Nicolette Bailey, a former professional tennis player, found her true calling in the sport of pickleball. Her extensive experience, spanning over 15 years in both sports, has imbued her with a wealth of knowledge she eagerly shares with others. Dedicated to enhancing the skills of fellow enthusiasts, Nicolette continues to contribute to the pickleball community with her insights and tips.
As a pickleball enthusiast with years of experience in the world of racquet sports, I can confidently say that having the right footwear is crucial to your performance on the court. The right shoes will not only provide you with the necessary support and stability, but also help prevent injuries and keep you comfortable during long matches. In this article, I'll be sharing my top recommendations for the best pickleball shoes on the market.
First and foremost, it's important to note that not all athletic shoes are suitable for pickleball. Running shoes, for example, are designed for forward motion and don't provide the lateral support needed for the quick side-to-side movements required in pickleball. Instead, you'll want to look for shoes specifically designed for court sports, such as tennis or volleyball shoes. This is why choosing the right pickleball footwear is so important.
For women, my top pick is the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9. These shoes offer excellent support and stability, thanks to their Trusstic System technology and Forefoot Gel cushioning. They also have a gum rubber outsole that provides great traction on indoor courts. Another great option for women is the Nike Court Lite 2. These shoes are lightweight and breathable, with a Phylon midsole that offers cushioning and support. You can find more options in our comprehensive review of pickleball shoes for women.
For men, the Adidas CourtJam Bounce is a top pick. These shoes feature a Bounce midsole that provides excellent cushioning and energy return, as well as a durable Adiwear outsole that offers great traction on any court surface. Another great option for men is the ASICS Gel-Challenger 12. These shoes have a Gel cushioning system that absorbs shock and provides excellent comfort, as well as a Trusstic System that reduces weight without sacrificing support. For more options, check out our comprehensive review of pickleball shoes for men.
If you're a beginner looking for a more affordable option, the Wilson Kaos 3.0 is a great choice. These shoes are lightweight and comfortable, with a Duralast outsole that provides good traction on indoor and outdoor courts. They also have a breathable upper that helps keep your feet cool during long matches. It's also important to consider the impact of court surfaces on gameplay when choosing your shoes.
In conclusion, when it comes to pickleball shoes, it's important to look for shoes specifically designed for court sports that offer the necessary support, stability, and traction. Some of my top picks include the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 and Gel-Challenger 12 for women and men, respectively, as well as the Adidas CourtJam Bounce and Wilson Kaos 3.0 for those on a budget. No matter which shoes you choose, make sure they fit properly and feel comfortable, as this will greatly impact your performance on the court. Don't forget to check out our guide on must-have pickleball accessories to further elevate your game.