The Best Pickleball Shoes of 2024 | Pickleballer.com (2024)

Hey there, pickleballers! It’s your favorite pickleball enthusiast, back with another post and, boy, do we have a fun topic today – shoes! Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Shoes, really? Isn’t that a bit… mundane?” But trust me, my friends, when it comes to the quick footwork and agility pickleball demands, the right footwear can make the difference between a “pickleball pro” and a “pickleball no”.

As a seasoned player, I’ve tested, tripped, and tangoed with a multitude of pickleball shoes, all in the name of research (and a bit of fun). From the flashy to the functional, I’ve scoured the court in each of them, hunting for the best in comfort, grip, and, of course, style. Buckle up, folks, because we’re about to delve deep into the world of pickleball shoes – strap in and let’s uncover some foot-fabulous finds!

My Top Pickleball Shoe Picks

• Best Men's Pickleball Shoe: ASICS Men's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe
• Best Women's Pickleball Shoe: ASICS Women's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe
• Best Lightweight Pickleball Shoe: K-Swiss Men's Express Light Pickleball Shoe
• Best Women's Style Options: Skechers Women's Viper Court
• Best Multipurpose Pickleball Shoe: WILSON Rush Pro Ace Pickleball

Best Men's Pickleball Shoe

1. ASICS Men's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe

You know when you’re out there on the court, and you pull off a spectacular shot, and you think, “I couldn’t have done that without my trusty ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe!”? No? Just me then? Well, these bad boys are our winner for Best Men’s Pickleball Shoe, and let me tell you why.

First off, the shoe uses faux leather for the sole which provides excellent grip, a crucial feature for those quick pivots and dashes that are part and parcel of our beloved sport. The synthetic leather overlays provide top-notch durability, meaning these shoes won’t quit on you mid-season. No more holey soles or frayed edges with the Gel-RENMA – these guys are built to last!

The shoe doesn’t skimp on eco-consciousness either. With a solution-dyed sockliner, the Gel-RENMA reduces overall water usage by about 33% and carbon emissions by roughly 45%. Looking to up your pickleball game and save the planet? These might be the shoes for you!

But let’s get to the tech. ASICS has integrated their signature TRUSSTIC technology into the midsole of the Gel-RENMA. This tech marvel is designed to reduce excessive twisting and increase stability during those high-intensity rallies. Coupled with the wrap-up outsole and wider gauge design, the shoe promises smoother, more balanced movements on the court.

Finally, let’s not forget about comfort. The Gel-RENMA features forefoot GEL technology that improves impact absorption and creates a softer feeling at footstrike. Plus, the flex grooves strategically positioned in the outsole accommodate multi-directional movements, making these shoes a dream for flexibility. In the heat of a pickleball match, these kicks will keep your feet comfy and agile, ready to take on any challenge.

In summary, the ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe packs a punch in performance, comfort, and durability. It’s a well-rounded option that deserves its place as our Best Men’s Pickleball Shoe. The only thing left is to try them on and let your feet (and your paddle) do the talking!

For more information, read my in-depth review of the ASICS Men's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe.See the ASICS Men's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe

Best Women's Pickleball Shoe

2. ASICS Women's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe

Beginning from the ground up, these shoes sport a faux leather sole, a feature designed for superior grip and durability, perfect for the swift direction changes and agile movements pickleball demands. Add to that, synthetic leather overlays on the upper to up the durability game and these shoes are in it for the long haul.

Embracing the eco-friendly trend, the ASICS Women’s Gel-RENMA makes a statement with its solution-dyed sockliner. This neat feature reduces overall water usage by about 33% and carbon emissions by around 45%. So while you’re serving up aces, you’re also serving the planet. How’s that for a win-win?

The tech specs are no less impressive. The midsole is decked out with ASICS’ TRUSSTIC technology which minimizes excessive twisting and boosts stability – just what you need during those heart-racing rallies. Pair this with the wrap-up outsole and wider gauge design, and you’ve got a shoe that promises smoother, more balanced movements.

Let’s talk comfort. These shoes feature forefoot GEL technology designed to enhance impact absorption and offer a softer feel at footstrike. The flex grooves in the outsole, strategically positioned for maximum flexibility, are a dream for those multi-directional movements. And with a weight of just 284g/10oz, these shoes are lightweight but don’t skimp on performance.

In conclusion, the ASICS Women’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes tick all the boxes for performance, durability, and comfort. So, it’s no surprise they have claimed the title of our Best Women’s Pickleball Shoe. With these on, any player will feel ready to take the pickleball court by storm!

