Finding the best pickleball shoes is crucial for improving your game and keeping you injury-free. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer to the court, choosing the right pickleball shoes can be the difference between a good and a bad experience. In this guide, I’ve tested and ranked the top 12 pickleball shoes of 2024. Whether you’re a casual player or a professional, there is something for every player. Now let’s dive in and see what shoes will be your next game changers.
Indoor Pickleball Shoes: Designed for Performance
I’ve tried a lot of pickleball shoes and indoor models are a game changer! They’re lightweight, made for quick movements and agility, and have specialized outsoles for the best traction on indoor courts. The following options are amazing for their specs that keep my feet comfortable and stable during fast-paced matches. So, let’s look at some of the best pickleball shoes that have made a huge difference in my game!
Best Pickleball Shoe for Agility: Adidas Don Issue 5
If you are looking for the perfect indoor pickleball shoe, look no further than the Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5. The origins of these shoes lie in volleyball, and features translate well to pickleball. These shoes are built for speed, agility, and stability and have quickly become a go-to for those looking for top-notch performance on indoor courts. Now, let’s dive into what makes these shoes special and if they belong in your pickleball arsenal!
Upper Durability and Lockdown Fit
Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5 has a uniquely designed two-piece tongue for a snug, almost customized fit. Unlike the typical three-piece or slipper tongue design, this lateral opening offers superior stability, allowing you to move swiftly and confidently on the court, ensuring your foot stays securely in place. You will love it once you lace up — it’s one of those features.
External lace eyelets allow you to crank the laces down, giving you added stability and stopping heel slippage (which is a game-changer for players who need firm lockdown in aggressive lateral moves). The reinforced heel tab pushes against your Achilles for that extra security, ensuring your foot doesn’t move around. But if you’re a heavy dragger, particularly on the outdoors, you may see some wearing on the uppers. If you’re concerned about durability, I’d stick to indoor courts.
Midsole Design: Stability and a Springy Boost
The Lightstrike midsole offers a springy but firm feel in terms of support, and finding a balance between stability and responsiveness. I could feel a clear springboard effect during quick take-offs or explosive cuts on the court. The thick shank in the shoe helps you move more dynamically while supporting energy return. The setup makes the shoe feel light, but strong enough to take the beating of a competitive match.
It’s not the plushest cushioning, but the Lightstrike foam keeps the shoe responsive. If you like a shoe that’s not too cushioned but still offers energy return and comfort, this one strikes a nice balance!
Traction and Grip: Built for Quick Stops and Sharp Turns
The herringbone tread pattern on the Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5 provides superb traction, and you’ll immediately notice the difference on indoor pickleball courts. In fact, during my tests, the shoe didn’t start to slip until I hit a 49-degree angle on the ramp! That’s seriously impressive compared to competitors, giving you an extra edge for sharp stops or lightning-fast direction changes.
Out of the box, these shoes felt sticky—almost too much at first—but after a short break-in period, the traction settled into a more consistent feel. They gripped the court like a dream once the rubber had time to adjust.
Performance Summary
| Category | Test Result |
|---|---|
| Upper Durability | Upper started wearing down in the test (indoor use preferred) |
| Breathability | Heated up to 111.1°F with slower heat release (bring thinner socks) |
| Bounce Height | 27.5 cm (rear), 31 cm (forefoot) |
| Grip | 49° on the ramp (great traction) |
| Speed Ratio | 1.96 (faster with orthotic support) |
| Outsole Durability | Minimal wear after abrasion test; ideal for indoor surfaces |
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent lockdown fit with two-piece tongue | Limited breathability, heat retention in long matches |
| Great grip on indoor surfaces | Durability concerns for outdoor play |
| Responsive midsole for quick, agile movements | Lacks plush underfoot cushioning |
| Lightweight, ideal for fast-paced play | Slight break-in required for optimal flexibility |
Breathability and Comfort for Indoor Play
While the materials are mostly mesh and allow for some airflow, because the shoe is so snug it can hold onto a little bit of heat. I did notice that my feet would warm up during particularly long matches. If you play in a humid environment or for long periods, you may want to consider wearing thinner socks to increase airflow. However, the overall comfort is still pretty good thanks to the Lightstrike midsole, which gives you just enough padding without making you feel like you’re carrying around a brick.
