Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the US and globally because it is fun to play, great exercise, and easy to get started. The sport combines tennis, badminton, and table tennis in a smaller sized court – making it possible for people of all ages and skill-levels to participate.
As more and more people have picked up playing, the need for special equipment has increased – and there’s nothing more important than the shoes that you choose. Pickleball shoes are essential for players, offering the right support, comfort, and grip on the court. The right shoes can improve a player’s performance and safety. These shoes help with quick side-to-side movements and sudden stops, providing stability and cushioning to reduce injuries.
When choosing pickleball shoes, players should focus on three main factors: traction, support, and durability. The outsole needs to have good grip for court surfaces. The midsole and upper should provide proper support and stability for the feet. Durability is important, as pickleball can wear out shoes quickly. Pickleball shoes are different from regular athletic shoes. They have non-marking soles to protect the court. Their outsoles are designed for good grip on hard courts.
Many have reinforced toe boxes to resist wear from dragging during serves. While tennis or volleyball shoes can be suitable for pickleball, dedicated pickleball shoes have benefits. They are usually lighter and more flexible, which allows for quicker movements. The toe drag area is often more durable in these specialized shoes.
We tested various pickleball shoes from major sports brands and companies that focus on pickleball. Our tests included players with different skill levels and playing styles. We looked at each shoe’s performance, comfort, and durability during games and practice sessions. Comfort is crucial since players stay on the court for hours. The shoes should offer good cushioning and support, so we noted any discomfort or fatigue during extended play.
Traction is key for playing pickleball well. We tested how well each shoe grips different court surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. Good traction helps players start quickly, stop, and change direction without slipping. Durability is also important. Pickleball can wear shoes down, especially at the toe and sides.
Top Rated Pickelball Shoes: Ranked (2025)
Here’s the table ranking the pickleball shoes in the order presented, with insights to enhance the table:
| Rank | Shoe | Key Features | Best For | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ASICS Gel-RENMA Pickleball Champs | Gel cushioning, DYNAWALL stability, durable overlays | Players seeking stability and comfort | $$$ | Excellent cushioning and stability, but narrow fit and outsole durability are drawbacks. |
| 2 | K-Swiss Men’s Express Light | Moisture-wicking OrthoLite, DragGuard durability, lightweight design | Lateral movement and comfort | $$$ | Great for stability and comfort; narrow toe box might require sizing adjustments. |
| 3 | ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 | GEL cushioning, TRUSSTIC stability, eco-friendly materials | Affordable performance seekers | $$ | Sustainable materials and solid performance; durability is a concern for heavy use. |
| 4 | K-Swiss Women’s Express Light | Lightweight, Plantar Support Chassis, DragGuard technology | Quick lateral movements | $$$ | Breathable and stable; may need sizing up and lacks orthotic insert support. |
| 5 | K-Swiss Court Express Men’s | Comfortable fit, supportive design, durable outsole | Casual and beginner players | $$ | Reliable and comfortable; wide fit may not suit everyone, and not ideal for advanced players. |
| 6 | K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme | DragGuard 7.0 durability, Plantar Support Chassis, comfortable fit | Competitive players | $$$$ | High stability and durability; requires break-in and is priced for serious players. |
| 7 | ASICS Men’s Gel-Game 9 | Breathable mesh, TRUSSTIC stability, GEL cushioning | Lightweight and flexible footwear | $$$ | Great ventilation and stability; runs narrow and may need breaking in. |
| 8 | ASICS Women’s Gel-Game 9 | Breathable mesh, TRUSSTIC stability, GEL cushioning | Lightweight and flexible footwear | $$$ | Great ventilation and stability; runs narrow and may need breaking in. |
| 9 | Viper Court Smash | Ultra-lightweight, roomy fit, vegan materials | Comfort and lightweight design | $$ | Responsive and eco-friendly; loose fit may not suit all players, and can feel warm. |
| 10 | K-Swiss Court Express Women’s | Leather upper, K-EVA cushioning, durable outsole | Beginners and occasional players | $$ | Solid value for casual play; lacks advanced features and has some durability concerns. |
We looked for shoes that last through regular play without showing much wear. Weight matters for many players. Lighter shoes can aid quick movements, but they should not lose support or durability. We weighed each shoe and noted how they felt during play. Breathability affects comfort during long games. We checked how well each shoe lets air in to keep feet cool and dry, especially for outdoor play in warm weather.
