If you just got hooked on pickleball, you already know how fast the sport feels. You sprint, stop, plant, and cut again, often in a single point. That is why shoes matter more than almost any other piece of gear. The tricky part is that searching for the best pickleball shoes can be confusing. Should you wear tennis shoes or a “pickleball” model? Do you need a different pair for indoor wood courts and outdoor acrylic courts? What if you have wide feet or sore heels? The market is crowded, and many pages list the same models without explaining why they work.
This guide fixes that. We combined on-court play sessions with simple tests that focus on what actually helps you win points: traction, stability, fit, comfort, and durability. You will find our top picks for indoor and outdoor courts, the best options for women and wide feet, and shoes that add support for plantar fasciitis or cranky knees. We also show you how to pick the right size, how tennis and pickleball shoes differ, and when to replace your pair.
How We Tested in 2025
We kept our process simple and repeatable so you can trust the results and make a smart buy.
Courts and Conditions
We played on outdoor acrylic courts with sand texture and on indoor hardwood courts. When possible, we tested the same shoe on both surfaces because traction can change a lot between the two.
What We Measured
Traction: Short shuttle runs and controlled stops gave us a feel for grip without slide. We took notes on squeakiness indoors, sliding outdoors, and how the outsole pattern cleared dust or grit.
Stability: We looked for torsional support (how much the shoe resists twisting), lateral sidewalls that keep your foot from spilling over the edge, and heel counter stiffness.
Fit and Comfort: We checked length, width, arch shape, heel lockdown, breathability, and how the shoe feels after two hours of play.
Weight and Ride: We weighed shoes in a men’s 9 or women’s 8 when available and paid attention to stack height and how “tall” the shoe felt. Lower shoes often help quick lateral moves.
Durability: We tracked how quickly the outsole scuffed outdoors and watched for toebox wear from hard slides.
We do not pretend our scores are lab science. They are real on-court impressions designed to help everyday players find the best pickleball shoes for how and where they play. We will continue to update this list as we test more pairs.
The Short Answer: Our 2025 Winners
Below are the standouts after months of play. Detailed notes for each shoe are in the sections that follow.
- Best Overall: ASICS Gel Resolution 9
- Best Outdoor: Babolat Jet Mach 3 All-Court
- Best Indoor: Yonex Eclipsion 4
- Best Women’s: K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2 (also a strong unisex option for a roomy fit)
- Best for Wide Feet: New Balance 996v6 (2E/4E options)
- Best for Support / Plantar Fasciitis: ASICS Court FF 3
- Best Budget Under $100: Skechers Viper Court Pro (often on sale)
- Best for Speed Lovers: Nike Vapor Pro 2
- Best Workhorse Durability: HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5
Best Overall Pickleball Shoe: ASICS Gel Resolution 9
The Gel Resolution 9 blends grip, stability, and comfort in a way that suits most players most of the time. The outsole bites well outdoors and squeaks on wood without feeling sticky. The heel counter is firm, the midfoot support is strong, and the sidewalls stop your foot from rolling when you plant hard at the kitchen.
The ride sits low enough to feel connected to the court, yet there is plenty of gel cushioning under the heel for long sessions. Breathability is solid for summer play, and the upper has enough structure that the shoe still feels fresh after dozens of hours.
Who should pick it: If you want a one-shoe quiver and play both indoors and outdoors, this is an easy “buy.”
Who should skip: Very wide feet may prefer the New Balance 996v6, and pure speed freaks might lean toward the Vapor Pro 2.
Best Outdoor Pickleball Shoe: Babolat Jet Mach 3 All-Court
Outdoor acrylic with sand can chew up shoes and punish slow outsoles. The Jet Mach 3’s Michelin rubber and aggressive herringbone keep you planted through violent stops and wind-blown grit. The shoe rides low for fast cuts, with a firm sidewall that fights rollovers. It is a touch stiffer than some models, which helps stability in the sun when courts get hot and slick.
Why it wins outside: outsole bite, low profile, abrasion-resistant toebox and medial guard.
Things to note: The fit runs a bit narrow. If you need volume, try the K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2.
Best Indoor Pickleball Shoe: Yonex Eclipsion 4
Indoor wood courts demand a mix of grip and smooth release. The Eclipsion 4 sticks when you need it and releases cleanly on slides into the kitchen. The lateral claw and firm shank make the shoe feel locked in during quick counters and speedups. Cushioning is balanced, and the shoe feels lighter on foot than the spec sheet suggests.