Overall Fit and Sizing
The Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5 is best suited for narrow to medium foot widths. The flexibility of the upper helps accommodate different foot shapes, but if you have wider feet, sizing up by half a size may be necessary to avoid discomfort. I found them true to size, but some players with wider feet may want to consider going up for a better fit.
Performance for Indoor Pickleball
These pickleball shoes are built for agility performance-wise. The D.O.N. Issue 5 has you covered whether you’re darting around the kitchen or making fast sprints to the backcourt.
Though they’re not the plushest pickleball shoes out there, they excel at keeping your foot stable and agile—exactly what you need on a fast-paced indoor pickleball court. If you’re the type of player who relies on quick footwork and rapid directional changes, you’ll appreciate the responsiveness and stability of these shoes.
Conclusion: A Fantastic Pick for Agility and Control on Indoor Courts
The Adidas D.O.N. Issue 5 excels in areas crucial for indoor pickleball: traction, lockdown fit, and agility. It’s a top choice for players who value quick movement and stability over plush cushioning. While it might run warm and require a bit of break-in time, the performance you get in return is well worth it. If you’re after a shoe that’s light, responsive, and built to keep you moving fast, these are a solid choice.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Stability: Way of Wade Fission 9
The Way of Wade Fission 9 is a pickleball court dominator, because of its stability, agility, and durability. I love these shoes because they shine on hardwood and rubberized indoor courts, and are a good choice for players looking for fast footwork and quick transitions. So let’s go over the details of how the Fission 9 does for indoor pickleball
Upper Durability and Secure Fit
The Way of Wade Fission 9 boasts a high-density textile weave, reinforced with TPU strands that ensure durability and a locked-in fit for intense lateral movements—an essential factor on indoor courts.
- Lace System: The TPU-rope lacing system secures your foot for those quick side-to-side transitions. The dual-rope construction locks the foot in place, preventing unwanted movement.
- Durability: During an upper durability test, the shoe’s upper showed minor scuffing after heavy friction, but it remained structurally sound, proving ideal for hardwood pickleball courts.
Breathability: Despite its robust construction, the shoe’s perforations and mesh tongue allow enough airflow to keep your feet cool during long matches on indoor courts.
Midsole Cushioning and Responsiveness
Fission 9’s midsole is made from Light Foam Plus and Boom Foam for a proper balance of comfort and energy return. This makes it easier for you to move around the court as you need to while at the same time feeling as comfortable as possible.
- Springboard Effect: The midsole includes dual shanks for added medial stability, offering a springy push-off during jumps and lateral movements, perfect for players who rely on quick footwork.
- Shock Absorption: The combination of Boom Foam in the forefoot and Light Foam Plus in the heel provides excellent shock absorption, especially for aggressive indoor players who frequently shift directions.
Break-in Period: Expect about an hour of play to break in the midsole. Afterward, it molds to your foot for a custom feel, enhancing performance on indoor surfaces
Traction and Grip on Indoor Surfaces
The Way of Wade Fission 9 features a unique lightning bolt traction pattern designed for indoor courts. The shoe enjoys great grip on hardwood or rubberized surfaces making you agile and secure. The overall stability with this traction makes the Fission 9 one of the best pickleball shoes for indoor play and you can pivot and accelerate with confidence throughout long rallies.
- Grip Performance: On indoor hardwood surfaces, this pickleball shoe performed exceptionally well, slipping only at a 47-degree angle during traction tests, meaning quick stops and starts are no issue.
- Durability: Testing revealed the rubber outsole was tough, and showed minimal wear even after long sessions on hardwood courts.
Dust Performance: On dustier indoor courts, you may need to wipe the soles occasionally for optimal grip, but overall, the traction remains solid.
Breathability and Comfort for Indoor Play
The Fission 9’s upper is sturdy, and the tongue provides some airflow, but dense materials may cause heat-trapping on long play sessions.
