Best Pickleball Shoes for Injury Prevention: Proper footwear can help prevent foot and ankle problems that have become more common as the sport grows in popularity. The right shoes give the foot the support it needs for quick side-to-side movements.
Why Running Shoes Are Not Enough
Montreal-based podiatrist Sarah Cantin-Langlois explained that running shoes are made for moving in a straight line. She said,
“You cannot just use your regular running shoes and just play pickleball with them.Running shoes are good for linear motion, but they’re not really good for lateral motion, and so they don’t really have that appropriate support and stability.”( Sarah Cantin-Langlois)
Better Footwear Choices
Instead of running shoes, players can choose tennis shoes for pickleball. Ronith Cogswell, who has coached pickleball and played for nearly 10 years with the Vancouver Pickleball Association, shared her preference. She said she wears the Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 tennis shoes for her games.
Sarah Cantin-Langlois advised looking for certain shoe features. She recommended shoes with a toe guard, a firm heel counter, a reinforced upper, and a strong forefoot lateral flange. These qualities help keep feet stable during side steps. She also noted that shoes with good ankle collars can help avoid sprained ankles, which are the most common pickleball injury.
Think About the Court Surface
The surface you play on matters, too. Sarah Cantin-Langlois said,
“If you want to be really 100 per cent safe, you really have to not only pay attention to the type of shoe, but also to what type of surface you’re going to play on.”
For example, gym floors with laminate surfaces need shoes with firm outsoles. Outdoor courts require shoes with more shock absorption.
Find the Right Fit
Shoes should also fit well to protect your feet. Ronith Cogswell advised players to try on shoes before buying. She said,
“When you’re trying it on, if there are already any spots that feel like it’s not right, then it’s not right. It’s not going to get better.”
Importance of Good Footwear
Wearing the right shoes can help prevent injuries and keep players comfortable on the court. By choosing the correct type, fit, and sole, pickleball players can stay active and avoid problems that could keep them from enjoying the game.
News in Brief: Best Pickleball Shoes for Injury Prevention
Experts say pickleball players should wear proper shoes to avoid injuries. Running shoes lack side support. Tennis shoes with toe guards, firm heels, and strong ankle collars work better. Court surfaces matter, too. Shoes must fit well to stay safe and comfortable during games.
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