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Many pickleball players don’t realize this but the choice of their shoes could be holding them back.
While there aren’t many shoes designed specifically for pickleball, pickleball shoes need to be using shoes designed for tennis, badminton, or even volleyball.
Without the right shoes, you’re at a much higher risk of injury keeping you from playing pickleball for weeks!
at a glance: our top 5 pickleball shoes
If you’re just looking for the ONLY shoe designed specifically for pickleball, it’s the
K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe
But, you’re not limited to just that shoe. See below for my picks of the best pickleball shoes along with explanations exactly why.
Which Shoes Are Perfect for Pickleball?
Pickleball as a sport is played indoor and outdoor. If you’re a dedicated outdoor player, your best choice will be to go with tennis shoes whereas if you’re an indoor player, you can make the cut with badminton, racquetball or squash shoes.
Your best bet in either playing location would be to go for tennis or court shoes and avoid running shoes at all costs.
Pickleball Court Shoes
Court Shoes are preferred by pickleball players who play indoors. These all-indoor gymnasium shoes can be used across a wide range of sports including badminton, racquetball, squash and finally pickleball.
Court shoes are less expensive than tennis counterparts and their multifunctional usage can make it worth it for players who are seeking a single pair to play different sports.
Here are a few things you should know about court shoes:
- Sole will partly be made of rubber
- Great stability for lateral movements
- Quite flexible at the toe end
- Lighter than tennis shoes
- Specifically designed for indoor play
How to Choose the Best Pickleball Shoes
There are a couple of common characteristics that the best shoes for pickleball feature. All of these characteristics help you move and stay safe while playing pickleball.
As always, if you have any questions about the best pickleball shoes for you or want recommendations, just leave a comment!
Have Thick Stiff Sole to Provide Support From Impacts
While playing pickleball, you’ll be jumping, running from point to point, and jumping up and down a lot. These quick movements can put a lot of stress on your knees and feet if you’re not wearing the proper shoes.
The best pickleball shoes feature a thick and stiff sole (usually made out of rubber) to provide support from impacts.
Have Solid Ankle Construction to Provide Ankle Support
The most common injury in pickleball and tennis is a twisted ankle. The ankle is one of the most vulnerable parts of the foot and you place a lot of stress on it while playing pickleball.
While you’re sprinting back and forth across the court to get to a ball, you’ll want to make sure your pickleball shoe has sturdy ankle support to ensure you’ll be safe during quick changes in direction.
Light & Responsive Sole under the ball of your foot
This relates to how quickly you need to move. Pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis so it can be a fast-paced game. With a light sole near the front of your shoe, you’ll be able to easily move around the court and shift directions with ease.
Light & Responsive Sole Under the Ball of Your Foot
Many indoor pickleball and tennis courts won’t even let you on the court without a shoe featuring a non-marking sole. This is simply because they don’t want you to ruin the court while playing.
Most of the top tennis and volleyball shoes feature this but you should still doublecheck to make sure they are non-marking before buying a pickleball shoe for indoor courts.
Look at the Weight
One last thing to remember when choosing the best pickleball shoe is to look at the weight. While the weight will vary depending on your shoe size, you will want to compare weights across several different shoes.
Many volleyball shoes weigh in at or under 9 oz while some tennis shoes can be upwards of 1 lb. Typically, a heavier shoe will provide more support while you’ll move faster on the court with a lighter pickleball shoe.
It really depends on what you need from your pickleball shoe. Are you worried about injuries? Don’t worry about the weight then – instead go for a pickleball shoe that gives you plenty of support.
Are you worried about not being able to move quickly? Go with a light pickleball shoe that still features good support.
Pickleball Shoes vs Tennis Shoes vs Volleyball Shoes
So what’s the difference between Pickleball shoes and shoes used in other sports such as tennis, volleyball, badminton, and squash?
Well, being completely honest there really aren’t that many differences. For one, pretty much no companies are making shoes specifically for pickleball yet.
All shoes used for sports like volleyball, badminton, squash, tennis, and pickleball are designed for traction and explosive lateral movements. As such, they all provide good ankle protection and usually have a stiff cage around the foot to prevent midfoot sprains.
This is the bottom of a badminton shoe. The sole features several areas designed to grip the court and allow players to easily shift direction.
The main source of differences is because many of these sports are only played indoors. Pickleball can be played indoors and outdoors which affects the construction of the shoe.
Shoes for outdoor courts tend to be more durable but also slightly heavier. They need to be heavier in order to last multiple seasons.
