The pickleball explosion is here to stay, and as players get more serious, so does their gear. Gone are the days of using old running shoes on the court. The unique, rapid-fire movements of pickleball—sharp lateral cuts, quick sprints to the kitchen, and abrupt stops—demand a shoe built for the job. Your footwear isn’t just an accessory; it’s the foundation of your game, impacting your speed, stability, and safety. To help you find the perfect pair, we assembled a team of certified pickleball pros, seasoned editors, and avid players to put the newest 2025 models to the test. After countless hours of dinks, drives, and drop shots, here are the 6 best pickleball shoes that will dominate the courts in 2025.
1. The ACME Apex Glide – Best Overall
Why it made the list: The ACME Apex Glide is the undisputed champion of 2025, offering a masterful blend of comfort, stability, and lightweight performance. Our testers unanimously praised its innovative ‘Grip-Web’ outsole, which provided phenomenal traction on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. The shoe feels locked-in without being restrictive, thanks to a cushioned yet responsive midsole that absorbs impact during intense volleys and protects your joints. It’s the shoe that does everything exceptionally well.
Perfect for: The all-around player who wants a reliable, high-performing shoe that can handle long tournament days.
2. The Vulcan Velocity Pro – Best for Speed and Agility
Why it made the list: If your game is built on lightning-fast reflexes and getting to the kitchen line in a flash, the Vulcan Velocity Pro is your shoe. It’s the lightest shoe on our list, with a low-to-the-ground feel that gives you an unparalleled connection to the court. Our testers noted feeling faster and more agile, able to change direction on a dime. While it sacrifices a bit of cushioning for speed, its reinforced side walls provide the essential lateral support needed for aggressive play.
Perfect for: Aggressive players who prioritize speed and want to feel nimble on their feet.
3. The Aegis Court Fortress 2 – Best for Durability and Support
Why it made the list: The Aegis Court Fortress 2 is an absolute tank, built to withstand the grueling demands of high-level play, especially on rough outdoor courts. Its outsole comes with a six-month durability guarantee, a testament to its robust construction. Our testers felt incredibly secure making hard lateral plants and slides, with zero fear of rolling an ankle. It’s a bit heavier than other models, but for players who need maximum support and a shoe that will last, the trade-off is well worth it.
Perfect for: Players who are hard on their shoes, play primarily outdoors, or need maximum ankle support.
4. The ComfortKnit AirFlow 360 – Best for Comfort and Breathability
Why it made the list: Playing for hours can take a toll on your feet. The ComfortKnit AirFlow 360 is the solution. It feels less like a court shoe and more like a premium, cushioned slipper designed for performance. Its fully-knitted upper provides sock-like comfort and incredible breathability, keeping your feet cool during long, hot matches. The plush midsole was a favorite among testers with sensitive joints, providing top-tier shock absorption on every landing.
Perfect for: Players who prioritize comfort above all else, play long recreational sessions, or have sensitive feet.
5. The Rally Point Ace – Best Budget-Friendly Pick
Why it made the list: Proving you don’t need to break the bank for a quality pickleball shoe, the Rally Point Ace delivers fantastic performance for its price point. It features a durable, non-marking herringbone outsole and the essential lateral support that new players often overlook. While it may not have the advanced tech of the premium models, our testers found it to be a comfortable and reliable shoe that’s a massive step up from any cross-trainer or running shoe.
Perfect for: Beginners, casual players, or anyone looking for a great value backup pair.
6. The FitForm Custom Pro – Best for Wide Feet
Why it made the list: Finding a performance shoe for wide feet can be a challenge, but the FitForm Custom Pro nails it. This shoe is built on a wider last, offering a generous toe box and midfoot area that prevents cramping and pinching. Our testers with wider feet called it a ‘revelation,’ praising its immediate out-of-the-box comfort. Beyond the fit, it’s a solid performance shoe with excellent stability and good cushioning, ensuring everyone can have a shoe that fits right and plays great.
Perfect for: Players with wide or high-volume feet who have struggled to find a comfortable performance shoe.
How We Chose the Winners
Our expert panel tested these shoes over a 60-day period on both indoor wood and outdoor acrylic courts. Each shoe was rated on a 10-point scale across five key categories:
- Traction & Grip: How well the shoe held the court during starts, stops, and lateral cuts.
- Stability & Support: Confidence in the shoe’s ability to prevent ankle rolls and support the foot.
- Comfort & Cushioning: Out-of-the-box feel and performance over long playing sessions.
- Durability: Visible wear and tear on the outsole and upper after extensive play.
- Weight & Breathability: How light the shoe felt and how well it managed heat.
Investing in the right pair of pickleball shoes is investing in your performance and your health. Choose the pair that best fits your foot, your play style, and your budget, and you’ll feel the difference the moment you step onto the court.