Key takeaways:
Running shoes don’t offer the side-to-side support or grip needed for the fast movements in pickleball.
Court-specific shoes like PB5 Court2 provide better stability and ankle support, and help lower the chance of injury.
Wearing the right shoes can boost your performance, keep you comfortable, and make each match more fun.
Feeling like you're always one step behind on the court can take the fun out of pickleball. The truth is, what you wear on your feet matters more than you might think. Pickleball is all about fast reactions, quick changes in direction, and steady footwork. Running shoes are great for forward motion, but they aren't built for the side-to-side movement this game demands.
Wearing the right shoes gives you better traction, more support, and the confidence to move freely and stay in control during each point. That's exactly why we created the PB5 Court2 shoes. Designed specifically for pickleball, they feature Dynamic Stability Assist™ to support those sharp pivots and fast stops that define the game.
Once you feel the difference that proper footwear makes, you'll never look back. And when your gear matches your effort, the game becomes that much more enjoyable. Now that you're thinking about your foundation on the court, let’s dive into the top reasons why running shoes fall short for pickleball—and what to look for instead.
Why you shouldn't use running shoes for pickleball
Running shoes might be great for the track, but they fall short when it comes to the demands of pickleball. Here's why they’re not the best choice for the court:
Limited side-to-side support: Running shoes are built for straight-ahead movement. In pickleball, where quick lateral steps and sudden direction changes are constant, this lack of support can lead to ankle injuries.
Traction that doesn’t match the court: The soles on running shoes aren’t designed for hard courts. Without the right grip, you risk slipping during those fast-paced plays and quick pivots.
Lack of heel and midfoot stability: Pickleball requires quick stops and starts. Running shoes often have softer cushioning and less structure in the heel and midfoot, which can throw off your balance during fast transitions.
Reduced durability for court surfaces: The materials on running shoes wear down faster on court surfaces, especially if you're playing regularly. This can impact both your safety and performance.
Increased injury risk over time: Without proper support and traction, running shoes can lead to discomfort, fatigue, or even long-term injuries that might keep you off the court.
Choosing court-specific footwear designed for pickleball helps you move better, feel more stable, and stay safe. It's also one of the simplest ways to improve your game and enjoy every match with confidence.
Why proper shoes matter in pickleball
Pickleball is all about quick reactions and smart movement. The right shoes don’t just support your steps—they help you stay in control through every rally. Here’s how they make a difference:
Lateral stability: Pickleball involves constant side-to-side movement. Court shoes are designed to keep your feet supported and stable, reducing the chance of rolling an ankle when you change direction fast.
Smooth pivots: Fast turns are part of nearly every point. Unlike running shoes, court shoes have flexible soles that let you rotate more naturally, helping you stay in the flow of the game.
Safe backward movement: Running shoes aren't built for backpedaling, but court-specific shoes give you the grip and stability you need to move safely in any direction.
Support for stop-and-go movement: Quick sprints followed by sudden stops are common in pickleball. Shoes like the PB5 Court2 with Dynamic Stability Assist™ help absorb impact and keep you stable when the game speeds up.
Balance when it counts: Whether you're lunging for a dink or defending a drive, balance is everything. A wider base and low profile in court shoes help you stay grounded and in control.
How the right shoes help prevent pickleball injuries
Staying healthy and injury-free lets you enjoy more time on the court. Wearing the right shoes plays a big role in helping you move safely and confidently. Here’s how court-specific footwear can help protect you during play:
Keep your ankles supported: Quick side-to-side movements are a big part of the game. Running shoes aren’t built for this motion, but court shoes are. They offer the lateral stability needed to help prevent rolled ankles.
Reduce joint strain: Shoes like our PB5 Court2 provide extra cushioning that absorbs impact. This helps ease the stress on your knees, hips, and lower back during long matches.
Improve grip on the court: Slipping during a quick move can lead to painful falls. Court shoes have tread patterns designed for both indoor and outdoor courts, giving you the traction needed to stay in control.
Prevent foot fatigue: With better arch support and a design tailored to the sport’s movements, proper shoes help reduce strain so you can play longer and feel better afterward.
Comparing running shoes to court-specific shoes
The right footwear can make a real difference in how you play and feel on the court. Here's a breakdown of how court shoes stand apart from running shoes, and why that matters for your game:
Better side-to-side support: Pickleball requires quick lateral movement. Court shoes are designed to support those sharp changes in direction, helping you stay balanced and avoid rolled ankles. Running shoes are built for straight-ahead motion and just don’t offer the same level of stability.
Stronger grip: Pickleball courts call for traction in every direction. Court shoes have outsoles made to handle fast pivots and sudden stops, keeping you steady during fast-paced rallies. Running shoes don’t provide that same grip, especially when moving side to side.
Responsive cushioning: Court shoes use firm, supportive materials that cushion your steps without making you feel disconnected from the court. This balance helps protect your joints while giving you the responsiveness you need to stay in control.
Durability made for the court: Court-specific shoes are built with the game’s unique movements in mind. They hold up better over time compared to running shoes, especially if you’re playing regularly on hard surfaces.
A secure, comfortable fit: Designed specifically for court sports, the right shoes keep your foot locked in without feeling tight. That secure fit helps reduce foot fatigue so you can focus more on your shots and less on your footwear.
Making the switch to court-specific shoes means you’ll move more confidently, stay safer, and enjoy your time on the court even more.
Why PB5 Court2 shoes are ideal for pickleball
PB5 Court2 shoes were designed with pickleball players in mind. From the start, we focused on what matters most: support, comfort, and performance. These shoes help you stay steady and quick on your feet, so you can focus on what you came to do—play your best and enjoy the game.
The lightweight design makes it easy to move fast, while the flexible knit uppers keep your feet cool and comfortable. The padded collar adds extra support for those longer matches, and the multi-zoned rubber outsole gives you the grip you need for every pivot and side step. Whether you’re sprinting to the net or holding your ground at the baseline, these shoes help you stay in control.
Optimal footwear for pickleball performance and comfort
The shoes you wear can make a real difference in how you move and feel on the court. Pickleball calls for quick lateral movements, sudden stops, and sharp pivots, which require support and traction that most everyday shoes just don’t provide. That’s why having the right footwear is so important—not just for performance, but for staying comfortable and avoiding injury during long matches.
Court-specific shoes are built to handle the demands of the game. With breathable uppers to keep your feet cool and reinforced sidewalls for added stability, they help you stay light on your feet and ready for action. Whether you’re returning a fast serve or sliding into position at the net, supportive footwear keeps you focused on your game, not your gear.
If you're looking to step up your performance, PB5 Court2 shoes for men and women are made to meet the demands of dedicated pickleball players. Backed by our 30-Day Match-Fit Promise, they’re designed to help you feel confident and comfortable every time you step on the court. For more ways to improve your game and connect with players like you, head over to the PB5star.
