If the Shoe Fits, Should I Buy It for Pickleball?

Pickleball shoes have hit the market, big time, this summer.

On the East End, we’re so fortunate to have two fantastic shoe stores that offer custom fitting and professional recommendations for your individual foot size, and possible issues.

I’ve frequently purchased pickleball and other sporting equipment from Tennis East and Gubbins/Geary’s sporting goods. Although you may be getting a slightly better price online, this purchase may be the second most important pickleball purchase you make — your paddle being the first. My recommendation is to “shop locally,” with the knowledge that you’re purchasing the best shoe for you to play safely and effectively.

Both Barbara Gubbins and Kathy Springman agree that the large shoe manufactures have placed “pickleball shoes” on the market. Our local experts have evaluated these shoes and found that a good court shoe is your best bet. The companies have been making these court shoes for many years, and the variety and technology is superior to anything you’ll find in just a pickleball shoe.

So, what should I be looking for when I buy my next court/pickleball shoe?

First and foremost, comfort and support are your priorities. Since pickleball requires players to move laterally, changing directions quickly, running shoes are out of the question. Pickleball players roll their ankles frequently because the shoe they are wearing doesn’t provide the lateral support needed to safely play in a competitive game.

Generally speaking, the more cushioning the shoe provides, the less support they offer. Cushioning makes the shoe more comfortable and takes pressure off your legs, especially your knees. The trade-off is that they’re not as stable, and you may find yourself losing your balance as you move laterally to return an opponent’s shot.

Since you’ll be playing on many different surfaces, both inside and outside, the shoes’ ability to grip and remain playable is important. There are many different choices when choosing your favorite shoe — be sure it’s comfortable, provides the support you need and will stand up to hours of competitive play.

Almost every brand offers numerous color choices, but, honestly, that’s the least important aspect you should be considering.

Kathy at Tennis East says the Mizuno Wave Exceed Light 2 is her top seller. At $140, it’s reasonably priced and offers an outstanding balance of cushioning and lateral support. It comes in standard width and holds up well in overtime.

Both Kathy and Barbara say the Asics Gel Dedicate 8 is a good introduction into a solid court shoe. It’s available in standard width and priced at $80. It provides moderate cushioning and lateral support while holding up well during competitive play.

The Asics Swift FF2 is a more durable choice, and the combination of cushioning and support make it the “best-seller” at Gubbins. It’s priced at $110 and is available in standard width, with many different color options.

Barbara mentioned that ,for those of you who may need a wider shoe, the New Balance 1007 offers different widths and is an excellent blend of cushioning and lateral support. It’s a little heavier than some of the other court shoe options, but comfort is so important for those with wider feet, and it’s an excellent choice. It’s priced at $120, holds up well in competitive play — and is my favorite court shoe.

Kathy’s top-of-the-line is the Wilson Torneo 3. At $150, it’s probably not the first shoe you’ll try, but it’s a five-star-rated shoe for comfort and lateral support and has a wider toe box for those who may need some extra space.

Since every shoe company’s popular styles may be available from year to year, that doesn’t mean that the size you fit into last year will fit the same the following year. Your level of play or your physical condition may have changed since your last pair of court shoes. Be sure to explain that to the salesperson fitting you, and walk around the store for a while to make sure you’re in the optimum shoe for your game.

Gubbins, Tennis East, Flying Point and The T-Shirt Store all offer pickleball apparel and are eager to get you into the best equipment and clothing to make you look and play your best.