Heavier and sturdier than other types of court footwear, the best pickleball shoes allow for quick and free mobility while absorbing shocks and supporting fast lateral movements.
Their construction was studied specifically to improve performance on the court, but not all pickleball shoes were created equal. Some are designed for outdoor play, others for indoor, and there are even lightweight options out there.
Regardless of your preferred court surface or skill level, these shoes for pickleball are some of your best options.
Outdoor Shoes
Best Overall Outdoor Pickleball Shoes
K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme
Pro pickleball players tackling clay, asphalt, and other outdoor courts can find all the extra support they need in the K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme. These outdoor shoes for pickleball target competitive players, delivering comfort and performance on all surfaces.
Its greatest highlight is the stretchy mesh upper that molds to the shape of your feet. There is no discomfort or break-in necessary; these shoes feel like a second skin the moment you slip them on.
The high-density outsole is made of durable rubber and reinforced in all high-wear areas of the toe and heel. Ankle support by a textile collar liner, while the non-marking sole provides sufficient traction without affecting lateral stability, and makes this the best outdoor pickleball shoe on the market.
Specifications
- Upper material: Mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Excellent ankle support
- High-density outsole
- Men’s sizes: 6.5 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 11
Best Budget Outdoor Pickleball Shoes
Skechers Viper Court-Athletic
Skechers Viper Court-Athletic outdoor pickleball shoe is perfect for players who need more arch support – or those looking for a sneaker on a budget. The brand is known for its ultra-comfortable footwear, and the pickleball line doesn’t disappoint.
The mesh and synthetic leather upper deliver breathability and durability. While less stretchy than K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme, these shoes require minimal break-in. However, the true highlight is inside the shoe. The proprietary arch-fit insole provides podiatrist-certified arch support and is removable, so you can use the shoes with custom orthotics.
Another highlight of this pickleball shoe is the relaxed fit, a trait hard to find in most other brands. Beyond break-in and support, you’ll also like the Goodyear rubber sole that increases traction on all outdoor surfaces. Moreover, the sneakers are also perfect for the occasional indoor tournament.
Specifications
- Upper material: Mesh and synthetic leather
- Sole material: Rubber
- Podiatrist-certified arch support
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 11
Best Outdoor Pickleball Shoes for Training
Fila Volley Zone
Colorful and practical, Fila Volley Zone is actually the best pickleball shoe, perfect for training. They perform well on outdoor and indoor courts but are particularly suitable for outdoor summer games. Beyond the visual appeal, the mesh upper is breathable and will keep your feet comfortable.
Synthetic leather and TPU inserts increase stability, while the forefoot circle pivot area on the outsole adds performance.
Like most pickleball shoes, these ones come with a rubber outsole. The herringbone pattern adds traction on asphalt and clay courts but not so much on acrylic and other types of indoor surfaces.
Specifications
- Upper material: Synthetic leather and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Toe guard
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 10
Indoor Shoes
Best Overall Indoor Pickleball Shoes
HEAD Grid 2.0
Pickleball shoes designed specifically for the indoors are hard to come by, but the HEAD Grid 2.0 is an excellent substitute. Originally made for racquetball and squash, they provide adequate support and allow for unhindered movements for all court sports.
The upper is not as stretchy or flexible as seen in pickleball shoes, but this could be an advantage. If you have weak ankles that need more support, the synthetic leather uppers are perfect. A padded collar adds plenty of comfort and ankle support, while the removable insole is moisture-wicking and breathable.
Stability is ensured by the non-marking soft rubber soles. The material adheres to indoor surfaces, preventing slips without marking court surfaces used for indoor play.
Specifications
- Upper material: Synthetic leather
- Sole material: Rubber
- Soft rubber outsole
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7.5 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 10
Best Budget Indoor Pickleball Shoes
ASICS Gel-Rocket 10
Like HEAD Grid 2.0, ASICS Gel-Rocket 10 wasn’t designed for pickleball specifically but is a good choice for indoor playing. They’re made of a combination of synthetic leather and mesh, while the sole is made of rubber.
The sneakers are lightweight and breathable, but their durability tends to pale compared to more expensive options. They still hold up well, however, and provide excellent balance on interior surfaces, including your standard gym floor.
The greatest highlight of these sneakers is the Trusstic System technology that reduces the overall weight of the shoes without reducing durability. Flex grooves in the outsoles further improve stability, while the heel wrap-up ensures smooth landings.
Specifications
- Upper material: Synthetic leather and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Lightweight compared to other shoes
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 10
Best Indoor Pickleball Shoes for Wide Feet
Python Mid Racquetball
Pickleball shoes for folks with wide feet are hard to come by, but Python Mid Racquetball could be your best bet if you mostly play indoors.
As their name suggests, these court shoes are designed for another sport. However, the boot-like upper enhances support around the ankle, while the generous width makes them comfortable for all players. Comfort is further enhanced by die-cut Artholite EVA insoles.
