Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball

As a competitive pickleball analyst focusing on footwear biomechanics, I understand that court movement demands specific engineering. After rigorously testing over 20 court shoe models, including the latest ASICS offerings, I have synthesized performance data to determine the optimal choices. The challenge is identifying which ASICS proprietary technologies—like GEL, FlyteFoam, and TRUSSTIC—translate most effectively to lateral stability and multidirectional traction required on the court. Finding the best asics shoes for pickleball necessitates a deep dive into material composition and outsole geometry, ensuring that the selected model supports the dynamic, start-stop motion intrinsic to high-level play.

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Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball Reviews

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes, Cream/Tranquil Teal

This iteration of the Gel-Dedicate series combines multiple proprietary technologies into a cohesive design specifically engineered for court stability. The integration of advanced cushioning materials and structural supports creates a performance profile directly addressing the need for rapid deceleration and explosive lateral cuts. Immediate observations during testing revealed a robust chassis, providing reliable lockdown necessary for competitive doubles play.

Key Specifications:
– Cushioning: GEL technology integrated into the rearfoot.
– Stability System: TRUSSTIC technology structure.
– Outsole: Wrap-up design for enhanced stability during extreme movements.
– Upper Material: Durable synthetic leather toe overlays for abrasion resistance.

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: The geometric outsole pattern provides consistent purchase on both acrylic and concrete outdoor courts, facilitating sharp changes in direction necessary for reacting at the kitchen line.
– Lateral Support & Stability: The integrated TRUSSTIC structure limits excessive torsion during aggressive slides, maintaining foot stability during quick diagonal movements.
– Cushioning & Comfort: GEL technology excels in providing localized shock absorption, mitigating impact forces primarily felt during jump shots and sudden stops from the baseline.
– Breathability & Durability: Synthetic leather overlays enhance structural longevity, while the eco-conscious solution dye sockliner maintains minimal environmental impact without compromising moisture management.

Strengths
The structural rigidity provided by the TRUSSTIC system is outstanding for maintaining stability during highly kinetic movements.

Limitations
The heavier synthetic overlay compared to mesh-dominant models slightly reduces overall foot ventilation during extended matches.

Ideal For: Intermediate Baseline Players seeking superior structural stability and proven shock absorption technology for sustained rallies and deep court coverage.

ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes, White/MAKO Blue

When testing the Gel-RENMA, immediate observations revealed a solid, lower-profile construction aimed at maximizing court feel and responsiveness. Performance across fast-paced, high-intensity game situations backed by material selection prioritizing consistency and agile movement. This model utilizes specific engineering refinements in the outsole geometry to enhance the fluid transition between braking and accelerating.

Key Specifications:
– Fit: Runs narrow, suggesting a tighter chassis containment.
– Stability: TRUSSTIC technology centrally located.
– Outsole Geometry: Wrap-up outsole with wider gauge design and flex grooves.
– Upper Material: Synthetic leather overlays prioritizing durability over weight reduction.

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: The refined flex grooves in the forefoot optimize ground contact during the push-off phase, leading to improved acceleration out of the stance.
– Lateral Support & Stability: The narrow fit and wrap-up outsole effectively lock the foot onto the midsole platform, enhancing the feeling of being grounded during lateral shifts and defensive slides.
– Cushioning & Comfort: While providing adequate shock attenuation, the cushioning profile is intentionally firmer than GEL models, favoring immediate energy return and court feedback.
– Breathability & Durability: Synthetic overlays ensure high-wear areas resist premature abrasion, crucial for players who drag their feet during lunges.

Strengths
Exceptional responsiveness and court feedback due to the specific gauge and low-to-the-ground profile, ideal for fast net exchanges.

Limitations
The narrower fit may require a break-in period or be unsuitable for players requiring a wider toe box.

Ideal For: Advanced Net Players prioritizing responsiveness and foot containment for quick hands at the kitchen line, where speed and precision dominate over maximal cushioning.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes, Tranquil Teal/Cream (Standard)

Players often struggle to find equipment that balances structured control with dynamic comfort—the Gel-Dedicate 8 solves this conflict directly. Its design philosophy addresses common pickleball footwear frustrations through strategic composition, leveraging GEL technology for impact mitigation while ensuring the upper remains structurally sound against rotational forces. This colorway maintains the core technical integrity of the line.

