Best Shoes for Pickleball in 2020 Review

Choosing the best shoes for pickleball can be a minefield. There are so many varieties of shoes to pick from. Furthermore, each type of pickleball footwear may have varying qualities and features. We understand this and have faced the same dilemma ourselves when choosing pickleball sneakers for competition or practice. We know you can spend hours pondering over different footwear without success.

Don’t worry as help is at hand! We are here to help make your choices easier. We have a fantastic understanding of pickleball and its associated equipment and know what constitutes a high-quality pickleball shoe. And to share our knowledge, we have prepared the answers to all questions that can blame and choose the best pickleball shoes for you!

Top 5 Men’s Pickleball Shoes – Product Review

	Product	Features	Rating	Checkout
1	ASICS Men’s GEL-Rocket 7	Material: Mesh & Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Forefoot GEL cushioning & PGuard toe protector Sole: NC rubber	4.7 of 5	Check Price
2	New Balance Men’s mx608 Tennis Shoe	Material: Synthetic leather Cushion & Comfort: ABZORB cushioning Sole: Rubber	4.4 of 5	Check Price
3	Adidas Men’s Barricade Club	Material: Textile & Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Midfoot TORSION system & ADIPRENE under the heel Sole: Rubber	4.4 of 5	Check Price
4	ASICS Men’s GEL-Resolution 6	Material: Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Forefoot GEL cushioning & Solyte midsole Sole: High-abrasion rubber	4.3 of 5	Check Price
5	ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5	Material: Textile & Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Forefoot GELcushioning & Fabric lining Sole: Solid rubber	4.1 of 5	Check Price
6	ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8	Material: Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Forefoot GEL cushioning system Sole: Gum rubber	4.6 of 5	Check Price
7	ASICS Women’s Gel Rocket 7	Material: Textile & Synthetic Cushion & Comfort: Forefoot GEL cushioning system Sole: NC gum rubber	4.5 of 5	Check Price


8	ASICS Women’s Gel Resolution 6	Material: Synthetic & Fabric Cushion & Comfort: Padded tongue collar & Forefoot GEL cushioning Sole: AHAR & high-abrasion	4.2 of 5	Check Price
9	K-Swiss Womens Bigshot Light 3	Material: Synthetic leather/textile upper & collar lining Cushion & Comfort: CMEVA midsole & Sock liner Sole: Draggaurd & Aosta rubber	4.2 of 5	Check Price
10	Adidas Performance Women’s Barricade Court W	Material: Synthetic/Mesh Cushion & Comfort: ADIPRENE and foam cushioning Sole: Rubber	4.2 of 5	Check Price

Table of Content

ASICS Men’s GEL-Rocket 7 – Best Pickleball Shoes 2019
New Balance Men’s mx608 – Outdoor Court Shoes
Adidas Men’s Barricade Club – Court Shoes for Pickleball
ASICS Men’s GEL- Resolution 6 – Best Men’s Court Shoes
ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5 – Indoor Pickleball Shoes
ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8 – Gum Rubber Sole Court Shoes
ASICS Women’s Gel Rocket 7 – Best Indoor Court Shoes
ASICS Women’s Gel Resolution 6 – Best Shoes for Playing Pickleball
K-Swiss Women’s Bigshot Light 3 – Court Shoes for Women
Adidas Performance Women’s Barricade Court W – Pickleball Court Shoes

ASICS Men’s GEL-Rocket 7 – Best Pickleball Shoes 2019

The lightweight ASICS GEL-Rocket 7 is a versatile court shoe that works well on indoor pickleball courts.

Pickleball players like the GEL-Rocket 7’s breathable mesh top that allows airflow that helps keep your feet cool. It has a cushioned, non-marking NC natural rubber sole that adds traction and stability and a PGuard protected toe box. The shoe’s synthetic overlay adds side-to-side stability. That’s why this model is a good pair of shoes for volleyball players.

These pickleball court shoes are best-suited for those who are new to the sport, suffer from a prior foot/leg problem, and are on a budget.

ASICS Men’s GEL-Rocket 7

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Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology adds foot and ankle support.
GEL-cushioning for forefoot shock absorption.
A compression-molded EVA midsole for arch support.
Breathable top mesh to keep feet cooler.

PROS:

Budget quality
Very lightweight
Comfortable
Non-marking

CONS:

Not as long-lasting as other shoes
Not very flexible
Stiff outsole

Verdict:

Pickleball players like these lightweight quality shoes that allow easier movement and aid performance. The arch support, lateral stability, and cushioning are particularly appreciated by players with prior knee, leg, or foot problems.

