The exceptional full-on boom of Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport has meant to start screening the legitimate products within this game.
Where high-quality pickleball paddles and balls are considered the most crucial part of the game, the gear also requires investing in premium quality proper best pickleball shoes. The right footwear will not only improve the stability and flexibility of a player’s move but will also prevent sprains and injuries.
Compiled together is a list of the best pickleball shoes for men, women, and unisex.
Wilson Rush Pro Ace 3.0 for men
Quality features
Wilson Rush Pro 3.0 is one of the best and most durable outdoor pickleball shoes. It comes with a 6-month warranty and is known for its super comfortable inside.
The Rush Pro series has added more features to its 3.0 version and enhanced its stability and comfort.
Wilson Rush Pro 3.0 is engineered into the best pickleball court shoes with a strong takeoff grip and excellent stopping power. Compared to the 2.0 and 2.5 versions, Rush Pro has added advanced 4D chassis, making it more stable and durable than its previous versions.
Main Specifications
| Water-resistant | Not water-resistant |
| Sole material | Rubber sole |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
Asics Gel Rocket 9 for men
Quality features
Asics introduced the latest version of their best indoor pickleball shoes. Gel Rocket 9 is tailor-made to perform the perfect indoor play.
With great comfort and powerful grip, Asics Gel Rocket 9 is technically a volleyball or basketball shoe. But since pickleball courts are similar to that volleyball and basketball courts, these shoes provide outstanding performance in Pickleball courts too!
Gel Rocket 9 is also well known for its stability and comfort which is the specialty of Asics. The Triassic system in these shows provides a sophisticated shank at the bottom hence connecting the forefoot to the middle foot and heel.
The shoes own great rubber and last longer with exciting resilience. The EVA midsole in Gel Rocket 9 offers extra padding and an additional rebound effect for cutting and running. Where traditional pickleball shoes become a little rougher on the outdoor court, these inexpensive shoes provide great performance.
Though these are primarily indoor shoes but are highly recommended for outdoor play due to their extreme durability and longevity.
Main Specifications
| Fabric-type | Synthetic and Mesh |
| Sole material | Ethylene Vinyl Acetate |
| Outer material | Faux Leather |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
Nike Men’s Court Lite Tennis Shoes
Quality features
There is no doubt that Nike has been making outstanding, top-notch, and well reputable athletic gear for times and the company owns a legacy of shining durability and performance.
When it comes to some of the top sports shoes with outstanding durability, comfort, and kicks, the first name that comes to mind is Nike. The Court Lite tennis shoes from Nike are a matchless addition to the company’s legacy.
The mesh tongue enhances the breathability through the top of the shoe and also keeps the feet fresh and cool during long pickleball games.
The Phylon midsole provides admirable arch support and being a lightweight sole option offers better cushioning to the feet. Nike Court Lite is a great indoor pickleball court shoe with added extra material in the toe area.
This provides cushioning against abrasion and blunt impacts to the toe area. With the top-level grip and innovative GDR outsoles, Nike brings the best outdoor and indoor court shoes for pickleball.
Hence with all the above-mentioned qualities, Nike is one of the best and most deserving athletic gear for pickleball. Its durability, support, and comfort are worth mentioning and support an excellent smashing game for the long haul.
Main Specifications
| Type | Classic Nike Air |
| Outer Material | Leather |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
K-SWISS Express Light Men’s Pickleball Shoe
Quality features
K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball shoes are the top all-around, inexpensive, and comfortable pickleball shoes. K-Swiss is well known for creating wallet-friendly and reliable game-ready shoes for all types of games.
Equipped with a Durawrap cover and 180-degree Planter Support Chassis, this shoe enables aids in combat toe dragging. Easy to purchase, these shoes are available in several different colors to choose from.
K-Swiss unlike other big tennis brands made their own pickleball shoes which are light, durable, and super comfy. In short, they appear with the guts to create something good and with Express Light, they did it!
The toe box provides an overall comfort play making these pairs a great go for beginner players too.