- Breathability Test: The shoe heated up slightly during extended play but cooled down quickly, especially in the tongue area. Consider using thinner socks for air circulation for long indoor matches in warm conditions.
- Comfort: Players who prefer a snug fit will appreciate the minimal padding in the tongue and around the ankle, though it may feel tight for those with wider feet.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comfort: Soft Light Foam Plus cushioning | Bounce: Less bouncy cushioning. |
| Durability: Long-lasting synthetic leather. | Weight: Slightly heavier than preferred. |
| Breathability: Tongue design allows heat escape. | Break-in: May require adjustment period for comfort. |
| Grip: Excellent traction on various surfaces. |
Performance Summary
| Category | Test Result |
|---|---|
| Cushioning 8/10 | Shock-absorbing with Light Foam Plus and Boom Foam; slightly deadened bounce, less spring expected. |
| Fit & Lockdown 9.5/10 | Zero heel slippage with TPU-reinforced lace line and wide tongue; excellent lockdown without discomfort. |
| Breathability 8/10 | Breathable tongue design prevents overheating, maintaining 93.7°F during heavy play. |
| Durability 9/10 | Strong resistance against wear; minor scuffing but no structural damage during testing. |
| Traction 9/10 | Excellent grip on indoor and outdoor courts; did not slip until 47° on hardwood and 45° on outdoor surfaces. |
Fit and Sizing for Indoor Pickleball Players
The Fission 9 runs true to size for players with narrow to medium-width feet, offering a snug, performance-driven fit.
- True to Size: For narrow and medium foot types, the shoe fits true to size, offering excellent control and stability.
- Wide Foot Consideration: If you have wider feet, you might want to go up half a size to avoid any discomfort, especially during longer matches where feet tend to swell.
Arch Support: The shoe’s natural arch design pairs well with custom orthotics, offering great support during quick lateral transitions, a must-have feature for intense indoor pickleball matches.
Performance on Indoor Courts
When it comes to indoor pickleball, the Way of Wade Fission 9 shines, especially in agility, stability, and responsiveness.
- Agility and Speed: The lightweight build and dual shank system allow for fast footwork and quick pivots on indoor courts. The shoe feels responsive, especially during quick transitions.
- Stability: Reinforced sidewalls and a wide base provide excellent lateral support, reducing the risk of ankle injuries during fast lateral movements.
While the cushioning is not the most plush compared to competitors, it excels in giving players a dynamic, responsive feel—ideal for those who rely on quick, explosive movements on indoor courts.
Conclusion: The Best Choice for Indoor Pickleball Players
The Way of Wade Fission 9 is one of the best pickleball shoes that provides top-of-the-line agility, stability, and grip for indoor play, and if you’re looking for a shoe that checks all of these boxes, it’s hard to beat. Its combination of responsiveness, durability, and traction make it a standout for players who want performance on hardwood or rubberized courts. It may not have the soft cushioning underfoot, but its dynamic support and versatility earn it a spot at the top of the list for serious indoor pickleball players.
For quick and accurate movements on the indoor pickleball court, the Way of Wade Fission 9 could be used as a perfect pickleball shoe for the next game.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Lockdown: Way of Wade All City 12 Encore
I love the look of these; they are a great indoor pickleball shoe if you are a player seeking the best combination of lockdown, breathability, and agility. Their fast responsiveness and superior grip on hardwood courts have made them a favorite among indoor pickleball players.
Upper Durability, Lockdown, and Breathability
The upper construction of the All-City 12 Encore is reinforced for lockdown, comfort, and ventilation. With extended tongue and bubble padding to keep things in place and a high gusset to prevent lateral and medial foot movement, this boot provides top-notch stability for quick pivots and direction changes.
Key Features:
- External lace eyelets: Reduce irritation while keeping your foot secure, especially during intense movements.
- Heel Counter and Boom Foam: The external TPU heel counter provides lightweight stability, while the Boom Foam locks in your heel for added rear-foot support.
- Breathability: The shoe scores well in breathability tests, keeping feet cool with TPU mesh and honeycomb patterns. This breathability makes it ideal for long indoor matches.
However, the upper durability on outdoor surfaces may present a concern. Wear tests showed the leather backing layer susceptible to scuffing, but this shouldn’t be a problem for indoor play.
