This post was written by Ashley M. Bojrab, DPM, FACFAS, ABPM, CWS, PPG – Podiatry.
Pickleball, a sport that combines table tennis, badminton and tennis, has been soaring in popularity in recent years. While the game started with the senior population, it’s now spread to players of all ages. As a podiatrist, I often have patients ask me about the best shoes for pickleball. In addition to my recommendation of selecting simply the one that works best for you, I do have some considerations for paddlers.
Movement considerations
When playing pickleball, there is a lot of side-to-side motion, also known as lateral motion, as well as sudden pivots and stops. Traditionally, running shoes support forward and backward motion. Shoes that are better built for side-to-side motion, such as tennis shoes, would be a better choice.
Turf talk
You might hear a pickleball shoe referred to as a court shoe, which is a shoe designed for various court surfaces. Pickleball surfaces are similar to, if not the same as, tennis, volleyball and squash courts. The shoe's traction helps grip the ground and allows for multidirectional movement.
Labels matter
Some traditional pickleball shoes, such as Tyrol®, have a deeper heel cup to better control motion when making sudden movements. Other shoes may claim to be pickleball shoes but are just general athletic or running shoes relabeled or marketed differently.
It’s worth it to do some research and select the best pickleball shoe for you. It will help give you support and stability, prevent foot and ankle issues, and potentially even improve your game!
If you have any concerns about your feet, be sure to speak with your podiatrist. We are here to help every step of the way.
