It’s a New Year, and if you’re looking to get fit and stay active, pickleball is one of the best ways to be active, have fun, compete, and truly enjoy fitness. This new year is ready to bring you the best in pickleball footwear. As the popularity of pickleball continues to grow exponentially, the demand for high-quality, performance-based pickleball shoes has never been greater. Yes, brands are actually beginning to specialize in shoes solely for this purpose, outside of just tennis shoes. This year, we’re seeing brands step up their game, offering shoes that not only provide excellent support and comfort but also incorporate the latest technology to enhance your performance on the court.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer to the sport, the right pair of shoes can make a significant difference in your game. They can provide the necessary traction for quick lateral movements, cushioning for impact absorption, and the right fit to keep you comfortable throughout your matches. With advanced materials for improved durability, breathability, and lightweight construction, brands are also focusing on designs that offer superior stability and ankle support, crucial for the quick, multidirectional movements needed in pickleball.
Choosing the best pickleball shoes is an investment in your game. Luckily, we did the grunt work for you and are ready to help you make an informed decision for your pickleball footwear needs. Here’s to good games and even better gear.
Best overall pickleball shoes: ON The Roger Pro – White/Acai
Designed in collab with one of the best tennis players of all time, Roger Federer, these shoes will do everything you need from them and then some. These shoes redefine the standards of performance and style. Geared toward serious players, The Roger Pro seamlessly combines street fashion, comfort, and support, establishing itself as the go-to choice for serious pickleballers (and tennis players alike).
Engineered with precision, the shoe features an innovative mesh upper and a continuous rubber outsole, ensuring exceptional traction that keeps you at the top of your game. Beyond its outstanding performance, The Roger Pro is a style statement in itself. The sleek silhouette is bound to capture attention both on and off the court, making it a versatile addition to your athletic wardrobe.
While these shoes may come with a higher price tag, the investment is justified by the unparalleled quality and design of The Roger Pro. These shoes will surely elevate your pickleball experience in both performance and aesthetic appeal.
Best cheap pickleball shoes: Asics Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes – White/Black
Get ready for the best budget-friendly pickleball shoes: the ASICS Men’s GEL-Dedicate 8. These shoes nail the combo of comfort and performance, catering and designed specifically for pickleball players. With stellar traction, flexibility, and support, they’re built to dominate the court. Stability is key, thanks to synthetic leather overlays and a TRUSSTIC support unit that keeps you grounded during quick moves. And it’s not just about function – these shoes look sharp, making a statement on the court.
Perfect for all levels of players, the ASICS Men’s GEL-Dedicate 8 doesn’t break the bank. Despite their top-notch features, they come at an affordable price, making them a smart investment for any pickleball enthusiast. Step up your game without burning a hole in your pocket with one of the best cheap pickleball shoes on the market.
Best shoes for stability: New Balance FuelCell 996v5 Pickleball – White/Gray/Team Royal
Meet the ultimate stability powerhouse for pickleball: the New Balance FuelCell 996v5. These shoes are crafted for serious pickleball gamers who see their footwear as a game-changing investment. Specifically designed for indoor courts, they bring unmatched stability, precision, and traction to the table, taking your performance to new heights.
Powered by FuelCell foam technology, these shoes give you a dynamic feel, boosting agility and speed while supporting explosive lateral movements. The NDure upper technology ensures durability, making these shoes stand strong through intense matches week after week. The full-length NDurance outsole secures superior grip and stability, keeping your feet well-protected at all times.
With the New Balance FuelCell 996v5, you’re not just getting shoes – you’re gaining a competitive edge that sets you apart on the pickleball court. Elevate your game with the pinnacle of stability and performance.
Most versatile shoes: Adidas Adizero Cybersonic Tennis Shoes -Core Black/Cloud White/Carbon
Meet the sneaker that defines the term versatility. Engineered for speed, comfort, and support, these shoes take your game to new heights. Lightweight and stable, they offer a connected ride with rapid propulsion, making them perfect for quick cuts and directional changes.
The true standout feature? Energy Rods that act as springs from midfoot to heel, propelling your footwork with every change of direction. The woven mesh upper strikes the right balance between flexibility and toughness, promoting breathability with punchouts. The integrated tongue provides a sock-like feel, adding to the overall sense of security.
The Lightstrike cushioning, while not overly plush, offers adequate padding to disperse impact on hard landings. The outsole, a mix of herringbone patterns, gives the Cybersonic all-court capabilities. Lock it all in with the Geofit collar designed for the ultimate anatomical fit and comfort. Now you’ll have a shoe that can keep up with your gameplay and versatile style.
Most stylish pickleball shoes: NikeCourt Air Zoom NXT – Geode Teal/Teal Nebula/White
Is there a brand that does style and fashion blended with high performance better than Nike? Get bold with this pair — designed for players who want a quick and responsive feel without the need for a break-in period. This shoe not only provides excellent responsiveness and comfort but is also lightweight, enhancing your speed and agility on the court.
Crafted with a flexible mesh upper, the shoe ensures breathability, keeping your feet cool during intense matches. The large Zoom Air Unit in the forefoot serves as an air-filled pocket, delivering energy return as you sprint towards every shot. The midfoot shank plate offers the perfect balance of rigidity for stability and flexibility for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.
Another standout feature, the outsole eliminates unnecessary bulk while maintaining durability where it matters most. Striking a balance between weight reduction and durability, this incredibly lightweight design ensures extreme comfort. With a plush collar and a streamlined, angular-shaped mesh finish, you get the cushioned feel you love, allowing you to focus on playing your best pickleball game.
The next best: Nike Zoom Challenge Men’s Pickleball Shoes – White/Thunder Blue/Black/Stadium Green
Get ready to meet the next in shoe tech, specifically designed to dominate the pickleball courts. In the midst of a grueling rally or a net volley, the innovative Nike Zoom Challenge can be your ally, whether you’re striving to maintain your serve after a split set scramble, or attempting to drive a ball down the line. The Air Zoom unit is designed to maintain your vitality, making it perfect for reaching those elusive shots, regardless of their proximity
Featuring an Air Zoom unit in the heel, these sneakers offer a dynamic boost to your game, keeping you energized during extended rallies. Synthetic overlays ensure lateral support and heel stability, while a comfortable collar and padded heel provide ankle reassurance.
Strategically placed mesh panels enhance breathability, and extra rubber at the toe tip ensures durability. With high-abrasion rubber in the forefoot, the shoe strikes a balance between durability and traction. Elevate your game with the Nike Zoom Challenge, delivering support, comfort, and lasting resilience on the court.