First For Women has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
If you’re like us, the prevailing conversation in your walking-group chats, Facebook feeds and water cooler meet ups seems to be all about pickleball. The sport is a combination of badminton, tennis and ping pong, says USA Pickleball. It was named the “fastest-growing sport in America” three years in a row (2021-2023) and is loved by thousands — especially those over the age of 50. Fitness experts agree that the sport is a fun way to get your body moving and it’s easy to learn. Case in point: Fitness legend Denise Austin is currently “obsessed” with pickleball!
So you’re ready to try it out — you borrowed a friend’s paddle, pulled your old tennis skirt out of storage, but wait, can you just wear your walking sneakers? Will your tennis shoes suffice? What exactly are the best pickleball shoes for women?
When choosing the right shoe for pickleball, you want to focus on two things: “stability and quality,” says New York City podiatrist Dr. Suzanne Levine. As the sport requires lots of abrupt foot movement, it’s important that your shoes are supportive and stable.
What features should your pickleball shoes have?
- Sturdiness: “These shoes need to be exceptionally sturdy, while also providing the flexibility needed for abrupt movements,” says Dr. Levine.
- Shock absorption: “Women should look for a pickleball sneaker that has good shock absorption in the midsole of the shoe,” says Dr. Levine. This will better support the foot. ”With the quick movements that come with playing the sport, you stability is key, says Dr. Levine.
- Rubber soles: A gum rubber soled sneaker will provide extra cushioning to the foot, thus extra protection.
We found the 7 shoes that best fit these parameters, ran them by Dr. Levine and got her seal of approval! If you are looking for the best pickleball shoes to wear, check out our list of recommendations. Bonus? They’re cute too so you don’t need to sacrifice fashion for function. Read on to discover the 7 best pickleball shoes for women.
Related: ‘I’m a Podiatrist and These Are The Most Comfortable Flats for Women Over 50’
What are the best pickleball shoes for women?
- Best overall : Asics Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball
- Best for beginners : Skechers Viper Court – Pickleball Shoes
- Best for advanced players : Skechers Viper Court Pro – Pickleball Shoes
- Most lightweight : NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2
- Most comfortable : Asics Gel-Contend 8
- Most stylish : K-Swiss Women’s Bigshot Light 4 Pickleball Shoe
- Most affordable : New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
How to avoid foot and ankle Injuries while playing pickleball
Since the sport requires lots of footwork, it’s crucial to know how to protect your ankles and feet. Before getting into the sport, Dr. Levine suggests talking to a podiatrist to ensure your feet are in good condition and able to withstand the foot movement required.
“If you are experiencing overpronation, for example, you are at higher risk of injury. Visiting a podiatrist can inform someone’s needs for orthotics or specific muscle strengthening exercises,” Levine says. “Knowing this will help you to avoid possible stress fractures and sprains in the ankle and foot.”
Dr. Levine also emphasizes that your shoes play a huge factor. Wearing just basic running shoes, for example, may not be the best choice, as Pickleball shoes are “designed for more abrupt movements.”
Our Top Picks
Asics Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball
Best overall
Why we like it:
- Stable
- Flexible
- Synthetic leather overlays
These pink, white and black shoes will not only match any outfit you wear, but they are actually one of Dr. Levine’s top recommendations. “I find Asics to be the most supportive of the foot and ankle in a fast movement sport like pickleball.” The colors, style, stability and comfort of this shoe made it our Best Overall pick!
Skechers Viper Court – Pickleball Shoes
best for beginners
Why we like it:
- Podiatrist-certified
- Lightweight cushioning
- Roomy space for toes and heels
These Viper Court shoes designed for pickleball by Skechers offer an exceptional arch support design that is certified by podiatrists. making them one of the best pickleball shoes for women. Dr. Levine named Skechers as another brand she recommends for pickleball players. These shoes are great for all players, but especially beginners. For more advanced players, see the Viper Court Pro shoes below.
Skechers Viper Court Pro – Pickleball Shoes
Best for advanced players
Why we like it:
- Ultra-lightweight
- Podiatrist-certified
- Moldable
The Skechers Viper Court Pros are similar to the shoes listed above, but offer more supportive for advanced players. The difference between the Viper Courts and the Viper Court Pros has to do with the compounds. While the regular courts use Goodyear Weather-Adapt compound, a stickier compound, the Pros use Goodyear Gold, allowing for more control with slides.
NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2
most lightweight
Why we like it:
- Springy with the Zoom Air cushioning
- Breathable
- Lightweight
The NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2 shoes’ white with pops of green design offer a retro look with modern technology. The shoes are low to the ground, which is ideal for a sport like pickleball, and are super lightweight making moving around (especially during warmer months) a breeze.
Asics Gel-Contend 8
Most comfortable
Why we like it:
- Wide range of colors
- Durable
- Soft underfoot feeling
As mentioned above, Asics are Dr. Levine’s favored brand for pickleball shoes. They provide comfort and durability, while also serving stylish looks. The beige color is the perfect neutral to go with any outfit.
K-Swiss Women’s Bigshot Light 4 Pickleball Shoe
Most stylish
Buy from Famous Footwear, $94.99
Why we like it:
- Rubber outsole
- Flexible insole
- Padded tongue and collar for comfort
Not only are these shoes by K-Swiss fashionable with the muted grey and lavender colors, the extra padding on the tongue and collar provide peak comfort. They also have a rubber outsole, which is ideal for pickleball shoes.
New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4
most affordable
Why we like it:
- Rubber outsole
- Breathable mesh
- Comfortable
The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi v4 shoes provide an elevated look for an affordable price. The mesh on the upper outside of the shoes allows for breathability and the rubber on the outsole allows for durability. With four colors to choose from, you’re sure to find a pair that fits your style.
Click through to learn more about pickleball and the benefits of playing:
What Is Pickleball — And How Did It Get Its Unique Name?
Fitness Legend Denise Austin Shares Her Passion for Pickleball: “I’m Totally Obsessed!”