Bonus: The upper is soft yet supportive, so you avoid hot spots during long league nights.
Consider instead: ASICS Court FF 3 if you want more heel cushion and a full-bootie feel.
Best Women’s Pickleball Shoe: K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2
Many women ask for a shoe that is supportive, roomy in the forefoot, but not sloppy. The Hypercourt Supreme 2 nails that blend. It has a slightly wider base and a plush upper that holds the foot without harsh pressure points. Traction is forgiving on both surfaces, and ventilation is strong for hot days. It is also one of the easier shoes to break in.
Why women love it: adaptable fit, comfort first, dependable grip, and tasteful colorways.
Sizing tip: True to size for most, but if you are between sizes go down a half for a locked-in feel.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Wide Feet: New Balance 996v6
New Balance still dominates the width game. The 996v6 comes in multiple widths, and the last shape leaves real room in the forefoot without turning the heel into a slip-fest. FuelCell foam gives the shoe a quick, slightly springy ride, while the lateral stability frame keeps you upright during sharp cuts. Outdoors, the outsole holds up well to rough surfaces.
If you need even more space, the classic New Balance 806 remains a support tank, though it is heavier and not as fast.
Best Support for Plantar Fasciitis and Knee Relief: ASICS Court FF 3
When your heels bark or your knees feel beat up, you want structure and cushioning that keep you aligned. The Court FF 3 gives you a full-bootie upper, a sturdy shank, a wide base, and stout gel in the heel. The shoe feels like it hugs the foot, which eases strain during long rallies. It is not the lightest model, but many players with foot pain call it a game-saver.
Note: Shoes cannot treat injuries. If you have ongoing pain, talk with a medical professional. That said, support-forward models like the Court FF 3 often help reduce irritation.
Fast and Furious: Nike Vapor Pro 2
Players who live in the kitchen and attack love the Vapor Pro 2. It is one of the lightest options here, sits low to the ground, and changes direction in a blink. Traction is best indoors and on cleaner outdoor courts. If you play on very gritty or dusty surfaces, the outsole can slide a bit, so rotate or choose the Jet Mach 3 for max bite.
Who it is for: quick hands, aggressive counters, two-hour rec play where speed matters most.
What to watch: durability is fine, not tank-like.
Built to Last: HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5
If you shred outsoles and toeboxes, you need armor. The Revolt Pro 4.5 has beefy rubber, thick overlays, and a stable sidewall. It is not the lightest and takes a few sessions to break in, but once it softens the shoe is a reliable partner for outdoor leagues and hot summer play.
Why you might choose it: durability and stability first, plus a wide-ish fit.
Why you might not: weight and stiffness out of the box.
Best Budget Pickleball Shoe Under $100: Skechers Viper Court Pro
Street prices often dip under $100, which makes this shoe a strong value. The Viper Court Pro focuses on comfort and cushioning, with enough lateral support for most rec players. Traction is better indoors and on medium-grit outdoor courts. Heavy foot-draggers will wear the toebox faster than pricier models, but the overall quality for the money is solid.
Who should buy it: new players and bargain hunters who still want a real court shoe.
Who should upgrade: tournament players and sliders who need stronger sidewalls or harder rubber.
Women’s Picks by Surface and Need
Outdoor Choice: K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2
We mentioned it above because it works across a wide range of foot shapes. Outdoors, its grippy outsole and strong sidewall shine. If you need an even lower ride, try the Babolat Jet Mach 3 in women’s sizing, but expect a snugger fit.
Indoor Choice: Yonex Eclipsion 4
The smooth stop-and-go and great heel hold help you move with confidence on wood. Many women like the softer feel of the upper and the snug, secure midfoot.
Support Choice: ASICS Court FF 3 (Women)
If you want more structure, this model provides it without feeling clunky. It is a great match for players who have a history of plantar fasciitis or who simply prefer a cushioned, stable ride.
Wide Feet, Narrow Feet, and In-Between
Feet come in many shapes. The best pickleball shoes for you depend as much on width and volume as on brand name.
- Wide forefoot, normal heel: New Balance 996v6 in 2E, K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2, HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5.
- Uniformly wide: New Balance 996v6 in 4E or the classic NB 806.
- Narrow heel, normal forefoot: ASICS Court FF 3, Yonex Eclipsion 4, Nike Vapor Pro 2.
- High arches: shoes with firm midfoot shanks and good insoles usually feel best. The Court FF 3 and Gel Resolution 9 work well.
- Orthotics: pick models with removable insoles and a stable base. New Balance and ASICS both play nicely with custom orthotics.
