Are your favorite running shoes trustworthy enough to play pickleball with? Pickleball players frequently ask this question, especially if they are beginners and haven’t invested in their gear yet. Can you wear running shoes for pickleball?
Imagine your comfortable running shoes that you enjoy wearing for jogging or walking. Now, picture yourself on a pickleball court. Are those same running shoes suitable for playing pickleball?
Let’s find out whether you can wear running shoes for pickleball and what potential risks you might face if you choose to go with running shoes on pickle court. We’ll also highlight the advantages of wearing the right pair of pickleball shoes. Let’s read on!
Can You Wear Running Shoes For Pickleball – Facts Explained
You can wear running shoes for pickleball, but it is not recommended to wear them on pickle court and here are some reasons why.
Lack of Lateral Support
Running shoes usually lack reinforced lateral pads or support structures that are essential for quick lateral movements in pickleball. Without proper lateral support, you’re at a higher risk of twisting your ankle during those rapid side-to-side actions.
Absence of Ankle Support
Many running shoes have a low-cut design (low ankle collar), which means they don’t provide the necessary ankle support for the kind of rapid movements required in pickleball. It can leave your ankles vulnerable to strains or injuries.
Inadequate Outsole Pattern
The outsole pattern on running shoes is optimized for forward motion and is often not suitable for the multidirectional moves common in pickleball (running shoes have thread patterns, but herringbone patterns are ideal for pickleball). This can result in reduced grip and stability on the court.
Missing Toe Cap
Running shoes often lack a reinforced toe cap, making your toes more susceptible to injury. In a fast-paced game like pickleball, where you are at risk of being hit in the toe, this lack of protection on toe area can be risky.
Lack of Midsole Cushioning
Pickleball involves quick starts and stops, and running shoes might not provide the necessary midsole cushioning to absorb the shock of these jumps while playing shots. It can lead to discomfort or even foot fatigue or pressure fracture during the game.
Potential Risks of Wearing Running Shoes For Pickleball
The potential risks of wearing running shoes for pickleball include:
Increased Risk of Injury
Running shoes are not perfect for the lateral movements and rapid jumps while playing pickleball. This incompatibility in design can increase the risk of injuries, which includes ankle sprains, knee and hip pain, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, and even pressure fractures, as running shoes do not provide the necessary support and stability. Therefore, it’s always recommend to buy quality and reliable pickleball shoes under $100 to prevent common injuries.
Decreased Performance
Running shoes lack the responsiveness and agility necessary for pickleball’s quick direction changes and powerful shots and jumps. It can cause a dip in performance on the court, preventing you from playing effectively and performing at your best.
Uncomfortable Playing Experience
Running shoes can be heavy and less comfortable during pickleball matches. Their design is optimized for forward and backward motion. It can hinder your multidirectional movement and make it difficult to concentrate on the game. This discomfort can detract from your overall performance on the court.
FAQs
What is Difference Between Running Shoes and Pickleball Shoes?
Running Shoes are designed primarily for one direction motion, such as jogging or running and typically have cushioning in the midsole for shock absorption during heel-to-toe movements. Additionally they often lack the lateral support required for quick side-to-side movements.
On the other hand, Pickleball Shoes are specifically designed for the demands of pickleball. They provide enhanced lateral support through features like lateral pads or support structures in the outsole. Their tread pattern is optimized for multidirectional movement on the pickleball court, offering better grip and stability. Moreover they are designed to offer better ankle support to reduce the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries.
Can You Wear Sneakers for Pickleball?
You can wear sneakers for pickleball, but it’s not advisable . Sneakers, like running shoes or joggers, are generally designed for casual wear and may not provide the specific support and features needed for optimal performance and safety in pickleball. Wearing sneakers on the court may increase your risk of injury and discomfort.
What Kind of Shoes Should You Wear to Play Pickleball?
You should wear dedicated pickleball shoes for the best pickleball experience. These shoes are specifically designed to meet the need of pickleball, as they have enhanced lateral support, a suitable tread pattern on the outsole for multidirectional movement, and better ankle support.Â
Final Words
Can you wear running shoes for pickleball? You can use running shoes for pickleball but it is advised to wear pickleball specific shoes as using running shoes for pickleball can not only compromise your performance. They also increase the risk of injuries and lead to an uncomfortable playing experience. Investing in the right pair of pickleball shoes can enhance your game and help you stay safe on the court.