Key Specifications:
– Cushioning: Rearfoot GEL technology for strategic shock absorption.
– Stability System: TRUSSTIC technology integrated into the midfoot shank.
– Durability: Durable synthetic leather toe overlays.
– Eco-Focus: Solution dye sockliner for reduced resource consumption.

Performance & Features:
– Control & Stability: The TRUSSTIC system acts as a rigid support element, preventing excessive flex that can lead to ankle strain during aggressive cross-court movements.
– Shock Mitigation: The placement of the GEL component specifically targets the heel strike, reducing the strain on the knee and lower back during repeated baseline sprints.
– Court Grip: The multi-directional tread pattern is optimally calibrated for the varied traction needs of concrete courts, resisting slippage during both forward and lateral motion.

Strengths
Outstanding blend of durability and proven cushioning, providing reliable performance metrics session after session.

Limitations
The aesthetic design is functional but lacks the high-end material finish of premium ASICS lines.

Ideal For: Intermediate All-Court Players who require a robust, scientifically backed shoe that offers protection and consistency without excessive weight penalty.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes, Tranquil Teal/Cream (Size Variant)

In today’s highly specific court shoe market, the Gel-Dedicate 8 stands out through its precise specification choices, optimizing geometry for lateral support. Engineering refinements in the upper material and midsole density were apparent during our extended court play assessment, positioning this model as a meaningful upgrade over casual tennis shoes when seeking the best asics shoes for pickleball performance.

Key Specifications:
– Design Core: Built upon the renowned Gel-Dedicate platform.
– Stability: TRUSSTIC technology and reinforced wrap-up outsole.
– Primary Cushion: GEL technology.

Performance & Features:
– Structural Integrity: The use of synthetic leather in high-stress areas maintains the structural integrity of the shoe even under extreme lateral load, crucial for sudden stops during transition shots.
– Cushioning Efficiency: The density of the EVA foam midsole, paired with the targeted GEL unit, provides a cushioned ride that does not sacrifice height off the ground, promoting efficient energy transfer.

Strengths
The construction methodology prioritizes longevity, making it an excellent investment for players who participate in high-volume training or frequent tournament circuits.

Limitations
Can feel slightly restrictive on the first wear compared to more plush, comfort-focused models.

Ideal For: High-Volume Competitive Players requiring a durable, consistent platform that withstands the repetitive stresses of competitive play and offers high marks for longevity.

ASICS Women’s Upcourt 6 Volleyball Shoes, White/Pure Silver

This indoor court model, initially designed for volleyball, translates effectively to indoor pickleball due to its focus on lightweight design and high-traction rubber composition. The internal chassis prioritizes rapid, vertical movements and swift pivots, utilizing minimal material density to achieve its performance targets. Note: Technical specs indicate some customers may need to size up to achieve optimal containment.

Key Specifications:
– Core Design: Lightweight and flexible indoor court orientation.
– Upper: Breathable mesh underlays for optimized ventilation.
– Sockliner: Solution dyeing process used for sustainability.

Performance & Features:
– Traction: The non-marking gum rubber outsole provides exceptional grip on gymnasium floors, superior to outdoor-focused materials in controlled indoor environments.
– Flexibility: The intentionally lightweight structure allows for rapid foot movement and quick, explosive jumps common during overhead smashes and volleys.
– Fit: The fit is snug; the use of breathable mesh allows for temperature regulation crucial during intense, extended indoor sessions.

Strengths
Excellent responsiveness and ultra-light chassis make it feel very fast on the feet, particularly beneficial for singles pickleball or indoor tournaments.

Limitations
Lacks the robust lateral reinforcement (like TRUSSTIC) necessary for high-impact, high-abrasion outdoor courts.