Indoor court shoes (like the ones used for badminton, volleyball, squash, racquetball, and more), are lighter because indoor courts are typically smaller than outdoor courts.
In an indoor court, maneuverability is key which means you want a lighter shoe so you’ll be faster on your feet.
Because many companies aren’t making shoes specifically for pickleball yet, you have a choice. I would highly recommend getting a tennis shoe that’s good at playing at indoor and outdoor courts. While these shoes won’t be the best at either one, the versatility more than makes up for it.
Besides, not many people can afford to have 2 separate pairs of pickleball shoes!
Best Pickleball Shoes for Men
As a male pickleball player, you’d seemingly want a pair of shoes that last long, offer great mobility and comfort while moving.
Male pickleball players should opt for flat soles or shoes which offer support to the entire foot from your heel to tip of the shoes.
Several shoes from the top brand have made it to the list including Adidas and New Balance, but Asics dominates this list with two entries for men’s pickleball shoes.
These options have been considered keeping the quality and price in mind. With that said, let’s check out the top 5 pickleball shoes for men.
1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Game 6
Asics Men’s Gel-Game 6 tops our list for the best pickleball shoes for men because of its build and pricing.
These synthetic shoes come with a solid rubber outsole which provides great durability and traction. ASICs GEL cushioning system helps enhance shock attenuation and provides better mobility.
Though tennis shoes, these shoes are preferred by many pickleball players looking for performance and durability. Its unique TRUSSTIC system technology reduces the weight of the sole whilst maintaining the structure of the shoe.
Furthermore, these shoes are one of the most affordable options in this list.
Price: $$ (affordable)
Shoe Score
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Materials | 9.7 |
| Durability | 9.6 |
| Price | 9.5 |
2. New Balance Men’s 786v2
New Balance is yet another brand that produces top-of-the-line tennis shoes for professional players. The NB 786v2 leather shoes come with a solid rubber soul and a C-cap midsole. With Absorb technology, it provides endurance and comfortability.
The New Balance Men’s 786 v2 runs true to its size. With its mesh blend, these shoes offer great ventilation and offer good traction.
Price: $$ (affordable)
Shoe Score
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.3 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.7 |
3. Adidas Barricade
Though amazing tennis shoes, these are a tad more expensive than our prior two options. However, want to spend a little extra for higher quality you can’t go wrong with the Adidas Barricade tennis shoes.
Rated one of the best tennis shoes in a number of our previous articles, these shoes are designed for high-intensity movements on unforgiving court conditions.
Featuring the ADITUFF™, the Barricades feature an extra durable outer wrap around the forefront and toe in order to protect against the toe/foot drag while serving and during lateral movements.
With memory foam ankle collar and plush cushioning, these shoes are the sturdiest looking shoes with utmost comfort.
Price: $$$
Shoe Score
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.5 |
| Materials | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.1 |
4. ASICS Upcourt 4 Women’s Shoe
These ASICS Upcourt 4 shoes feature a durable rubber gum sole that offers great traction on the court giving you more control with your diving to return the serve or even running to dunk the ball over.
The synthetic leather and mesh upper grant lightweight and comfortable wear when exercising and will also help your feet breathe during sweaty sessions.
They’re ideally suited for indoor pickleball and also fit well for other indoor court sports. These shoes come up a little bit large so make sure to stick with your regular size or size down half a size. However, they are narrower than some other pickleball shoes you’ll find, so people with wide feet may find these are tight.
Price: $$$
Shoe Score
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.5 |
| Materials | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
5. ASICS Gel Court Speed
With FlyteFoam® technology, the ASICs Gel Court FF provides an extra bounce. With its seamless design, the Gel Court Speedleaves no room for friction and irritation as caused due to traditional seams and stitches.
Made of 100% synthetic material, the ASICS Gel Court Speed features a MONO-SOCK Fit internal elastic sleeve as opposed to a traditional tongue.
Its TRUSSTIC System technology helps reduce the overall weight of the sole while maintaining the structure of the shoe.
Price: $$
Shoe Score
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.3 |
| Comfort | 9.3 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.3 |
Best Pickleball Shoes for Women
As a female pickleball player, you generally want a pair of shoes that are lighter and easier to move across the court.
Mobility and comfort are the primary factors and additional support to the heels and toe area is quite beneficial. With that said, let’s check out the five best women’s pickleball shoes.
Similar to men’s pickleball shoes, women’s pickleball shoes list is dominated by ASICS as well. However, New Balance does have its fair share of say in this category.
