Why the Right Pickleball Footwear Matters: How it Can Impact Your Game

Why the Right Pickleball Footwear Matters: How it Can Impact Your Game

Dr. Najwa Javed Dr. Najwa Javed
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As a podiatrist, I know that investing in proper pickleball shoes is essential for performance and foot health. Pickleball puts unique demands on your feet - you're darting from side to side, stopping and sprinting across the court at quick intervals. Some of the most common sports injuries I see in my practice are as follows:

  1. Lateral ankle sprains 
  2. Achilles and/or peroneal tendonitis 
  3. Calf muscle tears 
  4. Foot fractures

These injuries can take you out of the game for weeks to months, therefore the right shoe can make or break your game. Regular running or training shoes just won't cut it. You need footwear specifically designed for pickleball movements to protect your feet and ankles from slips and sprains. 

Looking for a shoe that can expertly support you on the court while still looking stylish? PB5star's new PB5 COURT2 addresses these key demands through a high-performance design and technology. It’s specifically designed for quick directional changes, rapid stops, and bursts of speed on the court. There is both a women’s collection and a men’s collection.

Understanding Pickleball Movement Patterns

From a biomechanical standpoint, specialized footwear is crucial for pickleball players due to the sport’s high-demand movement patterns. Impact forces during pickleball can reach 3-4 times the player’s body weight, putting significant strain on feet and joints.

  • Quick lateral movements require shoes with reinforced side support, which counteracts the strong lateral forces exerted on the foot, helping stabilize the ankle and prevent inversion or eversion injuries. 
  • The frequent stops and rapid acceleration create distinct impact forces that, without appropriate cushioning and shock absorption, can lead to repetitive stress injuries, such as plantar fasciitis or even stress fractures, by overloading specific areas of the foot.
  • The pivoting motions inherent in pickleball require sole grip patterns that facilitate controlled rotation, reducing frictional resistance. This design helps prevent excessive twisting, which can strain the knee and hip joints, ultimately enhancing stability and overall joint protection during play.

Unlike general training or running shoes, pickleball-specific footwear provides the stability, support, and grip needed to help avoid slips, ankle sprains, and other injuries associated with quick directional changes on the court.

Essential Features of Good Pickleball Shoes

A quality pickleball shoe can enhance performance by offering optimal support for the court and reducing the risk of overuse injuries, which can result from inadequate footwear.

As a board-certified podiatrist, these are the key features I look for in the best pickleball shoes to support health and performance:

Lateral Support: 

  • Strong side walls and reinforced upper materials to handle quick side-to-side movements and sudden direction changes, reducing ankle injury risk. 
  • This enhanced stability in pickleball shoes improves shot accuracy by providing a steady base, allowing players to execute precise movements without losing balance.

Cushioning and Joint Protection: 

  • Proper cushioning in pickleball shoes helps absorb these forces, reducing stress on joints and minimizing fatigue over prolonged play.
  • A balanced midsole cushioning absorbs impact while maintaining a low profile for a close-to-court feel, which is essential for control.

Outsole Design: 

  • Non-marking rubber with a herringbone or modified herringbone pattern for grip and stability.
  • A wide, flat base to support balance during dynamic movements.

Durability Features

  • Toe drag protection and reinforced high-wear areas to increase longevity.
  • Durable rubber compounds to withstand the demands of the sport.

Weight & Breathability

  • Lightweight but not minimalist design, ensuring agility without sacrificing protection.
  • Mesh or ventilated upper materials for moisture management and comfort.

Court-Specific Features

  • Lower stack height for enhanced stability and a wide toe box for added comfort during fast, intense movements.
  • Gum rubber or similar high-traction compounds for reliable grip. Better traction also enables faster, more agile court coverage, which is essential for reaching difficult shots.

Ankle Support

  • Strong ankle support is essential to prevent common court injuries such as sprains and twists, which can result from sudden lateral movements.

Each of these elements helps reduce injury risk and supports sustained performance on the court. The performance benefits of these features are key to longevity in sport. Proper support also increases playing endurance, minimizing foot and leg fatigue over prolonged play.