New Balance Men’s mx608 – Outdoor Court Shoes

These classic, standard weight New Balance mx608 tennis shoes are an affordable, comfortable, durable, and well-constructed court shoe that is suitable for pickleball on indoor courts.

Pickleball players like the heavier New Balance mx608 tennis shoe – how it fits, feels, and performs. It has a durable synthetic perforated leather upper to aid air flow. A durable toe guard withstands constant dragging. The sturdy rubber herringbone outsole adds traction and stability and is permitted on wood floor courts.

These pickleball court shoes are best-suited for those that can afford quality court shoes, are familiar with the New Balance brand, desire a heavier tennis shoe, and primarily play on outdoor courts.

New Balance Men’s mx608 Tennis Shoe

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$159.95

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Price history

Price history for New Balance Men's MX608v4 Training Shoe, White/Navy, 10.5 4E US
Latest updates: $159.95 - January 19, 2020 $69.95 - November 12, 2019 $99.99 - November 10, 2019 $69.95 - October 4, 2019 Since: October 4, 2019	Highest Price: $159.95 - January 19, 2020 Lowest Price: $69.95 - October 4, 2019

Last Amazon price update was: March 18, 2020 9:36 am

Key Features & Benefits

ROLLBAR technology keeps your heel in place.
ABZORB cushioning for midsole shock-absorption.
A compression-molded EVA midsole for arch support.
Moisture absorbing LIGHTNING DRY lining.
Breathable perforated grain leather top material to keep feet cooler.

PROS:

Good value
Wide toe box
Comfortable
Breathable
Classic standard weight/fit

CONS:

Price
Sizes run slightly small; narrow
Stiff outsole

Verdict:

Pickleball players like these classic brand tennis shoes for intense outdoor court play. They rate high for comfort, stability, support, and quality. The primary complaint is the shoe sizing.

Adidas Men’s Barricade Club – Court Shoes for Pickleball

These lightweight, mid-priced Adidas Men’s Barricade Club low-profile tennis shoes are a favorite among aggressive outdoor and indoor badminton and pickleball players.

These Barricade Club shoes have a breathable, ultra-comfortable mesh and foil upper and breathable mesh lining. Responsive-shock cushioning makes intense play more comfortable. Midsole, toe, and forefoot cushioning add protection against blunt-force and foot drag during play.

These pickleball tennis shoes are best-suited for more intense, near the net, pickleball players on hard courts.

Adidas Men’s Barricade Club

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Last Amazon price update was: March 13, 2020 8:36 am

Key Features & Benefits

Durable ADITUFF outer upper material for stronger lateral support.
TORSION system allows greater midsole support for aggressive players.
ADIPRENE cushioning for greater heel shock absorption.
ADIPRENE + aids forefoot forward propulsion.
ADIWEAR 6 outsole (worn by professionals) to help prevent slipping.

PROS:

Comfort and stability
Flexible
Lightweight
Non-marking for indoor play

CONS:

Sizes run large
Flimsy lace eyelets; prone to breaking
Somewhat stiff; restricts movement

Verdict:

More intense pickleball players like these tennis shoes that are comfortable, highly durable, and stable. The primary complaint is the (larger) shoe sizing.

ASICS Men’s GEL- Resolution 6 – Best Men’s Court Shoes

The lightweight, versatile ASICS GEL Resolution 6 is an iteration update of this mid-priced tennis shoe that is durable and well-balanced for pickleball play on indoor and outdoor courts.

The proprietary GEL Resolution 6 Flexion’s breathable air mesh upper construction provides form-fitting comfort that extends to the midfoot for lateral support. It has a cushioned, AHAR non-marking high-abrasion rubber sole that adds traction and stability. The midfoot/heel collar FluidRide support system provides increased rigidity for injury prevention.

These pickleball tennis shoes are well-suited for serious pickleball players for use on a hard or soft, outdoor or indoor court.

ASICS Men’s GEL-Resolution 6

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Last Amazon price update was: February 19, 2020 1:48 am

Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology reduces the sole weight and adds foot/ankle support.
Forefoot GEL® cushioning for rear and forefoot shock-absorption.
Solyte midsole cushioning.
A PGuard toe protector improves performance.

