When it comes to pickleball equipment, the paddle often takes center stage, but overlooking the importance of proper footwear can be a misstep. The best pickleball shoes not only improve your performance but also safeguard against common injuries like rolled ankles and twisted knees. Today, brands such as Adidas, K-Swiss and Asics offer specialized pickleball shoes, and we’ve reviewed the best pairs to improve your game and protect your feet on the court. The Babolat Jet Mach 3, for example, earns high marks for its grippy Michelin rubber outsole, while the Asics Gel-Resolution 9 offers loads of stability.
Best Pickleball Shoes Overall: Babolat Jet Mach 3
Best Budget Pickleball Shoes: Adidas GameCourt 2
Best Pickleball Shoes For Men: Asics Gel-Resolution 9
Best Pickleball Shoes For Women: Mizuno Wave Exceed Light 2 AC
Best Pickleball Shoes For Beginners: Asics Gel-Renma
Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet: K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 Wide
Best Pickleball Shoes For Breathability: Adidas Ubersonic 4.1
Best Pickleball Shoes Overall
Model That's Fit For The Pros
Babolat Jet Mach 3
Weight (pair): 22.9 ounces | Upper: Protective polyurethane | Outsole: Michelin Premium rubber | Cushion: EVA | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Durable Michelin rubber outsole
- Comfortable fit that feels broken in from the first wear
- Lateral support
Cons:
- Style runs a bit narrow
- Best for competitive play
Sticky Michelin outsoles, flexible uppers and supportive OrthoLite cushioning are just a few reasons why we love the Jet Mach 3 from Babolat. The French brand has nearly 150 years of experience building equipment for racquet sports, so it’s obvious why these shoes feel ready for play as soon as you lace them up. While a modest amount of cushioning lends support as you move on the balls of your feet, it’s the outsole that truly steals the show thanks to its durability and grip. Babolat also adds 10 millimeters of drop to force your foot forward, which better prepares you for quick reactions.
It’s worth noting that the Jet Mach 3 runs a bit narrow, but it also comes in a wide size option. The design is also a bit heavy at 11.4 ounces per shoe, but the added weight boosts durability. If you’re looking for a shoe that’s aggressive and versatile, this is a great option with a proven track record.
Best Budget Pickleball Shoes
Breathable, Supportive Shoe For Less Than $100
Adidas GameCourt 2
Weight (pair): 22.4 ounces | Upper: Open mesh | Outsole: Adiwear rubber | Cushion: EVA | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Breathable mesh upper
- Soft padded collar
- Sticky outsole
Cons:
- Fit isn’t consistent from one foot to the next
- Mesh upper comes at the cost of long-term durability
There are dozens of budget-friendly court shoes to choose from, but we like the GameCourt 2 from Adidas for its breathable upper, herringbone-shaped outsole and use of planet-friendly recycled materials. It’s unlikely that this shoe is going to earn you a spot on the PPA Tour, but for the casual player or the beginner who’s learning the ropes, it’s a model that’s easy to love. Adidas has decades of experience designing supportive, nimble footwear that doesn’t break the bank, and the GameCourt 2 is proof of that.
With that said, the sizing seems to be a bit inconsistent; some find that the style offers a nice amount of room through the toe box, while others think it’s a bit too tight. The midsole is also a bit stiff, but it should loosen up after a bit of play. All in all, the GameCourt 2 is a great shoe for the price. If you’re not ready to commit to a shoe that costs in excess of $100, consider starting here.
Best Pickleball Shoes For Men
Heavy, Durable Shoe That's Incredibly Stable
Asics Gel-Resolution 9
Weight (pair): 27.8 ounces | Upper: Reinforced PU | Outsole: Ahar Plus rubber | Cushion: EVA | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Stable and supportive
- Great durability
- Surprisingly breathable
Cons:
- Heavy and a bit stiff
- Expensive
The Gel-Resolution 9 isn’t marketed as a stability shoe per say, but its support through the midsole (that now extends into the heel) makes it a sturdy choice that feels secure as you work your way back and forth across the court. In spite of the fact that it boasts a reinforced PU upper, it’s also quite breathable thanks to ventilation holes under the hard shell. We feel that the fit is spot on, and customer reviews reflect that sentiment—pick up your usual size and the Gel-Resolution 9 should fit just fine.