The effective Durawrap rubber lining merges well with the breathable mesh adding a sturdy and practical layer of protection to the shoe. The thicker pair of socks will provide better and slip-free wear.
The marvelous engineering made these shoes lightweight, breathable, airy, and affordable with exceptional comfort and roominess.
Main Specifications
| Outer material | Faux Leather |
| Outer Material | Rubber |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
New Balance 806 for men
Quality features
The affordable, sturdy, and long-lasting New Balance MC806 provides excellent mid-foot and arch support. The majority of the outer lining of MC806 comprises synthetic leather and offers a classic look with great durability. It is comfy wear for people with wider feet.
Though leather-made shoes last longer than mesh material-made shoes, since leather prevents the airflow to the feet, they might become stinky. But this situation can be avoided by using two layers of socks to keep feet dry and stink-free.
MC806 comprises Rollbar and Abzorb tech that provides extra tow guard protection while dragging the feet across the court and stability when cutting during the game.
This technology also provides pillow-like comfort and extra blaze around the feet. The style and design of MC806 are simple, and sleek, and provide an affordable and inexpensive look but it is one of the best pickleball court shoes.
Main Specifications
| Fabric type | Leather 90%, Synthetic 10% |
| Sole material | Rubber |
| Outer material | Leather |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
Under Armour Men’s Ultimate Turf Trainer
Quality features
The nice classy all-black and white look of the Ultimate Turf Trainer by Under Armor comprises innovative Super Foam and provides the best in-shock absorption. It offers a comfortable sole and extra cushioning during long pickleball matches.
With their looks so stylish, these pair of Ultimate Turf Trainers entice players to wear them all the time. Their midsole comprises Micro G technology, providing extra comfort, skill, and stability in the court.
When playing pickleball on the concrete courts, these trainers provide excellent traction. Their lightweight outsole comes with non-marking hence preventing any kind of scuffing. Made with leather and mesh material, they are extremely breathable, comfortable, and stylish sports gear.
Main Specifications
| Outer material | Leather |
| Sole material | Rubber |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
ASICS Upcourt 5 Volleyball Shoes for men
Quality features
The top-selling model by Asics, The Upcourt 5 is super lightweight with supportive midfoot panels. This shoe is the utmost choice for players for indoor pickleball games. With its lightweight and well-made design, it provides the strongest grip during the game. It is considered to be a safe choice to avoid slipping during the game.
The mesh paneling in Upcourt 5 creates a softer and more adjustable fit. It is a lightweight, comfortable, and flexibly fitting shoe that delivers better steadiness during multi-directional movements.
It features a broader section of mesh paneling from toe to heel that strengthened the shoe to last longer during stronger strikes.
Main Specifications
| Weight | 10 oz |
| Outsole material | Synthetic Rubber |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Ratings | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
Prince Women’s T22 Tennis Shoe
Quality features
Prince T22 is a great tennis and pickleball shoe for women. Its mesh tongue and synthetic mesh upper provide greater breathability. The sock liner can be added or removed according to individual cushioning needs.
It comes with a customizable look that includes multiple lacing options. It is a comfortable, well-designed, and pocket-friendly shoe that provides more features than most expensive shoes.
The synthetic upper and mesh flow enhances breathability and provides flexibility and comfort. The Eva midsole comes with shock absorber technology, which offers shock dispersal and increases comfort.
The Herringbone thread pattern of Prince T22 enables durable traction on all types of courts.
Main Specifications
| Sole material | Rubber |
| Fabric-type | Mesh and Synthetic |
| Outer material | Faux Leather |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
MIZUNO Wave Momentum 2 for men
Quality features
The expensive, stylish, lightweight, and excellent ankle support provider, Mizuno Wave Momentum 2 is listed up for delivering authority and sustenance on aggressive game movements. It comes with a stylish mid-top silhouette and provides additional ankle and mid-foot support.
It delivers ultimate support during intense matches and handles the most intense change in stance. The Booty Construction feature located in the shoe provides a comfy and secure fit and the Mizuno wave plate technology disperses the shock impact by providing a firm platform and greater padding.
