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Chances are you’ve already jumped on the pickleball craze or know people who have. While the indoor and outdoor racket sport (a cross between tennis, badminton and ping-pong) was invented in 1965, pickleball has seen a resurgence in recent years, growing nearly 40 percent between 2019 and 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States.
Since pickleball requires spending a lot of time on the court running, twisting and even jumping, players will want a good, supportive pair of pickleball shoes to prevent injury. The best shoes for pickleball offer great traction, shock absorption and arch support. It might be convenient to throw on any old pair of running shoes for your pickleball matches, but depending on their construction, your favorite running shoes might actually do more harm than good on the court.
That’s why pickleball experts say investing in high-quality pickleball shoes can be a worthwhile move if you’re serious about your pickleball game (and keeping yourself injury-free). Our seven best pickleball shoes can elevate your experience on the court and help you bring your A-game to your next match. These are the best pickleball shoes of 2024 and what makes them superior.
Our Picks for the Best Pickleball Shoes in 2024:
- Best Pickleball Shoes for Men: adidas SoleMatch Control Tennis Shoes
- Best Pickleball Shoes for Indoor or Outdoor Courts: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
- Best Versatile Pickleball Shoes: Nobull Court Trainer
- Best Pickleball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Xero Prio
- Best Pickleball Shoes for Wide Feet: New Balance FuelCell 996v5
- Best Nike Pickleball Shoes: NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2
Best Pickleball Shoes for Men: adidas SoleMatch Control Tennis Shoes
Key Features:
- Made in part with recycled materials
- 3D-molded heel for secure, locked-in fit
- Designed to resist abrasion from toe-dragging
- Comes in five unique color schemes
adidas is one of the world’s leading brands when it comes to athletic footwear, and for good reason. While adidas SoleMatch Control Tennis Shoes may be originally designed for tennis, these shoes work equally well on pickleball courts. Coming in five unique color schemes that include a snazzy black, green and lilac, this pickleball shoe is made for tough play. It has a hard court outsole with a herringbone pattern for traction, a 3D-molded heel for a secure fit, a flexible Bounce midsole for movability and an Adituff toe to protect your toes.
Our pick for the best pickleball shoe for men also comes with a breathable mesh upper that helps promote ventilation (keeping your feet dry and blister-free), plus a rubber sole that can withstand regular use. We also love this tennis shoe for its eco-friendly practices that include an upper made from a minimum of 50 percent recycled content. At $120, this pickleball shoe may be on the more expensive side, but customers praise its “perfect fit,” sleek look and good traction.
Related Post: The Best adidas Running Shoes
Pros:
- Enhanced toe construction helps prevent injury
- Herringbone pattern creates more traction
- Flexible midsole allows for quick lateral movements
- Customers report good grip, even on wet courts
Cons:
- More expensive than other pickleball shoes
- Some buyers say shock absorption could be improved
Best Pickleball Shoes for Indoor or Outdoor Courts: Allbirds Tree Dasher 2
Key Features:
- Heel collar helps lock ankle in place
- Angular heel shape reduces impact
- Flexible and durable one-piece upper
- Created with sustainable materials
Allbirds Tree Dasher 2 are a versatile athletic shoe for men and women that can accommodate a variety of court sports. Whether you’re playing pickleball or using these as volleyball shoes, the Tree Dasher 2 is designed for use on both indoor and outdoor courts. With a heel collar that locks your ankle in place and an angular heel shape that softens impact, these pickleball shoes prioritize stability and comfort. They also have a flexible one-piece upper that helps reduce wear-and-tear and a breathable mesh design to keep your feet cool in all temperatures.
As one of the most environmentally-conscious shoes on our list, Allbirds Tree Dasher 2, which retail at $135, come in as one of our top picks because of its ultra-sustainable design. The shoe is made with a variety of natural and recycled materials (like eucalyptus tree fiber in the upper), so you can feel good about what you buy and wear. Some customers report that these pickleball shoes have a tight fit, so they may not be the best option for pickleball players with wider feet. (Keep reading for an alternative choice that’s better-suited for people within this group.)