Midsole Construction: Stability and Energy Return
The stand-out feature of the All-City 12 Encore is the Boom Foam midsole, it delivers stability and energy return. The bottom-loaded shank is a little bit more stable on the court, without sacrificing agility, keeping players quick and balanced on the court.
Key Midsole Features:
- Boom Foam: Adds bounce and responsiveness. In bounce tests, it scored 43 cm in the rearfoot and 42 cm in the forefoot, providing excellent energy return for dynamic movements.
- Bottom-loaded Shank: Extending from the heel to midfoot, it helps with lateral stability and distributes forces evenly, reducing foot fatigue during long matches.
This combination of support and springiness ensures players stay nimble without sacrificing control during fast transitions.
Traction Performance and Outsole Durability
Pickleball requires traction, and the Way of Wade All City 12 Encore has a unique tread pattern for indoor surfaces, which is just what you’re looking for. A solid grip for quick stops and starts on indoor courts is provided by the starburst and triangular tread shapes in this asymmetric tread.
Key Traction Features:
- Traction Ramp Test: Showed minimal slippage, with a 44-degree grip angle, making it perfect for hardwood courts.
- Durability: The rubber compound, although soft, is incredibly durable. It showed almost no wear after prolonged use, despite having a softer durometer score of 11.5.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Great breathability with TPU mesh | Needs break-in for forefoot |
| Secure lockdown with padded tongue | Leather layer may scuff outdoors |
| Responsive Boom Foam midsole | Durability issues for outdoor play |
| Lacks plush cushioning for a softer feel | Lacks plush cushioning for softer feel |
| Excellent grip on indoor courts | A bit narrow for those with wide feet. |
Fit and Sizing Options
The All-City 12 Encore is made for performance-driven players and may feel a touch stiff in the forefoot right out of the box. It takes a short break in the period to get the comfort right.
Sizing Tips:
- True to Size: Works well for narrow and medium-footed players.
- Wide Foot Advice: Players with wider feet (2E or 4E) may need to size up half a size for comfort.
- Break-In Period: Expect a brief period before the forefoot softens for maximum comfort.
Performance for Indoor Pickleball
With its Boom Foam midsole and low-to-the-ground feel, the All City 12 Encore is ideal for players who prioritize agility and speed on the court. The extended shank and rubber casing ensure players can move quickly without losing lateral stability.
Key Performance Aspects:
- Speed and Agility: The Boom Foam and extended shank allow for swift transitions and precise footwork.
- Side-to-Side Stability: The shoe’s design locks the foot securely in place, allowing for powerful lateral movements.
On indoor courts, the All City 12 Encore truly shines, offering excellent traction and nimbleness.
Conclusion: A Top Performer for Indoor Pickleball
The Way of Wade All City 12 Encore is one of the best pickleball shoes for players who like lockdown, breathability, and stability. Although it has a few minor drawbacks (break-in period and upper durability on outdoor surfaces), its overall performance makes it a strong contender for indoor play.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Cushioning: New Balance TWO WXY V4
The New Balance TWO WXY V4 is among the best pickleball shoes that combine comfort, durability, and performance for indoor courts. The perfect shoes for athletic precision, these pickleball shoes are particularly made for indoor courts, allowing great traction and stability the game requires for it to be intense and quick inside. So let’s take a look at the TWO WXY V4 and why it might be a great option for someone with high-level pickleball play that requires stability, responsive cushioning, and grip.
Traction Performance on Indoor Pickleball Courts
The New Balance TWO WXY V4 has one standout feature of its outsole traction which is perfect for indoor pickleball courts. Fresh Foam tread and herringbone patterns blend into the shoe’s sole and deliver a great grip across different surfaces.
- Indoor Performance: The rubber compound on the sole grips exceptionally well on hardwood and rubberized indoor courts. This allows for quick stops, easy pivots, and smooth lateral movements, which are important for fast transitions in pickleball.
Traction Test Results: During the test, the shoe delivered an excellent performance with little or no slipping observed when moving on indoor courts especially when making swift and forceful movements.
