Top padel shoes of 2026: our highlights for every preference

Our padel-obsessed team has been busy testing the latest releases for 2026... and this year’s line-up is seriously impressive. From sleek new designs to advanced materials and improved traction, brands have really stepped up their game.

After countless rallies and court sessions, we’ve gathered our standout picks for players of every style and level.

Whether you prioritise comfort, performance, support, or value, the right pair of padel shoes can transform how you play. They’re built to help you move confidently, stay protected from slips and strains, and feel your best every time you step onto the court.

If you’re serious about improving your game, proper padel shoes are one piece of kit that’s worth prioritising. They’re not just any trainers — and definitely not one-size-fits-all for other sports. (You can read more about why they’re so important in [this article – link here].)

So what makes padel shoes different?

They’re built for padel, not just sport in general. Every match is full of quick twists, turns and lateral movements, and your footwear has to keep up. Standard trainers can’t offer the same support or stability, which can make a real difference to your performance — and your safety.
They’re lighter and more flexible. Padel shoes are designed to move with you, giving you the agility to accelerate, stop and change direction in a flash. Compared to most tennis or multi-court shoes, they’re usually more responsive and less bulky, making them ideal for the sport’s signature speed and flow.
They’re safer. With all that fast footwork, grip and stability are non-negotiable. The specialised sole patterns on padel shoes help prevent slips and ankle injuries, letting you focus on the game rather than your footing.

When you’re choosing new padel shoes, a few smart design details can make all the difference. Keep this list in mind when you're choosing:

Specialised sole pattern for grip and traction on padel surfaces.
Durable tread design that balances sliding ability with stopping power.
Multi-directional grooves or studs to support quick pivots and explosive movement.
Stable midsole construction to keep feet supported during lateral play.
Reinforced sides and uppers to protect against rolling or twisting your ankle.
Cushioned insoles that absorb shock on jumps and lunges.
Lightweight materials to reduce fatigue during long matches.
Breathable mesh panels for better airflow and comfort.
Flexible forefoot zone to encourage natural movement and responsiveness.
Hardwearing outsole for durability on abrasive court surfaces.

The right mix of features for your individual needs will depend on how you play, the court surface and how much support or speed you like underfoot.

Here are our top picks from the latest padel shoes, tried and tested by our team. There's a mix of men's and women's shoes here - where we've featured one in the image, we've included a link to the other in the text.

Best of the new launches
The all-new Sonicsmash is Asics' standout 2026 release. The responsive midsole gives you genuine control during explosive movements, while the grip pattern handles both indoor and outdoor courts beautifully. The cushioning is spot-on for reducing fatigue in longer matches but you still get that feeling of connection to the floor from the classic Asics low profile. A brilliant all-rounder that justifies the investment.
Also available in blue/green.

Best under £100
This is a premium shoe at a steal of a price - pat on the back to our buyers for securing such a brilliant deal. It delivers terrific lateral support without compromising on comfort, and the grip is great on all court surfaces. The fit runs true, the materials are durable and the design and construction are top quality.
See all Hurrakn Pro shoes for men and women.

Best lightweight
If speed and agility are your priority, the Crazyquick LS delivers. It's noticeably lighter than most competitors without feeling flimsy, and the flexible forefoot lets you move naturally. Perfect for quick-footed players who rely on acceleration and rapid court coverage. The only trade-off is slightly less cushioning.
Men's and Junior Crazyquick shoes also available - full range here

Best entry-level
Perfect for newcomers to padel. The Game FF offers an accessible entry point from a brand that's renowned for top quality sports footwear. You get reliable comfort and decent grip for learning proper footwork. It's forgiving on the feet during your first season and won't break the bank. A solid foundation shoe that lets you focus on improving your game.
Women's Game FF also available - full range here

Most popular
There's a reason why more of our customers chose the Babolat Premura than any other shoe last year. It's a well-rounded performer that handles everything you throw at it. The fit is comfortable from day one, the grip is reliable and it's solidly built without being heavy. This stylish black and gold V3 version is flying off the shelves - it's a savvy choice that appeals to a wide range of players.
See the full Babolat Premura range here (men's, women's and junior)

Best for support
If you need serious ankle and arch support, the Hack could be the ultimate answer. The reinforced upper keeps your foot locked in place, and the structured midsole prevents rolling. I've tested it extensively and it's genuinely protective without feeling restrictive. Highly recommended for injury prevention.

Best elite
The Bullpadel Neuron punches above its price point for players willing to invest over £100. These padel shoes feel genuinely special on court. The cushioning is plush without being soft, offering real comfort during long sessions. The grip is exceptional and the lateral support keeps you confident during aggressive play. You get premium materials, excellent ankle stability, and a responsive feel that rewards good technique.

Best wide fitting
An excellent fit that doesn't compromise on performance. Those of us with wider feet find this a really comfortable, lightweight shoe with an EVA inner sock liner which builds the overall support. The sole grip is reliable and the breathable mesh keeps your feet cool. It's great for agility and quick lateral movement. A well designed wider fitting padel shoe for players who've struggled finding proper fit elsewhere.

Best tour endorsed
Juan Lebron's signature Premura 3 is a major upgrade from the already good Jet Premura 2. No wonder it's El Lobo's choice for its balance of speed, control and durability. It performs consistently across conditions - if you want shoes used at the highest level of the sport, this is it. You can buy the non-Lebron men's Premura 3 in two other colours and there's a version for women too. Happy days!

Staff favourite
Adidas sells the many brilliant technical features of its popular Crazyquick shoe - for us, it's all about the grip, lightweight build and styling. These shoes perform so well for agility and support and are a pleasure to wear, match after match. We love this latest 'Boost' model in funky orange and black. The women's Boost is a big favourite too.
The pdhsports.com team verdict: "well worth it!" This is what we're spending our own money on!

Not sure which padel shoes are right for you? Our expert padel team is always here to give friendly advice! Just give us a call or drop us a message via email or our social channels.

If you're lucky enough to live near Derby, you can even come into our showroom to try different styles for yourself. Why not book a spot on our unique demo court, to put any of our padel products through their paces?

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