5 Best Pickleball Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Pickleball is a popular sport that requires a lot of running, jumping, and quick lateral movements. Players with plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, may experience discomfort or pain while playing. Therefore, it is important to choose the right pickleball shoes to alleviate their condition.
Pickleball shoes for plantar fasciitis should have proper arch support, cushioning, and stability to reduce pressure on the heel and arch of the foot. Look for shoes that have a contoured footbed or insole that can support the arch and provide extra cushioning. A good pair of shoes should also have a firm heel cup to help stabilize the foot during lateral movements.
When selecting pickleball shoes, opt for those made from breathable and lightweight materials to prevent overheating and discomfort. Additionally, consider shoes with a wider toe box to allow the toes to spread out naturally and reduce pressure on the foot.
Buying Guide:
Here’s a buying guide for the best pickleball shoes for plantar fasciitis.
- Arch support: Look for shoes that offer good arch support, as this will help alleviate the stress on the plantar fascia. Many shoes will have additional arch support inserts, which can be especially helpful for those with plantar fasciitis.
- Cushioning: Shoes with adequate cushioning will absorb the impact on the feet and reduce the pressure on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes that have extra cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas.
- Stability: Shoes that provide stability will help prevent the foot from rolling inward, which can cause additional stress on the plantar fascia. Look for shoes with a wide base and good lateral support.
- Flexibility: While stability is important, shoes should still be flexible enough to allow the foot to move naturally. Avoid shoes that are too rigid or stiff, as they can worsen plantar fasciitis symptoms.
- Breathability: Look for shoes that are breathable to help keep your feet cool and dry during long pickleball games. This can help prevent blisters and other foot injuries that can exacerbate plantar fasciitis.
- Fit: Lastly, make sure the shoes fit properly. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause additional stress on the plantar fascia. When trying on shoes, make sure there is enough room in the toe box and that the heel fits snugly.
Product Comparison Table
| Feature | ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 | New Balance Fresh Foam Lav | K-Swiss Hypercourt Express | Babolat Jet Tere | Wilson Kaos 3.0 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Flexion Fit | Synthetic/Mesh | Synthetic/Mesh | Matryx 2.0 | Synthetic/Mesh |
| Midsole Technology | FlyteFoam, Gel | Fresh Foam | Surge, GuideGlide | KPRS-X | 2D-FS |
| Outsole Material | AHAR, PGuard | NDurance, Herringbone | Aösta 7.0, DragGuard | Michelin | Duralast |
| Weight | 13.2 oz | 11.6 oz | 12.3 oz | 11.5 oz | 13.3 oz |
| Toe Box | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Arch Support | High | Medium | Medium | High | Medium |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm | 6 mm | 10 mm | 9 mm | 9 mm |
| Width Options | Regular, Wide | Regular, Wide, Extra Wide | Regular, Wide | Regular, Wide | Regular, Wide |
| Colors Available | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple |
| Recommended Playing Style | All-Court | All-Court | All-Court | All-Court | All-Court |
| Recommended Player Level | Intermediate-Advanced | Intermediate-Advanced | Intermediate-Advanced | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
ASICS Gel-Resolution 8
The ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 is a highly rated tennis shoe that is also a great option for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis. It has several features that make it an ideal choice for those looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe.
One of the key features of the Gel-Resolution 8 is its gel cushioning system, which helps absorb shock and reduce the pressure on the feet. The shoe also has a Trusstic System that provides stability and support for the midfoot, which can be beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis.
Another important feature is the shoe’s Flexion Fit upper, which is designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit that moves with your foot. This can help reduce the risk of blisters and other foot injuries that can exacerbate plantar fasciitis.
The Gel-Resolution 8 also has a durable AHAR (ASICS High Abrasion Rubber) outsole that provides excellent traction on the court and ensures the shoe will last through many games.
In terms of style, the Gel-Resolution 8 comes in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences.
Overall, the ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 is a high-quality shoe that provides excellent support and cushioning, making it a top choice for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis.
New Balance Fresh Foam Lav
The New Balance Fresh Foam Lav is a popular tennis shoe that also works well for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis. The shoe’s Fresh Foam midsole provides excellent cushioning and support for the feet, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis.
The shoe also has a durable NDurance outsole that provides excellent traction on the court, and a breathable mesh upper that helps keep your feet cool and dry during long games.
One of the standout features of the Fresh Foam Lav is its wide base and good lateral support, which helps prevent the foot from rolling inward and causing additional stress on the plantar fascia.
The Fresh Foam Lav is available in a variety of colors, so you can choose the one that best fits your style. Overall, it’s a great option for those looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe that can help alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express
The K-Swiss Hypercourt Express is a well-designed tennis shoe that is also suitable for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis. It offers good arch support and stability, helping to reduce the stress on the plantar fascia and prevent foot injuries.
The shoe has a durable Aosta 7.0 rubber outsole that provides excellent traction and durability on the court, while the EVA midsole and molded Ortholite sockliner provide cushioning and support for the feet.
The Hypercourt Express also features a breathable upper that helps keep your feet cool and dry during long games. It also has a lightweight design that allows for quick and agile movements on the court.
Overall, the K-Swiss Hypercourt Express is a great option for those looking for a shoe that offers a combination of support, cushioning, and breathability. It’s available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences.
Babolat Jet Tere
The Babolat Jet Tere is a high-performance tennis shoe that also works well for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis. It features a KPRS-X cushioning system that provides excellent shock absorption and helps reduce the pressure on the feet, which can be beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis.
The shoe also has a durable Michelin outsole that provides excellent traction and stability on the court, and a breathable upper that helps keep your feet cool and dry during long games.
The Jet Tere also features a unique Matryx upper that provides a comfortable and supportive fit while also allowing for good flexibility and freedom of movement.
Overall, the Babolat Jet Tere is a great option for those looking for a high-quality shoe that offers excellent support, cushioning, and traction. It’s available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences.
Wilson Kaos 3.0
The Wilson Kaos 3.0 is a high-performance tennis shoe that can also work well for pickleball players with plantar fasciitis. It has a lightweight design that allows for quick and agile movements on the court, and a Pro Torque Chassis that provides excellent stability and support for the feet.
The shoe also features a Duralast outsole that provides excellent traction and durability on the court, and a 2D-FS forefoot support system that helps prevent foot injuries and reduce the stress on the plantar fascia.
The Kaos 3.0 also has a breathable upper that helps keep your feet cool and dry during long games, and a Ortholite sockliner that provides cushioning and support for the feet.
Overall, the Wilson Kaos 3.0 is a great option for those looking for a shoe that offers a combination of stability, support, and breathability. It’s available in a variety of colors and styles, so you can choose the one that best fits your preferences.