Both brands are busy rolling out some exceptional pickleball shoes for women.
1. K-Swiss Women’s Hypercourt Express
Weighing at 11.5 ounces, the K-Swiss Women’s HypercourtExpress is the sturdiest pair of shoes in the market. K-Swiss Hypercourtoffers great cushion and comfort thanks to its plush interior. Its synthetic material along with a textile collar lining provides great durability and stability.
Its Draggaurd Rubber and Aosta Rubber Outsole provides improved mobility and freedom in lateral movements.
It’s amongst the best-rated shoes on amazon and durability is certainly one of its factors in ranking above other shoes.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.6 |
| Materials | 9.5 |
| Durability | 9.6 |
| Price | 9.4 |
2. ASICS Gel-Revolution 7
Announcing itself to the women’s category, ASICS Gel-Revolution 7 shoes is amongst the best pickleball shoes for women.
With its gender-specific cushioning, the ASICS Gel Revolution 7 features a lower-density top layer in the midsole allowing female athletes to attain better midsole compression.
With its Flexion Fit Upper, it adds utmost comfort without obstructing support. The PGuard Toe Protector empowers women competitors with enhanced toe durability.
Additionally, its forefoot and rearfoot GEL Cushioning Systems make lateral movements seamless.
Price: $$$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.5 |
| Materials | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.5 |
| Price | 9.3 |
3. Mizuno Women’s Wave Lightning Z5 Indoor Court Shoe
This Wave Lightning shoe is basically Mizuno’s version of the ASICS Gel shoes and offers great shock absorption from high-impact jumps and serves and also has a highly engineered advanced cushioning system for ultimate comfort.
The Wave Lightnings feature a diagonal flex groove in the midfoot area to allow the player to turn at maximum speed during play and efficiently be able to transfer their body movement and shift in direction for high-intensity moments.
They’re comfortable for both training and matches but are best suited for indoor play. They are made of breathable mesh to prevent sweaty feet and are also incredibly lightweight.
Price: $
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.4 |
| Comfort | 9.5 |
| Materials | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.2 |
| Price | 9.2 |
4. New Balance Women’s 896v2
Yet another New Balance entry, this time on a premium side, the New Balance Women’s 896v2 features a combination of lightweight mesh with a thicker synthetic layer which offers great support to the feet.
The herringbone pattern helps provide better traction and makes up for a seamless stop-go experience during rallies.
As compared to other shoes, the NB 896v2 is lighter and much more manageable. The most fascinating part about these shoes is that they don’t require extended break-ins as seen in the majority of these shoes.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.6 |
| Materials | 9.4 |
| Durability | 9.5 |
| Price | 9.3 |
5. ASICS Gel Challenger 12
The last pick is perhaps the most unique one. With SOLYTE Midsole material, the ASICS Gel Challenger features a lighter midsole when compared to ASICS standard EVA and spEVA offering.
With a rubber sole, the Gel Challenger 12 offers enhanced cushioning and great durability. With the Gel Challenger 12, you can move quickly thanks to its rearfoot gel brand cushioning which attenuates shocks.
Similar to the other ASICS models, its TRUSSTIC System technology reduces the weight of the sole whilst maintain the structure of the shoe.
This shoe features moisture management thanks to the integration of ORTHOLITE SOCKLINER.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.3 |
| Comfort | 9.2 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.2 |
| Price | 9.4 |
Having done justice to both the genders by providing top quality pickleball shoes in each category, it’s time we check out the best pickleball shoes for indoor and outdoor applications.
The reason why we’re sharing this list exclusively rather than mentioning it within the list above is that this subject though very important doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
Best Pickleball Shoes for Outdoor Courts
Now to do be fair in these categories, we’ll be sharing 5 best outdoor shoes featuring 3 Men’s shoes and 2 women’s shoes, whilst for the best indoor shoes, we’ll be sharing 2 Men’s shoes and 3 women’s shoes.
1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Rocket 8
Topping the list in an outdoor category is ASICS Gel-Rock 8 for men. It’s quite cost-effective when you compare it with ASICS shoes such as ASICS FF, however, in terms of quality, there’s no compromise. The quality and comfort that these shoes provide are exceptional.
With Forefoot GEL Cushioning System, it offers impeccable stability and mobility whilst attenuating shocks during impact. Similar to other premium ASICS shoes, the Gel-Rocket 8 features TRUSSTIC System technology which reduces the weight while maintaining the structure of the shoes.