The upper is made of faux leather and is less breathable compared to mesh shoes. However, open mesh inserts shed off some weight and keep your feet on the cool side. The soft rubber soles also provide excellent traction on smooth indoor courts.
Specifications
- Upper material: Synthetic leather
- Sole material: Rubber
- Die-cut EVA insoles
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 10
Best Lightweight Shoes
Best Overall Lightweight Pickleball Shoes
K-Swiss Express Light
Proper footwear for pickleball is typically on the heavier side, but there are lightweight options out there. A fine example is the K-Swiss Express Light pickleball shoes.
While different from the Pickleball Supreme, the K-Swiss Express Light is proof that everyone can afford a pair of athletic footwear. They are ideal for indoor and outdoor use (although more suitable for the latter) and provide performance for pro training or amateur tournaments.
What makes these shoes different from all others is the upper, consisting of a combination of rubber and mesh. The rubber inserts may break over stress, but they do increase the overall durability of the shoe. The soles are similar to those seen in Pickleball Supreme, so you can rest assured you’ll have lots of traction and support.
Specifications
- Upper material: Rubber and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Duraguard shoe tech against excessive toe dragging
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 6.5 to 14 top
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 11
Best Lightweight Shoes for Training
Tyrol Volley Series
Similar to Fila, these sneakers from Tyrol are called Volley Series but are actually made for pickleball. They don’t bring the same performance or durability as K-Swiss, but they are light and hold up pretty well – something to be expected, considering the price.
However, even if they are on the expensive side, they are truly worth it. The upper is made of breathable mesh reinforced with synthetic leather in all the right places. The non-marking rubber outsole provides traction and cushioning, while the midsole and insole further increase comfort.
Overall, the quality of this lightweight shoe is good, and the price is satisfactory. The only thing to keep in mind is that they are manufactured in China, and the sizes run on the small side. You should get one size more for a perfect fit.
Specifications
- Upper material: Rubber and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Breathable upper
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 8 to 12
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 9
Best Shoes for Sensitive Knees
Best Outdoor Shoes for Sensitive Knees
Skechers Energy Afterburn
Sensitive knees could mean the end of your pickleball fun, or you could invest in a new pair of shoes that can absorb shocks and reduce stress on your joints. A promising model – unsurprisingly – comes from Skechers.
The Energy Afterburn sneaker is not designed for pickleball specifically. Yet, its chunky sole hides a cushy midsole that absorbs shocks and distributes stress evenly. This sneaker, combined with the 1.5-inch heel, can prevent strains.
The insole is made of memory foam, in true Skechers fashion. While the upper is made of synthetic leather, it is breathable. Overall, these sneakers are perfect for seniors who don’t want to give up an active lifestyle, as well as anyone else with sensitive knees.
Specifications
- Upper material: Synthetic leather and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shock-absorbing midsole
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Men’s sizes: 7 to 14
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 11
Best Indoor Shoes for Sensitive Knees
Adidas Court Team Bounce
If you mostly play indoors, a good shoe for your sensitive knees is the Adidas Court Team Bounce. Like the Energy Burn, these shoes are not made specifically for pickleball but provide the necessary stability nonetheless.
Their greatest highlight is the lightweight cushioning that absorbs shocks while enhancing comfort and flexibility.
The rubber outsoles provide traction on all indoor courts. Meanwhile, the mesh upper stretches to accommodate your feet with little to no break-in. Eco-conscious folks might also like that they are made of up to 50 percent recycled materials.
Specifications
- Upper material: TPU and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Made with recycled materials
- Breathable sock liner and sturdy ankle rolls
- Men’s sizes: 10.5 to 15
- Women’s sizes: 5 to 10
FAQs
What kind of shoes should I wear to play pickleball?
Pickleball-specific shoes are your best bet for pickleball. A second-best is a pair of good tennis shoes, or another court shoe, such as a volleyball shoe, works too. However, you should not wear running shoes, as they don’t provide the necessary traction and support.
What’s the difference between tennis shoes and pickleball shoes?
Tennis shoes are generally lighter compared to pickleball shoes and have cushioning concentrated on the heel. The best pickleball shoes provide more cushioning on the forefoot.
What pickleball shoe does Ben Johns wear?
Pickleball star Ben Johns uses Fila, ASICS, and HEAD pickleball shoes.
What is the best lightweight pickleball shoe?
K-Swiss Express Light is the best lightweight pickleball shoe. The rubber and mesh upper provides durability and flexibility without adding too much weight.
Key Takeaways
- Most sportswear brands manufacture suitable shoes for pickleball – just avoid running shoes.
- All models in their lines come in men’s and women’s sizes and colorways.
- K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme is the favorite pickleball shoe for professionals playing on an outdoor court.
- HEAD Grid 2.0 is the best indoor pickleball shoe, despite not being a dedicated pickleball shoe.
- Skechers cross-trainers provide advanced shock absorption and are ideal for people suffering from sensitive knees or plantar fasciitis.