The fit of pickleball shoes is crucial. A snug fit keeps your foot from moving inside the shoe, which helps prevent blisters and improves performance. We noted how well each shoe fits different foot shapes and sizes. Price is always a factor when choosing sports gear. We considered the value of each shoe, weighing performance and durability against cost. Our recommendations include options at different price points to fit various budgets.
Best Pickleball Shoes
We’ve compiled a list of the top pickleball shoes available. These shoes offer the perfect blend of comfort, support, and traction for players of all skill levels. Our selections cater to various foot types and playing styles, ensuring you’ll find the ideal pair for your game.
1. ASICS Gel-RENMA Pickleball Champs
We recommend these shoes for pickleball players seeking comfort and stability on the court.
Pros
- Excellent stability for quick movements
- Gel cushioning absorbs impact well
- Durable synthetic leather overlays
Cons
- Narrow fit may not suit all foot types
- Outsole wears out quickly with heavy use
- Limited color options available
We’ve put the ASICS Gel-RENMA Pickleball shoes through their paces, and they’ve impressed us with their performance. The gel cushioning system is a standout feature. It absorbs shock effectively, making these shoes comfortable for long pickleball sessions.
The stability of these shoes is noteworthy. We found the DYNAWALL technology in the midsole extends into the heel, providing solid support during lateral movements. This feature proved invaluable when we needed to cover both sides of the court quickly.
Durability is a mixed bag with these shoes. The synthetic leather overlays offer good protection and longevity. However, we noticed the outsole wore down faster than expected with frequent use. Players who hit the courts often might need to replace these shoes sooner than anticipated.
Fit-wise, these shoes run on the narrow side. They’re snug around the midfoot, which enhances stability but might not be comfortable for those with wider feet. We suggest trying them on or ordering a half-size up if you have broader feet.
Overall, the ASICS Gel-RENMA Pickleball shoes deliver on comfort and court performance. They’re a solid choice for players who prioritize stability and cushioning in their footwear. Just keep in mind the potential need for more frequent replacements if you’re a regular player.
2. K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoes
We recommend these shoes for their stability and comfort on the pickleball court.
Pros
- Excellent stability for lateral movements
- Moisture-wicking OrthoLite sock liner
- Durable DragGuard in high-wear areas
Cons
- May require adjustment period
- Toe box could be wider
- Wear out relatively quickly with frequent use
We’ve tested the K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Shoes extensively on the court. The stability these shoes provide is impressive. They excel at supporting quick side-to-side movements, which is crucial in pickleball.
The OrthoLite sock liner is a standout feature. It kept our feet dry and comfortable, even during intense matches. We appreciate how it wicks moisture away, preventing that uncomfortable sweaty feeling.
Durability is always a concern with court shoes. The DragGuard technology in the toe and heel areas addresses this issue well. We noticed less wear in these high-friction zones compared to other shoes we’ve used.
These shoes do have a snug fit. Players used to looser athletic shoes might need time to adjust. We found the toe box a bit narrow, which could be an issue for those with wider feet.
While the Express Light performs well, frequent players might find they wear out faster than expected. We noticed some signs of wear after a few months of regular use. However, the performance during that time was top-notch.
3. ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes
We recommend these shoes for pickleball players seeking comfort and stability at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Excellent shock absorption
- Stable and supportive design
- Eco-friendly materials
Cons
- Shorter lifespan for frequent players
- Stiffer outsole compared to some brands
- Glossy appearance may not appeal to all
We’ve found the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 to be a solid choice for pickleball enthusiasts. The GEL technology cushioning provides exceptional shock absorption, which we noticed during intense gameplay. This feature helps reduce fatigue, allowing us to stay on the court longer.