Price: $
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Materials | 9.5 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
2. ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5
Yet another mid-range ASICS shoes to feature on this list for outdoor pickleball is the ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5. Featuring similar specifications as to that of Gel-Rocket, this shoe model is slightly more affordable than its Rocket counterpart.
With Forefoot GEL Cushioning System, Gel-Dedicate 5 offers great stability and mobility. Along with rubber sole and a solid rubber outsole, it uses TRUSSTIC System technology which reduces the weight while maintaining the structure of the shoes.
Price: $
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Materials | 9.5 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
3. Babolat Men’s SFX3
Featuring for the first time in this list, Babolat’s SFX3 are all court tennis shoes that offer great stability. Featuring the Kompressor System, they are designed to be more comfortable and breathable as compared to past models.
Its sturdy build and cushioned sole help players deliver dynamic performances. With Michelin Performance Outsole, Babolat SFX3 is available in two colors – Black and Silver.
These shoes make plenty of other best tennis shoes articles such as the best tennis shoes for flat feet. I really like these shoes for playing tennis and they work just as well on the pickleball court.
And they look stylish as well!
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.3 |
| Comfort | 9.3 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
4. K-Swiss Women’s Hypercourt Express
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express in women featured as the top women’s shoes in our list and also as one of the best outdoor pickleball shoes.
Although they weigh in at 11.5oz, K-Swiss Women’s Hypercourt Express, are best known as the best pickleball shoe for stability.. They offer great cushion and comfort thanks to the plush interior.
K-Swiss Hypercourt’s synthetic material along with a textile collar lining provides great durability and stability. Its Draggaurd Rubber and Aosta Rubber Outsole provides improved mobility and freedom in lateral movements.
It’s amongst the best-rated shoes on amazon for pickleball women shoes. Durability is certainly one of its factors in ranking above other shoes.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.6 |
| Materials | 9.5 |
| Durability | 9.6 |
| Price | 9.4 |
5. New Balance Women’s 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe
The 696 V4 New Balance shoes are built with 50% mesh and 50% synthetic to offer great durability regardless of wear and also allowing the player’s feet to stay cool during intense or long matches.
They’re designed with the strong outsole material for outdoor matches and can also be used for other hard court sports away from pickleball.
The full-length NDurance outsole provides superior traction across the floor promoting rapid movement and swift reactions to serves from opponents. It has built-in lightweight cushioning to help you feel light on your feet and also remain comfortable for the entirety of your match.
The shoes are also available in some stylish colors so will be able to suit your preferred style.
Price: $$$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.7 |
| Materials | 9.6 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.4 |
Best Pickleball Shoes for Indoor Courts
As opposed to outdoor conditions, you can play with a variety of more shoes on indoor courts. While playing indoor, you can even make use of badminton or squash shoes as these features a lot of the same characteristics as tennis and pickleball shoes.
As clarified in the outdoor category, we’ll be sharing 3 women’s shoes and 2 Men’s shoes in this category. Let’s check out the best indoor pickleball shoes together.
1. New Balance Men’s MC1006v1
New Balance’s premium offering MC1006v1 is constructed out of synthetic cum mesh martial. With a rubber sole, it features stability and great cushion for comfort and mobility.
The REVlite lightweight foam midsole makes movement seamless and offers overall convenience to pickleball players.
The New Balance MC1006v1 also features a non-marking Ndurance outsole with a long-wear drag tip to add to safety. Many indoor pickleball courts require non-marking soles making this one of the most coveted features for the best indoor pickleball shoes.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.5 |
| Materials | 9.6 |
| Durability | 9.5 |
| Price | 9.5 |
2. ASICS Men’s NetburnerBallistic FF MT
ASICS Men’s NetburnerBallistic is yet another ASICS shoes that make our list for pickleball indoor shoes. With its NC Rubber Console, it features natural rubber allowing for greater enhanced traction on every court.
The flyknit fibers will wrap your foot and keep it comfortable as you quickly move around the court. There is extra cushioning around the midsole to give greater comfort and help prevent any injuries.
I found, that these shoes particularly, felt like they gave me a little extra bounce in my step.
Price: $$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.5 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.4 |
| Price | 9.5 |
3. ASICS Women’s Upcourt 3
Though these are specifically designed for volleyball, they offer convenience in overall indoor play. Especially, when you’re on a wood or gym flooring and are switching back and forth between badminton, squash, racquetball, and pickleball.
Weighing at just 9oz, these are one of the lightest pickleball shoes available. Secure on hardwood floors, ASICS Upcourt ensures there’s no slipping on dust and helps you easily pivot directions across the court.