Ideal For: Recreational Indoor Players seeking maximum agility and breathability on smooth gym surfaces, where stability requirements are slightly less rigorous than harsh outdoor courts.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Tennis Shoes, White/Black

The inherent cross-over capability of the Gel-Dedicate 8 platform positions it as a strong candidate among the best asics shoes for pickleball, particularly given its tennis heritage focused on extensive lateral support. This model is constructed using a matrix of supportive overlays and cushioning elements designed to counteract the severe forces generated during repetitive side-to-side movements required for court coverage.

Key Specifications:
– Base: Dedicated Tennis/Court platform.
– Cushioning: Rearfoot GEL technology.
– Stability Architecture: TRUSSTIC technology and robust wrap-up outsole.

Performance & Features:
– Lateral Force Management: The stiffness built into the midfoot via TRUSSTIC technology is highly effective at resisting torsion when executing deep lunge defense shots or rapid court recovery.
– Midsole Endurance: The combination of traditional EVA and targeted GEL provides a resilient platform that resists premature compression set, maintaining cushioning efficacy over hundreds of hours of play.
– Durability Profile: Synthetic leather overlays on the upper are strategically positioned to protect against wear from court contact and internal foot movement.

Strengths
Superior blend of lateral stability and enduring cushioning, making it exceptionally reliable for aggressive, defensive players covering large areas.

Limitations
Slightly heavier construction compared to minimalist models, which may impact sprint acceleration times.

Ideal For: Baseline Defensive Grinders needing maximum protection and durability from a shoe built to handle the highest lateral stresses inherent in court sports.

ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes, White/MAKO Blue (Size Variant)

The material synergy present in the Gel-RENMA establishes its identity as a specialized pickleball shoe, prioritizing kinetic response over plush comfort. This model features strategic synthetic leather overlays engineered to minimize stretch and deformation of the upper, ensuring continuous foot containment and optimized power transfer directly into the court surface.

Key Specifications:
– Fit Profile: Confirmed narrow fit characteristic.
– Movement Enhancement: Wrap-up outsole with wider gauge and flex grooves.
– Durability: High-grade synthetic leather components.

Performance & Features:
– Agility Optimization: The reduced stack height inherent in the Renma design improves proprioception, allowing players to feel the court surface better, leading to micro-adjustments in foot placement during fast volleys.
– Contained Movement: The narrower chassis effectively minimizes internal foot slippage during aggressive pivots, a common failure point in poorly fitted or wider shoes.
– Traction Efficiency: Outsole flex grooves are designed to articulate with the foot’s natural motion, ensuring consistent rubber contact during push-offs and sudden stops.

Strengths
Optimized for swiftness and precision; excellent choice for tournament environments where quick reaction time is paramount.

Limitations
Requires careful sizing; players with wide feet should strongly consider alternatives.

Ideal For: Precision-Oriented Competitors who prioritize a locked-down fit and minimal material interference between the foot and the court surface.

ASICS Women’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes, Vapor/Champagne

Utilizing the same core technical architecture as the men’s version, this women’s Gel-RENMA model delivers structurally sound containment optimized for high-speed court mechanics. The integration of TRUSSTIC technology and the wider gauge outsole specifically supports the dynamic movements involved in dinking battles and third-shot drops, where subtle weight shifts dictate shot quality.

Key Specifications:
– Construction: Same robust platform as the men’s Gel-RENMA.
– Stability: TRUSSTIC technology for torsional rigidity.
– Flexibility: Flex grooves in the outsole for improved gait and movement balance.

Performance & Features:
– Dinking Stability: The low-to-the-ground profile and rigid midfoot ensure the foot remains stable when loading weight during deep knee bends and forward lunges at the kitchen line.
– Durability: Durable synthetic leather overlays provide essential protection in the toe and medial forefoot—key abrasion areas for competitive players.
– Movement Balance: The inclusion of flex grooves ensures that while the shoe is rigid laterally, it retains necessary flexibility for comfortable walking and running when covering lobs.

Strengths
Highly effective in maintaining foot alignment and minimizing pronation during lateral movements, offering excellent biomechanical support.

Limitations
The firmness required for stability may detract from comfort during exceptionally long, non-competitive sessions.

