Padel Shoes or Tennis Shoes: What Should You Wear on the Court?

If you’re new to the world of racket sports, you might be wondering whether you should wear padel shoes or tennis shoes on the court. Both sports share many similarities, but they also have functional differences that affect what kind of shoes you should be wearing.

First and foremost, let’s establish the difference between padel and tennis shoes. Padel shoes are specially designed for the unique playing surface of padel courts. These shoes must provide excellent traction to prevent slipping, while also offering the necessary support for typical padel movements like slides, turns, and stops. Tennis shoes, on the other hand, are engineered for the hard surfaces of tennis courts. They are built with lateral support to help players move quickly from side to side, along with breathable material to keep feet cool and dry during long matches.

So, when it comes down to it, should you wear padel shoes or tennis shoes on the court? The answer depends largely on the type of court you’ll be playing on. If you’re going to be on a padel court, then it makes sense to invest in a pair of quality padel shoes. These shoes are designed with the unique demands of padel in mind, and can give you a significant advantage over your opponents. Padel shoes have a wider sole and a much greater grip, making them ideal for sliding and stopping while playing on the sand. They typically have a non-slip sole, a reinforced upper, and additional padding for increased comfort.

On the flip side, if you’re playing tennis, then tennis shoes are undoubtedly the way to go. Because tennis courts are typically harder and more unforgiving than padel courts, tennis shoes must keep players comfortable while providing enough support to prevent injuries. They’re designed with features such as shock-absorbing soles, reinforced toe caps, and breathable uppers. The sole also typically features multi-directional treads to help players move from side-to-side quickly.

Of course, there’s no hard and fast rule about which shoes to wear when – but if you’re serious about padel or tennis, investing in a proper pair of sport-specific shoes is well worth the money. The right shoes will protect your feet from injuries, help you move faster and more easily across the court, and ultimately improve your game-play experience.

In summary, if you’re playing on a padel court, it’s recommended that you invest in padel shoes; and if you’re playing tennis, then you need a proper pair of tennis shoes. Finding the right shoes can make a difference between winning and losing on the court. So, whether you’re playing for fun or professionally, prioritize choosing the right shoes and leaving your old trainers in the locker.