoe. The sneaker is designed to mold to the foot and eventually form a perfect fit. These sneakers provide much-needed stability for the movements you might need to make across the court during a pickleball game.

How to Choose the Best Pickleball Sneakers

There are a few considerations you should keep in mind as you choose what court shoes to buy.

1. Make sure to factor in your foot type and size. You should determine whether your feet are narrow, average, or wide and choose a shoe that provides adequate support.
2. Think about how the shoes can accommodate your playing style. If you tend to move quickly throughout the court, choose shoes that provide high shock absorption and traction. In other cases, you may need a shoe that provides maximum speed and maneuverability.
3. Make sure to try out different shoes before making a purchase. Trying out as many pairs as possible will help you be sure that you’ve found the best fit.
4. Consider your budget. If you’re worried about cost, prioritize durable sneakers. This way, you can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.

The Final Word on Pickleball Shoes

Finding the right pickleball court shoes is far more than a stylistic choice. It's an investment in your performance, comfort, and overall enjoyment of the game. The right pair can improve your agility, protect your joints, and give you the confidence to dominate the court.

Ready to step onto the court with the perfect pickleball shoes?

Explore our extensive collection of top-rated pickleball shoes at Pickleball Superstore and discover the perfect pair to unleash your full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Running or Tennis Shoes for Pickleball?

You can use a running shoe or tennis shoe for pickleball. Tennis shoes are generally a great analog because they factor in many of the same needs as pickleball shoes. Running shoes differ in some ways, but they are a great pick for a shoe with high shock absorption and traction.

What's the Difference Between Court Shoes and Regular Athletic Shoes?

The difference between a court shoe and a regular athletic shoe is that a regular athletic shoe usually isn’t designed for quick stops and lateral movement. Quick lateral movement is very common in games like pickleball and tennis, so you should choose a pair of court shoes whenever possible.

Should I Choose Shoes With More Cushioning or Stability?

Whether you should choose shoes with more cushioning or stability ultimately depends on your preferences. If you frequently notice that you’re sore after pickleball games, whether you play on indoor courts or an outdoor court, you will probably benefit from using well-cushioned shoes. If you are prone to missteps, you may find that high-stability shoes make pickleball much safer to play

Featured on Media Coverage.