Remember, length matters, but volume matters more. A shoe can be the right size and still feel wrong if the upper pinches or the heel slips.
Indoor vs Outdoor: Why Surface Changes Everything
- Outdoor acrylic has grit. You need deeper herringbone lines and harder rubber to dig in and last. The Babolat Jet Mach 3 and HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5 were standouts outdoors.
- Indoor wood is smoother. Too much stick can be a problem; you want grip that releases when you slide into the kitchen. Yonex Eclipsion 4 and ASICS Court FF 3 feel perfect here.
If you play both environments often, rotate two pairs. Shoes last longer when you give the foam time to rebound between sessions, and you will always have the right traction for the day.
Tennis Shoes vs Pickleball Shoes: What Actually Changes
You will hear two opinions. Some say “tennis shoes work fine,” and others claim you must buy “pickleball” shoes. The truth sits in the middle.
Tennis and pickleball both require side-to-side movement and hard stops, so court shoes for either sport share the same core features: stable platforms, firm shanks, durable outsoles, and lateral protection. Many of the best pickleball shoes in this guide are also strong tennis shoes.
Pickleball is played on smaller courts with even faster starts and stops near the kitchen. Some “pickleball” lines tweak the rubber and sidewalls to release a touch faster and shave weight. If a tennis model fits your foot and feels stable, use it with confidence. If a pickleball-branded shoe fits you better, go that route. Fit and traction matter more than the label.
Fit Guide by Brand (What We See Most Often)
Every foot is different, but these patterns can help you start in the right size.
- ASICS: secure heel and midfoot with a moderate forefoot. Many players go true to size.
- New Balance: the widest range of widths. 996v6 comes in D, 2E, 4E for men and B, D, 2E for women.
- K-Swiss: a touch roomier in the forefoot with a stable base.
- Nike: performance fit that runs a bit narrow through the midfoot; locked-in heel.
- Babolat: low and fast with a snug to moderate fit.
- HEAD: generous toebox in the Revolt line, more standard in the Speed line.
- Yonex: secure midfoot and heel; plush ankle padding; slightly narrow to true fit.
When in doubt, try two sizes and walk around indoors on clean floors. The right pair will feel stable without pinching, and your heel will not lift when you lunge.
Materials and Design: What Makes a Shoe “Good” for Pickleball
Understanding parts of a shoe helps you choose wisely.
Outsole
Look for non-marking rubber with clear herringbone or multi-directional traction. Deeper grooves help outdoors. Some shoes use softer rubber indoors for squeak and bite.
Midsole and Shank
Foams like EVA, PU blends, or brand techs like ASICS Gel or New Balance FuelCell set the ride feel. You want a firm shank under the arch to reduce twist. That is what protects your knees and ankles during violent cuts.
Upper and Sidewalls
Mesh and synthetic leather work together. Soft mesh keeps you comfortable. Sturdy overlays, toe caps, and raised sidewalls control foot movement when you plant hard at the kitchen. If you regularly drag your toe on backhands, pick a model with a hard toecap.
Heel Counter
A stiff heel counter stops heel slip and keeps your Achilles happy. Squeeze it—if it collapses easily, stability will not be great.
Our Picks by Category (In Depth)
Best Overall: ASICS Gel Resolution 9
- Feel: Balanced and secure.
- Traction: Strong outdoors, crisp indoors.
- Comfort: Plenty of cushioning with a low-enough ride.
- Durability: Upper holds shape; outsole resists quick wear.
- Why it is the top of our list of the best pickleball shoes: it simply works for most players on most courts.
Best Outdoor: Babolat Jet Mach 3 All-Court
- Feel: Low, fast, and precise.
- Traction: Michelin rubber bites through grit.
- Stability: Excellent for hard plants and slides.
- Durability: One of the longest-lasting outsoles we used outdoors.
Best Indoor: Yonex Eclipsion 4
- Feel: Smooth stop-and-go, secure heel, and plush ankle padding.
- Traction: Grippy without grabbing too hard.
- Comfort: Breathable upper; not too stiff.
Best Women’s: K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2
- Feel: Comfort and support in a roomy toe box.
- Traction: Reliable on both surfaces.
- Fit: Easy to dial in; many players find it works straight from the box.
Best for Wide Feet: New Balance 996v6
- Feel: Accommodating without feeling sloppy.
- Support: Lateral frame and firm heel.
- Note: If you want even more structure, the New Balance 806 is a tank.