PROS:

Technologically-reduced sole weight
Comfortable
Durability
Performance

CONS:

Price
Low arch support
Stiff; rigid

Verdict:

Pickleball players like these all-performance tennis shoes that are comfortable, highly durable, and stable. The primary complaint is a preference of older versions of this ASICS shoe model.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5 – Indoor Pickleball Shoes

The affordable, lightweight, versatile ASICS Gel-Dedicate 5 tennis shoe is a durable and stable shoe for beginner pickleball players.

The Gel-Dedicate 5 has a breathable air mesh, textile, and synthetic upper provides lightweight, form-fitting performance and durability. The solid rubber outsole reduces shock and maximizes support and traction on the court. The molded-foam footbed and cushioning system increases comfort and reduces injury risk.

These entry-level all-performance pickleball court shoes are well-suited for beginner players new to pickleball.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5

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$65.00

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Price history

Price history for ASICS Men's Gel-Dedicate 5 Tennis Shoe, White/Silver, 11 M US
Latest updates: $65.00 - January 9, 2020 $103.90 - January 6, 2020 $79.99 - December 17, 2019 $69.71 - December 15, 2019 $65.00 - November 9, 2019 $69.95 - September 28, 2019 Since: September 28, 2019	Highest Price: $103.90 - January 6, 2020 Lowest Price: $65.00 - November 9, 2019

Last Amazon price update was: March 3, 2020 9:49 pm

Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology reduces the sole weight and adds foot/ankle support.
Forefoot GEL® cushioning system for an increased rear and forefoot shock-absorption.
Solyte midsole cushioning.

PROS:

Affordable
Technologically-reduced sole weight
Comfortable
Solid support

CONS:

Changed design; fit
Not very flexible
Low profile

Verdict:

Novice pickleball players like these all-performance tennis shoes that are comfortable, durable, and stable. The primary complaint is the overall fit of this ASICS re-design.

Top 5 Women’s Pickleball Shoes – Product Review

ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8 – Gum Rubber Sole Court Shoes

The affordable ASICS Gel-Rocket 8 volleyball shoe is a court shoe that performs well on indoor pickleball courts.

This lightweight ASICS Gel-Rocket 8 has a breathable mesh and synthetic upper and mesh liner for air flow. The gum rubber outsole increases traction/grip and support. The Trusstic system also reduces outsole weight. The GEL-cushioning system aids comfort and absorbs impact shock.

These entry-level indoor volleyball shoes are intended for beginner/intermediate pickleball players that need comfort and traction.

ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8

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$70.00

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Price history

Price history for ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoe, Silver/White, 8.5 Medium US
Latest updates: $70.00 - February 25, 2020 $109.31 - February 14, 2020 $109.32 - February 2, 2020 $70.00 - January 15, 2020 $109.32 - January 13, 2020 $70.00 - December 28, 2019 $109.32 - December 26, 2019 $70.00 - December 20, 2019 Since: September 21, 2019	Highest Price: $109.32 - December 26, 2019 Lowest Price: $51.41 - October 24, 2019

Last Amazon price update was: March 3, 2020 8:26 am

Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology reduces the sole weight and adds foot/ankle support.
Forefoot GEL® cushioning system increases rear and forefoot shock-absorption.
Padded insole; breathable lining and upper.

PROS:

Affordable
Sturdy
Technologically-reduced sole weight

CONS:

Sizing; runs small
Minimal arch support
Initially stiff; need to be broken in

Verdict:

Beginner and intermediate pickleball players like these affordable volleyball shoes that are comfortable and stable. The primary complaint is the overall fit of this ASICS re-design.

ASICS Women’s Gel Rocket 7 – Best Indoor Court Shoes

The versatile ASICS Gel Rocket 7 volleyball shoe is an updated court shoe that performs well on both outdoor and indoor pickleball courts.

This lightweight ASICS Gel Rocket 7 has a breathable mesh and synthetic upper, and mesh liner, for cooling air flow. The NC gum rubber outsole increases traction/grip and exceptional support. The Trusstic system also reduces outsole weight. The GEL-cushioning system aids comfort and absorbs impact shocks.

These are basic volleyball shoes that are suitable for beginner/intermediate pickleball players that need support, comfort, and traction.

ASICS Women’s Gel Rocket 7

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Last Amazon price update was: February 27, 2020 3:28 am

Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology reduces the sole weight and adds foot/ankle support.
Forefoot GEL® cushioning system increases rear and forefoot shock-absorption.
A molded-EVA midsole enhances shock-absorption.
An extra ankle collar lace eyelet prevents heel slippage that later models do not have.