Main Specifications
| Fabric Type | Textile and Synthetic |
| Shaft Height | Mid Top |
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Ratings | 4.7 out of 5 stars |
Saucony Women’s Grid Excursion TR12 Sneaker
Quality features
The Saucony Grid Excursion TR12 sneaker is a premium option for women to enjoy outdoor volleyball, tennis, and pickleball games. The Saucony sneakers feature a triangular lug pattern that enables essential traction for asphalt and concrete courts.
The sole-based padding and solidity structure is an additional factor along with the dubbed grid stability tech. This technology gives a consistent and reliable sense of balance and control during aggressive movements.
Saucony Grid is available in a variety of styles and color options and gives a great fit for all types of feet. In short, this pair of sneakers is a high-quality, aesthetic addition to sports gear.
Main Specifications
| Sole Material | Rubber |
| Fabric Type | 100% Textile and synthetic |
| Care Instructions | Machine wash |
| Ratings | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
Acacia Unisex-Adult Pickleball Shoes
Quality features
Looking for the best unisex court shoes for pickleball? Here is an enriching and attractive tailor-made edition of Acacia Unisex Adult Pickleball shoes. The outsole of this shoe comprises high-abrasion counter tech and is artistically intended for better and easier lateral movements.
These Acacia shoes are great for court practice as they provide enhanced cushioning and traction. For better steadiness, the outsole is elevated with gel and for greater control, it has non-markings of gum rubber.
The insole ensures moisture absorption, shock resistance, and better air circulation for breathability. The shoe is cushioned to provide a comfortable and excellent grip during natural movements on the court.
Main specifications
| Outsole material | Rubber |
| Insole material | Silica Gel |
| Fit | Wide fit |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
Wilson Rush Pro 3.0 PB W Women’s Pickleball Shoes
Quality features
Wilson Rush Pro 3.0 Pb W delivers ultimate comfort and appealing design with stylish looks. The shoe delivers an extremely lightweight and superior court feel with enhanced agility and acceleration.
They are durable and the premium synthetic body provides better stability and support. The 100 percent premium quality synthetic rubber provides great ankle support but is not a suitable fit for wide feet.
Main Specifications
| Water Resistance Level | Non-Resistant |
| Sole material | Rubber |
| Closure type | Lace-Up |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
Python Deluxe Indoor Court Shoes for Women
Quality features
For thrilling and intense pickleball practice, The Python Deluxe Indoor Court shoes provide outstanding durability, a stronger grip, and extreme comfort.
The high sweat-absorbing capacity delivers a fresh and superior court feel. The inner sole comprises mesh fabric, providing better lateral support and ability. The thicker back heel offers better support and on-court movement during changing direction while playing the games.
The shoes offer greater moisture absorption and are tried, verified, and highly recommended by professional players.
Main Specifications
| Outer material | Faux leather |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Colors | Black and White |
| Ratings | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
ACACIA Unisex-Adult Pickleball Shoes
Quality features
With the main upper body of polymer microfiber for ankle and joint support, the Dinkshot Unisex Pickleball shoes are highly preferred by sports enthusiasts. The insoles comprise honeycomb memory foam to ensure better shock absorption and higher breathability. These are stretchable enough to move and change directions frequently.
The EVA and ARK technology provides better traction, excellent balance, higher stability, and premium water resistance.
The minimal slipping and better shock absorption of the shoe make it an all-time favorite of professional players.
Main Specifications
| Color | Lime and White |
| Outsole material | Rubber |
| Upper body Material | Polymer microfiber |
| Ratings | 4 out of 5 stars |
- Color Lime and White
- Outsole material Rubber
- Upper body
- material Polymer microfiber
- Ratings 4 out of 5 stars
K-Swiss Women’s Express Light Pickleball Shoes
Quality features
K-Swiss Light Women’s Shoes are the best court shoes for pickleball matches providing outstanding traction and stronger moves. Enhanced with premium quality EVA tech to ensure better comfort and cushioning. The shoe provides convenient moves during changes of directions while playing pickleball.
