When you’re just starting out in pickleball, the right shoes can make all the difference. But with so many different options on the market, it can be tough to know which pair is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best beginner pickleball shoes.
We’ve consulted with experts and tested out a variety of different shoes to find the perfect option for beginners. We’ve also taken into account things like price, durability, and comfort to find the best overall pickleball shoes for beginners.
So, whether you’re just starting out or you’re looking for an upgrade, read on for our top picks.
Table of Contents
How We Pick & Test Beginners Pickleball Shoes?
We take a close look at all of the features and performance factors that matter most to beginners. We then put each shoe through a rigorous testing process, evaluating everything from comfort and breathability to traction and stability. After all of that, we come up with our final verdict on which shoes are the best of the best.
Top Picks of Pickleball Shoes For Beginners
ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 (Top Pick For Beginner Womens)
ASICS is a popular brand in sports shoes. Their gel cushioning technology is used in many of their shoes and is well known for its comfort and lightweight properties.
The Gel-Rocket 9 is one of the latest models in the ASICS range and is ideal for beginner women players. We found that it was comfortable to wear and performed well on the court.
The synthetic leather upper gives the shoe a lightweight feel but is also very durable. The mesh uppers allow plenty of ventilation and are breathable. The sole is made from a combination of rubber and a gum type material, which provides great traction on court surfaces.
Read More: Best Pickleball Shoes of 2024
If you’re new to the game, then this is the pickleball shoe for you. We found that it gave us good stability and kept our feet comfortable for longer periods.
The only downside is that the shoe is a bit on the narrow side, but if you’re a beginner, then it shouldn’t matter too much.
K-Swiss Express Light (Top Pick For Beginner Mens)
Our pick for the best mens pickleball shoes is the K-Swiss Express Light. The shoe is made with a rubber compound that provides a high-density outsole that’s durable and comfortable.
The outsole is also reinforced with a durable wrap to protect the foot from excessive toe dragging. The shoe is built with a 180 degree thermal plastic Plantar Support Chassis that enhances mid-foot stability and a durable drag guard in the high wear areas of the toe and heel to increase abrasion resistance.
The shoe also features a removable sock liner that provides a cool, dry, healthier environment, while the shoe’s unique open-cell foam structure helps to move moisture away and keep the foot dry.
It’s perfect for players who want a comfortable and durable shoe that will last for many years.
ASICS Upcourt 4 (Best For Wide Feet Women)
ASICS Women’s Upcourt 4 Court Shoes is our top recommendation for Best Pickleball Shoes for wide feet.
The shoes are designed to provide great support for your feet, and they’re made from synthetic materials, so they’re super lightweight and comfortable. We love the mesh and synthetic leather upper because they allow air to circulate around the foot, which helps keep your feet cool and dry.
They’re not as flexible as leather shoes, but that’s not really an issue for pickleball. We like the rubber sole because it provides great traction, and the gum sole enhances durability and traction.
Overall, the Upcourt 4 Court Shoes are our top pick for Best Pickleball Shoes for wide feet. They’re highly durable, comfortable, and they provide excellent support. They’re also affordable, and they come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Fila Volley Zone (Best For Wide Feet Mens)
With a rubber sole and a stylish design, the Fila Men’s Volley Zone shoes are ideal for wide feet. These shoes are designed with a high cut toe and a low heel. This gives you a roomy fit, which provides comfort and stability when playing.
There is also a leather lining, which helps to prevent foot odor. There is a breathable mesh upper with a Velcro strap to keep the shoes securely closed. The shoe is available in multiple colors, and the color options include black, white, grey, red, and blue.
We found the size chart in the package to be accurate. The fit of the shoe is snug but comfortable, so it will not restrict your movement.
The rubber sole provides excellent traction, and they’re durable enough to withstand wear and tear.
The Fila Men’s Volley Zone is a comfortable, versatile shoe that is ideal for both casual and professional wear.
How to Choose Best Pickleball Shoes For Beginners?
When you’re just starting out in pickleball, it’s important to have the right shoes to help you get the most out of the game. But with so many different types and brands of pickleball shoes on the market, it can be tough to know which ones are the best for beginners.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing pickleball shoes for beginners:
1. Look for shoes with good traction
One of the most important things to look for in pickleball shoes is good traction. You’ll be doing a lot of quick starts and stops during the game, so it’s important to have shoes that will help you stay stable on the court.
2. Choose shoes with good support
Another important consideration for pickleball shoes is support. You’ll be doing a lot of lateral movements during the game, so it’s important to have shoes that will support your feet and ankles.
3. Pick shoes that are comfortable
Of course, comfort is also important when choosing pickleball shoes. You’ll be wearing them for long periods of time, so it’s important to make sure they’re comfortable enough to wear for extended periods.
4. Consider your budget
When choosing pickleball shoes, it’s also important to consider your budget. There are a wide range of prices for pickleball shoes, so it’s important to find a pair that fits your budget. You should buy beginner pickleball shoes under the 50$-150$ range.
5. Try them on before you buy them
Finally, it’s always a good idea to try on pickleball shoes before you buy them. This way, you can make sure they’re a good fit and that they’re comfortable.
Keep these things in mind and you’ll be sure to find the best pickleball shoes for beginners.
FAQs
What are some good pickleball shoes for beginners?
Some good pickleball shoes for beginners include the ASICS Gel-Rocket 9 and the K-Swiss Express Light.
Why is traction important in a pickleball shoe?
Traction is important in a pickleball shoe because it helps you move quickly around the court. You want a shoe with good traction so you can make quick starts and stops and change directions easily.
What are some other important features to look for in a pickleball shoe?
Some other important features to look for in a pickleball shoe include comfort and support. You want a shoe that is comfortable and lightweight so you can play for long periods of time, and you also want a shoe that provides good support to help prevent injuries.
What are the benefits of wearing pickleball shoes?
Pickleball shoes can help improve your game by providing good support and traction. They can also help prevent injuries by providing cushioning and support to the feet and ankles.
Can I wear my regular sneakers to play pickleball?
No, you should not wear your regular sneakers to play pickleball. Pickleball shoes are specifically designed to provide good support and traction while being comfortable to wear. Wearing regular sneakers could put you at risk for injury.
How often should I replace my pickleball shoes?
You should replace your pickleball shoes every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if they show signs of wear.
How do I know if a pickleball shoe is comfortable?
The best way to determine if a pickleball shoe is comfortable is to try it on and walk around in it for a bit. You can also read online reviews to see what other people have said about the comfort of specific shoes.