The shoes offer impressive stability. We appreciated the TRUSSTIC technology and wrap-up outsole design during quick direction changes and lateral movements. The synthetic leather toe overlays add durability, which is crucial for the toe-dragging that often occurs in pickleball.
We were pleased to discover the eco-friendly aspects of these shoes. The solution-dye sockliner reduces water usage and carbon emissions in the manufacturing process. This aligns with our desire for more sustainable athletic gear without compromising performance.
4. K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe
We highly recommend these shoes for pickleball players seeking lightweight comfort and stability on the court.
Pros
- Excellent stability for quick lateral movements
- Lightweight and breathable design
- Durable construction with abrasion-resistant features
Cons
- May run small, requiring sizing up
- Limited color options
- Not suitable for players needing orthotic inserts
The K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball Shoe impressed us with its performance on both hard and clay courts. We found the 180-degree Plantar Support Chassis provided exceptional stability during quick side-to-side movements, a crucial feature for pickleball players.
These shoes felt incredibly light on our feet, allowing for swift transitions across the court. The breathable design kept our feet cool even during intense matches. We appreciated the Aosta rubber compound outsole, which offered solid traction and seemed built to last.
One standout feature was the DragGuard and Durawrap additions. These elements effectively protected the shoes from wear during serves and volleys. However, we noticed the fit ran slightly small, so ordering a half size up is advisable for optimal comfort.
5. K-Swiss Court Express Men’s Shoe
These pickleball shoes offer good value for casual players seeking comfort and durability.
Pros
- Comfortable fit
- Supportive design
- Durable construction
Cons
- Wide fit may not suit all players
- Limited color options
- Not ideal for advanced players
We’ve tested the K-Swiss Men’s Court Express Pickleball Shoe, and it’s a solid choice for beginners and occasional players. The leather upper provides a snug fit, while the K-EVA midsole offers ample cushioning for those long rallies.
On the court, we noticed the Aosta II rubber compound outsole grips well on various surfaces. It’s non-marking too, which is a plus for indoor play. The Ortholite sock liner kept our feet cool and dry, even during intense matches.
For players hitting the courts a few times a week, these shoes hold up nicely. We found they maintain their shape and support after months of use. However, if you’re a more serious player, you might want to consider K-Swiss’s higher-end options for better performance features.
6. K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme
We recommend these shoes for competitive pickleball players seeking stability and durability on the court.
Pros
- Enhanced stability for quick lateral movements
- Durable outsole in high-wear areas
- Comfortable fit for frequent play
Cons
- May require sizing up for best fit
- Initial adjustment period for support
- Higher price point than some alternatives
We recently tested the K-Swiss Men’s Pickleball Supreme Shoe, and it’s clear these are designed for serious players. The stability features really shine during fast-paced games. We noticed the extra support in our lateral movements, which is crucial for pickleball.
The DragGuard 7.0 technology on the toe and heel is a standout feature. After several intense matches, we saw minimal wear in these high-friction areas. This durability is a big plus for players who are on the court 5-7 days a week.
Comfort-wise, these shoes need some breaking in. The 180 PSC (Plantar Support Chassis) provides excellent mid-foot stability, but it took a few games to get used to. We’d suggest ordering a half-size up from your usual size for the best fit. While they’re pricier than some other options, the quality and performance make them a solid investment for dedicated pickleball enthusiasts.
7. ASICS Men’s Gel-Game 9 Pickleball Shoe
We recommend the ASICS Gel-Game 9 for pickleball players seeking a lightweight, flexible shoe with excellent ventilation and stability.