Best for Support/Plantar Fasciitis: ASICS Court FF 3
- Feel: Full-bootie hug with serious gel in the heel.
- Stability: Shank and sidewalls make the shoe feel like a brace without the hassle.
- Who it helps: players with heel pain, knee issues, or those who like a very secure shoe.
Best Budget: Skechers Viper Court Pro
- Feel: Soft underfoot with decent lockdown.
- Where it shines: practice nights, indoor rec sessions, and newer players.
- What to know: not the most durable outsole outside for heavy sliders, but often far less than $100.
Best for Speed: Nike Vapor Pro 2
- Feel: Lightning quick and low.
- Where it shines: counter-attacks, fast hands at the kitchen.
- What to know: rotate if you grind outdoors every day.
Best Durability: HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5
- Feel: Sturdy, slightly heavier, very stable.
- Where it shines: rough outdoor courts and toe-draggers.
- What to know: give it a couple of sessions to break in.
Socks, Insoles, and Lacing That Make Good Shoes Great
The best pickleball shoes get better with the right extras.
- Socks: Wear moisture-wicking crew socks with cushioning at the heel and toe. They reduce blisters and protect the Achilles against collar rub.
- Insoles: If you need more arch or heel support, try a quality aftermarket insole. Many players love supportive insoles for long tournaments.
- Lacing: “Runner’s loop” or heel-lock lacing tightens the collar and cuts heel slip without crushing your instep.
Care, Rotation, and When to Replace
- Rotate pairs: Let foam rebound for 24–48 hours between hard sessions. Rotating also gives you a clean indoor pair and a rough-and-tumble outdoor pair.
- Air them out: Pull the insoles and let both pieces dry after play. This keeps odor down and extends life.
- Watch the outsole: If you can see smooth patches where the pattern is gone, traction will drop fast. That is the time to replace.
- Feel the midsole: If the shoe feels mushy and unstable, even if the outsole looks fine, it is done.
Most court shoes last 50–80 hours of real play outdoors and longer indoors. Heavy sliders and hot summers shorten that window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play in running shoes?
We do not recommend it. Running shoes are made for forward motion and soft landings. They ride high and flex in ways that do not support hard side cuts. Court shoes keep you safer and more stable.
How do I know if a shoe is too big or too small?
You should have about a thumb’s width of space in front of your longest toe. Your heel should not lift when you lunge, and your pinky toe should not feel trapped. If a shoe pinches or rubs after ten minutes indoors, it will not “break in” enough to fix the problem.
Do I need different shoes for indoor and outdoor courts?
Not always. Many of the best pickleball shoes here work on both. If you play a lot on each surface, owning one pair tuned for outdoors and one for indoors is the best plan for performance and longevity.
Are pickleball shoes different from tennis shoes?
They are both court shoes and share most design goals. Some pickleball models tweak rubber and weight for the sport’s short, fast moves. Fit and traction should decide your choice more than the label.
What shoes help most with plantar fasciitis?
Look for strong heel cushioning, a stable shank, and a firm heel counter. The ASICS Court FF 3 and Gel Resolution 9 are top options.
How to Choose the Right Pair for You
Use this simple path to land on your personal best pickleball shoes:
- Pick your surface: mostly outdoor, mostly indoor, or split.
- Match the outsole: deeper herringbone and harder rubber for outdoor; grippy but smooth-releasing rubber for indoor.
- Find your fit family: wide or narrow, high or low arches, orthotics or not.
- Choose your priority: pure speed, max support, or balanced all-court.
- Try two sizes at home: walk, side shuffle, and lunge. Keep the pair that disappears on your feet.
If you are stuck between two models that feel good, choose the one with the better traction for your main court and the sturdier toecap if you drag.
Great play starts from the ground up. Shoes decide how fast you move, how well you stop, and how your body feels after two hours of dinks, drops, and speedups. The models above were chosen because they solve real problems: staying upright, gripping without grabbing, fitting real feet, and lasting more than a month of hard play.
If you only want one pair in 2025, the ASICS Gel Resolution 9 is the safest choice for most players and surfaces. If you battle outdoor grit, the Babolat Jet Mach 3 is a beast. For indoor leagues, Yonex Eclipsion 4 is a smooth operator. Wide feet will thank New Balance, and tender heels will love the ASICS Court FF 3. Bargain hunters can grab the Skechers Viper Court Pro on sale and still get a true court shoe.
We will keep testing and updating as new models hit the market, so you always know where to find the best pickleball shoes and also the best pickleball paddles for how and where you play. Now lace up, hit the court, and have fun.