Of course, a shoe that’s so stable comes at the cost of weight and agility. This shoe is somehow even heavier than the Babolat Jet Mach 3, so it isn’t a great choice if you’re looking for something that keeps you light on your feet, but if you can look past the weight, you’ll be rewarded with a supportive, durable shoe that knows its way around the court.
Best Pickleball Shoes For Women
Style So Light, You'll Barely Notice It's There
Mizuno Wave Exceed Light 2 AC
Weight (pair): 17.8 ounces | Upper: Breathable mesh | Outsole: X10 carbon rubber | Cushion: Mizuno Enerzy foam | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight
- Stable and supportive
- Breathable
Cons:
- Runs a bit narrow
- Limited color options
What you’ll quickly appreciate about the Wave Exceed Light 2 AC isn’t what it embraces, but rather, what it lacks: weight. At 9.8 ounces per shoe, this shoe is as light as they come, which means every movement feels that much more effortless as you manage the court. And in spite of the fact that it weighs as little as a road running shoe, there’s still plenty of support and stability with multi-layered cushioning and a grippy carbon rubber outsole. Chasing down lobs and charging the net comes naturally when it’s this easy to move.
With that said, Mizuno footwear often runs a bit narrow, so if you’ve got a wide foot or don’t like a super snug fit, consider sizing up. We also wish Mizuno offered a few more color options beyond the classic pinks, corals and beiges that comprise women’s clothing nowadays, but you might overlook that given the shoe’s comfort and featherweight construction.
Best Pickleball Shoes For Beginners
Basic Model For The Budding Amateur
Asics Gel-Renma
Weight (pair): 25.2 ounces | Upper: Synthetic leather | Outsole: Rubber | Cushion: EVA, Gel | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Synthetic leather upper is durable
- Comfortable cushioning
- Excellent quality
Cons:
- A bit on the heavy side
It’s a common misconception that a beginner-friendly shoe is equivalent to a cheap shoe, when in reality, one that’s designed for beginners offers a comfortable, predictable experience that allows you to focus your attention elsewhere. While the Asics Gel-Renma isn’t going to make you a better player, it is going to provide a supportive, stable, reliable experience that allows you to focus on the basics.
Its stability keeps you on your feet, and while it’s a bit on the heavy side, materials like synthetic leather boost durability. All in all, it’s a shoe that offers tremendous value, and whether you’re stepping onto a court for the first time or playing casually with friends, you’ll find it a suitable option that keeps up as you refine your skills.
Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet
Space To Support A Flatter Foot
MOST POPULAR
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 Wide
Weight (pair): 24.6 ounces | Upper: Synthetic leather | Outsole: Rubber | Cushion: Surgelite foam | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Durable synthetic leather upper
- Spacious to accommodate wider feet
Cons:
- Stiff and a bit heavy
- Poor breathability
The K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 is a popular pickleball shoe in its own right, but the wide variant featured here offers a bit more room for those who need it. Beyond its spacious interior, there’s a lot to like about this shoe, from the Durawrap Flex that minimizes the break-in period to the Surgelite midsole technology that boosts comfort. Underfoot, a basic rubber compound delivers grip to help you stop on a dime and make dynamic movements on the court.
Sentiments aside, the shoe feels a bit stiff because of the synthetic leather upper, and that same material reduces breathability, making this a poor option for those with hot feet. But if you don’t mind breaking in the leather and don’t really suffer from overheating feet, this is a great choice for anyone in need of a wide pickleball shoe that offers long-term durability.