Pros
- Breathable open mesh design
- Improved stability with TRUSSTIC technology
- Enhanced shock absorption with GEL cushioning
Cons
- May run narrow for some users
- Initial stiffness reported by some players
- Potential durability concerns with extended use
The ASICS Gel-Game 9 Pickleball shoe impressed us with its lightweight design and flexible construction. We found the open mesh upper to be a standout feature, allowing for excellent airflow during intense matches. This kept our feet cool and comfortable, even during long playing sessions.
On the court, we appreciated the shoe’s stability. The TRUSSTIC technology in the midsole provided solid support during quick lateral movements and abrupt transitions. The combination of EVA foam and GEL technology cushioning in the forefoot offered noticeable shock absorption, reducing fatigue in our feet and legs.
We did notice that the shoe tends to run narrow, which might not suit all foot types. Some players may need to size up for a better fit. The initial stiffness of the shoe required a brief break-in period, but it became more comfortable with use. While the outsole offered good traction, we observed some wear after a few months of regular play, suggesting potential durability concerns for frequent players.
8. ASICS Women’s GEL-GAME 9 Pickleball Shoes
These shoes offer a good balance of comfort and performance for pickleball players.
Pros
- Breathable mesh design
- Improved stability with TRUSSTIC technology
- GEL cushioning for shock absorption
Cons
- Narrow fit may not suit all foot types
- Short shoelaces reported by some users
- Limited color options
We found the ASICS GEL-GAME 9 Pickleball shoes to be a solid choice for players seeking lightweight and flexible footwear. The open mesh design kept our feet cool during intense matches. We appreciated the improved airflow, which made a noticeable difference in comfort during long play sessions.
The TRUSSTIC technology in the midsole provided excellent stability. We felt confident making quick movements and abrupt transitions on the court. The EVA midsole foam combined with GEL technology in the forefoot offered good shock absorption. This feature helped reduce fatigue in our feet and legs.
Durability seems promising with the improved outsole design. We noticed better flexibility compared to previous models. The synthetic leather overlays added support without compromising the shoe’s overall lightweight feel. While the fit was comfortable for most of our team, some found it slightly narrow. We recommend trying them on or ordering a half size up if you have wider feet.
9. Viper Court Smash
We recommend these Skechers pickleball shoes for their comfort, lightweight design, and excellent traction.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight and responsive
- Roomy fit for comfort
- Vegan materials
Cons
- Slightly loose for some players
- May feel warm during intense play
- Limited color options
We recently tried out the Skechers Viper Court Smash pickleball shoes, and we’re impressed with their performance on the court. The ultra-lightweight design made our feet feel nimble and quick during gameplay. The ULTRA FLIGHT cushioning provided a responsive feel, helping us move swiftly in all directions.
The relaxed fit offered ample room in the toe and forefoot areas, which we found particularly comfortable during long pickleball sessions. We appreciated the molded EVA insole, as it provided good support and cushioning. The non-marking outsole worked well on both indoor and outdoor courts, giving us confident traction for quick stops and starts.
We noticed these shoes are made with 100% vegan materials, which is a plus for environmentally conscious players. The faux leather upper held up well during our games. While some players might find the fit slightly loose, we found it worked well for those with wider feet or who prefer extra toe room. Overall, the Viper Court Smash offers a solid balance of comfort, support, and performance for pickleball enthusiasts.
10. K-Swiss Court Express women’s Pickleball Shoes
These K-Swiss pickleball shoes offer good value for casual players seeking comfort and durability.
Pros
- Comfortable leather upper
- Durable non-marking outsole
- Good cushioning with K-EVA midsole
Cons
- Not ideal for advanced players
- Limited color options
- Some durability concerns reported
We found the K-Swiss Court Express Pickleball Shoes to be a solid choice for beginners and occasional players. The leather upper provides a comfortable fit, while the K-EVA midsole offers ample cushioning for extended play sessions.
On the court, we appreciated the high-density Aosta II rubber outsole. It gripped well and showed minimal wear after several games. The non-marking feature is a plus for indoor facilities.