With its synthetic leather and mesh upper construction, the ASICS Women’s Upcourt 3 provides breathability and comfort.
There’s a reason these shoes dominate indoor leagues in a variety of sports. The combination of traction and stability that these shoes give you is unparalleled.
And for the price, it simply can’t be beaten.
Price: $ (among the cheapest and most popular on our entire list!)
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.2 |
| Comfort | 9.3 |
| Materials | 9.2 |
| Durability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.7 |
4. Nike Women’s Air Zoom Hyperace
While not a great thing to be known for, the Nike Air Zooms are the most expensive pickleball shoe on our list. What do you get for that price tag?
For one, unparalleled style and comfort. The Nike Air Zooms feature a breathable insole and construction out of lightweight fabrics that promote breathability.
For you, it’ll feel like you’re walking around on air.
Around the foot is a reinforced TPU cage which enhances stability and support during explosive movements (perfect for pickleball!)
Its Zoom Air Unit provides lightweight cushioning which makes lateral movement comfortable.
Its rubber outsole is designed to offer great traction on any surface especially hardcourt surfaces.
Price: $$$
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.6 |
| Comfort | 9.6 |
| Materials | 9.6 |
| Durability | 9.6 |
| Price | 8.5 |
5. ASICS Women’s Gel-Rocket 8
Finally, finishing up our list of the best pickleball indoor shoes, ASICS Gel Rocket 8 makes the cut. With its 100% synthetic build, ASICS Gel Rocket 8 features a rubber sole.
The ASICS’ Forefront GEL Cushioning System allows it to manage heavy impacts across the court.
Its TRUSSTIC System Technology helps reduce the weight of the sole whilst retaining the structure of the shoes.
ASICS Gel Rocket 8 is the most affordable pickleball shoe in this list with a price of under $60.
Price: $ (very affordable)
| Factors | Ratings |
| Outsole | 9.4 |
| Comfort | 9.4 |
| Materials | 9.3 |
| Durability | 9.3 |
| Price | 9.6 |
Pickleball Shoes: Don’t Use Running Shoes
Beginners often start-up by picking up the first pair of shoes they find in their closet, generally the running shoes. However, running shoes aren’t designed for lateral movements. As the name suggests, they are meant for running – in a forward direction not lateral.
Pickleball players who are starting out realize this sooner rather than later.
Remember, it only takes one twisted ankle to keep you from playing pickleball for weeks!
The longer you go without shoes, the more susceptible they are to injuries because of the wrong choice of shoes.
Are Pickleball Shoes Necessary?
If you’re willing to spend money on paddles and other equipment, you should really consider buying pickleball shoes.
Though the equipment improves your overall game, it’s the shoes that will help you play safe and prevent injuries.
Not just that, good quality shoes that compliment your feet will help you play pickleball with confidence, and enable you to move quickly across the court.
Just imagine the amount of pressure that falls on your feet when you run laterally or you land following a jump?
While your feet can handle them, what about your shoes? If its quality is not up to the mark, you might experience an awkward landing which can cause serious injuries.
Photo Credit: NPR.org
Extra cushioning in high-quality shoes can make a massive difference. Similarly, if your shoes don’t support your arches and heels, your movement can be limited.
Lastly, if you don’t invest in a quality pair of shoes, you risk problems such as knee discomfort, ankle pain, heel pain, hip, and lower back issues.
If you’re playing pickleball at least 1 time a week, I would strongly recommend picking up pickleball shoes. They don’t have to be ones on this list (shoes like the best shoes for tennis are also designed to support your feet and will help you just as well).
Excellent blog!
Hey Jeremiah, I’m glad you like it and I appreciate your comment. Let me know if there is anything I can help with!
Hello…I’m a big guy at 280lbs & play pickle ball . Can you please recommend high quality shoes for both stability & cushioning …indoor and outdoor. Thank you
Hey Steve!
I sure can. A few of my friends that play pickleball with me are big guys over 250+ lbs and one of them is currently wearing this one here. He says they are quite durable and comfortable.
why do u say men’s rocket 8 are good outdoor shoes and woman’s rocket 8 are good indoor ? I have been told that men’s rocket 8 are for indoor use ?
I play mostly indoors but outdoors on occasion. Your opinion on Women’s Asics dedicate 6?
which shoe has widest toe box and still provide stability and cushioning
Hoping to find shoes for outdoor pickleball shoes for 6’2″, 280 lb man with fallen arches. Size 14. Is that even possible?