Pros:
- Slip on and off for easy removal
- Shoes are sustainably-made
- Grippy outsole improves traction
- Numerous classic and limited edition color choices
Cons:
- High price point
- May run too tight for wide feet
Best Versatile Pickleball Shoes: Nobull Court Trainer
Key features:
- Four color options
- Designed for court sports as well as strength training
- Made with microsuede fabric to enhance breathability
- Water repellent coating
If you want a shoe that will support you on the court, treadmill or in the gym, check out the NoBull Court Trainer. It’s our pick for the best versatile pickleball shoe because it was designed for court sports as well as cross-training and strength training. We like that these shoes were built with agility and comfort in mind. Intentionally placed cushioning and a wide toe box are meant to provide support whether you’re jumping, serving, spiking or shooting.
NoBull says these sneakers are “practically indestructible” thanks to the water-repellent liner and SuperFabric upper. Durability is something many reviewers on the Nobull website rave about when it comes to the Court Trainers. “I use it for high-level pickleball. They feel nice and close to the court, so there is no fear of ankle rolls during lateral movement. The soles seem very durable and like they will last a long time,” wrote one customer.
Pros:
- Designed to withstand wear and tear from court sports and workout equipment
- The wider toe box supports lateral movement and jumping
- Rubber outsole makes these shoes a good choice to wear on various courts and flooring
Cons:
- Most expensive option on our list, so might not be suitable for every budget
- Some reviews say the insole caused blisters or rubbed uncomfortably
Best Pickleball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis: Xero Prio
Key features:
- Barefoot style shoe
- Breathable mesh upper provides ventilation
- Durable material designed to tackle almost any activity
- Three color options
If you have plantar fasciitis, a very common condition that causes heel pain and inflamed tissue across the bottom of the foot, you don’t have to forego your pickleball games if a healthcare professional has cleared you to play. Some evidence suggests that wearing a minimalist or barefoot shoe may help reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis by enhancing your stride and running technique. That’s why we picked Xero Prio as our pick for the best pickleball shoes for plantar fasciitis.
The Xero Prio are designed for almost any activity. As a barefoot shoe, they offer more flexibility than a traditional sneaker and are also very lightweight. These shoes are a fan-favorite on the Xero website, earning an average of 4.8/5 stars from more than 8,000 reviews. One customer wrote, “I run, train and wear my Xero shoes constantly. They have been amazing for my marathon training, leaving my feet feeling strong and stable.” However, several customers say these barefoot shoes take some getting used to and have a slightly longer break-in period than they expected.
Related Post:Find Pain Relief With the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Pros:
- Barefoot-style shoes may help improve your stride and body alignment
- 5,000-mile sole warranty
- A durable “performance shoe” designed to withstand wear and tear from running, hiking, jumping and working out
Cons:
- Some reviews saw these shoes took a while to break in
- Barefoot shoes may be an adjustment for some athletes and can lead to injury. Health experts recommend first wearing them on a softer surface, like grass
Best Nike Pickleball Shoes: NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2
Key Features:
- Full-length foot frame to stabilize feet
- Low-to-the-ground design to enhance speed
- Herringbone outsole for extra grip and traction
- Zoom Air cushioning adds bounce to each step
The NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2 is a lightweight pickleball shoe designed with less rubber in low-wear areas to keep the weight of these shoes at a minimum. If you’re a pickleball player looking for footwear that provides bursts of speed and helps you quickly make your way across the court, these Nike shoes are one of your best bets. With a low-to-the-ground design and Nike’s classic Zoom Air cushioning that adds bounce to your movements, the Vapor Pro 2 works well alongside the agile and fast gameplay that you’ll experience on a pickleball court.
In addition to its lightweight design, these $120 pickleball shoes are made with durable, reinforced mesh that keeps your feet cool and prevents wear-and-tear. They also come with a stretchy internal sock liner that hugs your feet, keeping them stable during quick changes and volleys. A herringbone design on the outsole adds grip and traction (preventing slips and falls), while a full-length foot frame on the outside of the shoe further stabilizes your feet during side-to-side movements. These pickleball shoes come in eight color options, including four variations of pickleball court green.
