Padel shoes: how to choose them (sole, court and fit)
Published on 6 November 2026 · by Luca Bicchieri, PadelMetrix
To play padel you need padel shoes, not running shoes: the sole must grip the sand on the court and the upper must support your foot when you move sideways. The most important choice is the type of sole, which depends on the court you play on.
The three types of sole
| Sole | Best court | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herringbone (clay) | Sand-filled artificial grass, clay | Great grip on sand, good lateral support, durable | Too grippy on hard courts |
| Omni (studs) | Courts with little sand, indoor, hard | Quick movement in every direction | Less grip on sand, wears out faster |
| Hybrid | Players who use different courts | Balance of grip and mobility | Less grip than herringbone on very sandy courts |
Source: Padelshop.
Which to choose
Most padel courts are sand-filled artificial grass: for these a herringbone sole is the safest choice. If you often play indoors or on courts with little sand, consider an omni sole; if you switch clubs a lot, a hybrid is the most convenient compromise.
Why not to use running shoes
- Little lateral support: they're made for running forwards, not for braking and changing direction sideways. The risk of ankle sprains goes up.
- Wrong sole: it slips too much on sand, and a soft sole wears out fast on artificial grass.
- High, unstable cushioning: fine for running, but on short bursts it makes the foot less stable.
What to look at besides the sole
- Lateral support and a stable heel: your foot shouldn't "roll out" of the shoe when you change direction.
- Heel cushioning: useful for frequent players or those a little older (see padel after 50).
- Reinforced toe: in padel you often drag the toe, especially if you play on the right.
- Size: try them with your playing socks; leave about a finger's width between your toes and the end of the shoe.
When to replace them
When the tread pattern is worn under the forefoot, grip drops a lot and the risk of slipping goes up: that's the time to replace them, even if the upper still looks fine.
If you're just starting out, read the padel rules explained simply too.
Source on soles: Padelshop. The other tips are general PadelMetrix guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Can you play padel in running shoes?
It's not recommended: they have little lateral support and a sole that slips on sand, which raises the risk of sprains.
Which sole is best for artificial grass courts?
On sand-filled artificial grass the best choice is a herringbone sole.
When should padel shoes be replaced?
When the tread is worn under the forefoot: grip drops and you risk slipping.
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