Cushioning for Comfort and Agility
The TWO WXY V4 strikes the perfect balance between Fresh Foam and FuelCell cushioning, delivering the best of both worlds for players This Fresh Foam gives a comfortable cushion feel on the underfoot while FuelCell on the lateral side provides a layer of support to ground you in case of fast play.
- Supportive Shank: A strong shank in the midfoot enhances the shoe’s stability, allowing for swift push-offs and sudden directional changes.
- Responsive Cushioning: The cushioning system ensures you remain comfortable during long matches without feeling overly plush or losing responsiveness.
Though the Fresh Foam may compress slightly after extended use, the FuelCell layer helps retain bounce and agility, perfect for players needing consistent energy return during rapid movements.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional traction on indoor courts | Heel lockdown needs more padding |
| Durable upper with drag guard protection | Breathability can suffer in hot conditions |
| Responsive cushioning with Fresh Foam and FuelCell | Narrow fit may require adjustment |
| Available in wider sizes for broader foot shapes | Limited grip for toe pivoting |
Performance Summary
| Rating | Details |
|---|---|
| Durability: 8.5/10 | Great for indoor and outdoor, but medial forefoot may wear down outdoors. |
| Traction: 9/10 | Excellent grip on various court surfaces. |
| Comfort: 8/10 | Comfortable overall, but breathability may lag during long matches. |
| Stability: 9.5/10 | Strong lateral support and heel lockdown. |
| Overall Performance: 9/10 | Versatile shoe suitable for pickleball, basketball, and tennis. |
Upper Durability and Breathability
Built to be lightweight and durable, but without sacrificing comfort, the upper design of the TWO WXY V4 is a combination of engineered mesh and synthetic materials.
- Durability: The drag guard in the upper protects against scuffs and tears, making it reliable even for players who drag their feet during quick, lateral movements.
- Breathability: The breathability test revealed that the shoe retains heat over time, especially during long matches, even though the engineered mesh permits some airflow. But the two-layer tongue and integrated lacing system provides a snug, comfortable fit with a little bit of ventilation.
Fit and Sizing for Pickleball Players
The TWO WXY V4 has been designed to fit athletic usage but some players may have to adapt to fit their foot shape.
- Length and Width: The shoe runs slightly long and narrow, though New Balance offers wider sizes to accommodate broader foot types.
- Heel Lockdown: The absence of much cushioning at the heel may result in a tiny amount of slippage at the back of the heel for some individuals but using a runner’s loop will help solve this problem.
Overall, players with narrow or medium-width feet can expect a snug fit, while wider-footed players might want to size up for more comfort.
Overall Performance for Indoor Pickleball
On the court, the New Balance TWO WXY V4 is an all-around strong performer, particularly for those who value stability and support. Whether you’re playing quick-paced rallies or making fast side-to-side movements, this shoe’s balance of traction and cushioning ensures you stay agile and comfortable throughout your match.
The Fresh Foam and FuelCell combination offers a responsive feel that’s ideal for quick direction changes, while the strong traction ensures that you maintain solid footing on indoor courts.
Conclusion: A Reliable, High-Performance Shoe for Indoor Pickleball
The New Balance TWO WXY V4 is a reliable, high-performance indoor play shoe for pickleball players looking for a shoe they can depend on. This shoe features a durable upper, great traction, and responsive cushioning, so you’ll stay grounded and comfortable even during your most intense matches.
You’ll want the TWO WXY V4 if you need stability, comfort, and traction for your next indoor pickleball game.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Durability: New Balance 996 V5
Do you need a long-lasting pickleball shoe that will not let you down? The New Balance 996 V5 might just be the shoe you have been waiting for to become your new favorite. This shoe has major improvements from the earlier models bringing in responsive cushioning, better traction, and a strengthened upper part making it appropriate for indoor games. Whether you are scrambling to chase the ball or contesting a long grinding-out point, the 996 V5 offers the prospect of quickness and comfort.
Superior Durability and Comfort
One of the standout features of the New Balance 996 V5 is its reinforced upper. The textile with TPU gives a comfortable feel and at the same time, the TPU makes it more durable. For the sluggish players, the extra rubber in the toe drag guard provides that added layer of cushioning. I found this particularly useful in protracted matches where many foot movements exert pressure on shoes.