Best Pickleball Shoes For Breathability
Keep Your Cool As The Match Heats Up
Adidas Ubersonic 4.1
Weight (pair): 24.6 ounces | Upper: Breathable mesh | Outsole: Adiwear rubber | Cushion: Lightstrike | Closure: Lace-up
Pros:
- Breathable recycled mesh upper
- Lots of unique colors to choose from
- Great price if you can find it on sale
Cons:
- Unique colors sell out fast
Flying under the radar, the Ubersonic 4.1 from Adidas stands out for its breathability, which is a necessity for those hot summer matches. The variety of vibrant colors it comes in adds an extra dash of style to your game, and while it may not boast an abundance of features, it hits the sweet spot with its airy mesh for ventilation, cushy foam midsole for comfort and Adiwear outsole for solid traction. Plus, its upper material incorporates recycled content, appealing to eco-conscious players.
Granted, it's not the sturdiest option out there, but its emphasis on lightness and breathability outweighs its lack of robustness. And with its pocket-friendly price, replacing a worn-out pair won't break the bank, especially if you happen to find it on sale.
MORE FROMFORBES VETTED
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
In addition to our coverage of the best pickleball shoes, the Forbes Vetted gear team has extensively reviewed other core pieces of pickleball equipment, including the best pickleball paddles and the best pickleball paddles for beginners.
- Gear editor Cam Vigliotta, who oversees this story, has a background in kinesiology and uses his education to review footwear recommendations. He pays particular attention to stability, cushioning, breathability and durability, and looks for shoes that adequately combine these features.
- This story is regularly revised to ensure all the information is accurate and each recommendation is still the best in its class. It was last updated in May 2024.
How We Chose The Best Pickleball Shoes
To find the best pickleball shoes, we sought out reputable brands that we have experience with, including Adidas, Asics and Mizuno.
- To narrow down the best pickleball shoes, we delved deep into the specs that matter most for players both amateur and advanced, evaluating factors like stability, durability, breathability and cushioning.
- We then looked into the experiences of real users who invested in these shoes, poring over reviews for insights and feedback that contribute to a well-rounded perspective.
- The final selections were reviewed by gear editor and fitness expert Cam Vigliotta, who lent his fitness background to this guide.
What To Consider When Shopping For Pickleball Shoes
Lateral Support
Shoes with good lateral support can handle the side-to-side movements common in pickleball, thereby reducing the risk of ankle injuries. Look for shoes that offer specific stability features, such as a wider base, heel cups and additional midsole cushioning.
Traction
Look for shoes with durable outsoles that provide solid traction on indoor and outdoor courts. High-quality traction ensures stability and prevents slips and falls, which may lead not only to a missed opportunity on the court, but injury as well.
Comfort And Fit
Choose shoes that offer a comfortable fit with sufficient cushioning to absorb impact during quick movements and rallies. You’ll often find cushioning not only underfoot, but around the heel and ankle as well to absorb impact and lessen the likelihood of blisters. Such strategic cushioning reduces fatigue and discomfort that might otherwise interrupt your game.
Breathability And Durability
Shoes made from breathable materials keep your feet cool and dry during intense play. Meanwhile, enhanced durability ensures your shoes can withstand the demands of the game without breaking down when you need them most. Depending on the surface you play on, your style of play and how often you play, your shoes will likely last anywhere from 3 to 6 months.
What Type Of Shoes Are Best For Pickleball?
When it comes to pickleball shoes, opt for models that are tailored for court sports like tennis or volleyball. You'll want shoes that offer solid lateral support to tackle those side-to-side movements on the court, and keep an eye out for pairs with durable outsoles to ensure you stay grounded whether you're playing indoors or out.
Is There A Difference Between Pickleball Shoes And Tennis Shoes?
Pickleball shoes and tennis shoes share a number of similarities, but they also have some distinctions. For example, pickleball shoes tend to be lighter with an emphasis on lateral support to handle the game's quick side-to-side movements, and they often feature specialized traction for both indoor and outdoor courts. On the other hand, tennis shoes typically prioritize durability for the frequent stops and starts in tennis. With that said, many players find tennis shoes suitable for pickleball as long as they offer ample support and traction, which is why many shoes on this list are, in fact, tennis shoes.