PROS:

Good value
Sturdy
Technologically-reduced sole weight

CONS:

May tear more easily laterally
Appearance; masculine-looking
Shoe sizes

Verdict:

Pickleball players like these affordable volleyball shoes that provide comfort and grip. The primary complaint is overall fit and durability

ASICS Women’s Gel Resolution 6 – Best Shoes for Playing Pickleball

The ASICS Gel Resolution 6 is an updated “stability line” of tennis shoes for women. They are durable pickleball shoes for hard outdoor courts.

The Gel Resolution 6 Flexion’s breathable air mesh upper construction provides form-fitting comfort that extends to the midfoot for lateral support. It has a cushioned AHAR + high-abrasion non-marking rubber sole that adds traction and stability. The midfoot/heel collar FluidRide support system provides increased rigidity for injury prevention.

These pickleball court shoes are for serious pickleball players for hard outdoor courts.

ASICS Women’s Gel Resolution 6

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$104.95

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Price history

Price history for ASICS Women'S Gel-Resolution 6 Tennis Shoe, White/Parachute Purple/Hot Pink, 5 M US
Latest updates: $104.95 - February 19, 2020 $73.58 - January 23, 2020 $104.95 - January 22, 2020 $55.18 - December 19, 2019 $73.58 - December 4, 2019 $104.95 - December 3, 2019 $73.58 - November 17, 2019 $96.77 - October 18, 2019 Since: October 9, 2019	Highest Price: $104.95 - December 3, 2019 Lowest Price: $55.18 - December 19, 2019

Last Amazon price update was: March 18, 2020 6:33 pm

Key Features & Benefits

Trusstic system technology reduces the sole weight and adds foot/ankle support.
GEL cushioning for rear and forefoot shock-absorption.
Solyte midsole cushioning and padded tongue collar.
The PGuard toe protector improves performance.

PROS:

Technologically-reduced sole weight
Comfortable
Durability

CONS:

May feel narrow
May not be suitable for clay courts
Stiff ankle collar

Verdict:

Pickleball players like these performance tennis shoes. They are comfortable, offer control, and stability upgrades. The primary complaints are the size fitting and price.

K-Swiss Women’s Bigshot Light 3 – Court Shoes for Women

The K-Swiss Bigshot Light 3 women’s tennis shoes are affordable, classic-fit, performance shoes for developing pickleball players.

The Bigshot Light 3 has a lighter weight, synthetic and textile upper construction, and a moisture resistant textile collar lining. It has a CMEVA cushioned support midsole and sock liner and Draggaurd and Aosta rubber outsole that adds traction and stability.

These pickleball tennis shoes are for more intense intermediate level pickleball players, on hard outdoor courts.

K-Swiss Womens Bigshot Light 3

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$87.18

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Price history

Price history for K-Swiss Women's Bigshot Light 3 Tennis Shoes (White/Silver) (8 B(M) US)
Latest updates: $87.18 - February 27, 2020 $84.95 - February 25, 2020 $87.18 - February 16, 2020 $87.48 - February 3, 2020 $84.95 - January 31, 2020 $87.44 - January 28, 2020 $84.95 - January 17, 2020 $87.62 - January 16, 2020 Since: October 2, 2019	Highest Price: $87.62 - January 16, 2020 Lowest Price: $69.95 - October 8, 2019

Last Amazon price update was: March 2, 2020 11:43 pm

Key Features & Benefits

Draggaurd Rubber & Aosta Rubber Outsole
CMEVA midsole and textile sock liner minimizes moisture.

PROS:

Comfortable
Classic light-medium weight
Durability
Medium width; wider fit

CONS:

Not very breathable
Feet may get overheated
Too wide for some

Verdict:

Aggressive pickleball players like these classic-feel tennis shoes that provide good traction, comfort, and stability. The primary complaints are the fit (too roomy for some feet) and too warm.

Adidas Performance Women’s Barricade Court W – Pickleball Court Shoes

The Adidas Performance Barricade Court W are affordable, max-performance tennis shoes for outdoor court pickleball players.

The performance Barricade Court W shoes have a soft, breathable, air mesh perforated synthetic leather upper. The responsive-shock cushioning makes intense play more comfortable. The midsole, toe, and forefoot cushioning add protection against blunt-force and foot drag during play.

These pickleball tennis shoes are for more intense pickleball players on hard outdoor courts.

