Here’s a list of the 8 best outdoor pickleball shoes for men that grip any court surface:
- K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball: These shoes are known for their lightweight construction, excellent traction, and breathable upper, making them ideal for quick movements and all-day comfort on the pickleball court.
- Skechers Viper Court: The Skechers Viper Court shoes offer a combination of comfort and support, featuring a cushioned insole, a durable outsole for multi-directional traction, and a breathable mesh upper.
- Fila Double Bounce 3: The Fila Double Bounce 3 is a lightweight and responsive shoe with a durable Evergrind rubber outsole that provides excellent traction on various court surfaces.
- Asics Dedicate 8 Pickleball: The Asics Dedicate 8 Pickleball shoes are designed for durability and support, featuring a combination of leather and mesh upper for breathability and a supportive midsole for shock absorption.
- Skechers Viper Court Pro: The Skechers Viper Court Pro provides enhanced support and stability with its lightweight design, breathable upper, and responsive cushioning.
- K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme: The K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme offers a blend of comfort, support, and durability, featuring a lightweight design, a durable outsole for traction, and a supportive midsole for shock absorption.
- Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler: The Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler is designed for all-around performance, featuring a lightweight and responsive design, a durable outsole for multi-directional traction, and a comfortable upper for breathability.
- ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball: The ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball shoes provide a combination of comfort, support, and stability, featuring a cushioned insole, a durable outsole for traction, and a supportive midsole for shock absorption.
For outdoor pickleball, you’ll want shoes that can grip and provide stability on hard, slick surfaces like asphalt or concrete. The outsoles need to be durable enough to withstand abrasive courts while also flexible enough to allow quick start-stop motions and lateral movements. Breathable uppers will help keep feet cool and dry during active games under the sun.
We’ve researched and reviewed the top outdoor pickleball shoes preferred by competitive and recreational players alike. Here are our picks for the 8 best outdoor pickleball shoes for men in 2023:
- K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball
- Skechers Viper Court
- Fila Double Bounce 3
- Asics Dedicate 8 Pickleball
- Skechers Viper Court Pro
- K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme
- Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler
- ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball
- 1. K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball
- 2. Skechers Viper Court
- 3. Fila Double Bounce 3
- 4. Asics Dedicate 8 Pickleball
- 5. Skechers Viper Court Pro
- 6. K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme
- 7. Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler
- 8. ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball
- What to Look for in Outdoor Pickleball Shoes?
- Getting the Right Fit
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Wrap Up
1. K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball
- SIZING: Similar to athletic shoes. We recommend ordering a 1/2 size up from your normal street shoe…
- FIT: The pickleball shoe is designed as a stability shoe for the short lateral and front/back…
The K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball shoes are purposely designed for the fast-paced, dynamic motions of pickleball. Weighing in at just 10.4 ounces, the Express Light Pickleball feature a ultra lightweight construction that makes it easy to move quickly around the court.
The seamless Sport Foam sockliner provides cushioning and arch support for all-day play. The low-profile design places the foot close to the court for enhanced stability and control. The mesh upper offers ventilation to keep feet cool and dry on hot outdoor courts.
The Durawrap toe cap adds protection and abrasion resistance in high wear areas. The Aosta rubber outsoles grip the court well and hold up to abrasive playing surfaces. With excellent traction, breathability, and quickness, the K-Swiss Express Light Pickleball shoes are a top choice for competitive pickleball players.
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2. Skechers Viper Court
- SKECHERS PICKLEBALL SHOES: workout in supportive comfort with Skechers Pickleball court shoes…
- MEDIUM (D) AND EXTRA WIDE FIT (4E): these tennis shoes feature a relaxed fit with an adjustable…
- SKECHERS ARCH FIT (INSOLE CUSHION): these podiatrist-certified arch support insoles offer a…
The Skechers Viper Court pickleball shoes offer a sporty style and enhanced comfort for active players. A lightweight and breathable mesh upper with synthetic leather overlays allows air flow to keep feet cool.
The 5GEN cushioning system provides responsive shock absorption mile after mile. An OrthoLite® sockliner wicks moisture and provides added cushioning. The midsole is flexible to allow natural foot movement.
The high traction diamond-patterned rubber outsole grips outdoor courts well. Flex grooves in the outsole enhance flexibility in multiple directions for quick start-stop motion. Available in a lace-up or slip-on design, the Skechers Viper Court delivers cushioned comfort, ventilation, and reliable traction ideal for pickleball.
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3. Fila Double Bounce 3
Fila is a heritage tennis brand that also makes high quality shoes for pickleball. The Fila Double Bounce 3 is designed to be lightweight and responsive on the court. At just 10.4 ounces, these shoes allow freedom of movement for quick reactions and direction changes.
