In many sports, athletes take special care to use their sport-specific footwear only in the environment it's designed for.
Ice hockey players, for example, never wear their skates off the ice, and track athletes reserve their spikes for the track.
Pickleball players should adopt a similar mindset when it comes to their court shoes. Wearing your pickleball shoes exclusively on the court not only extends their life but also optimizes their performance.
Keep your pickleball court clean
Pickleball is a game of precision, and a clean court surface is essential for safe, effective gameplay. Wearing your pickleball shoes off the court can track dirt, gravel, or other debris onto the playing surface. This debris can cause slips, interfere with ball bounce, and potentially damage the court.
By reserving your court shoes for play, you’ll contribute to a cleaner court environment, reducing risks for yourself and your fellow players.
Extend the durability of your pickleball shoes
Court shoes are an investment, and wearing them outside the court shortens their lifespan. The rubber soles on pickleball shoes are designed for the specific wear patterns and friction of court surfaces.
Walking on asphalt, concrete, or other abrasive surfaces grinds down the tread, reduces grip, and accelerates wear and tear.
To get the most out of your shoes, use them exclusively on the court, ensuring they remain in peak condition for longer.
Wear appropriate shoes for the conditions
Unlike walking or jogging shoes, court shoes are designed to support lateral movements, quick pivots, and sudden stops — motions that are central to pickleball.
Using your pickleball court shoes for other activities, like running errands or casual walks, can compromise their specialized structure. Over time, this misuse can lead to decreased support, which may increase your risk of injury during play.
Prevent injuries
Wearing shoes that are degraded or unsuitable for pickleball can increase your risk of slips, falls, and injuries. By reserving your court shoes solely for play, you’re ensuring they maintain their grip, cushioning, and support, all of which are critical for safe performance.
Preserve the playing surface
Wearing non-court-specific shoes on pickleball courts can scuff, mark, or damage the surface. Many courts have specific rules requiring court-only shoes to maintain the integrity of the playing area.
How to store your pickleball shoes
To keep your pickleball shoes in top condition, proper storage is key:
- Clean them after each use: Wipe down the soles to remove dust or debris that might have clung to them during play.
- Use a shoe bag: Store your shoes in a designated bag to keep them separate from your other gear. This also ensures dirt from your other items doesn’t transfer onto the shoes.
- Air them out: After each session, let your shoes air dry to prevent odors and extend their lifespan.
- Keep them in a cool, dry place: Avoid leaving your shoes in hot or damp environments, as this can weaken adhesives and cause materials to break down.