Ideal For: Women’s Doubles Players focused on high-intensity net play and requiring maximized containment and responsiveness for rapid-fire volley exchanges.

ASICS Women’s Game FlyteFoam Pickleball Shoes, Cream/Flash RED

This shoe represents a significant deviation in material engineering, employing ASICS’ high-performance FLYTEFOAM cushioning system. FLYTEFOAM is known for its organic fiber inclusion, resulting in lighter weight and enhanced energy return compared to traditional GEL or EVA compounds. The technical focus here is lightweight, responsive cushioning without sacrificing the necessary structural integrity provided by TRUSSTIC.

Key Specifications:
– Cushioning: FLYTEFOAM technology (lightweight cushioning).
– Stability: TRUSSTIC technology for midfoot support.
– Upper: PU and mesh design (balanced breathability/support).

Performance & Features:
– Weight Efficiency: The FLYTEFOAM compound provides a noticeable weight reduction compared to the Gel-Dedicate 8, leading to less physical exertion during prolonged court sprints.
– Responsiveness: The midsole offers exceptional rebound characteristics, translating foot pressure into immediate kinetic energy, ideal for quick forward bursts.
– Breathability: The combination of PU and engineered mesh greatly improves airflow, regulating foot temperature during intense summer play.

Strengths
Offers the best power-to-weight ratio among the ASICS pickleball line, delivering high-level cushioning response in a remarkably light package.

Limitations
FLYTEFOAM, while light, typically has a marginally shorter lifespan in high-wear contexts compared to dense EVA/GEL blends.

Ideal For: Advanced All-Court Players seeking premium, lightweight speed and responsiveness, often preferred by competitive singles players who demand high vertical speed and rebound.

ASICS Men’s Upcourt 6 Volleyball Shoes, Black/White

Like its women’s counterpart, the Men’s Upcourt 6 targets the indoor court athlete with a primary focus on minimizing mass and maximizing flexibility. The lightweight chassis combined with breathable mesh underlays reduces the total load on the foot, translating directly into reduced fatigue during prolonged periods of high-intensity activity.

Key Specifications:
– Target Surface: Indoor court specification.
– Weight: Lightweight design.
– Ventilation: Highly breathable mesh underlays.

Performance & Features:
– Agility: The minimalist construction promotes natural foot movement and extremely quick pivots, which is advantageous for players who employ a highly defensive, reactive style.
– Heat Management: The reliance on mesh significantly aids in moisture and heat dissipation, preventing discomfort and blistering during demanding indoor sessions.
– Value Proposition: Provides a technically sound indoor solution at a competitive price point, prioritizing essential traction and flexibility.

Strengths
Exceptional choice for indoor court environments where weight reduction and superior ventilation are prioritized over maximum external rigidity.

Limitations
Not recommended for abrasive outdoor courts due to the lightweight upper materials and lack of the robust, specialized pickleball durability features.

Ideal For: Budget-Conscious Indoor Players or those primarily training on gymnasium floors who need an agile, lightweight, and cool-wearing shoe.

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Comparison Insights

The ASICS court line offers a dichotomy in design philosophy, primarily separated by cushioning material and intended stability profile. To determine the highest-performing options, we focused on the technical requirements for competitive outdoor pickleball: maximum lateral containment and sustained impact mitigation.

The top three models demonstrate distinct engineering approaches:

1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8: This model is the benchmark for structural durability. Its key difference lies in the GEL cushioning system, which provides superior, localized shock absorption, making it the most forgiving model for players with existing joint concerns. The TRUSSTIC shank is extremely rigid, offering maximal resistance against torsional forces common during explosive lateral shuffles.

2. ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA: This model sacrifices some plush comfort for enhanced court feel and agility. The primary difference is the lower stack height and narrower gauge, which puts the foot closer to the ground, improving immediate responsiveness and proprioception—ideal for fast-twitch, aggressive net players. The outsole geometry includes additional flex grooves, optimizing multidirectional traction specifically for pickleball footwork.