- TPU-Knit Upper: The upper construction is durable and you won’t wear through them quickly with aggressive play. This blend offers ample support and containment, giving it a maximalist feel.
- Lace Reinforcement: The reinforced eyelets, coated in plastic or metal, keep the laces from wearing out while ensuring a snug fit during gameplay.
While the upper holds its shape well, it doesn’t compromise comfort, wrapping your foot securely without adding unnecessary weight. It’s an upgrade that improves durability and fit, making it feel sturdier compared to earlier models.
FuelCell Midsole: Cushioning and Responsiveness
The FuelCell midsole is a game-changer in this version of the 996. It offers a unique blend of soft cushioning and dynamic support that feels responsive throughout matches. I noticed a springy energy return that caused lateral movements and quick transitions smoother.
- FuelCell Technology: The ETPU-based foam in the FuelCell midsole gives you a light-on-your-feet experience while remaining supportive.
- Shank Stability: The new chicken-foot-shaped shank offers additional stability during important fast direction changes without making the shoe feel stiff or limiting flexibility.
This midsole performs well in fast movements. I measured the bounce height, which was 37.5 cm in the heel, good for quick reactions in tight matches.
Traction and Outsole Durability
The translucent and dyed rubber outsole provides a superior grip on any ground. It doesn’t matter if you are using indoor hardwood or an irregular outdoor surface, you will be assured of your stability. I’ve noticed that it makes my foot stay planted, and those quick stops and rapid direction changes feel effortless. It does make the whole playing process a whole lot better!
- Wave Pattern Traction: The forefoot is wave-shaped to balance grip and slide and the rolled rubber at the heel makes smoother transitions.
- Durability: After testing the shoe’s endurance with a sandpaper abrasion test, I found only minimal damage, even after 10 seconds—proving that the 996 V5 is built to last.
No matter the court surface, you’ll feel in control with these shoes on your feet.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent durability with TPU-knit upper | Limited breathability due to layered construction |
| Responsive FuelCell midsole for quick movements | FuelCell foam may compress faster over time |
| Reinforced lace eyelets for a secure fit | Slightly heat-retentive during long play sessions |
| Superior grip and smooth transitions with wave-pattern outsole | Requires proper fit and width for optimal comfort |
| Available in multiple width options |
Breathability and Heat Retention
While the New Balance 996 V5 excels in durability, it does have one minor drawback: breathability. When you play for extended hours, it tends to trap heat in the toe box area. This could be a concern for players in warmer climates or those playing long matches indoors.
- Heat Retention: In heat retention tests, the shoe cooled from 164.3 degrees down to 77.8 degrees. The tongue offers some airflow, but the overall multi-layer construction means your feet may feel warmer than in previous models.
The shoe still delivers comfort, especially for shorter play sessions or in moderate conditions.
Fit and Sizing Options
As with other New Balance shoes, the 996 V5 is available in multiple widths, which is a significant advantage for players with different foot shapes. The standard D width fits comfortably for narrow or medium feet, while wider-footed players can opt for 2E or 4E.
- True to Size: The shoe fits true to size, making it easy to find your ideal fit. If you have orthotics or specific foot issues, the 996 V5’s flexible design accommodates low-profile orthotics comfortably.
While the FuelCell midsole may compress slightly faster than other New Balance foams like Fresh Foam, regular rotation of shoes can help extend its lifespan and maintain comfort.
Performance for Pickleball
The New Balance 996 V5 excels in performance, as one of the most versatile options for pickleball and volleyball enthusiasts. The lightweight design makes it perfect for fast lateral movements, while the FuelCell midsole offers ample cushioning without sacrificing speed.
- Speed and Agility: The shoe allows quick pivots and fast transitions, making it easy to chase down shots or race to the net. Whether you’re playing on an indoor court or an outdoor one, you’ll notice the smooth, controlled movements.
Grip and Stability: The mix of rubber compounds in the outsole provides excellent grip, while the supportive midsole gives you the stability needed for aggressive baseline play or quick bursts of speed.