The PB5 Court2 shoe provides your feet with the court support you need. It uses Dynamic Stability Assist, an innovative system inspired by performance cars designed to provide superior stability, enhanced turning agility, improved braking, and precise handling. Learn more about PB5star footwear here.

Common Footwear Mistakes to Avoid

As a podiatrist, I frequently see players compromising their performance and foot health due to common footwear mistakes. One of the main issues with wearing running shoes for pickleball is that they lack the necessary lateral support, which can increase the risk of ankle rolls and injuries during quick side-to-side movements. Unlike sport-specific court shoes, running shoes are designed primarily for forward motion, leaving them inadequate for the lateral demands of pickleball.

Additionally, worn-out shoes present a heightened injury risk, as they lose cushioning, support, and traction over time. Playing in shoes with compromised structure can lead to joint strain, slips, and fatigue. Many players continue using their shoes well past their effective lifespan, not realizing that deteriorated cushioning can translate to increased joint stress and potential injuries.

Lastly, incorrect sizing is a common yet often overlooked problem. Ill-fitting shoes can negatively impact performance, reduce comfort, and even cause blisters or toe injuries. Many players make the mistake of choosing shoes that are too tight, not accounting for foot swelling during extended play. The solution is to invest in quality, sport-specific footwear that fits properly and is designed to handle the unique movement patterns of pickleball, reducing injury risk and enhancing overall performance on the court.

For optimal results, consider getting a professional fitting at a specialty sports footwear store. These experts can analyze your foot structure, gait, and playing style to recommend the most suitable options. They can also ensure proper sizing and identify any specific support needs based on your foot characteristics.

Pickleball Shoe FAQs: A Podiatrist’s Perspective

Can I use tennis or running shoes for pickleball?

While tennis shoes may offer some lateral support, running shoes are not ideal for pickleball because they lack the necessary stability for lateral movements. Pickleball requires sport-specific shoes designed for side-to-side motion, quick pivots, and sudden stops to prevent injuries and enhance performance.

How long do pickleball shoes typically last?

Almost like car tires, the lifespan of pickleball shoes depends on the frequency of use and the type of court surface. On average, they last 6 to 12 months with regular play. If you play frequently, shoes may wear out much sooner, especially in high-impact areas like the toe and heel.

What's the average price range for quality pickleball shoes?

Quality pickleball shoes typically range from $100 to $200, depending on the brand, materials, and features. Higher-end models may offer advanced cushioning, support, and durability, justifying the higher cost.

What's the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes?

Indoor pickleball shoes typically have a smoother rubber sole for better grip on indoor courts, while outdoor shoes have a more aggressive tread pattern designed for durability and traction on harder, rougher surfaces.

Should pickleball shoes feel tight or loose?

Pickleball shoes should feel snug but not tight, especially around the heel and midfoot. There should be enough room in the toe box for your toes to move freely without feeling cramped. A proper fit helps prevent blisters and foot fatigue.

How can I tell when my shoes need replacement?

You should replace your shoes when you notice worn-out soles, reduced cushioning, or noticeable discomfort during play. If the shoes no longer provide adequate support, stability, or grip, it's time for a new pair to avoid injury and maintain performance.

Choose What’s Best for You

When selecting pickleball shoes, choose shoes based on your individual playing style and frequency of play. Players who compete regularly may benefit from more durable, performance-oriented models, while recreational players might prioritize comfort and value.

The primary considerations should be support, stability, and appropriate cushioning for your playing style. Pay particular attention to how the shoe supports your natural foot mechanics and movement patterns on the court. 

Looking for a shoe designed with all of these features in mind? PB5star has released a new shoe that addresses many of the features recommended by Dr. Javed above. The all-new PB5 Court2 combines agility and control for a responsive feel you’ll notice in your most competitive games. This shoe also uses Dynamic Stability Assist™ technology, which helps you move fast and pivot with confidence. Premium rubber reinforcement in high-wear areas ensures durability, while responsive cushioning keeps you comfortable through every match. If you’re interested, see PB5star’s shoe options here.

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