Quick answer: Best Pickleball Shoes affects roughly 1 in 4 adults in our practice. Effective treatment starts with a targeted diagnosis, conservative-first treatment, and escalation only when needed. We treat this regularly at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills practices. Call (810) 206-1402.
✅ Medically Reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric physician & surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle | Updated April 2026
★ DR. TOM BIERNACKI, DPM, FACFAS · BOARD-CERTIFIED PODIATRIST
Best Pickleball Shoes: Quick Answer
Pickleball is brutal on feet — quick lateral cuts, sudden stops, repeated heel strikes, and constant pivoting. The best pickleball shoes have FOUR features that running and tennis shoes lack: (1) reinforced lateral support to prevent ankle rolls, (2) wide forefoot platform for stability during net charges, (3) gum rubber outsoles for grip without marking the court, and (4) cushion that absorbs heel strike without bottoming out.
My top 5 picks for pickleball: ASICS Gel-Resolution 9 (best lateral stability), New Balance 996v5 (premium cushion + court grip), K-Swiss Hypercourt Express (lightweight + agile), Babolat Jet Tere (max stability for power players), and Skechers Viper Court (best value entry-level). AVOID running shoes on the court — the soft midsoles roll under lateral cuts and cause ankle sprains.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
What are the best shoes for pickleball? [Men & Women]
We review the BEST pickleball shoes for women & the best pickleball shoes for men. Indoor shoes, Achilles Tendon & Plantar fasciitis too!
Best PickleBall Shoe Links:
Best Pickle Ball Shoes For Women & Men:
As a podiatrist and avid pickleball player, I understand why we proper footwear when preventing foot injuries and maximizing performance on the court. In this article, I will share my top picks for the best pickleball shoes for both men and women, along with their pros and cons.
ASICS Gel-Rocket 9
The ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 is popular among pickleball players for its comfort, support, and affordability. The Gel cushioning system in the forefoot and rearfoot provides shock absorption. It reduces the risk of impact injuries, while the Trusstic System technology in the midfoot area helps to reduce the weight of the sole unit while maintaining structural integrity.
Pros:
- Good support and stability
- Comfortable cushioning
- Affordable price point
ConIt mayMay run a bit narrow for some individuals
- Traction could be improved on some court surfaces
Nike Air Zoom Vapor X
The Nike Air Zoom Vapor X is an excellent option for spending more. It features a Dynamic Fit system that wraps the foot for a secure, glove-like fit and Nike’s responsive Zoom Air technology in the heel for added cushioning and support.
Pros:
- Excellent traction on various court surfaces
- Lightweight and responsive
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- More expensive than some other options
- It may not provide enough support for those with foot or ankle issues
New Balance Fresh Foam Lav
The New Balance Fresh Foam Lav is a newer addition to the pickleball shoe market, but it has quickly gained popularity for its comfort and versatility. The Fresh Foam midsole provides a soft, cushioned feel while maintaining responsiveness, and the Hypoknit upper conforms to the foot for a custom fit.
Pros:
- Comfortable and supportive
- Versatile for different court surfaces and styles of play
- Attractive design and color options
Cons:
- It may not be as durable as some other options
- It may require some break-in time to conform to the foot fully
Prince T22
The Prince T22 is a classic choice that has been a favorite among pickleball players for years. Its synthetic leather and mesh upper provide durability and breathability, while the ShockEraser midsole and SoftSpring technology offer cushioning and support.
Pros:
- Excellent durability
- Good support and cushioning
- Great traction on most court surfaces
Cons:
- It can run a bit narrow
- It may be heavier than some other options
Bottom line: the best pickleball shoes for both men and women provide a combination of support, cushioning, traction, and durability while accommodating individual foot types and preferences. The ASICS Gel-Rocket 9, Nike Air Zoom Vapor X, New Balance Fresh Foam Lav, and Prince T22 are all excellent options for the perfect pair of pickleball shoes. It is essential to try on shoes and test them out on the court before making a final decision.