For more information, read my in-depth review of the ASICS Women's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe.See the ASICS Women's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe

Best Lightweight Pickleball Shoe

3. K-Swiss Men's Express Light Pickleball Shoe

Let’s dive into the K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe. The first thing to note is that K-Swiss didn’t just modify a tennis shoe and call it a pickleball shoe – no sir, they’ve crafted a shoe specifically for the unique demands of pickleball. This kind of attention to detail and focus on performance makes a world of difference on the court.

Starting from the bottom, the shoe is equipped with an Aosta 7.0 rubber outsole. This high-density rubber provides unmatched durability from heel to toe, promising excellent longevity. We all know how quickly the game of pickleball can wear out shoes, and these guys are ready to take it.

On the upper, we find Durawrap. This is an extra line of defense against the toe-dragging that is so common in pickleball. The Durawrap ensures your shoes will hold up even under aggressive play, preventing early wear and tear.

Inside the shoe, things get even more interesting. There’s a 180° Plantar Support Chassis that enhances mid-foot stability. This is a godsend during long rallies and quick movements. Adding to this, the Ortholite sock liner not only provides additional comfort but also helps manage moisture. The open-cell structure of the Ortholite foam moves moisture away from your feet, providing a cooler, drier, and healthier environment.

Lastly, let’s talk about protection. The shoe features Dragguard in high wear areas of the toe and heel, offering increased abrasion-resistance. No matter how hard you play, these shoes are designed to keep up.

In short, the K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe has gone above and beyond to cater to the needs of pickleball players. With the focus on durability, comfort, and performance, it’s a shoe that will stand by you game after game.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the K-Swiss Men's Express Light Pickleball Shoe.See the K-Swiss Men's Express Light Pickleball Shoe

Best Women's Style Options

4. Skechers Women's Viper Court

Let’s put the spotlight on the Skechers Women’s Viper Court, a shoe that’s been turning heads and winning accolades, including our Best Women’s Style Options award. And it’s no wonder why – this shoe has been designed with performance, comfort, and yes, style, in mind.

Starting with the upper, the athletic mesh construction offers excellent breathability. This means your feet can stay cool and comfortable, even during those intense pickleball matches or long practice sessions. The relaxed fit also ensures a roomy and comfortable fit at the toe and forefoot. This shoe has comfort written all over it.

But don’t let the comfort fool you. The Skechers Women’s Viper Court is a serious performer. It features the patented Skechers Arch Fit insole system, which has been certified by podiatrists for arch support. The insole, developed from 20 years of data and 120,000 foot scans, is designed to mold to your foot, reducing shock and improving weight dispersion.

The performance credentials don’t stop there. The shoe also features Ultra Flight cushioning, making the shoe ultra-lightweight and responsive. On the court, this means that the shoe can keep up with you, whether you’re chasing down a lob or pivoting to hit a backhand.

Now let’s talk about the outsole – the business end of any good pickleball shoe. The Viper Court boasts a Goodyear Performance Outsole that promises enhanced traction, stability, and durability. This gives players the confidence they need when making those quick, agile movements that are a hallmark of pickleball.

In conclusion, the Skechers Women’s Viper Court is a real gem for female pickleball players. With its combination of performance features, comfort considerations, and stylish design, it more than earns its place as our Best Women’s Style Options award winner. If you’re looking for a shoe that performs as good as it looks, the Viper Court could be the one for you.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the Skechers Women's Viper Court.See the Skechers Women's Viper Court

Best Multipurpose Pickleball Shoe

5. WILSON Rush Pro Ace Pickleball

This shoe is a true game-changer, delivering performance, comfort, and style on the court.

One standout feature of the Rush Pro Ace is its wider toe box, which accommodates players with wider feet, ensuring a comfortable fit that doesn’t compromise on performance. This generous fit sets it apart, making it a top choice for players seeking both comfort and support during their pickleball matches.

The shoe boasts a 4D Support Chassis, a symmetrical heel-to-toe chassis that provides superior stability, especially during pivotal movements. This feature helps control supination, giving players the confidence and control they need on the court.

Built with durability in mind, the Rush Pro Ace combines lightweight materials and a durable construction. This means the shoe can withstand the demands of intense pickleball games while keeping you light on your feet.

Comfort is a top priority with the Rush Pro Ace. It features foam padding around the ankle collar and under the tongue, providing a plush and comfortable fit. The cushioned, removable footbed ensures all-day comfort, reducing fatigue and allowing players to focus on their game.

