Pickleball Injuries: How the Right Shoes Prevent Ankle & Knee Pain

As pickleball participation soars in 2026, so do court injuries — and the majority trace back to one thing: the wrong shoes.

The most common pickleball injuries

• Ankle sprains from lateral rolls in running shoes
• Knee strain from poor shock absorption on hard courts
• Achilles irritation from sudden push-offs without heel support
• Plantar fasciitis from unsupportive flat soles

Why footwear is the #1 fix

Court shoes are engineered with wide, stable bases and reinforced sidewalls that block ankle roll during side shuffles. Proper midsole cushioning absorbs the impact your knees would otherwise take on concrete.

Three rules to play pain-free

1. Never play in running shoes — they're built for straight lines only.
2. Replace worn soles every 60–80 hours of play.
3. Warm up laterally — side lunges and ankle circles before the first rally.

Recovery matters too

Off court, cushioned recovery footwear like Hoka helps tired feet bounce back between sessions.