Top 4 Best Shoes Pickleball, Experts Rank

Wearing the right shoes for pickleball can boost your performance and help prevent injuries on the court.

Finding the right shoes for pickleball is crucial for both performance and injury prevention whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. The right footwear will help you move quickly, stay stable, and enjoy the game longer—while the wrong shoes can increase your risk of slips, falls, and foot fatigue.

What Makes a Good Pickleball Shoe?

Pickleball is a dynamic sport that requires quick lateral movements, rapid pivots, and bursts of speed. Because of this, the best shoes for pickleball are designed to deliver traction, stability, and comfort on court surfaces.

Brandon Mackie, pickleball gear reviewer, "said":
“Wearing the right court shoes is critical. They can protect you from injuries, allow you to play with confidence, and win more games.”

Key Features to Look For

• Strong Outsole and Tread:
  A durable rubber outsole with a responsive tread pattern (like herringbone or hexagonal) provides the grip you need for quick stops and pivots on both indoor and outdoor courts.

• Pickleball Warehouse editors, "said":
  “Shoe manufacturers develop outsole rubber compounds and tread patterns which provide proper traction on a hard court surface, along with good outsole durability.”

• Lateral Stability:
  Shoes should have a wide base and a stiff lower structure to prevent rolling your ankle or twisting your knee during fast lateral moves.

• Men’s Health editors, "said":
  “Lateral stability is super important since it can help prevent common pickleball injuries to ankles or knees, so it’s more important for them to have a wider base and a stiff lower structure to provide this kind of maximum stability.”

• Supportive Upper:
  Look for a sturdy yet breathable upper to hold your foot in place and keep you cool.

• Cushioning and Comfort:
  A cushioned midsole, often made from EVA or PU foam, helps absorb shock and reduces joint stress during play.

• Fit and Durability:
  The shoe should fit snugly without being too tight, with enough room for your toes. Durability is especially important for outdoor play.

Top Pickleball Shoes for 2025

• Diadem Court Burst:
  Highly rated for comfort and versatility, suitable for both tennis and pickleball.

• Brandon Mackie, "said":
  “The Diadem Court Bursts are my top choice this year as they're simply the most comfortable pickleball shoes I've ever tested.”

• K-Swiss Express Light:
  Known for its plantar arch support and durable DURAWRAP cover, making it a strong and supportive option for long sessions.

• Men’s Health editors, "said":
  “We've come to find the Express Light as one of the top supportive and strong pickleball shoes money can buy.”

• HEAD Motion Pro:
  Designed for agility and multidirectional grip, with a breathable mesh upper and wide toe box for comfort.

• PPA Tour editors, "said":
  “The HEAD Motion Pro Pickleball Shoe enhances your agility, speed, and precision on the court.”

• Adidas Ubersonic 4.1:
  Lightweight, stable, and breathable, especially good for players with narrow or medium feet who value speed and side-to-side movement.

Shoes to Avoid for Pickleball

Not all athletic shoes are suitable for pickleball. Wearing the wrong type can lead to discomfort and increase your risk of injury.

Avoid These Types:

• Running Shoes:
  Built for forward motion, they lack the lateral support and court grip needed for pickleball.

• Trail Running or Hiking Shoes:
  These have aggressive tread patterns for outdoor terrain, not for smooth court surfaces, and can cause you to slip or mark up indoor courts.

• Open Shoes, Lounge Shoes, or Sandals:
  Offer no support or protection and dramatically increase your risk of injury.

• Old, Worn-Out Shoes:
  Even if they were once good court shoes, worn-out soles lose grip and support.

Final Tips for Pickleball Shoe Shopping

• Try shoes on with your usual court socks to ensure a proper fit.

• Replace shoes regularly—especially if you play often or notice the tread wearing down.

• If you play both indoors and outdoors, consider having a pair for each surface to maximize shoe life and performance.

Brandon Mackie, "said":
“Just make sure that the shoe has a good grip and stability on court surfaces, and that it fits well.”

Bottom Line

The best pickleball shoes offer traction, stability, comfort, and durability—helping you play your best and stay safe. Prioritize shoes specifically designed for court sports, and avoid running or outdoor-specific shoes. Your feet and your game will thank you.