Choosing the right pickleball shoes is crucial for performance, comfort, and injury prevention. In 2024, several standout options are available, each designed to cater to different playing styles and preferences. Here, we review three of the best pickleball shoes of the year: the Salming Recoil Strike 2, the Salming Viper Pro, and the GEL-TACTIC™ 12.
1. Salming Recoil Strike 2
The Salming Recoil Strike 2 is a top choice for agile players seeking maximum mobility in all directions. This shoe features an improved upper with an enveloping exo-skeleton that keeps the foot securely in place, offering excellent support and stability. The dynamic sole profile and multi-directional flex-grooves make quick movements around the court effortless. The Recoil+ midsole provides superior comfort and impact protection, while the lightweight and breathable upper ensures swift and smooth movement without compromising stability. Furthermore the outsole is perfect for both indoor and outdoor play making it an excellent choice for those who play on lots of different surfaces.
The first thing you notice once you step on court with the Salming Recoil Strike 2 is the grip. It is incredibly grippy across all surfaces and really makes you feel like you have complete control over your movement. When you need to be sure footed around the kitchen line you can rest assured you wont lose balance in this shoe. The next thing that is evident is how it list you up on your toes ever so slightly, not in an unbalanced way but rather making you feel alert and ready to strike. Everything about this shoe is designed for rapid movers and is my personal favourite shoe.
2. Salming Viper Pro
For those who prioritise speed and stability, the Viper Pro is an excellent choice. This shoe combines a lightweight design with the robust ViperSKIN 2.0 upper, which includes three layers for comfort, support, and durability. The XR110 traction outsole and responsive RunLite midsole boost performance by enabling quick, game-changing turns. The LMS Torsion system protects the ankles, while RollBar technology improves traction. An integrated tongue and moulded TPU heel cap ensure everything stays in place, providing total control on the court. Again the outsole is perfect for indoor and outdoor play, this is a key feature across lots of Salming shoes making them perfect for all courts.
The Viper Pro is a phenomenally popular shoe for several reasons! Firstly it is great for those with widefeet meaning your toes wont feel so squished. The shoe is incredibly light without sacrificing comfort, you get a good slab of Recoil+ midsole foam which is not only comfortable but great at reducing the impact of hard, heavy movements.
3. Asics GEL-TACTIC™ 12
The GEL-TACTIC™ 12 is designed for intermediate to competitive players who perform frequent side-to-side movements and seek a balance of support and flexibility. The upper features a softer, more flexible mesh vamp for improved breathability, paired with print reinforcement for lateral support. TPU TRUSSTIC™ technology enhances midfoot stability, and the Wrap-Up Outsole component on the lateral side improves stability during side-to-side movements.
For those that love Asics this shoe will not disappoint. Again the outsole is perfect for indoor and outdoor play, it is a snug fitting shoe which provides a tonne of stability along with Asics signature gel cushioning. The shoe is sleek and agile making twists and turns easy. Long time followers of Asics will love this highly versatile shoe.
In 2024, the Salming Recoil Strike 2, Salming Viper Pro, and GEL-TACTIC™ 12 stand out as the best pickleball shoes, each catering to different playing styles and preferences. Whether you prioritise agility, speed, or balanced support and flexibility, these shoes are designed to enhance your performance on the court. Choose the one that best matches your needs and experience the difference the right footwear can make in your game