Conclusion: A Top Choice for Pickleball Players
If you’re searching for a pickleball shoe that offers the perfect blend of durability, comfort, and speed, the New Balance 996 V5 should be on your list. The upgrades in upper construction, improved traction, and responsive FuelCell midsole make it a strong choice for casual and competitive players. While the shoe may run slightly warmer than others, its overall performance outweighs this minor concern, offering a reliable and versatile option for long-lasting play.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Sliding and Stability: Nike Vapor Pro 2
Nike is another sportswear manufacturing company that has developed shoes specifically for pickleball, if you’re in the market for shoes that will allow you to move side to side while playing pickleball and are looking for a shoe that will give you a good grip to slide in, the Nike Vapor Pro 2 is a good Pickleball shoes to consider. This model is equipped with new technologies that help to increase the speed and the flexibility of the foot’s movements; the upper part is lightweight and breathable, while the midsole part is rather stiff and flexible. Whether you’re trying to put pressure on your opponent with fast-paced rallies or using quick slides to recover and follow through the pace, the Vapor Pro 2 has got you covered.
Upper Durability and Design
The upper construction of the Vapor Pro 2 is a comfort and durability triumph. With a woven mesh design, this upper is more than just aesthetically pleasing. The structure is very dense and has a big mudguard around the lateral and medial sides. This feature is helpful for players who often drag their feet or slide hard when playing.
However, the traditional lace design could be more customizable. Despite offering a solid lockdown, it lacks the customizability needed for a truly glove-like fit that some competitors excel at. This may feel like a slight limitation for pickleball players where sharp, dynamic movements are common.
Midsole Design: Zoom Air Cushioning
The Zoom Air unit in the midsole is one of the Vapor Pro 2’s defining features and is something you’ll find in Nike’s performance footwear. This unit is strategically located in the forefoot, where most players have the highest impact in a game. It offers a comfortable underfoot feel but doesn’t quite deliver the explosive energy return players might hope for in a Zoom Air setup.
The absence of a shank or some support structure lowers the potential energy return potential and creates a shoe better suited to comfort and controlled footwork than high-impact jumps.
- Jump Height Performance: The shoe achieved a decent jump height of 37.5 cm, though it’s not exceptional.
That makes it a great pick for those players looking to cover the court and move around laterally rather than jumping vertically.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent sliding performance and lateral control | Lacks springy energy return for explosive speed |
| The traditional lacing system lacks customization | Traditional lacing system lacks customization |
| Stable lateral flange and TPU stabilizer | Flat tread in forefoot may slip on sharp lateral cuts |
| Comfortable, pillowy upper | Zoom Air unit feels dampened, limiting energy return |
| Long-lasting outsole for frequent sliders | Minimal grip compared to chunkier tread models |
Traction and Outsole Durability
The most striking part of the Vapor Pro 2 is its outsole. It uses a “metal tank track” tread design that’s perfect if, like me, you prefer sliding smoothly rather than coming to abrupt stops. The flat tread in the forefoot makes it easy to glide into position, while the rear tread has enough grip to stop you when you want to. This balance gives freedom to move and the control to stay grounded.
- Durability: Even after long use, the Vapor Pro 2 was very durable in the outsole durability test. The hard rubber compound provided a good grip across several surfaces and lasted well. But players need to know that this shoe is meant for a smooth slide, not a maximum of traction. If you’re looking for a pickleball shoe with a monstrous grip for sudden direction changes, it’s not the best choice.
Fit and Comfort
Players with narrow to medium-width feet will find the Nike Vapor Pro 2 runs true to size. The ankle has some soft, pillowy padding around it for long matches. But players with wider feet may not experience the best fit and may need to use a different lace technique, such as Canadian lacing, to get the best lockdown.
But they could make the shoe better in terms of support for the heel. However, the lack of sculpted padding in the heel may cause a minor amount of slippage while fast stops and starts
Playability for Pickleball
Vapor Pro 2 truly shines in its lateral stability and sliding performance. Pickleball players who rely on fast lateral movements will benefit from the secure lateral flange and TPU stabilizer, which ensure stability even during aggressive movements. The shoe’s design allows players to slide confidently while maintaining full control.
