When it comes to pickleball shoes, it's tough to know what you should be looking for and sometimes when shopping for them, we're left with more questions than answers: Are pickleball and tennis shoes the same? What even are pickleball shoes? How are they different?
Let's settle the pickleball shoe debate with an expert!
We sat down with someone with unique expertise in this area – Travis Rettenmaier, former ATP tennis player who reached No. 57 in the world in men's doubles and now turned pro pickleball player in the PPA and Major League Pickleball tours.
As someone who has been through more court shoes than we will in our lifetime, we're confident he has some knowledge to impart. Let's get into it.
Jason Flamm
So Travis, what do you look for in a shoe for pickleball?
Travis: "The two main things I look for is something that is both comfortable and stable. Of course, I want the shoe to be light to help me stay agile on the court, but primarily I want my feet to feel secure and feel like it's essentially attached to the shoe."
Have you noticed a difference in shoes between Tennis and Pickleball?
Travis: "Personally, I've not felt any differences between the two shoes. I think some shoes designed for pickleball have too much mesh and then if you slide it can create a shoe that doesn’t last very long. I prefer my pickleball shoes to mimic the standard tennis shoe with the firmer surface around the top of the toes."
Are all pickleball shoes made the same?
Travis: "No, I've seen a wide variety of styles, fits, and designs. Some are a bit heavier and more durable (my preference) while others are a bit lighter and probably a bit more flimsy. I think this just depends on what type of pickleball player you are. If you're not playing singles or making a ton of fast lateral movements, you might not need as strong of a shoe as I do."
Do you toe-drag and is that something you worry about with shoes?
Travis: "Yes I slide and toe drag so having a firmer material on the top of the toe box is critical for me. A shoe won't last more than a few days for me if it doesn't have protection over the toe box."
Can you tell the difference in shoes that support lateral movements?
Travis: "Yes, in pickleball lateral movements are huge – especially at the kitchen line. Shoes that are built to support lateral movements is such an important factor for me as I need something very stable. I don’t want to feel like my ankle or feet are moving too much."
How long do pickleball shoes last you and when should you replace shoes?
Travis: "It really depends on the style of the shoe. Like I mentioned before, if the style is primarily mesh then it can only last me a few days. But a solid shoe like the new Hypercourt from K-Swiss will last me a few months since it's way more durable. Generally, pickleball shoes should be replaced when the tread is lost substantially or the wear and tear lead to holes."
How should pickleball shoes fit? Do you like them tight or do you prefer to leave some room?
Travis: "I want my shoes relatively tight. I don’t want movement in the sole of the shoe. This leads to blisters for me."
What are common complaints you hear about pickleball shoes from other pro players?
Travis: "The issues from players are always the same. If you improve one area of the shoe then you sacrifice quality in another area. It's been really tough finding a shoe that feels like it checks all the boxes – probably why we go through so many at a time!"
So you're currently sporting K-Swiss shoes - What shoe is it and do you recommend it?
Travis: "The Hypercourt Supreme 2 is the best overall shoe I have ever worn. It is comfortable, durable, and stable all in one. This is an extremely rare combination."