How to Fit Pickleball Shoes Properly:
- It is also important to note that proper fit is crucial for pickleball shoes.
- Shoes that are too small or too big can cause blisters and foot pain, leading to injuries.
- When trying on shoes, wear the socks you plan on playing in and try them on towards the end of the day when your feet are at their largest.
Consider Court Shoes or Indoor Shoes:
- Another factor to consider is the court surface you typically play on.
- Different shoes may perform better or worse on other characters, so it’s essential to think that when selecting them.
- For example, shoes with more aggressive treads may work better on outdoor courts with loose gravel, while shoes with smoother soles may work better on indoor courts with smooth surfaces.
How to Prevent Achilles Tendonitis & Plantar Fasciitis during PickleBall:
Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis are two common foot injuries that can occur in pickleball, but fortunately, you can take steps to prevent them. Here are some tips:
- Wear proper footwear: As discussed in my previous article, wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning is crucial to preventing foot injuries in pickleball. Ensure your shoes fit well, have good arch support, and provide adequate cushioning for your foot type and the court surface.
- Stretch before and after playing: Stretching your calves and Achilles tendon before and after playing can help prevent Achilles tendonitis. Similarly, stretching your plantar fascia and calf muscles can help prevent plantar fasciitis. Take a few minutes before and after playing, paying particular attention to these areas.
- Strengthen your calf muscles: Strengthening your calf muscles can also help prevent Achilles tendonitis. Try incorporating calf raises and other strengthening exercises into your fitness routine.
- Warm-up before playing: Before jumping right into a game, take a few minutes to warm up your muscles and get your blood flowing. This can help prevent injuries and improve your performance.
- Avoid overuse: Overuse is a common cause of both Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Make sure to vary your playing intensity and take breaks as needed to rest your feet and ankles.
- Address any foot or ankle issues: If you have any pre-existing foot or ankle issues, such as flat feet or high arches, talk to your podiatrist about how to properly manage them and reduce your risk of injury.
- Use proper technique: Proper technique, including good footwork and balance, can also help prevent foot injuries. Take lessons or watch instructional videos to ensure you are using proper technique when playing.
Following these tips can help prevent Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis in pickleball and keep your feet healthy and pain-free. Remember to always listen to your body and promptly address any pain or discomfort to avoid further injury.
Summary:
- In summary, selecting the right pickleball shoes can significantly improve your performance on the court and reduce your risk of foot injuries. Consider the type of support, cushioning, traction, and durability that works best for you and your playing style, as well as the fit and court surface. With the right pair of shoes and proper foot care, you can enjoy the game of pickleball while keeping your feet healthy and pain-free.
Related Treatment Guides
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Achilles Tendinopathy Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
Medical References & Sources
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Patient Education
- American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society — Foot Conditions
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Howell, MI 48843
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More Podiatrist-Recommended Shoes Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion neutral runner — podiatrist favorite for all-day comfort.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 25
Stability runner for overpronators — great for flat feet and bunions.
New Balance 990v6
Premium walking shoe with wide toe box — bunion and flat-foot friendly.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
The right shoe shape, last, and stability category is more important than brand. Balance Foot & Ankle evaluates your foot type (neutral, pronator, supinator, high-arched) and recommends specific shoe models that match. Bringing in your current pair lets us spot wear patterns that reveal gait issues — a free 5-minute assessment that can prevent years of foot pain.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for footwear
Advantages
- ✓ Right shoe = pain reduction
- ✓ Multiple price points
- ✓ Fast adjustment
Considerations
- ✗ Trial-and-error
- ✗ Replace every 400 miles
- ✗ Custom orthotics often needed
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for footwear
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Brooks Ghost 17 Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Neutral runner
Check Price on Amazon
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Stability for flat feet
Check Price on Amazon
Altra Torin 8 Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Zero-drop wide toe box
Check Price on Amazon
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About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
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If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your foot pain, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-day evaluations and advanced in-office care.
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Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified foot & ankle surgeon (ABFAS & ABPM) at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has made him one of the most-followed foot & ankle educators on YouTube.