Are tennis shoes suitable for padel?

Padel is a dynamic sport with unique movements and demands. If you’re new to the game or have played a few times, you might wonder: can I use my tennis shoes, or do I really need padel shoes? The short answer is yes, but with some caveats. In this blog, we’ll explain why, so you can make an informed decision.

Similarities between padel and tennis shoes

Padel and tennis are played on somewhat similar surfaces, such as artificial grass or clay. Because of this, tennis shoes—especially those with a herringbone tread (clay court sole)—can provide adequate grip on padel courts with sand-coated turf. This tread ensures stability and prevents slipping, which is crucial for both sports.

Additionally, tennis shoes offer cushioning and support, essential for the quick and explosive movements in padel.

The differences: Why are padel shoes better?

While there are similarities, padel is a different sport from tennis. The movements and demands placed on your shoes differ, making specific padel shoes a smarter choice.

1. Sole design:

   • Padel shoes: Designed for the unique movements in padel, such as quick pivots and short sprints. Padel shoes often feature a sole with deep grooves (herringbone or hybrid tread) that provide both grip and the ability to glide when needed.
   • Tennis shoes: Made for horizontal movements along the baseline in tennis. These shoes often focus more on heel stability, which is less critical in padel, where forward and backward movements are more frequent.

2. Stability and support:

   • Padel involves lateral and rotational movements, so padel shoes are designed with midfoot stability to prevent inward or outward rolling of the foot.
   • Tennis shoes prioritize stability around the heel, which is beneficial for tennis but less suited for the multidirectional demands of padel.

3. Shock absorption:

   • Padel shoes are built to absorb the repeated impacts of jumping and rapid changes in direction, reducing stress on your joints. This is especially important given the high-intensity nature of padel.

4. Flexibility and fit:

   • Padel shoes often feature a softer, more flexible upper for greater freedom of movement. Tennis shoes can be stiffer, which may feel restrictive during padel’s dynamic movements.

Can you use tennis shoes for padel?

If you already own tennis shoes, they can work in some situations, particularly if they have a herringbone sole. This is especially true for beginner or occasional players. However, there are clear advantages to investing in padel shoes, especially if you play regularly or intensively.

The right shoes not only enhance your performance but also help prevent injuries. Tennis shoes, for example, may offer less effective grip, making it harder to control slides or maintain balance on a sandy padel court.

When should you choose padel shoes?

1. You play regularly:

If you play weekly, investing in padel shoes is a smart move. They provide the grip, stability, and shock absorption needed for a safe and comfortable experience.

2. You have specific needs:

If you have sensitive knees, ankles, or other injury-prone areas, padel shoes are designed to reduce joint strain with better cushioning and stability.

3. You want to maximize your game:

Padel shoes are tailored to the movements and speed of padel, directly enhancing your performance and comfort on the court.

Conclusion

Tennis shoes can be a temporary solution for padel, particularly if they have a herringbone tread. However, if you’re serious about the sport and value your safety and performance, padel shoes are the better choice. They’re specifically designed to support the unique movements and demands of padel, boosting your comfort and enjoyment.

At Padelshop.com, we offer a wide range of padel shoes for every playing style and intensity. Our experts are happy to help you find the perfect pair. With the right shoes, every match becomes unforgettable!