A Simple 10-Day Plan to Perfectly Break In Your New Outdoor Pickleball Shoes

Outdoor pickleball is quickly becoming one of the most popular recreational sports in North America. But like any court sport, having the right footwear is essential for comfort, performance and injury prevention. Breaking in a new pair of outdoor pickleball shoes properly helps mold the shoes to your feet, while allowing your feet to gradually adapt to the new footwear. Follow this simple 10-day plan to perfectly break in your new outdoor pickleball kicks.

Day 1: Introduction

Start by wearing your new outdoor pickleball shoes for short periods of time, around 30 minutes to an hour, during low-impact activities like walking or casual pickleball drills. Stick to activities like serving and dinking practice, volley exchanges or solo drills. This will allow your feet to begin getting acquainted with the shape and feel of the shoes, without putting too much stress on them too soon. Pay attention to any rubbing or pressure points on your feet and start breaking in those areas first.

Helpful Gear for Day 1

• Comfortable clothing and socks
• Water bottle
• Light pickleball paddle
• Foam balls or plastic practice balls

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Day 2: Gradual Increase

Building on Day 1, gradually increase the duration of wearing your new outdoor pickleball shoes each day, adding an extra 30 minutes to an hour of wear time. Continue focusing on low-impact movements and activities, allowing your feet additional time to gently adapt to the shoes. Really pay attention to any potential hot spots or irritation and focus your activities on massaging and breaking in those specific areas. Listen to feedback from your feet.

Helpful Gear for Day 2

• Breathable socks
• Court shoes
• Practice paddle and balls
• Small towel

Day 3 to Day 5: Moderate Activity

You’re ready to incorporate some moderate intensity pickleball activity over the next few days. Begin introducing basic drills like backcourt and frontcourt exchanges, lateral shuffles and movement patterns. The focus is controlled activity, allowing your feet, ankles, and calves to gradually adjust to the demands of the new shoes. Your goal is acclimating your feet – not testing your skills. Keep practice durations moderate as your feet build endurance.

Helpful Gear for Day 3 to 5

• Performance apparel and socks
• Training paddle and balls
• Water and snacks
• Comfort insoles or inserts if needed

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Day 6 to Day 8: Game Simulation

It’s time to simulate game-like scenarios to get your new shoes ready for the demands of competitive play. Mix in pickleball specific drills that incorporate sprints, quick changes in direction and practice points. The emphasis should still be controlled movements, but now is the time to introduce your shoes to sharper cuts, pivots and lunges. Pay attention to any slipping, rubbing or instability and adjust your lacing or insert use accordingly.

Helpful Gear for Day 6 to 8

• Quick-dry clothing and gloves
• Cushioned athletic socks
• Game pickleball paddle
• Indoor/outdoor balls
• Ankle brace or tape if needed

Day 9: Rest and Recovery

Nine days in, it’s important to give your feet a rest day to recover from the gradual break-in process. Allow the materials and shape of the shoes to fully adapt to the contours of your feet after days of controlled wear. This rest will help prevent any overuse injuries or pain caused by breaking in new shoes too aggressively. It also allows your feet to further mold to the footbed and insole.

Helpful Recovery Tips

• Remove insoles and allow shoes to air out
• Gently stretch feet and calves
• Consider an Epsom salt foot soak
• Wear well-worn shoes or sandals around the house

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Day 10: Game Day!

Congratulations, your new outdoor pickleball shoes are ready for prime time! After following this progressive break-in routine, you can now wear your shoes for a full pickleball match or tournament with confidence and comfort. The controlled, gradual process has allowed the materials to soften in the right places and mold perfectly to your feet. Your shoes are broken in – now it’s time to break a sweat on the courts!

Helpful Game Day Tips

• Wear moisture wicking socks
• Pack extra laces and gear
• Bring shoe deodorizers or extra socks
• Consider taping ankles or orthotic inserts
• Have fun and move confidently on the court!

Throughout this 10-day break-in plan, it’s important to listen to feedback from your feet. If you experience any pain, discomfort or blisters, ease off the duration or intensity until your feet have adjusted. Breaking in shoes is a gradual process – rushing it can lead to injuries. Be patient, consistent and proactive with breaking in those new outdoor pickleball kicks. With the right routine, your shoes will mold perfectly to your feet, keeping you comfortable and performing at your best on the pickleball courts. Now get out there and play more pickleball!