WHAT FEATURES TO LOOK FOR IN A GOOD PICKLEBALL COURT SHOE

The anatomy of shoe features can be somewhat complex and confusing for the average player to comprehend.  If that is the case, then rely on the knowledgeable pickle ball sales staff at Holabird Sports, 9220 Pulaski Hwy, Middle River, 21220, Phone: (866) 860-1416 or check out their website: www.holabirdsports.com.

First on my list is “ Pronation Stability.” A feature usually found in the mid section of the upper part of a shoe.  Pronation is the sudden side to side foot movements often occurring at the NVZ line. This motion tends to make the foot slide forcefully either in a medial or lateral direction on the shoe sole.  

Pronation control construction prevents the foot from sliding directly laterally off of the shoe sole. It is because of this necessity for side-to-side stability that pickle ball court shoes are constructed differently than running shoes. 

The uppers of court shoes are constructed of stiffer synthetic leathers than either running or fitness shoes, to provide the necessary pronation control stability.

The next important feature is the “midsole.” The midsole is the "floor" of the shoe and helps absorb shock and control foot motion. Its important to choose a shoe that has a midsole that fits your foot. The firmer the midsole, the stiffer and heavier the shoe. Soft midsoles improve shock absorption but wear more quickly. Soft midsoles can be helpful for shin splints.

The insole is the foundation of the shoe. it is the part of the shoe upon which the sock liner rests and is commonly referred to as the last. The softer the insole, the less torsional stability the shoe will have. The firmer the insole, the more structure and stability a shoe will have.

Outsole, literally means outermost layer of rubber on bottom of shoe. It’s the last layer between you and pounding the pavement.

For pickleball outsole design and tread must be able to perform the forward and backwards quick stars and sudden stops, requiring a balanced split-step in a stable ready position, to return an opponent’s hard hit ball. 

The outsole tread must have exceptional gripping power on a multitude of surfaces from hard wood, to hard mix concrete, asphalt and synthetic mix surfaces, often heated by the sun.

Outsole  layer of sole that is exposed to ground & must provide enough friction with floor to prevent wearer from slipping.

Pickleball outsole properties; preferred grip, is herringbone designed tread that provides increased traction for lateral motion and quick pivoting

Stay tuned for Part III:  When Is It Time To Buy New Pickleball Shoes.