Currently, there are no sports shoes designated for playing pickleball. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find the best shoes for pickleball these days. Most seasoned players choose to use court shoes for pickleball as they provide the right support in forward, back, and side-to-side movements necessary to be good pickleball shoes. This movement flexibility and grip, plus some reliable, long-lasting, ergonomic cushioning are what make good pickleball shoes.
With these criteria in mind, we’ll take you through our picks for the best shoes for pickleball on the market, which will include a listing of the best men’s pickleball shoes and the best pickleball shoes in the women’s category. We’ll review materials and construction and go through customer reviews from players who are already using them on the court.
Best Men’s Pickleball Shoes in 2018
5. ASICS Men’s GEL-Resolution 6
These are some of the best shoes for pickleball across categories such as stability, protection, and impact absorption. Many users like the amount of traction they get when wearing these shoes. However, some users report that the sizes can be narrow, so if your feet are slightly wider than the average, these might not be the best for you.
4. Adidas Performance Men’s Adizero
These are some of the best shoes or pickleball if you want a mix between lightweight and durable. Some users do report that they could use more cushioning and support, however, some also mention that if you add an ergonomic cushion they are a serious contender for the title of the best men’s shoes for pickleball.
3. ASICS Men’s Gel-solution Speed 3
Users like the extra toe protection this shoe offers them as well as the gel cushioning. The shoe supports the feet and looks good but may be tight for some pickleball players. According to online ratings and reviews, these are the third best shoes for pickleball for men at the moment but might be the absolute best for indoor courts.
2. Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Shoes
Many users say these are some of the best men’s pickleball shoes if you want something lightweight. The torsion system is very supportive if you need to make forward or side lunges on the court. However, they only got the second-best men’s shoes for pickleball title on our list since the next ones are slightly better rated by verified customers.
1. K-Swiss Men’s Hypercourt Express
These are some of the best shoes for pickleball in the men’s category if you want something that offers you superior support and protection all at once. Most users like how comfortable the shoes are and a range of color options give you more variety.
Interested in more pickleball equipment? See our collection of the best pickleball paddles or paddle sets available on the market in 2018! We reviewed their materials, weight, construction, size, and grip and also went through verified customer reviews to get some insight from players who actually used them!
Best Pickleball Shoes for Women in 2018
5. Adidas Performance Women’s Barricade
This is the Barricade model designed for women. It features a low-top shaft and is lightweight so you can move easily on the pickleball court. Users particularly like the abrasion resistance and cushioning of this shoe.
4. ASICS Women’s Gel Challenger
These are some of the best shoes for pickleball in terms of durability thanks to their leather and mesh uppers. The cushioning in the rear and front of the foot allows you to change gait quickly on the court.
3. Prince Women’s T22 Lite Tennis Shoe
These women’s pickleball shoes have great durability and a shank that allows for excellent mid-foot stability if you’re using them as indoor pickleball shoes. Most users are pleased with how durable and airy the shoes are.
2. ASICS Women’s Gel Solution Speed 2 Clay Tennis Shoe
This shoe is relatively affordable thanks to its synthetic materials. The gel cushioning and added memory foam provide you with excellent comfort. Users report that they get excellent traction and movement with these pickleball shoes for women, but they also say the sizing can be a bit off on some colors. All in all, these are the second best pickleball shoes for women.
1. New Balance Women’s Training Shoes
Unlike many shoes of this type, these are crafted from leather for increased durability. Users like these women’s New Balance pickleball shoes for their supportive shank and shock-absorbing cushion. However, the shoes seem to be a bit smaller than others of the same style. Nevertheless, according to our research, these are the best shoes for pickleball for women.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best shoes for pickleball, just remember that you need something that provides good support and cushioning and has enough traction for swift movements on court. According to our research, the best men’s shoes for pickleball are the K-Swiss Hypercourt Express, while the New Balance Training Shoes are the best pickleball shoes in the women’s category.
If you have thoughts on other models that make the best shoes for pickleball, you can let us know in the comments section.
Adidas is a respectable make that has been around for the longest time. I happen to be quite happy with the Barricade model because it is very durable as well as quite comfortable. I absolutely have no complaints about it whatsoever.
That’s right, Amy, if you want to have absolutely no worries about the performance of your future pair of pickleball shoes, then you can choose Adidas even with your eyes closed. However, there are other models by New Balance, ASICS, and others that are worth a shot. Follow our Facebook page to be the first to read our new product reviews and pikcleball guides!
I just started to play pickleball and the shoes I have are the ASICS shoes. I do like them and I find that they are comfortable now. However, they took a while to break into. I don’t know if the other shoes were the same way.
Hi Greg – there’s certainly nothing more annoying than shoes that take a while to break into. Makes me wish they’d have some sort of custom fit system because each person’s feet are different
I wear the Adidas Barricade model when I am playing pickleball, and I really like how comfy they are. Yes, the heel is a bit wide but I don’t see to have an issue with it. So it’s good for me.
That’s great Tasha – thanks for taking the time to drop us a line 😊