Pickleball is known for being an easy sport to get into — minimal equipment, small courts, and a simple rule set. But there’s one piece of gear that’s not optional if you want to play safely and comfortably: the right shoes.

You might think, “I’ll just wear my regular sneakers,” or “These running shoes are fine, right?” Not quite. Wearing the wrong footwear is one of the most common causes of injuries in senior pickleball players, from rolled ankles to sore knees and even serious falls.

Let’s dig into why court shoes matter, how they differ from other athletic shoes, and what to look for when choosing a pair.

Not All Athletic Shoes Are Created Equal

Walk into any sporting goods store and you’ll see shelves full of shoes labelled for everything from walking and running to cross-training. But pickleball isn’t a forward-only sport. It requires lateral movement — quick side-to-side steps, pivots, and sudden stops. That’s where most everyday sneakers fall short.

Here’s the key difference:

• Running shoes are designed to support forward motion. They’re cushioned, lightweight, and often have a curved sole to propel you forward. Great for the treadmill, not so great for the pickleball court.
• Court shoes (also known as tennis or indoor court shoes) are built for side-to-side movement. They have a flatter, more stable base and reinforced sides to support quick lateral shifts — which is exactly what your body needs when playing pickleball.

Wearing the wrong shoe can lead to slipping, rolling your ankle, or putting unnecessary stress on your knees and hips — especially if you’re over 50 and trying to protect aging joints.

The Most Common Pickleball Foot Injuries (And How Shoes Help)

Senior players often deal with common issues like:

• Ankle sprains from twisting or landing wrong
• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Knee discomfort due to lack of lateral support
• Slips and falls on smooth or dusty courts

Most of these are preventable with shoes that offer the right kind of grip, support, and shock absorption. Good court shoes help distribute your weight evenly, stabilize your foot, and give you traction on the court — indoors or out.

And remember: even a minor ankle tweak or fall can take weeks (or months) to recover from, especially for older adults.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Court Shoes

Yes, there’s a difference — and it matters.

Indoor court shoes are made for gym floors, community centers, or indoor pickleball facilities. They usually have:

• Non-marking rubber soles
• Grip optimized for polished floors
• Slightly lighter weight

Outdoor court shoes are built for rougher surfaces like asphalt or concrete. They typically offer:

• More durable soles
• Better traction on textured courts
• Extra cushioning to absorb shock from harder ground

If you play both indoor and outdoor, consider having a pair for each. It’s not just a comfort issue — it helps your shoes last longer and keeps your feet safer in each environment.

What to Look for in a Good Pair of Pickleball Shoes

When shopping for court shoes, keep an eye out for these features:

• Lateral support: Reinforced sides prevent your foot from sliding inside the shoe when you move sideways.
• Flat, stable sole: This helps with balance and reduces wobbling or rolling.
• Cushioned midsole: Reduces impact on knees and hips, especially for older players.
• Breathability: Keeps your feet cool and dry during long games.
• Durability: Look for solid construction that won’t wear down after a few months of use.
• Fit: Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen — that’s when you’ll get the truest feel for size and comfort.

If you wear orthotics, bring them with you when trying on shoes. Many court shoes have removable insoles that allow for custom inserts.

Recommended Brands for Seniors

Several major brands make court shoes that work well for pickleball, including:

• ASICS: Excellent cushioning and support; Gel-Resolution and Gel-Renma are popular models
• New Balance: Offers wider sizes and great stability; check out the 806 or 996
• K-Swiss: Durable and budget-friendly with solid lateral support
• HEAD and Babolat: Popular among tennis and pickleball players alike
• Skechers Pickleball Shoes: Yes, they make shoes just for this — with extra cushioning and senior-friendly features

Whatever brand you choose, make sure the shoe is specifically designed for court sports. It makes a big difference in how your body feels after a few games.

When to Replace Your Court Shoes

Court shoes don’t last forever — even if they still look good on the outside. The midsole support can wear down, and the tread can lose grip. On average, plan to replace your shoes every 6–9 months if you’re playing regularly (2–3 times a week). Heavier play may mean every 4–6 months.

Signs it’s time for a new pair:

• The tread is worn smooth
• Your knees or heels ache after games
• The shoes feel loose or less stable
• You’ve started slipping on the court

Think of court shoes as safety equipment — not a fashion statement. A fresh pair can prevent injuries and even improve your performance.

Final Thoughts: Support Your Feet, Protect Your Game

Your feet carry you through every point, every pivot, and every step on the court. Treat them right, and they’ll keep you playing strong. Choosing the right pickleball shoes isn’t about looking fancy — it’s about protecting your joints, reducing injury risk, and making the game feel even more enjoyable.

So, if you’ve been wearing those old cross-trainers or running shoes out of habit, consider upgrading to a proper pair of court shoes. Your ankles, knees, and future self will thank you.