The Ortholite sock liner kept our feet cool and dry, even during intense matches. However, we noticed some players with wider feet found the toe box a bit snug. Sizing up half a size might be worth considering.
These shoes performed well for casual play, but serious competitors may want more specialized options. We encountered a few reports of premature wear in high-stress areas, though this wasn’t a universal experience.
Overall, the K-Swiss Court Express strikes a good balance between comfort and performance for recreational pickleball enthusiasts. They’re a practical choice for those new to the sport or playing a few times a week.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pickleball shoes is crucial for optimal performance on the court. We’ve compiled a helpful guide to assist you in making an informed decision.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is paramount. Look for shoes with ample cushioning and support. Ensure a snug fit, with about a thumb’s width of space at the toe.
Traction
Court grip is essential. Seek shoes with non-marking soles and a herringbone or similar tread pattern for excellent traction.
Durability
Pickleball involves quick lateral movements. Choose shoes with reinforced toe boxes and sturdy side walls to withstand wear and tear.
Weight
Lightweight shoes enhance agility. We recommend options under 14 ounces for most players.
Breathability
Proper ventilation keeps feet cool and dry. Mesh uppers or breathable synthetic materials are ideal choices.
Stability
Look for shoes with a wide base and low-to-the-ground design for improved stability during quick direction changes.
Here’s a quick reference table for key features:
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Upper | Breathable, durable materials |
| Sole | Non-marking, good traction |
| Cushioning | Adequate heel and forefoot padding |
| Weight | Under 14 ounces |
| Fit | Snug with room for toe movement |
Remember to try on shoes later in the day when feet are slightly swollen. Walk and make lateral movements to test comfort and stability.
Regular replacement is important. We suggest getting new shoes every 60-80 hours of play or when you notice decreased traction or support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pickleball players often have specific questions about choosing the right shoes. We’ve compiled answers to some common inquiries to help you make an informed decision.
What are the best pickleball shoe options for men?
Men’s pickleball shoes from ASICS, New Balance, and K-Swiss are popular choices. The ASICS Gel-Dedicate 7 offers excellent cushioning and stability. New Balance’s Fresh Foam Lav V2 provides superior comfort for long matches. K-Swiss’ Express Light 2 is known for its durability and court grip.
Which pickleball shoes for women are recommended by enthusiasts?
Women pickleball players often prefer the ASICS Gel-Resolution 8, praised for its stability and comfort. The New Balance 806v1 is another favorite, offering great support and cushioning. Nike’s Air Zoom Vapor Pro is lightweight and responsive, making it ideal for quick movements on the court.
How do ASICS pickleball shoes compare to other brands?
ASICS pickleball shoes are known for their excellent cushioning and stability. They often feature Gel technology for shock absorption and durable outsoles for traction. Compared to other brands, ASICS shoes typically offer a good balance of comfort, support, and durability.
What are the top pickleball shoes recommended for players with plantar fasciitis?
For players with plantar fasciitis, we recommend shoes with excellent arch support and cushioning. The ASICS Gel-Nimbus 23 provides superior cushioning and shock absorption. New Balance’s Fresh Foam 1080v11 offers plush comfort and support. Brooks’ Glycerin 19 is another top choice for its soft cushioning and stability.
Can you suggest any pickleball shoes designed for individuals with wide feet?
Several brands offer pickleball shoes in wide sizes. New Balance is known for accommodating wide feet, with models like the 806v1 available in multiple widths. ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 comes in wide options, providing comfort without sacrificing performance. Brooks’ Addiction Walker 2 is another excellent choice for wide feet, offering stability and cushioning.
What are the differences between pickleball shoes and regular tennis shoes?
Pickleball shoes are designed for lateral movements and quick starts and stops. They typically have more durable outsoles to withstand the abrasive court surface. Tennis shoes often have more cushioning for high-impact movements. Pickleball shoes usually have a lower profile for better court feel and stability during side-to-side movements.