Not only does the Rush Pro Ace deliver on performance and comfort, but it also doesn’t compromise on style. Its engineered mesh upper not only provides structure and stretch but also enhances breathability, keeping your feet cool and dry during intense rallies.

In conclusion, the WILSON Rush Pro Ace Pickleball is a true standout in the world of multipurpose pickleball shoes. With its generous fit, superior stability, durability, and stylish design, it’s no wonder it has earned the Best Multipurpose Pickleball Shoe award. Whether you’re playing pickleball or tennis, this shoe has got you covered, offering comfort, support, and the confidence to excel on any court surface.

For more information, read my in-depth review of the WILSON Rush Pro Ace Pickleball.See the WILSON Rush Pro Ace Pickleball

What to Look for in a Pickleball Shoe

When it comes to choosing the right pickleball shoe, there are key factors to consider that can make a significant difference in your game. From durability to support and traction, here’s a breakdown of what to look for:

1. Durability: Ensure that the pickleball shoe you choose is built to withstand the demands of the game, with materials and construction that can handle the quick movements and lateral shifts on the court.

2. Comfort: Look for a pickleball shoe that provides optimal comfort, with features like cushioning, padding, and a supportive fit, allowing you to stay focused on the game without discomfort or distractions.

3. Stability: The pickleball shoe should offer stability to support your movements on the court, reducing the risk of ankle rolls and providing a solid base for quick changes in direction.

4. Traction: Look for a shoe with a grippy outsole that provides excellent traction on various court surfaces, allowing you to maintain control and agility during intense rallies.

5. Breathability: Pickleball can be a high-energy, sweat-inducing game, so it’s essential to choose a shoe with good breathability, such as mesh panels or moisture-wicking materials, to keep your feet cool and dry.

6. Fit: Find a pickleball shoe that offers a comfortable and secure fit, with enough room for your toes to move freely but without any slippage or excessive movement within the shoe.

7. Support: Look for features that provide adequate support, such as arch support, heel support, and ankle support, to minimize the risk of injuries and promote proper alignment during gameplay.

Remember, finding the right pickleball shoe can greatly enhance your performance and overall enjoyment of the game. Consider these factors, try on different options, and prioritize the ones that align with your specific needs and playing style.

Pickleball Shoe Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use regular tennis shoes for playing pickleball?
A: While regular tennis shoes may provide some level of functionality, dedicated pickleball shoes are designed with specific features to optimize performance and support the unique movements and demands of the game. It is recommended to use pickleball shoes for the best playing experience.

Q: Are pickleball shoes suitable for other sports or activities?
A: Yes, many pickleball shoes are designed to be versatile and can be used for other activities such as tennis, badminton, and cross-training. However, it is important to note that each sport may have specific requirements, so it’s best to choose a shoe that aligns with the primary activity you intend to use it for.

Q: How often should I replace my pickleball shoes?
A: The lifespan of pickleball shoes depends on various factors, including frequency of use, playing style, and court conditions. As a general guideline, it is recommended to replace your pickleball shoes every 6-12 months or when you start noticing signs of significant wear and tear, loss of traction, or decreased cushioning and support.

Q: Can I use running shoes for playing pickleball?
A: Running shoes are designed specifically for forward motion, while pickleball involves multidirectional movements. While running shoes may provide cushioning, they may not offer the lateral stability, traction, and support necessary for the dynamic movements required in pickleball. It is best to use dedicated pickleball shoes for optimal performance and safety.

Q: Do I need to break in my pickleball shoes?
A: It is recommended to give your new pickleball shoes some time to break in before playing an intense match. This allows the shoes to adjust to your feet and provide optimal comfort and performance. Wear them around the house or during light practice sessions to gradually break them in and ensure a comfortable fit on the court.

Final Thoughts on The Best Pickleball Shoes

In conclusion, choosing the right pickleball shoe is crucial for maximizing your performance, comfort, and enjoyment on the court. With a variety of options available, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, comfort, stability, traction, breathability, fit, and support. Each of the featured shoes in this roundup brings unique strengths to the game, catering to the needs of pickleball players at different skill levels and preferences.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to step up your game or an experienced player aiming for that competitive edge, investing in a high-quality pickleball shoe will undoubtedly enhance your overall experience. So, lace up, hit the court, and let your footwear support you as you master those winning shots and exhilarating rallies. Pickleball awaits, and the right shoe can make all the difference!

Back to Our Top Pickleball Shoe Picks for 2024

Shop Our Top Choice: ASICS Men's Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoe