Let’s be honest for a second. It doesn’t really matter how perfect your dink is or how solid your serve is if your feet are screaming at you. You can’t sprint to a ball, pivot, or poach if every step causes you to wince with pain running through your feet. I’ve been there. I know foot pain. I have flat feet—seriously, no arch at all—and a left big toe that hates me.

Good pickleball starts from the ground up. Your shoes aren’t just part of your outfit—they're your foundation. It starts with great footwork, and without solid, comfortable shoes, how can you be confident in your footwork? You can’t. So before you blame your paddle for that last missed shot, take a closer look at what’s happening below the ankles.

Here’s how to find the perfect pickleball shoes for your feet, whether you’ve got flat feet, high arches, wide toes, or stinky feet that demand maximum mesh ventilation.

Just Grip It, The Floor That Is

Running shoes? Great for running. Seriously, why do I still see these out there? You are asking for an injury or a severe ankle sprain! They are terrible for pickleball. Those soft, cushy soles that make your jogs feel like you are floating on clouds? They’ll betray you the minute you try to make a quick side-step at the kitchen line. Don’t leave your ankles on the sideline.

What you need are court shoes specifically for side-to-side movement and quick pivots. Look for a durable, non-marking rubber sole with good lateral traction. Look for the lateral lines on the bottom of the shoes. You want a shoe grip that keeps you grounded but doesn’t glue you to the floor. (There are some of those out there too.) You might think that type of grip is great, but there is such a thing as too much traction.

If you play outdoors, go for a slightly tougher tread that can handle concrete or asphalt. Indoors? A smoother sole will do. “Gum” bottoms—the brownish-yellow ones—are great for indoor pickleball.

Arch Support: Flat, High, Neutral

Every foot is different, and your arches have a lot to say about how you move. I’ve told you earlier that I have flat feet, so this absolutely affects my shoe selection.

Flat feet need shoes with firm midsole support to keep your ankles from collapsing inward.
High arches need plush cushioning to absorb impact.
Neutral arches enjoy the “just-right” support and flexibility.

If your shoes don’t match your arch type, you’ll feel it fairly quickly—usually in your knees, hips, or lower back. Your feet are basically acting as shock absorbers for your body, so make sure they’re ready for a smooth ride with the correct arch support.

Ankle Support: Roll With It, BUT Don’t Actually Roll It

Pickleball tests your ankles. I’ve yet to roll an ankle. Knock on wood. I think it is a bit tougher to roll an ankle with very flat feet. In pickleball, you’re lunging, twisting, and pushing off in every direction, many times in the same rally.

If you’ve got a history of ankle sprains, consider a mid-cut shoe for extra stability. Otherwise, a low-cut design can offer better freedom of movement. Either way, look for reinforced sidewalls or wraparound lacing to keep your foot locked in when you change direction fast.

Toe Box Talk: Toes—“I Need Space…It’s Not You, It’s Me” Shoe—“Wait, I Can Do Better and Get Wider!”

Ok, I know the title was odd. Toes talking to shoes and wanting to end the relationship… BUT go with it for a second. Your toes need room to breathe and wiggle. A wide toe box lets them spread naturally, which improves balance and comfort. If you’ve got bunions, hammertoes, or just a general dislike for cramped quarters, go for shoes with a little extra height and width up front. Many shoe brands have gone this route lately, and many have come from running. So make sure you do some research.

At the end of the day, this isn’t a fashion show. Your toes should feel relaxed and have enough room to flow to each shot. Even if they’re the best-looking shoes on the court, if your feet feel like sh#@, it’s not worth it!

Breathe Easier

Sweaty feet are unhappy feet. Choose shoes with breathable mesh uppers that let air flow through. The goal is ventilation without sacrificing durability. Your feet will thank you after that third game in 90-degree weather.

Less swampy feet mean fewer blisters, and fewer blisters mean you’ll actually want to come back tomorrow. I recently had some blisters on my feet and to be honest, my feet were cramped, and I have a bunion on one foot. It’s time I take better care of my “dogs” so they don’t keep barking at me. Oh! And one other thing… POWDER YOUR FEET.

Fit Check: Different Brands May Equal Different Sizes

Never assume your “usual size” will fit perfectly, especially if you’re switching brands. Try shoes on at the end of the day (when your feet are a bit swollen, like they’ll be mid-match). Make sure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

Then take a few practice shuffles and do some mini-lunges. If anything rubs, pinches, or slips, it’s not the right pair. Your shoes should hug your feet with comfort, not suffocate them.

Style Points Count

I’d be lying if I said looks don’t matter. When you slip into shoes that make you vibe fast and confident, you play that way too. Buy shoes that fit your personality. Colors you like. Sleek and modern. Loud or minimalist. It’s got to be you.

Look Good, Feel Good = CONFIDENCE.

Shoe Matchmaker

The right pickleball shoes don’t just protect your feet; they elevate your entire game. They really do play a role, and may even help give you a few points! They keep you stable and pain-free after hours of play. Take your time finding your fit. Match your arch, your toes, and let your feet breathe. Your feet will love you and so will your game.

About the Author: Neil Friedenberg is a certified pickleball coach and Head of Education for Empower Pickleball. He is passionate about helping players of all levels grow their skills and confidence on the court. A lifelong player with deep roots in the sport, Neil also brings experience as a paddle company owner, blending technical expertise with a love for the game.

Pickleball Footwork Starts With Your Shoes: Finding the Right Fit