Best Pickleball Shoes With Wide Toe Box [Men & Women] 2023

As someone with wide feet, I know how difficult it can be to find the perfect pair of pickleball shoes. But worry no more!

I’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best pickleball shoes with wide toe boxes for both men and women. With a vast selection of options at various price points, there’s something to fit everyone’s budget. These shoes are not only great for playing pickleball, but they also double as tennis shoes with a wide toe box.

Take a look at my list of the best pickleball shoes for wide feet, and you’ll be sure to find a pair that allows you to play at your absolute best during your next match. Don’t let having wide feet hold you back from being the best player you can be.

• Best Women’s Shoes: Orthofeet Francis No-Tie
• Best Men’s Shoes: K-Swiss Express Light
• Best Tennis Shoes: New Balance 806 V1

Why You Need a Wide Toe Box for Pickleball?

A wide toe box is important for pickleball shoes because it provides more comfort and allows for natural movement on the court. Many shoes with narrow toe boxes can cause pain and discomfort.

Pickleball-specific shoes often have wider-than-average toe boxes for added stability and comfort. It is also important to have shoes that are appropriate for the type of court being played on, as indoor and outdoor courts have different requirements.

Top Picks of Pickleball Shoes With Wide Toe Box

Orthofeet Francis No-Tie (Best For Women)

Last update on 2023-06-03 at 17:22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Orthofeet’s Francis Sneakers are designed specifically for women suffering from foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, foot and heel pain, and those with wide feet. These shoes offer exceptional arch support, cushioning, ergonomic soles, and extended widths, making them an ideal choice for women seeking both comfort and style.

Features:

• Rubber sole
• Bungee-style, laceless design
• Ergonomic soles providing unmatched comfort and support
• Orthotic insole and arch booster for advanced pain relief
• Wide toe-box and stretchable knitted upper for a customized fit
• Available in a variety of sizes and widths

Performance: The Francis Sneakers perform exceptionally well for women with wide feet and various foot conditions. Many users have reported significant improvements in their foot pain and overall comfort while wearing these shoes. The ergonomic soles and orthotic insole provide ample support and cushioning, making them suitable for low-intensity workouts, leisurely walks, or all-day wear.

Value for Money: Considering the numerous features and benefits these shoes offer, they are worth the investment for those struggling with foot pain or seeking extra support and comfort. While they may be more expensive than some other brands, the quality, performance, and relief provided by these sneakers make them a worthwhile purchase.

Comparisons to Similar Products: Compared to other popular walking shoes, such as Brooks or New Balance, the Orthofeet Francis Sneakers stand out due to their targeted support and pain relief features. Many users have reported a preference for these shoes over other popular brands, citing improved comfort and reduced foot pain.

Pros:

• Exceptional support and cushioning for various foot conditions
• Laceless design for easy wear
• Wide range of sizes and widths available
• Durable and well-constructed

Cons:

• Some users may find the arch support insufficient and may need additional insoles
• Slightly more expensive than other walking shoes

Additional Accessories: For those requiring extra arch support, purchasing separate arch support insoles may be necessary to achieve the desired level of comfort and support.

Conclusion: The Orthofeet Francis Sneakers are an excellent investment for women with wide feet or those suffering from foot conditions. With their ergonomic design, cushioning, and targeted support features, these shoes provide exceptional comfort and pain relief. Although they may be more expensive than other walking shoes, the benefits they offer make them a worthwhile purchase for those in need of specialized support. These sneakers are most suitable for women with wide feet, plantar fasciitis, or other foot and heel pain issues seeking a stylish and comfortable walking shoe.

---

K-Swiss Express Light (Best For Mens)

Last update on 2023-06-03 at 15:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe is a court shoe specifically designed for pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. The shoe is priced at $99.95 and offers various sizes and width options.

Features:

1. AÖSTA 7.0 rubber compound: High-density outsole for unsurpassed durability from heel-to-toe.
2. DuraWrap: Extra defense against excessive toe-dragging.
3. 180 PSC Plantar: A 180-degree thermal plastic Plantar Support Chassis for mid-foot stability.
4. OrthoLite sock liner: Moisture management system for a cooler, drier, and healthier environment.
5. DragGuard: Increased abrasion-resistance in high wear areas of the toe and heel.

Performance: Customers have praised the shoes for their comfort, non-slip feature, stability, and breathability. Many users have mentioned that their plantar fasciitis did not bother them while wearing these shoes. The traction on the shoes is also highly appreciated, especially on worn or dusty synthetic court surfaces.

