Don’t Get Your Feet Into a Pickle!
The Importance of Proper Court Shoes
Pickleball is today’s fastest-rising sport. And why not? It’s fun. It’s great exercise. And it’s something people of all ages can do to stay active. However, a lack of proper footwear is putting a lot of players in a, um, pickle.
According to Foot Health Facts, “Foot and ankle surgeons have seen an increase in injuries from their patients who play [pickleball].” Some of the injuries cropping up include ankle sprains, strains and fractures; Achilles tendonitis, tears and strains; metatarsal fractures, and broken toes.
Does this mean you should stay off the court? Of course not!
We do, however, encourage you to make sure you’re in an appropriate shoe for preventing pickleball-related injuries. John’s Run/Walk Shop is excited to now be carrying court shoes from OluKai and ASICS. More on that in a bit. First, let’s look more closely into the importance of proper court shoes.
Why Do You Need Court Shoes for Pickleball?
Wearing proper court shoes while playing pickleball is crucial for a safer and more enjoyable playing experience. Pickleball involves lateral movements, quick stops, and abrupt changes in direction, placing unique demands on footwear. Court shoes designed specifically for sports like pickleball provide the necessary support, stability, and traction required to navigate the court effectively.
Court shoes help with injury prevention. Pickleball players often engage in swift lateral movements, and the wrong shoes can lead to ankle sprains or other foot-related injuries. Court shoes are designed with reinforced soles, ankle support, and secure lacing systems to minimize the risk of injuries during gameplay. This not only safeguards players from immediate harm but also ensures long-term joint health by providing the necessary cushioning and support.
Do Pickleball Shoes Improve Performance?
The right shoes can make a difference in your on-court performance. Pickleball requires agility, quick reflexes and precise footwork, necessitating the traction that specialized court shoes provide. The grippy outsoles prevent slipping on the court surface, allowing players to make rapid movements with confidence. This improved traction is especially important when playing on surfaces like asphalt or hard indoor courts.
Pickleball matches can be physically demanding, and comfortable footwear ensures that players can focus on their game without being distracted by discomfort or blisters. Shoes designed for pickleball specifically cater to the sport's unique demands, offering features such as breathable materials, lightweight construction, and ample cushioning for prolonged comfort during matches.
What Pickleball Shoes Are At John’s Run/Walk Shop?
John’s Run/Walk Shop carries the ASICS SOLUTION SWIFT™ FF. This shoe is designed for all-court players covering the net and baseline. It features a flexible sole design that’s functional for multi-directional movements.
This shoe’s midsole is formed with FLYTEFOAM® cushioning. It’s a lightweight and durable foam that increases shock absorption. Meanwhile, the midfoot’s TWISTRUSS™ support unit helps you experience quick and confident cuts on court. The shoe’s outsole mirrors the SOLUTION SPEED™ FF 2 shoe’s sole design. It’s formed with a vertical dash pattern to improve traction on the court.
Also from ASICS is the GEL-RESOLUTION 9. This tennis shoe creates advanced stability and cushioning for players who like to control the game from the baseline. DYNAWALL™ technology in the midsole extends into the heel for added stability during lateral movements. It has been strategically designed to apply pressure when you need extra support. This allows you to experience a locked-in feel when you're making quick transitions. The GEL-RESOLUTION 9 has a full-length outsole and separated heel to help produce a more stable landing for quicker recoveries in between shots.
We also carry the OluKai ʻAnau, OluKai’s first-ever pickleball shoe. Its design blends top-notch performance on the court with OluKai’s signature style and comfort.
The ‘Anau features a specialized outsole that wraps your foot, ensuring secure and swift lateral movements, enhancing your agility and stability during intense volleys. It has a breathable mesh upper and soft terry lining to keep your feet cool and comfortable. Drawing inspiration from coral reefs, the outsole showcases a unique pattern, symbolizing OluKai’s deep connection to the ocean.
If you’ve gotten into the sport of pickleball, great! Just make sure you find footwear to help keep you injury-free. Head to John’s Run/Walk Shop in Chevy Chase or Palomar, or click one of the buttons below to shop local online.
See you on the courts!