The heeling of the shoe comprises interlocked fibers enabling better sock grip and minimum slipping. Stronger foot stability is provided by the 180-degree thermal plastic plantar chassis.
Main Specifications
| Sole material | Rubber |
| Closure type | Lace-up |
| Care Instruction | Machine washable |
| Ratings | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
How to choose the best pickleball shoes
The best court shoes for pickleball are the ones that provide better comfort, grip, and support during aggressive movement and can withstand wear and tear on indoor and outdoor courts.
In general, most pickleball shoes mimic the structure and quality of tennis and volleyball shoes as they are great for indoor sports and provide first-class stability and traction on gym floors and indoor games.
However, there are certain factors to look for while ordering the right pickleball shoes. These factors are
Sole material
It is crucial to look for the right sole material and to ensure that they are lined with the pattern conducive to lateral durability and provide strong ankle support.
Grip
The perfect pickleball shoes must provide a better grip and more traction for easy slip and change of direction during the game.
Padding
Better cushioning and padding in the shoe gives enhanced, faster feet movement, better court coverage, quick response time, and high shock absorption. It also avoids foot fatigue during longer games.
Durability
In short, the more durable the shoe is, the fewer will be the replacements.
Flexibility
The right shoes should be flexible at the toe joint to support ample foot bend during the game. Moreover, the more flexible the shoe is the better will be the speed and sliding effects with minimal chances of injury.
Breathability
Better sweat absorption ensures reduced foot odor, allergies, and injuries. Therefore, when choosing a pickleball shoe, its breathability must be taken into consideration.
Shock absorption
Shoes with better cushioning prevent foot fatigue and muscle ache during games. The high-quality insole and outsole make court time more comfortable. For better shock absorption the cushioning must comprise constituents like pads and gels.
Style
Wearing a comfortable, sturdy, and resilient shoe when added with a stylish look will not only enhance the player’s appearance but will also make them play with a better feel of confidence.
Price
Though it is crucial to take care of a wallet first, quality should not be compromised over quantity. It is better to invest in the right shoe than to buy inexpensive but low-quality sports gear.
FAQs
Can you wear running shoes to play a pickleball game?
Playing pickleball in running shoes is not recommended for professional players. However, if you are not playing pickleball frequently or you are a beginner player, you can surely go for running shoes.
The reason is that running shoes are generally designed for forwarding motion with less emphasis on side-to-side motions which is necessary during pickleball games.
The running-style shoes are lightweight and more breathable hence they have less structure and support for intense gaming movements. That’s why wearing running shoes is not suggested for those who are going to regular pickleball matches. Wearing the wrong gaming shoes will result in rolling and spraining of the knee and ankle.
What is the difference between pickleball shoes and tennis shoes?
Though pickleball shoes are heavier, they still allow faster and free mobility and have cushioning to absorb shocks while playing on hard surfaces like a concrete court. They comprise a unique tread pattern on their bottom which keeps the feet closer to the ground and enables traction.
While on the other hand tennis comprises rubber for stable and cushioned wear. The only difference among them is that the thicker, softer, and stickier rubber allows tennis court shoes to wear on slippery gym floors for better grip and stability.
Do you need special shoes for pickleball?
In order to perform better on indoor and outdoor courts, it is crucial to wear shoes that are specifically designed for pickleball games. The shoe sole for outdoor games is designed with a herringbone pattern to allow a perfect grip and absorb shock efficiently.
While running shoes are designed to move in one direction only. Hence professional pickleball players should go for shoes designed to enable multidirectional movement with better grip and support for lateral movements.
In those terms, the pickleball shoes though not called special but must comprise some features specifically designed to empower the game feel.
Is there any difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes?
The upper insole and outer sole materials of indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes may differ in some factors.
For example, indoor pickleball court shoes are designed to play on smooth and hardwood surfaces with their soles designed completely differently as compared to outdoor pickleball shoes.
While outdoor pickleball shoes are designed to play on hard, rough surfaces and are enabled to provide more traction.