Value for money: At $99.95, the K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe provides good value for money, especially when compared to similar options such as the Tyrol Men’s Volley Series Pickleball Shoe ($120.00) and New Balance Men’s 1006 V1 Tennis Shoe ($119.95). However, more affordable alternatives are also available, such as the LUPWEE Pickleball Shoes ($43.99) and EADNLY Men’s Pickleball Shoes ($45.99).

Pros:

• Designed specifically for pickleball
• Durable and high-quality materials
• Comfortable and supportive
• Good traction on court surfaces

Cons:

• Some users have experienced discomfort in the upper foot area where the tongue of the shoe is
• Slightly more expensive compared to other options

Additional accessories: No additional accessories or features need to be purchased separately.

Conclusion: The K-Swiss Men’s Express Light Pickleball Shoe is a reliable and comfortable option for pickleball players. The shoe provides great support and performance needed for the sport. While it is slightly more expensive compared to other options, the quality and features justify the price. This shoe is suitable for both new and frequent players and is ideal for hard court or clay court playing surfaces.

---

New Balance 806 V1 (Best Tennis Shoe For Wide Feet)

Last update on 2023-06-10 at 08:03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The New Balance Men’s 806 V1 Tennis Shoe is a heritage tennis shoe designed for on-court stability and support. With a combination of C-CAP®, ABZORB®, and ROLLBAR technology, it offers unrivaled motion control while remaining stylish.

Features:

• 90% leather, 10% synthetic material
• Imported rubber sole
• Full grain leather upper
• Herringbone-pattern outsole for added traction during lateral movements
• LIGHTNING DRY® technology for moisture wicking
• Medicare / HCPCS code = A5500, may be eligible for Medicare reimbursement
• 4.4 out of 5 stars rating with 1,867 global ratings

Performance: The New Balance 806 V1 provides excellent support, stability, and motion control. Many users have reported that the shoe offers the right balance between sturdiness, weight, and performance. The LIGHTNING DRY® technology keeps feet dry and comfortable during intense matches.

Value for money: The shoe offers a great value for money, given its high-quality materials, exceptional support, and durability. Users consistently praise the shoe’s performance, with many purchasing multiple pairs over the years.

Comparisons: The New Balance 806 V1 Tennis Shoe stands out in comparison to other tennis shoes due to its focus on stability and support. Although there may be lighter shoes available made from synthetic materials, the 806 V1’s leather construction ensures durability and a comfortable fit.

Pros:

• Excellent support and stability
• Durable and comfortable
• Moisture-wicking technology
• Suitable for wide feet

Cons:

• May require a break-in period for some users
• Toe box may be too narrow for some

Additional accessories or features to purchase separately:

• Custom orthotics or insoles for added support and comfort
• Premium shoelaces for a secure fit

Conclusion: The New Balance Men’s 806 V1 Tennis Shoe is an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and supportive tennis shoe. It offers great value for money and is particularly suitable for players with wide feet or those requiring additional support. Its high-quality construction and performance make it a worthwhile investment for serious tennis players.

---

What is a Wide Toe Box?

A wide toe box means the shoe has more room for your feet and toes to sit side by side. This provides more comfort and allows you to move your feet more naturally on the pickleball court. Many shoes with narrow toe boxes can actually cause pain, which will lead to performance issues during pickleball.

Wearing the wrong shoes can cause problems with your form while running, jumping, serving, and other movements on the court. If you have pain in your feet or feel uncomfortable while playing, then you might consider trying several different brands until you find the right fit for your foot width. I’ve done this myself, and I’m surprised at how much comfort these shoes have brought to my pickleball game.

What Does a Wide Toe Box Have to Do with Pickleball?

In pickleball, you have to move quickly from side to side. You also need strong toes when digging the ball out of the corners and smashing it back at your opponent. A shoe with a wide toe box will allow your foot to sit in a natural position in order for you to do all of these things in a more comfortable way.

For these reasons, a wide toe box is required for the best pickleball shoes. I’ve done quite a bit of research and testing myself in order to find shoes that fit me well with standard width or a wider toe box. This is important because it allows you to move more naturally on the court without pain from the shoe being too tight.

There are two brands that have been recommended to me by previous pickleball players who I’ve trained with: Adidas and Asics. Both of these brands make several different models for both men and women. However, the model (Adidas Performance Men’s Barricade Team 3 Tennis Shoe) I’m referring to in this article is the best one I’ve found so far. It has a wide toe box and it’s very durable.

What to Look Before Buying Best Pickleball Shoes with Wide Toe Box?