Adidas Performance Women’s Barricade Court W

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Last Amazon price update was: March 18, 2020 6:33 pm

Key Features & Benefits

TORSION system allows greater midsole support for aggressive players.
ADIPRENE cushioning for greater heel shock absorption.
ADIPRENE + to aid forefoot forward propulsion.

PROS:

Price
Comfortable
Heavier weight for support/stability
Durability

CONS:

Sizing
Rather heavy
Minimal arch support; Less shock-absorption

Verdict:

Aggressive pickleball players like these max-performance tennis shoes that provide good traction, comfort, and durability. The primary complaint is shoe sizing/fit.

Buyer’s Guide

The best shoes for pickleball meet stability, durability, comfort, and have a reasonable cost. The following guide is intended to inform you about pickleball shoe features and functions and compare each of the 5 Top-Rated men’s and women’s pickleball shoe brands and models.

What Are the Best Shoes to Wear for Playing Pickleball?

No manufacturer makes an actual “pickleball shoe.” If you play pickleball, you will find yourself wearing a court or tennis shoe that feels comfortable, allows you the greatest mobility, and does not make your feet sore or tired.

Some pickleball players prefer ankle-supporting hiking shoes or lighter weight running shoes, but they are not court shoes or recommended.

The Best Court Shoes for Pickleball

Best Court Shoes for Pickleball The best pickleball shoes are court shoes that are permitted on indoor or outdoor pickleball courts. ASICS and New Balance are popular court shoe brands to play pickleball.

They are durable and have high-impact, skid-resistant soles with grip, extra cushioning, and good foot, ankle, and arch support.

Regardless of the court you play on (indoor or outdoor), your shoes should have:

stiff support around the front toe area. Extra stability is needed to aid balance. This is important since your foot creates a dragging motion during play.
flexibility around the front laces and toe joint allows your foot to freely bend as you move, which is also important for such type of sneakers as running shoes.
a strong support system that surrounds and protects your arch, foot, and ankle from twisting and rolls upon impact during play.

Your shoe should be comfortable. It is important your shoe has enough insole cushion to support your arch as it causes discomfort when it breaks down and wears out.

Your shoe must also have sufficient midsole support to reduce pressure and stress on your joints. It serves as a cushion for your knees and ankles.

Best Indoor Pickleball Court Shoes

Indoor court shoes are made with slip-resistant non-marking soles with extra grip that do not mark today’s synthetic wood floors.

Toe protection is important as you move, creating friction between your shoe and the floor surface.

Best Outdoor Pickleball Court Shoes

Outdoor court shoes must provide additional cushion to protect your feet from the impact feet and joints experience as you play on hard surfaced courts that are typically asphalt, concrete, or clay. Durable tennis shoes are your best choice for outdoor courts.

What Is the Best Shoe Material?

The best pickleball shoe material is durable and breathes. Synthetic and mesh materials allow more air flow and mold to your feet allowing you to customize your shoe fit. An upper made from leather provides more support but tends to overheat your feet. An upper made of synthetic leather with mesh/fabric is the preferred construction for the pickleball court.

Fewer court shoes are made from leather because it is heavier and softens and loses stability over time. Synthetic leather is less expensive and offers longer lasting stability and safer performance.

Soft Court Shoe Construction

Shoes used on soft courts tend to have a flexible upper and an outsole that is flatter and grips the surface well. There is less need for durability and a greater need to have a non-marking outsole to ensure smooth indoor court flooring is not scuffed or marred.

Hard Court Shoe Construction

Shoes used on hard courts should have durable outsoles and substantial cushioning to support your feet from constant impact during play. Tough upper shoe material such as leather or synthetic leather provides foot and ankle stability.

What Are the Most Comfortable Pickleball Shoes?

Comfortable Pickleball Shoes Correctly-fitting court shoes are necessary for comfort and performance. The best performance shoes must support your foot as your weight shifts side-to-side, forward, and backward.

The sole under the ball of your foot must be flexible to comfortably adjust to your quick movements. A padded tongue also allows you to tighten shoelaces without squeezing the top of your foot.

Foot discomfort can result as your shoe soles, midsoles, and heel cushioning begin to stretch and wear out.

Foot Support & Cushioning Technologies

NC rubber improves performance by providing durability, support, and grip for instant and repetitive stepping movements.

Lightweight memory foam may be used to cushion heels and the collar lining where blisters are more likely to occur.

