Padel is a growing sport that blends principles from both squash and tennis. It is also less physically demanding, making it the perfect social sport for after-work hours and weekends. Like any other sport, having the best shoes can help you optimize your performance on the court.
However, the real challenge lies in finding the best padel shoes. There are many options from different brands available on the market. In this article, we’ll share some top factors you must consider when shopping for padel shoes.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Courts
Most padel games are played on indoor courts. The courts are often made from wood or synthetic materials. Look for shoes with good traction that allow you to glide across the court without slipping.
Outdoor courts are available with different playing surfaces. Grass and clay courts are quite common. We recommend buying shoes with a zigzag tread pattern. The best thing about this tread pattern is that it offers better grip, especially on clay surfaces. You don’t have to worry about clay getting stuck on your shoes’ outsole.
Offensive vs. Defensive Play Styles
Stability and agility are crucial factors if you are a counterpuncher who relies on speed and stamina to force your opponents into mistakes. Look for shoes with high-quality and dense cushioning for impact absorption.
Also, don’t hesitate to seek help from a shop assistant if you cannot find the ideal padel footwear that complements your playing style. You will get useful insights straight from the source, and they will help you select the best pair within your budget.
Brand and Price
The ideal padel shoe depends on how much you can spend. Quality shoes are expensive. However, you can get decent shoes at around $200. Having a budget will help you limit your options based on price.
Consider the brand’s reputation and their experience in making padel shoes. Read customer reviews to learn more about the brand. However, don’t buy padel shoes solely based on the brand name.
Find the Ideal Fit
Going to the court with shoes that are too tight will do more harm than good. You also risk twisting or rolling your ankle if the shoes are too big. Ensure that the footwear fits well, with a little room for wiggling your toes.
The best padel footwear must have good cushioning to lessen the impact on your joints. A thick midsole will reduce the impact on your knees and ankles as you dart across the court. Another thing worth checking out is breathability.
Choose shoes with good ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry during play. This plays a significant role when it comes to sanitation. You don’t have to worry about your socks and feet stinking after the game.
Summing Up
Investing in the best padel shoe should be the first order of business if you plan to start playing the game soon. The tips in this guide will help you as you search for the right padel footwear that matches the court and takes your playing style to a new level.
