Why You Need Padel Shoes
Padel is fast, dynamic, and played on a court that combines artificial grass and sand. The right shoe can make a huge difference in your on-court performance while also helping prevent injuries. This article will break down what makes padel shoes ideally suited for this uniquely dynamic game.
Three Keys When Finding Your Padel Shoes
Unlike tennis shoes or other athletic footwear, padel shoes are designed to handle quick pivots, forward sprints, and the unique surface of a padel court. Here’s what to look for and consider when choosing your next pair.
1. Made to Grip
The outsole (the bottom of the shoe) is one of the most important features because the grip it offers will greatly affect your movement on court. There are two popular outsole designs used in padel:
Option A: Herringbone (zig-zag) sole
Traditionally a herringbone pattern has been the most popular option for padel shoes. It digs into the soft surface to provide grip during forward sprints, while the grooves allow sand to pass through during lateral movements for controlled sliding.
Note: If you have clay court tennis shoes already and regular tennis shoes as well, opt for your clay court shoes, as their herringbone outsole is much more functional for padel
Option B: Hybrid patterns
As padel shoes continue to evolve, varied tread patterns are becoming available. Many new hybrid outsoles feature multi-directional patterns and/or pivot points in the forefoot. Because padel players often need to pivot quickly—especially when defending off the glass—these outsole patterns are designed to support common padel movements.
2. Built for Support
Wearing padel-specific shoes ensures you get the stability and protection needed to play safely. Do not play padel in running shoes! Padel shoes feature reinforced uppers and underfoot technologies to protect your feet and support your on-court movements.
3. Cushioning & Comfort
Padel is a high-impact sport with frequent jumps and sprints, so padel shoes typically include midsoles made from EVA foam or other shock-absorbing technologies to reduce stress on knees and joints. They should feel comfortable from the very first wear — unlike some tennis shoes that may require a break-in period.
Now that you've got the basic down as far as footwear is concerned, you're ready get out on the padel court. For more how-to articles and gear guides, be sure to check out our Padel Warehouse Learning Center.