I've been preaching for a long time about the importance of looking your best on the pickleball court.

I've even been covering the best dressed pros at every PPA tournament, and since I’ve started writing that list, players have stepped up their fashion game (to my utmost delight). 

At my neighborhood courts, fashion choices are definitely trending in the right direction, too. Pickleball fashion that meets functionality and personal aesthetics is an incredibly positive thing. 

But sometimes, fashion can get out of hand. And in the worst of cases, it can lead to injury. 

Case in point, an article that was recently shared by the New York Post discussed the fact that pickleball players are often so consumed with matching their paddles to their shoes that they’re sacrificing proper footwear and opting for sneakers that match the rest of their outfit.

Improper shoes worn on the court are often running shoes, basketball shoes, and lifestyle shoes like Converse or Nike Air Force 1s. 

Fashion-related injuries on the 20x44. Now that’s a new one. 

Here’s your PSA for the day: Pickleball players must wear proper court shoes. Pickleball and tennis court shoes are specifically made to support dynamic movement and maintain stability.

Don’t wear running shoes on the pickleball court.

Don’t wear lifestyle shoes on the pickleball court. 

Don’t wear basketball shoes on the pickleball court. 

Instead, invest in proper footwear that’s designed for pickleball. Shoes that support acceleration, lateral movements, and ankle support. For example, running shoes are designed to help you move forwards and backwards. But in pickleball, you’re moving much more laterally, so you need shoes that support it. And trust me, you don’t want to get injured from fashion.  

But improper footwear isn't a new concept for pickleball. Since it’s viewed as an “easy sport for the elderly,” young people and beginners think they can just show up in their old basketball shoes and play. 

Don’t be just another bad pickleball injury statistic.  

Dr. Michael Dakkak, an orthopedic surgeon from Palm Beach, FL, told the New York Post that he had a patient who was so focused on having her paddle color match her shoe color that she neglected the basics of a proper fit. 

“She felt she didn’t perform as well when those things didn’t match,” he said. So, she settled for crazy footwear that ultimately led her to a torn Achilles. And worse yet, that meant surgery, a long recovery, and no pickleball until she was fully healed. 

Dakkak insisted on court shoes, not running shoes, no matter how chic, for better stability. By simply wearing proper shoes, you’re significantly minimizing your chances of injury. 

Especially now that pickleball court shoes are only getting more flattering, I promise you can find a pair that suits you for fashion and function alike.

Here’s some of the best pickleball court shoes you should wear the next time you play:

I recommend the K-Swiss court shoes for a more structured and supportive fit. 

The Sqairz pickleball court shoe for a lightweight, flexible feel. 

And the Skechers court shoes for an all-around basic and supportive feel. 

Shop my link on Pickleball Central to get the best deals on all your pickleball gear – including proper pickleball shoes. And, follow Pickleball.com on Instagram or X (formerly Twitter).