When I first started playing padel I used a worn-out pair of zero-drop running shoes. The lack of grip lead to a pulled calf muscle during my very first game. I’d like to say that I learned from that mistake but it has taken many more injuries to finally see the error of my ways.
Padel shoes are specifically designed for the game of padel and feature extra cushioning and a sole that has been formulated to grip on the Astro-turf surface of a padel court. Using correctly fitting padel shoes will drastically reduce injury risk.
Let’s take a moment to examine padel shoes more closely so that you can see how they will help reduce your injury risk.
What Are Padel Shoes?
Padel shoes are specially designed for the game of padel. They are durable with extra cushioning and excellent traction. They help prevent foot injuries such as tennis toe and ankle injuries, assuming you purchase the correct size for your foot.
Padel is a fast-paced sport that requires quick and sudden movements, sharp turns, and jumping – all moves which can lead to injuries, especially if you’re not wearing the proper footwear. It’s essential to have the right shoes to help you stay safe on the court.
Can You Play Padel In Tennis Shoes?
Are you a newcomer to padel and don’t want to invest in a new pair of padel shoes yet? That is fine if you are new to the sport. Many beginners start with hard-court tennis shoes and buy padel shoes later on.
You’ll be able to wear tennis shoes for a while until your movements become quicker and more advanced. However, if you start noticing foot pain, it is best to get a pair of padel shoes so you can play without discomfort or risk of injury.
How are Padel Shoes And Tennis Shoes Different?
Padel shoes and tennis shoes can have some similarities in appearance, but you will notice a difference when you look at their soles. Padel shoes have zig-zag-shaped treads that are deeper than that of a typical tennis shoe.
If you like to play both sports and want a versatile shoe that you can wear in either, go for the padel shoe. Although both shoes have good ankle support, padel shoes have more cushioning than their tennis shoe counterparts.
How To Choose A Pair Of Padel Shoes
Choosing the right padel shoes is vital because each shoe will have its pros and cons depending on your skill level, foot size, playing style, etc. Most importantly, they should fit well so they’re comfortable and protect your feet and ankles from injury.
It’s best if you can try a pair of shoes on in person; however, in the U.S., it may be challenging to find padel shoes inside stores, so you may need to purchase them online. You can research by reading the reviews and specifications – just make sure you are buying them from a reputable dealer.
How Much Does A pair Of Padel Shoes Cost?
There are many padel shoe brands, and the prices vary widely. If you are a beginner or are on a budget, you can try a less expensive pair or some hard-court tennis shoes.
Here are a few brands of padel shoes and their average prices in USD:
- Babolat Movea – $140.05
- Artengo Men’s Ps860 – $30.00
- Head Sprint Pro 3.0 Sanyo – $183.22
- Zapatilla BullPadel Vertex Hybrid Fly 21 – $141.51
- K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 – $94.10
You may be hard-pressed to find these in stores in the U.S., but they are all available online. As your skills improve and your movements become more advanced, you might want to invest in a higher-quality shoe.
