At Padel NEXT We often see players stepping onto the court wearing running shoes or other types of sports shoes. It’s an understandable mistake – if the shoes are sporty and comfortable, they must be fine, right? Unfortunately, we also see the consequences: ankle sprains, foot overuse, and players struggling with grip or stability. We regularly advise people to wear padel shoes te dragen, maar toch blijft de vraag: is dat nou echt zo belangrijk?
The short answer is: Absolutely. In padel, the right shoes make a noticeable difference – not only in how you move, but also in how your body feels during and after the game. Padel shoes are specifically designed for the fast pace, sudden changes of direction, and the unique surface of the padel court.
Grip
One of the biggest differences is the grip. Padel courts usually have artificial grass with sand, which can be quite slippery if you don’t have the right sole. Padel shoes feature specific tread patterns, such as herringbone or hybrid soles, that allow controlled sliding while still giving you enough grip to stop, turn, or accelerate without losing balance.
Lateral support
Another key advantage is the lateral (side-to-side) support. Unlike running shoes, which are mainly designed for straightforward movement, padel shoes support the intense lateral movements that are so characteristic of padel. They stabilize your feet and ankles during quick turns, reducing the risk of sprained ankles or overloading muscles and tendons.
Durability
Also the duurzaamheid also plays a role. The rough surface of padel courts can quickly wear out regular sports shoes – especially around the toes and sides, which take a lot of impact during play. Padel shoes are built to handle that stress. So, they not only perform better but also last longer than general sports shoes.
Comfort
Then there is comfortGood padel shoes provide targeted cushioning that absorbs the impact of jumps, lunges, and quick movements. This means less strain on your knees, hips, and back. Combined with better structure and stability, they help prevent overuse injuries that can develop from repeated play with shoes that don’t give you proper support.
At Padel NEXT we don’t promote padel shoes because they look nice or match your outfit (although that’s a bonus), but because we see the difference – for both beginners and experienced players. The right shoes not only improve your game, they also protect your body and help you play fit for longer.
So next time you get ready for a game of padel, take another good look at what’s on your feet.
Your performance – and your ankles – will thank you.