Pros:
- Good energy return from Zoom Air cushioning
- Stretchy internal sock liner adds stability
- Eight color options with court-themed combos
- Eliminates unnecessary rubber for light feel
Cons:
- Some customers say the shoes run big
- A handful of buyers report issues with durability
Best Pickleball Shoes for Wide Feet: New Balance FuelCell 996v5
Key Features:
- Mesh upper with no-sew construction
- NDurance rubber outsole pattern for supper durability
- Higher midsole topline adds lateral stability
- Herringbone outsole pattern for stability
New Balance is a leading athletic shoe brand known for producing high-quality footwear at an affordable price. The same rings true for its New Balance FuelCell 996v5 Pickleball shoes, which don’t skimp out on durable materials. With a mesh upper and no-sew construction, these pickleball shoes are easy to slip on and off while maintaining a secure and stable fit–making them a great choice for folks with wide feet. They also have an NDurance rubber outsole (a strong and durable material) that adds support and improves longevity.
Like many great pickleball shoes, New Balance 996v5 have an outsole with a herringbone pattern that adds grip and traction to lateral, or side-by-side, movements. Whether you’re dashing to the no-volley zone or running to the back of the court, you can rest assured that these shoes will keep your feet safe and stable with each and every step. The lightweight Fuel Cell foam midsole is paired with a hardwearing NDurance rubber outsole for a pickleball shoe that provides superior comfort and traction, further preventing injury or rolled ankles. While the official New Balance website only offers one color option, you can find several more color schemes on Amazon and other retailers.
Pros:
- Lace-up closure offers secure fit
- Eight-millimeter heel drop relieves stress from rear foot
- Designed specifically for playing on hard courts
Cons:
- Only one color option on official website
- Some buyers say shoes are stiff
Why Buy Pickleball Shoes?
Unlike running, in which you move in forward motions, pickleball requires stepping and jumping in all directions. These quick, lateral movements and side-to-side changes require a specific type of shoe to both prevent injury and support your game.
“There are certain types of movement that are specific to pickleball,” explains competitive pickleball player Riley Chervinski, who owns the pickleball website Racket Royalty. “The wrong shoes could cause you to jam your toes, roll your ankles or slip on the court.”
Pickleball demands quicker and more frequent lateral movements, Chervinski says, even more so than tennis—which is why shoes with the right ankle support, traction and space in the toe box are essential for playing safely. Plus, a lighter ball creates more action closer to the net, which is why you can expect to do even more side-to-side stepping in pickleball than you would in tennis.
While Chervinski says very casual pickleball players can get away with wearing any gym shoes for a game or two, anyone becoming serious about the sport should consider proper pickleball shoes. “I would make the switch sooner rather than later,” she recommends.
How To Choose the Right Pickleball Shoes for You
Since the right pickleball shoes require a very specific type of construction to be effective for injury prevention and lateral movements, you’ll want to factor in a few considerations as you shop around for the perfect pickleball footwear. Here’s how to choose the best shoe for your needs.
Support
“Pickleball involves a lot of lateral movements, so a shoe with adequate cushioning and support is crucial,” says foot and ankle sports medicine physician Suzanne Fuchs, DPM, who works with many pickleball athletes. “Look for shoes with responsive midsoles and cushioning technologies that absorb impact and provide stability during quick changes in direction.”
You’ll also want to seek out a pickleball shoe with good arch support to help prevent ankle rolls and foot fatigue.
Traction
Traction is one of the most important features pickleball players should consider when shopping around for the right playing shoes, according to Jake Martinez,pickleball coachand founder of pickleball website Dink and Dominate.“Pickleball shoes with good traction are a must,” he explains. “Look for shoes with a herringbone pattern on the soles.” This particular pattern helps support quick directional changes and offers enough grip and stability to prevent slipping and sliding.
Durability
Pickleball can be a demanding game, and the last thing you want is for your shoes to fall apart after just a few games. “Look for shoes made with durable materials, reinforced toe caps and sturdy construction to ensure they can withstand the rigors of the sport,” Fuchs says.
A few materials Fuchs recommends keeping an eye out for include:
- Leather: “Genuine leather is known for its durability and can withstand the wear and tear of pickleball gameplay.”
- Synthetic materials: “Synthetic materials like nylon, polyester or mesh are often used in athletic shoes for their durability and ability to withstand intense movements.”
- Rubber: “Shoes with rubber outsoles or rubber overlays provide added durability and traction on the court.”
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane): “TPU is a strong and durable material commonly used in sports shoes to provide stability and support.”
- EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate): “EVA is a lightweight and durable foam material often used in the midsole of athletic shoes to provide cushioning and shock absorption.”