The full grain leather upper is durable while allowing the foot to breathe. The EVA midsole cushions landings while the Evergrind rubber outsole provides excellent traction even on slick surfaces. Segmented flex grooves in the outsole enhance flexibility and promote a natural gait.
With a secure lace-up design, padded tongue and collar, and Fila’s Super Archaeological technology for shock absorption, the Double Bounce 3 offers versatile performance and comfort for casual and competitive outdoor pickleball.
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4. Asics Dedicate 8 Pickleball
- Durable synthetic leather toe overlays:
- Solution dye sockliner helps reduce overall water usage by approx. 33% and carbon emissions by…
- TRUSSTIC technology and wrap-up outsole: Improve stability
Asics is renowned for their high performance athletic shoes, and the Dedicate 8 Pickleball model lives up to expectations. With a combination of leather and breathable mesh in the upper, this shoe provides durability along with ventilation.
The AHAR® gum rubber outsole is designed specifically for the stop-start motions of pickleball, gripping the court and resisting abrasion. Rearfoot and forefoot GEL® technology cushioning absorbs shock during active play.
The removable OrthoLite® X40 sockliner manages moisture and provides added underfoot comfort. A PGuard toe protector enhances durability. Supportive overlay technology provides lateral stability and allows quick side-to-side movements. With excellent cushioning, traction, and support, the Asics Dedicate 8 is ready for the rigors of competitive outdoor pickleball.
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5. Skechers Viper Court Pro
- SKECHERS PICKLEBALL SHOES: workout in supportive comfort with Skechers Pickleball Pro court shoes…
- MEDIUM (D) AND EXTRA WIDE FIT (4E): these tennis shoes feature a relaxed fit with an adjustable…
- SKECHERS ARCH FIT (INSOLE CUSHION): these podiatrist-certified arch support insoles offer a…
Experienced pickleball players looking for a high performance shoe will appreciate the Skechers Viper Court Pro model. While retaining the comfort and breathability of the original Viper Court, the Pro version adds stability and support features to up your game.
The leather and mesh upper is durable yet ventilated. 5GEN cushioning and a Goga Max® insole absorb shock and provide energy return. The midfoot stabilizer ensures lateral support for quick side steps and pivots.
The Pro ST spikeless outsole has a durable rubber compound with a waffle traction pattern to grip outdoor courts. With its lightweight feel, cushioning, and stability, the Skechers Viper Court Pro helps athletes play at their peak during competitive pickleball.
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6. K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme
- WOMEN’S COLORS: Angel Blue/Sheer Lilac/Brilliant White, Vapor Blue/White/Coral Blush,…
- MEN’S COLORS: Celestial/Scuba Blue/Brilliant White, White/High Rise/Black, Jet Black/Steel…
- SIZING: Similar to athletic shoes. We recommend ordering a 1/2 size up from your normal street shoe…
Another outstanding pickleball shoe from K-Swiss, the Pickleball Supreme prioritizes comfort, support, and durability. At 11.3 ounces, this mid-weight shoe provides cushioning and stability without feeling clunky or restrictive.
A seamless textile upper backed by synthetics offers flexibility with abrasion resistance. Perforations along the toe box enhance breathability. The Midsole Racing Stripe provides a stable platform for lateral movements while the midsole cushions landings.
The rounded heel promotes natural gait mechanics. DraggaTM gum rubber on the outsole grips outdoor surfaces while resisting wear over time. With its blend of cushioning, support, grip, and protection, the K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme excels during active outdoor play.
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7. Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler
- Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler Men’s Pickleball Shoe – Ebony/Black/Wilson Red, Size 10.5 US
- 4D Support Chassis limits supination and torsion to help control pivot movements while loading up…
- DF2 provides cushioned court feel, yielding compromise between comfort and quick performance (DF2 =…
Wilson adapted their Rush Pro tennis shoe into a model designed specifically for the demands of pickleball – the Rush Pro Ace Pickler. Weighing just 10.8 ounces, this shoe allows quick acceleration while maintaining stability.
The synthetic leather upper reinforced with welded overlays provides lateral support while allowing flexibility. Mesh inserts enhance ventilation to keep feet cool. Duralast® rubber in the high abrasion areas resists wear from outdoor courts.
Full-length EVA provides responsive cushioning from heel to toe. The Sharkskin outsole compound provides superb grip even on slick or dusty surfaces. For all-around athletic performance tailored to the pickleball player, the Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler is a top choice.
