In pickleball, paddles, balls, and possibly nets come to mind when one thinks of equipment. All of these are essential, but you also need to include a good pair of Pickleball sneakers on your list.
If you try pickleball with your friends and their extra gear, your old running shoes might fit perfectly at first, but as you improve on the court, these shoes will start to get in the way of your game. For extended periods of pickleball play, your feet require the traction, stability, and support that athletic shoes not made for courts provide.
Pickleball sneakers differ in terms of fit, construction, and style, but they all emphasize three key features: traction to enhance your hitting, stability to enable swift direction changes, and support to prevent weariness and injury over time.
So what qualities ought to be present in your first or subsequent pickleball shoe purchase? In this article we will look into all the points to be covered before buying sneakers
How to Measure Your Foot to buy the pickleball sneakers
If you are one looking to buy a brand new pickleball sneakers, but confused with your foot measurement, then you need to follow the given below steps:-
- Step 1: Find a level, sturdy surface and lay a piece of paper on it.
- Step 2: Dress like you’re going to play pickleball when you wear these socks. Place a foot on the paper and stand there.
- Step 3: Draw a thin line around the outside of your entire foot while maintaining your body weight over it. Hold the pen perpendicular to the ground while you draw the line.
- Step 4: Take a vertical measurement along the length of the foot trace. This measures the length of your foot.
- Step 5: Take a horizontal measurement across the foot tracing’s widest area. This is the width of your foot.
Tips for buying new Pickleball sneakers
- Maintain Control
In Pickleball sneakers, the outsoles are frequently the most noticeable distinction from running shoes. Major brands in the industry use both their own non-marking rubber compounds and compounds from major rubber manufacturers to help you stay on your feet throughout the game.
These rubber compounds are durable enough to withstand wear and tear from frequent play while still remaining soft enough to maintain tacky traction on courts made of most materials and conditions.
- Maintain Stability
An essential component of pickleball (or tennis, which also works well for pickleball) is vertical stability. Sneakers made for these sports are made to offer the stability required for rapid lateral movements. If you play pickleball in running shoes, you risk twisting your ankle or getting other foot injuries. Running shoes are made for going forward. Their soles flare out wider and have very little, if any, torsional stability.
Court shoes reinforce the upper around the big toe and the outside of the foot. They also include a “shank” in the midsole to add stability.
It is frequently possible to see and easily identify the reinforcements on top. At times, it’s a polymer overlay on the outside of your foot. Other times, it’s a rubber material. The rubber matches the outsole and wraps all around your foot. These sections are made to support your weight as you plant your foot and adjust your direction to maintain your position, regardless of the material.
It may not be immediately apparent, but the stiff shank in the midsole keeps the shoe’s shape when you quickly change directions. You can trust your step and maintain your focus on the ball by using this piece, which absorbs all of your body weight and rebounds it into your leg.
- Maintain Support
The midsole, which sits beneath your foot but above the outsole, provides support in Pickleball sneakers. This portion of the shoe, which is often composed of EVA or polyurethane foam, strikes a balance between being lightweight, supporting your arches, and providing enough rebound to keep you moving.
Midsoles on court shoes will keep your feet and legs fatigue-free. They will also motivate you to run down difficult shots by driving you forward, no matter what material the manufacturer selects.
Similar to pickleball paddles, each person responds differently to different Pickleball sneakers. Finding the best shoe for your foot and play style may need trial and error. All court shoes beat other shoes on the court.
To extend the life of your favorite Pickleball sneakers, wear them only when playing. Wear slides or other shoes on the way to the courts. In addition to making your Pickleball sneakers last longer. Your feet will also appreciate switching into new shoes after a few hours on the court.
In conclusion
Investing in the right pickleball sneakers is crucial for enhancing your game and preventing injuries. These shoes provide the necessary traction, stability, and support that regular running shoes lack. Measuring your foot correctly and considering features like traction, stability, and support will help you choose the best pair. Remember to reserve your pickleball sneakers for the court to prolong their lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