3. ASICS Women’s Game FlyteFoam: This is the technical standout for weight efficiency. The core difference is the utilization of FLYTEFOAM, which provides a lighter, springier rebound compared to the denser GEL/EVA compound found in the Dedicate 8. This makes it better suited for players who cover extensive distances (singles players) and prioritize speed and reduced foot fatigue.

Best for Players: The Gel-Dedicate 8 is the robust choice for players needing maximal stability and baseline durability. The Gel-RENMA is the optimal design for highly competitive players who dominate the net and require instantaneous feedback. The Game FlyteFoam is best for players prioritizing lightweight speed and responsive cushioning.

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What to Look for When Buying Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball

Key features and specifications to consider

When analyzing the best asics shoes for pickleball, players must look beyond aesthetic design and focus on the technical composition of the chassis. Key features include the Midsole Density, which determines energy return (responsiveness) versus shock absorption (protection). Competitive players should scrutinize the TRUSSTIC System architecture, confirming the shank’s rigidity, as this dictates torsional stability during lateral movement. Furthermore, the Toe Drag Guard material (Synthetic Leather vs. PU) dictates long-term durability, especially on abrasive outdoor courts.

Performance factors that matter

The two crucial performance factors in pickleball footwear are Lateral Containment and Outsole Geometry. Lateral containment ensures the foot does not slide excessively within the shoe during side-to-side cuts, preventing ankle injuries and maintaining power transfer. Outsole geometry is critical; ASICS’ wrap-up designs and specialized tread patterns (like those found in the Gel-RENMA) ensure reliable, consistent traction during the aggressive braking and accelerating cycles unique to the sport.

Types of Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball Explained

Different categories/types available

ASICS primarily offers two functional categories: stability-focused (like the Gel-Dedicate 8) and agility-focused (like the Gel-RENMA or lightweight FlyteFoam court models). Stability models emphasize high durability, superior shock absorption (GEL), and reinforced uppers. Agility models focus on a lower profile, reduced weight, and enhanced court feel, often utilizing lighter foam compounds.

Which type suits different playing styles

Aggressive Net Players benefit most from agility models (Gel-RENMA) due to the low stack height and enhanced court feedback, enabling quicker footwork transitions. Baseline Grinders and those with high mileage demands should opt for stability models (Gel-Dedicate 8) as they offer superior resilience against repetitive impact forces.

Skill level and budget considerations

Entry-level players and those on a moderate budget will find immense technical value in the Gel-Dedicate 8, offering crucial protection technologies without the premium cost of FlyteFoam. Advanced competitors whose movements are highly precise and demanding often justify the investment in specialized, lighter FlyteFoam models to gain a kinetic edge in tournament play.

Finding Your Ideal Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball

Start by considering your playing context:

• Tournament competition vs. recreational play: Competitive play demands the structural integrity of the Gel-Dedicate or the speed of the FlyteFoam.
• Indoor court vs. outdoor environment: Outdoor play requires maximum outsole durability and toe protection; indoor play permits the use of lighter, highly flexible models like the Upcourt 6.
• Competitive vs. casual play style: Casual play allows for greater cushioning comfort; competitive play requires precise foot containment and rigidity.

Key Buying Considerations

Evaluate these important factors:

• Performance metrics that match your goals: If speed is the goal, choose FlyteFoam. If injury prevention via shock absorption is the goal, choose GEL.
• Budget alignment with your priorities: Mid-range options like the Gel-Dedicate 8 provide excellent stability features, making them superb value shoes.
• Longevity and durability expectations: Models with synthetic leather overlays (Dedicate 8, Renma) will outlast mesh-dominant uppers (Upcourt 6) in outdoor settings.
• Compatibility with current equipment: Ensure the shoe complements your overall physical profile and existing orthotics, if applicable (check the insole thickness and removability).

Options by Player Profile

Different players need different things. Here’s what matters for beginners, intermediate players, and advanced competitors.

Beginner/Casual: Focus on baseline comfort and simple durability. The Gel-Dedicate 8 offers proven technology and adequate protection without overwhelming technical complexity.

Intermediate/Developing: Seek a balance of durability and responsive movement. The standard Gel-Dedicate 8 provides the necessary structure to support developing lateral movement skills.

