Padel shoes for beginners: What to consider?

What should beginners look for in padel shoes?

When choosing padel shoes as a beginner, focus on grip, cushioning, stability, and fit. The right shoes prevent injuries and enhance your performance on the court.

1. Choose the right sole for optimal grip

Padel shoes have three main sole types:

• Herringbone sole – Best grip on artificial grass and sand courts.
• Omni sole – Suitable for indoor and outdoor, more flexibility.
• Hybrid sole – A mix of both, the best all-round choice for beginners.

Since beginners often play on different courts, a hybrid sole is a safe choice.

2. Look for good cushioning and comfort

Beginners make sudden movements and stops. Proper cushioning helps prevent knee and ankle injuries. Look for shoes with EVA foam or gel technology for extra comfort.

3. Stability and lateral support

Padel involves frequent lateral movements. Choose shoes with a wide base and reinforced sidewalls to prevent injuries. A reinforced heel and anti-torsion technology improve stability.

4. The right fit for comfort and performance

A shoe that’s too tight will pinch, while a loose shoe can cause blisters. Try on shoes with padel socks and ensure there’s about half a centimeter of space at the toes.

5. Durability and material choice

Padel shoes made of mesh material offer ventilation, while synthetic leather provides stability. For beginners, a balance between breathability and sturdiness is ideal.

Best padel shoes for beginners

Some recommended models for beginners:

• Asics Gel-Padel Exclusive – Good grip and comfort
• Adidas Gamecourt – Affordable and stable
• Babolat Movea – Extra cushioning and durability

Conclusion

For beginners, grip, stability, cushioning, and fit are the most important factors. A hybrid sole, good lateral support, and a comfortable fit ensure the best start.