The shoe may not be the best fit for players who need more spring or bounce in their footwear. While comfortable, it lacks the explosive snap so some players may seek quick vertical jumps or sudden sprints.
Conclusion: Best for Sliding and Stability
The Nike Vapor Pro 2 is ideal for pickleball players who want stability, control, and sliding performance. It doesn’t give as much high energy return as other models, but it’s super durable, has good lateral control, and slides smoothly. This shoe is designed for aggressive movers who want comfort and secure foot containment.
Best Pickleball Shoe for Shock Absorption: Asics Gel Resolution 9
The Asics Gel Resolution 9 is one of the best pickleball shoes built for durability and stability if you are on the market for one. These shoes are known for their robust construction and advanced materials such as urethane uppers and Flight Foam midsole technology that will keep players supported and comfortable during intense match action. Whether you’re making quick lateral moves or playing long games, the Gel Resolution 9 is an excellent all-around performer that offers a perfect blend of durability, support, and performance.
Upper Durability and Containment
The urethane upper of the Gel Resolution 9 is designed for maximum durability, withstanding even the most aggressive players. Toe draggers will particularly benefit from the reinforced upper that resists scuffing and abrasions. The tight mesh weave provides additional flexibility, making the shoe feel robust without compromising flexibility.
- Upper Durability Test After 10 seconds of high-grit sandpaper, the upper showed no signs of wear. This durability can be seen in the Gel Resolution 9 for players who put much pressure on their shoes.
Also, the dino wall on the shoe provides good lateral and medial support while the heel counter provides good rearfoot lockdown. However, players with high-volume feet may require longer shoelaces for maximum comfort.
Midsole Design: Flight Foam and Shock Absorption
The Gel Resolution 9’s Flight Foam midsole adds a layer of comfort and energy return. The shoe excels at shock absorption thanks to gel cushioning under the heel and forefoot. The midsole remains responsive and cushioned even during high-impact landings or quick pivots.
- Bounce Height Test: Measuring 30 cm in the heel and 34.5 cm in the forefoot, the Gel Resolution 9 offers a stable energy return and shock absorption that will suit those who need comfort and performance.
However, the shoe has an external shank instead of an internal one, which helps to wrap the foot and reduce the pressure on the foot while maintaining the shoe’s flexibility.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable urethane upper | Heavier than speed-focused shoes |
| Excellent containment with dino wall | Lacing may need adjustments for high-volume feet |
| Strong shock absorption | Requires advanced sliding technique |
| Good bounce from Flight Foam midsole | Initial stiffness in the forefoot |
| Durable outsole for lateral movements | Lower speed ratio compared to lighter models |
Speed and Comfort
While it’s slightly heavier than speed shoes like the Solution Speed FF2, the Gel Resolution 9 still comes up quickly. The Flight Foam midsole stores energy during play to help power performance once the shoe has broken in.
- Speed Test: The Gel Resolution 9 sits in the middle of the speed-focused pickleball shoe pack with a speed ratio of 2.1, providing quickness, without sacrificing durability.
In terms of comfort, the Gel Resolution 9 is ideal for players who need extra support, especially those dealing with ankle instability or arch pain. Its dino wall and external scaffolding provide excellent side-to-side containment. If you’re prone to heel pain or high arches, adding orthotics can enhance the overall fit and comfort.
Playability for Pickleball
The Asics Gel Resolution 9 excels on the pickleball court, particularly for players who prioritize durability, support, and shock absorption. The Flight Foam midsole and dino wall containment system makes it easy to handle quick changes in direction. The Gel Resolution 9 is more than capable whether you’re playing aggressive, fast-paced games or footwear that can take long hours on the court.
Conclusion: Durable, Supportive, and Ideal for Aggressive Play
The Asics Gel Resolution 9 is durable, supportive, and comfortable, and is a great choice for pickleball players who want high performance. Its Flight Foam midsole and urethane uppers deliver great side-to-side containment, bounce, and grip so even the most aggressive players can feel light on their feet and in control.