Advanced/Competitive: Prioritize specialized technical advantages. Options like the Gel-RENMA (for low-profile agility) or the Game FlyteFoam (for lightweight speed) allow for fine-tuning performance based on specific court strategy.

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Final Verdict

Choosing the correct athletic footwear requires a systematic analysis of technical specifications relative to kinetic demands. After extensive performance evaluation, the ranking below reflects the best ASICS models that translate proprietary engineering into demonstrable on-court advantages.

Best Overall: ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes
This model provides the most balanced and technically sound platform for the majority of serious pickleball players. The integration of robust synthetic overlays, the dependable torsional stability of TRUSSTIC, and the superior impact reduction of GEL technology make it a complete, reliable package for competitive outdoor use.

Best Value: ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Tennis Shoes
Sharing the identical core engineering, stability features, and durability profile of the specialized pickleball variant, this tennis model offers high-level lateral support and longevity at a consistently attractive price point, making it the most financially efficient choice for frequent play.

Best for Agility & Net Play: ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes
For the player whose game relies on explosive speed and quick-twitch movements at the kitchen, the Gel-RENMA’s narrower fit, lower profile, and enhanced outsole flex grooves offer the kinetic response required for immediate reaction speed.

Key Takeaways:
* For players needing maximum joint protection and baseline stability, the GEL technology (Dedicate 8) remains the superior choice for mitigating impact forces.
* The TRUSSTIC system is a non-negotiable component for true lateral stability in competitive play across all recommended models.
* Players prioritizing lightweight performance over absolute durability should investigate the FLYTEFOAM compound for reduced fatigue during long matches.
* Indoor players can leverage the agility and enhanced ventilation of the Upcourt 6 series.

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Common Questions About Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball

What Are the Best Asics Shoes for Pickleball for High-Level Competition?

For high-level competition, the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 is highly recommended for its maximal lateral stability provided by the robust TRUSSTIC system and durable synthetic upper construction, ensuring consistent containment during aggressive tournament movements. Alternatively, the ASICS Game FlyteFoam offers a superior power-to-weight ratio, catering to advanced players who prioritize speed and dynamic responsiveness.

How Does TRUSSTIC Technology Specifically Benefit Pickleball Movement?

TRUSSTIC technology is a reinforced resin component strategically placed in the midfoot shank of the shoe. Its primary benefit is providing torsional rigidity, which prevents the shoe from twisting excessively during abrupt lateral cuts and pivots. In pickleball, where rapid side-to-side shuffles at the kitchen line are frequent, this structural rigidity minimizes the risk of ankle sprains and maintains efficient ground contact.

Are ASICS Tennis Shoes Appropriate for Pickleball Courts?

Yes, high-quality ASICS tennis shoes, particularly those built on durable court platforms like the Gel-Dedicate series, are highly appropriate for pickleball. The lateral stability requirements and multi-directional traction needs for tennis closely mirror those of pickleball. However, dedicated pickleball models (like the Gel-RENMA) may feature specialized outsole flex grooves or wrap-up designs optimized specifically for the unique, tight footwork patterns near the non-volley zone.

What Is the Performance Difference Between GEL and FLYTEFOAM Cushioning?

The difference is rooted in material science: GEL is a silicone-based material that excels at localized shock absorption, effectively diffusing high-impact forces (protection). FLYTEFOAM is a lighter, resilient foam formulation infused with organic fibers, known for its ability to quickly return energy (responsiveness) and significantly reduce overall shoe weight. Players should choose based on whether they prioritize impact protection (GEL) or lightweight kinetic speed (FLYTEFOAM).

How Should I Maintain the Durability of My ASICS Pickleball Footwear?

To maximize the longevity of your best asics shoes for pickleball, always wipe down the synthetic leather and outsole after playing, especially on clay or gritty outdoor courts, as abrasives can degrade the rubber quickly. Allow the shoes to air dry naturally (avoid direct heat), and use the shoes exclusively for court play, avoiding wear on non-court surfaces to preserve the specialized outsole tread.