Breathability
Playing pickleball will probably leave you very sweaty, so it’s essential to pick out footwear with good airflow. “Pickleball can be physically demanding,” Fuchs says. “Shoes with breathable uppers and moisture-wicking properties help keep your feet cool and dry, reducing the risk of discomfort and blisters.” As you compare different pickleball shoes, look for features such as “breathable mesh” or “mesh uppers,” which guarantee that the shoes have proper ventilation.
Outsole
The outsole of the shoe is the outermost part of the shoe that will come in contact with court surfaces. This is a critical component of footwear that helps provide grip and traction. For pickleball in particular, Martinez suggests looking for footwear with wider outsoles. “Without wide outsoles, you are much more likely to roll or twist an ankle,” he says.
Fuchs also recommends seeking out a court-specific outsole. “A good pickleball shoe should have a non-marking rubber outsole designed specifically for court sports,” she says. “This type of outsole provides excellent traction and grip on indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, allowing for quick movements and stability.”
Size
A pickleball shoe should fit comfortably—not too tight, but not too loose. Your feet should feel stable and secure, but if you feel like your feet are swimming in your shoes, you may want to size down (the same goes for people with narrow feet).
A good way to learn about whether a shoe fits true to size is to read verified customer reviews, which can help you make the right size choice for shoes that might run small or large. Pay attention to how your toes feel in your pickleball shoes. A wide toe box is important for both breathability and comfort, so if your toes feel squished, you may want to size up slightly.
Cost
At the end of the day, while all of the features above make a big difference in the quality of your shoes, cost will probably be a deciding factor in which pickleball footwear you end up going with. Be sure to consider your budget and how much you’re spending on other pickleball gear, such as pickleball paddles or athletic clothing.
In general, better-made shoes will have a higher price tag, so while it may be convenient to purchase lower-priced footwear, you could end up paying more in the long run to replace poorly-made shoes. As Fuchs suggests above, seeking out shoes with specific materials can help give you peace of mind when it comes to durability and longevity.
For the best price on pickleball shoes, we always recommend checking Amazon, footwear retailers and official brand websites so you can take advantage of any sales or deals.
How We Chose the Best Pickleball Shoes
We chose the best pickleball shoes based on a number of factors. We considered shoe support, material, breathability, construction, brand reputation and cost. We also carefully looked at verified customer reviews to see if footwear lives up to its promises. These factors combined helped us determine which pickleball shoes were truly the best of the best in 2024.
Pickleball Shoes FAQs
Here’s everything else there is to know about pickleball shoes.
Are walking shoes O.K. for pickleball?
Since walking shoes aren’t designed for moving in multiple directions (which you can plan to do while playing pickleball), it’s best to leave walking shoes in your closet. Instead, consider investing in a good pair of pickleball shoes that are designed for side-to-side movement.
What makes a sneaker a court shoe?
A court shoe will have a greater focus on lateral support, traction and stability. For comparison, most running shoes tend to prioritize cushioning and are designed for forward motions only. If you’re unsure which sneakers are best for pickleball, you can always go with a tennis shoe.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes?
Indoor pickleball shoes tend to have a thinner construction that promotes breathability, while outdoor pickleball shoes have a stronger construction that provides insulation and support. Depending on where you play pickleball, you may want one type of shoe over the other.
Are paddle and tennis shoes the same?
Paddle and tennis shoes slightly differ. Paddle shoes have a stiffer sole, which allows for better rotation, and a softer upper that offers more flexibility, making them ideal for vertical movement.
Can you wear cross-trainers for pickleball?
You’ll often find mixed opinions on this topic depending where you look, but most cross-training shoes are designed for forward movement (like walking or running), which isn’t always the best fit for the side-to-side action of playing pickleball. Instead, you may want to invest in true pickleball shoes—or at least tennis shoes—to support proper form and movement.
Final Thoughts
A high-quality pair of pickleball shoes can help you bring your best to the pickleball court and also keep you injury-free so you can continue playing the sport you love without any issues. Whether you’re new to pickleball or you’ve been playing for years, having the right pickleball shoes in your pickleball gear is essential to your game. If you’re looking for a new pair of pickleball shoes or want to replace an old pair, these seven shoes will have you covered.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
