A Good Pair of Pickleball Shoes Can Help Improve Your Game. Here's Our Top Picks.

If you’re looking for one lightweight, serious pair of pickleball shoes that can also handle the wear and tear of aggressive game play, the second version of the Viper Courts are definitely the way to go.This go around features a revamped upper that makes them even more durable then the previous gen, while remaining just as breathable and potentially even more comfortable (at least popular opinion says, according to reviewers).

These low tops feature quite the supportive feel with their EVA insoles and responsive foam in the midsoles that are topped off with Goodyear Gold compound soles that can take all the quick cuts and bursts you’ll find yourself doing every game. Plus, they’re versatile enough for the other two big racket sports of tennis and Padel.

You might be surprised to find K-Swiss at the top of the pickleball shoe market, but the brand has quietly been creating trusted game-ready models for all types of price points. We've come to find the Express Light as one of the top supportive and strong pickleball shoes money can buy.

Two main features of this shoe stood out when testing: the 180-degree Plantar Support Chassis and the DURAWRAP cover to help combat toe dragging. The support chassis worked great at providing a secure feeling while playing, giving ample support for high arches and preventing feet from twisting and rolling inside the shoe—even when they go hot and sweaty. The DURAWRAP cover is the outsole material used to combat abrasion and toe-dragging. The cover is definitely hard alright, and so it's nice to know you have this strong outer shell over the cushioned mesh that feels oh-so-good on the feet.

The shoes do fit quite snugly, so consider potentially going up a half size on this shoe. The design is unique, and fun with multiple colorways. It's not the fastest shoe, but it provides great durability and support. This is a well-balanced model you can play outside in for long periods of time.

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New Balance takes the cake when it comes to shoes for those in need of a little extra stability. Both instructors we talked to agree that New Balance always delivers on comfort, support, and above all, stability. Between the precise underfoot cushioning, superior durability, or the FuelCell foam, the elements all come together to form a thoughtful design.

"They're well-made, so they last a long time and are very comfortable," Winn says. Armstrong also adds, "Looking around and asking a few of our senior players, [the New Balances] seem to be a fan favorite." At the end of the day, comfort and stability are the leading factors in selecting a shoe for seniors, both of which this shoe excels in, according to Armstrong.

Babolat doesn't just make stellar tennis rackets; the brand's tennis shoes are in a league of its own. With a soft upper and ventilated mesh, the SFX 4 delivers comfort and breathability in each wear. Babolat doubles down on the comfort with an OrthoLite insole that molds to the shape of your foot. A premium cushioning system absorbs shock in landings, which is super important for comfort and keeping your knees feeling good after a match. The shape and composition of the materials in the sole are segmented into nine key pressure points to deliver maximum responsiveness.

Armstrong also recommends these shoes for beginners. "In my experience, beginners need to look for something that may not require a huge investment, but also provides all the benefits needed to play tennis comfortably and safely," he says. "Generally, the shoes that are in a new player's price range and then feel the best, are the best shoes for them."

Pickleball is a social event and if you want a pair that can go from the courts to drinks afterwards, these Pickle Pros are our choice for sure. With their modern design and streamlined look, you could probably toss on a pair of slacks while wearing these and get away with it. I have worn them out in public running errands multiple times already and have even gotten several compliments on them, they’re that sharp.

Aesthetics aside, these shoes can still hold their own on the courts thanks to their solid design. For starters, these are darn comfortable with their OrthoLite foam midsoles that make them quite plush for a pair of pickleball shoes. Comfy as they are, they are quite tough too, which stems from the Duralast high-density soles that grips well on all court surfaces, but, it does mean they take a bit to break in from my experience. While I wouldn’t necessarily choose them for ultra competitive games, for a stylish and casual game, these are an absolute winner.

The Barricades are a go-to for all training sessions and matches for players who prioritize comfort. When shopping for shoes, Armstrong says, "Players have different criteria as to what makes a shoe great. Personally, I want something that is durable, supportive but not too bulky, and comfortable." Armstrong, who teaches/plays almost every day of the week, needs something that feels good on his notoriously aching Achilles tendon. Adidas makes this pair that does all of this, and are even a favorite of Armstrong's father (who tore his Achilles a few years ago) because of their unrivaled comfort.

Wonder why? It might have something to do with the shoe's foam Geofit Sensepods to securely lock in the heel, a cushioned Bounce midsole, and asymmetrical laces to help guard against the effects of foot drag. There's also a sustainability component, with 50 percent of the yarn in the upper being recycled.

If you’re the type of player who loves to chase down every shot, you’re going to need a shoe that can keep up. That means you’re going to want a pair that flexes and moves with your natural foot strike, allowing you to stay light on the balls of your feet. One of the best in the game right now that allows just those types of movement patterns are the CourtStrike Pro 2.0s from Selkirk.

Thanks to their 3D printing, you get a secure shoe with excellent lateral stability and a super responsive EVA midsole that helps to drastically improve you're reaction time. This allows you to stay explosive and react at will.

This 2.0 model features better, more durable rubber, extra material protection along the bottom of the laces for increased longevity, and multiple layered cushioning for a springier step. If you’re on a budget, you may want to opt for another pair on our list, but if you want one of the most versatile pairs around, just get these.