Shock-absorbing GEL-cushioning protects feet and heels and ensures long-lasting cushioning during play. It does not deflate like air cushioning and is less prone to defects.

ABZORB Cushioning (by New Balance) consists of silicone pads the full length of the midsole.

Trinomic technology (by PUMA) is a shock-absorbing honeycomb cell structure that maintains lateral stability.

FluidRide® cushioning provides lightweight, dual layer, impact absorbing support to midsoles.

What Is the Best Sole for a Pickleball Shoe?

The best sole for a pickleball shoe provides stability during movement. Its tread texture is designed to grip the surface and prevent slipping. It must be durable and not wear out quickly. It must also endure constant friction from foot dragging, stops, and starts. Hard courts require shoe soles designed with greater tread.

Solid rubber is the most durable outsole material that withstands hard surfaces.

Outdoor court shoe soles are typically made of lighter weight synthetic rubber. Indoor court shoes require less rubber due to less surface friction but must be non-marking. Slip-resistant gum rubber outsoles provide more traction.

How Do You Wear Pickleball Court Shoes?

Sole traction and lateral support help prevent injury, discomfort, and pain. It is not only important to wear the correct shoes for the court you intend to play on, but also according to how you play the game.

Wear court shoes with durable soles and extra lateral support for side-to-side movement if you play a power game hitting long shots from the baseline.

Wear court shoes with substantially reinforced toe-caps and soles for support if you work the net and control the game with dink shots since most of your weight is on your toes and balls of your feet.

A good pair of pickleball shoes only lasts 3-4 months (approximately 60 hours of play).

The worn areas on the shoes you’ve been playing in will tell you what parts of your court shoes you need reinforced.

How Much Does a Pickleball Shoe Weigh?

How much your pickleball shoes weigh affects your overall performance. The lighter your shoes, the faster you can move and naturally larger shoes weigh more.

Tennis shoes are typically heavier than other types of court shoes (12+ oz.) due to their substantial rubber outsoles that are made for durability. Lighter volleyball shoes are comparatively 9 oz. or less on average.

The Most Popular Questions on Pickleball Shoes

What is the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball?

Indoor and outdoor pickleball differ in court surface, pickleball balls, and footwear.

Indoor pickleball:

Indoor court rules
Indoor surfaces provide a slower moving game
Balls are softer, lighter, have larger holes, better bounce, and allow more accurate shots

Outdoor pickleball requires:

Weather elements
Outdoor surfaces allow the ball to bounce lower and move faster
Balls are heavier, more durable, have smaller holes

Can I wear any type of athletic footwear to play pickleball?

Court shoes and tennis shoes are recommended. Other types (i.e.: running, walking, hiking, etc.) are not.

Indoor pickleball requires shoes with:

flexible upper shoe construction
thinner, gum rubber, non-slip soles
non-marking soles
toe protection

Outdoor pickleball requires shoes with:

tough upper shoe construction (leather/synthetic leather)
lighter weight – synthetic rubber soles
thicker tread
reinforced toe protection
increased arch, midsole, and heel cushion & support

Is leather better than canvas or synthetic?

The best pickleball shoes are durable and breathable.

Leather shoes:

are heavier
are durable
retain heat/moisture
provide more support

Synthetic/mesh shoes:

allow more airflow
are lighter weight
are breathable
are less expensive
tend to last longer

Conclusion: What are the best pickleball shoes?

ASICS and classic New Balance tennis shoes are popular brands. The best shoes for pickleball are durable and comfortably aid balance and performance. The best men’s or women’s pickleball shoes have smooth soles to aid lateral movement, reinforced toe protection, and support the arch, heel, and middle-foot areas.

The ASICS Men’s Gel-Rocket 7 Volleyball Shoe is a top pick for pickleball enthusiasts. They are versatile shoes suitable for indoor and outdoor courts. They feature breathable mesh that allows airflow to keep your feet cool. The natural rubber outsole, shock-absorbing gel cushioning, midsole, and arch support make playing on any surface comfortable.

ASICS Womens Gel-Rocket 8 volleyball shoes are the equivalent of the men’s Gel-Rocket 7. They are also suited for indoor and outdoor courts, are breathable, shock-absorbing, impact resistant, comfortable, durable, and provide maximum support and stability.

Both these products are affordable and are well-suited for entry-level or beginner/intermediate pickleball players. Their shock-absorbing ability also makes them ideal for players that suffer from prior knee, ankle, or leg injuries or maladies.