There are a few things you should look for when purchasing your shoes. Make sure to check the following: 

1. The width of the toe box. Some shoes have a narrow toe box, which can cause discomfort and even blisters. Look for a shoe with a wide toe box to avoid these issues. 
2. The material of the shoe. You want a shoe that is breathable and will wick away sweat. Avoid shoes made of synthetic materials, as they will make your feet sweat more. 
3. The arch support. Some shoes have little to no arch support, which can be painful for those with high arches. Make sure the shoe you choose has good arch support to avoid pain. 
4. The sole. The sole of the shoe should be grippy, but not too soft. A too-soft sole will wear down quickly, and a too-grippy sole will be difficult to move in. Look for a happy medium to get the most out of your shoes.

FAQs

What are the best pickleball shoes with wide toe box?

There are several options for the best pickleball shoes with a wide toe box. Some of the top options include the K-Swiss Express Light, Acacia Sports’ Hypershot II, ASICS Gel-Resolution 8, ASICS Men’s Gel-Venture 8, and Fitville Amadeus Pickleball Shoe. These shoes offer a wider toe box, which provides more space for your feet to grip the court. They also have durable soles that provide better traction and cushioning for comfort during play. It is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the best pickleball shoes for you.

Why do I need a wide toe box in my pickleball shoes?

A wide toe box is important for pickleball shoes because it allows your toes to spread out and grip the floor properly, which is important for making quick starts and stops on the court. Additionally, a wide toe box helps to prevent bunions and other foot problems that can occur when your toes are cramped in a narrow space. When looking for the best pickleball shoes, it is important to prioritize factors such as width, cushioning, support, traction, breathability, durability, and fit. The most important thing to understand about pickleball shoes is that there should be a full thumb-width of space between the end of your toe and the end of the shoe. Many pickleball shoe brands offer wide-width options to accommodate players with wider feet.

How do I know if I need a wide toe box?

To know if you need a wide toe box in your pickleball shoes, you should consider the width of your feet and the amount of space you need for your toes to move comfortably. If you have wider feet, you may need a wider toe box to accommodate your foot shape and prevent pain or injuries during high-impact play. It is important to prioritize factors such as width, cushioning, support, traction, breathability, durability, and fit when choosing the best pickleball shoes for you. When trying on shoes, make sure there is a full thumb-width of space between the end of your toe and the end of the shoe to ensure a proper fit. If a shoe is too narrow, it will feel tight and constricting around the sides of your feet, and your toes may feel cramped in the toe box.

What are some other features to look for in pickleball shoes?

When looking for the best pickleball shoes, there are several features to consider. Some of the key features to look for in pickleball shoes include non-skid, non-marking soles, good arch support, breathable mesh to promote airflow, heel stability, good traction, and cushioning for comfort during play. It is also important to consider the fit of the shoe, as a proper fit can help prevent injuries and keep you feeling light on your feet, even after hours of play. When trying on shoes, make sure to wear socks that are similar to what you plan to wear when playing pickleball and stand with your full weight on the paper to get an accurate measurement of your foot size. Additionally, some pickleball shoes offer features such as a wide toe box to accommodate wider feet, padded insoles for added comfort, and stylish designs for a personalized look.

Do I need to wear special socks with my pickleball shoes?

No, you don’t need to wear special socks with your pickleball shoes, but it can help to choose a pair of socks that are comfortable and provide good support. Additionally, it’s a good idea to avoid wearing cotton socks as they can absorb sweat and become uncomfortable. Instead, opt for a pair of moisture-wicking socks made from a synthetic material.

Conclusion

Pickleball is a fun and fast-paced sport that requires you to move quickly from side to side as well as requires strong toes for digging the ball out of the corners and smashing it back at your opponent. Shoes with a wide toe box allow your foot to sit in a natural position which allows you to do all of these things in a more comfortable way.

If you are looking for a wide toe box in your shoe with the latest in pickleball technology, then this is certainly the model I recommend you get. It’s priced correctly for an excellent value.

• When Serving in Pickleball Where Does Your Partner Stand
• How Old is Callie Smith Pickleball
• How Fast Does a Pickleball Travel
• How Old Is Dave Weinbach Pickleball: The Badger’s Age, Career, and Accomplishments
• How Old Is Riley Newman Pickleball
• How Old Is Matt Wright Pickleball
• How Much Do Pickleball Referees Make?
• Are Basketball Shoes Good for Pickleball?
• Do They Have Pickleball in Portugal?
• How Old Is Lee Whitwell Pickleball