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8. ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball
- Open mesh design improves breathability:
- Trusstic System technology: Reduces the weight of the sole unit while retaining the structural…
- GEL Technology: Cushioning provides excellent shock absorption
The ASICS GEL-Game 8 Pickleball shoe provides the blend of comfort and support that the brand is famous for. Strategically placed mesh panels in the upper promote air flow to keep feet comfortable in warmer weather.
Rearfoot and forefoot GEL® technology attenuates shock during active play while EVA midsole cushioning protects the feet. The Trusstic System® technology enhances gait efficiency and reduces weight.
The NC Rubber® outsole compound has an extra-flared shape for lateral stability and allows quick start-stops. With excellent shock absorption, airflow, stability, and traction, the ASICS GEL-Game 8 excels for outdoor pickleball.
Check Price on Amazon: asics gel-game 8 pickleball shoes
What to Look for in Outdoor Pickleball Shoes?
When selecting shoes to grip and perform on outdoor pickleball courts, here are some key features to look for:
- Traction – A rubber outsole with a durable compound, textured tread pattern, and flex grooves will grip slick hard courts and resist abrasion from the surface. Herringbone, waffle, and diamond traction patterns work well.
- Cushioning – Cushioning in the midsole absorbs shock and reduces fatigue from the high-impact forces of sprints, pivots, and sudden stops. Look for EVA foam or proprietary cushioning compounds.
- Support – Lateral support around the midfoot prevents rolling ankles during quick side-to-side motions. Integrated support features like a midfoot shank enhance stability.
- Breathability – Mesh panels and perforations allow air flow to keep feet cool and dry during active play in warmer weather. Leather and synthetics are more durable but less breathable.
- Weight – Lightweight or mid-weight designs between 10-13 ounces allow freedom of movement for quick changes in direction. Heavier shoes can cause fatigue over long play sessions.
- Durability – Abrasion-resistant materials in high wear areas ensure the shoes withstand damage from abrasive court surfaces over time. Leather, rubber, and synthetics last longer than mesh.
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Getting the Right Fit
It’s important to get the right fit when selecting outdoor pickleball shoes. Here are some tips for finding your ideal size and fit:
- Try shoes on at the end of the day when your feet are slightly swollen to simulate an active playing session.
- Wear the same socks you plan to play in – thicker athletic socks take up more room than thin socks.
- Feet should have about a finger’s width of space from the tip of the shoe to allow room for toe splay and comfort on quick stops.
- Lace up and walk around to make sure there is no heel slippage or tightness across the ball of the foot.
- Consider your foot type. Those with wide feet may need to size up or select wider options. Low volume or narrow feet may need to size down.
- If you use custom orthotics, bring them to try on with shoes to check the fit.
Getting the proper size and fit for your foot type ensures your outdoor pickleball shoes perform comfortably during competitive play while lowering injury risk. Don’t hesitate to try several options from different brands to find your ideal pair. Proper shoes can elevate your game!
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of shoes are best for outdoor pickleball courts?
For outdoor pickleball, you’ll want athletic shoes specifically designed for court sports, with excellent traction rubber outsoles that can grip slick hard courts made of asphalt or concrete. Cushioning and support features also help with the quick start-stop motions.
Are trail running shoes good for outdoor pickleball?
Trail running shoes generally have deep lugged outsoles more suited to soft surfaces like dirt or grass. They lack the lateral support and low-profile outsole needed for quick changes of direction on hard courts. Court sport shoes are a better choice.
Can you wear tennis shoes for outdoor pickleball?
You can wear tennis shoes for pickleball, but shoes designed specifically for pickleball will provide some advantages. Pickleball requires more lateral motion and traction than tennis, so shoes with features like enhanced midfoot support and multi-directional outsoles optimize performance. But quality tennis shoes can work well too.
What’s the difference between indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes?
Indoor pickleball is usually played on gym floors or multi-use indoor courts. The outsoles of indoor shoes are clean, with non-marking rubber. Outdoor shoes have more textured, durable traction rubber better suited to grip abrasive asphalt or concrete courts. But some styles work well for both indoor and outdoor play.
How do you clean outdoor pickleball shoes?
Use a soft bristle brush and mild detergent to clean dirt and dust from the outsoles. Remove insoles and wash separately if very dirty. Allow shoes to fully air dry before wearing again. Periodically apply shoe protectant spray to help repel dirt and stains. Avoid putting leather shoes in the washing machine.
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Wrap Up
Having the proper footwear is essential for traction, comfort, and injury prevention during outdoor pickleball play. The shoes featured here offer combinations of excellent grip, stability, cushioning, and ventilation to keep you performing at your best on hard outdoor courts. Consider your playing style and fit preferences, and look for design features that match the demands of the sport. With the right outdoor pickleball shoes, you can focus on skill without worrying about slipping or discomfort slowing you down.
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