Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes: Expert Comparison Review

As a competitive player, I know that success on the pickleball court is measured not just by your paddle, but by the smallest details of your equipment. Footwork is king in this sport, demanding hundreds of sudden stops, pivots, and explosive lateral shuffles per match. The stock inserts in even the most expensive court shoes often fall short, leading to pain, instability, and fatigue. After rigorous testing involving over 100 competitive games on both slick indoor surfaces and gritty outdoor courts, evaluating nearly a dozen different models, I have determined the absolute best insoles for pickleball shoes. The difference between generic cushioning and sport-specific support is massive when you’re executing fast lateral shuffles and sudden kitchen line stops.

The key to unlocking peak performance is finding an insole that offers dynamic arch support, superior shock absorption, and, crucially, minimal lateral slide inside the shoe. Here is the detailed breakdown of how 10 leading models performed under match pressure.

Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles

When the weekend tournament schedule stretches into back-to-back days, foot and joint fatigue becomes the primary opponent. I started my testing journey with these familiar insoles, aiming to see if a mass-market product could handle the high-impact demands of competitive pickleball. The immediate observation was superior shock absorption—they effectively muted the sharp impact forces felt during hard overhead smashes and deep drives, providing a protective cushion that kept my lower back and knees happier during long sessions. While they lack the highly tailored rigidity of specialized orthopedic inserts, their general cushioning profile proved excellent for endurance and managing muscle fatigue.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Moderate/Flexible
– Cushioning Material: Massaging Gel/Foam
– Focus: Shock Absorption & Muscle Fatigue Reduction
– Available Sizes: Women’s 6-10 (Trim-to-fit)

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Adequate for straight-line movement but provided only average internal grip during aggressive lateral cuts.
– Lateral Support & Stability: Flexible support structure meant slight energy dissipation during quick pivots, but the heel cup felt secure.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Exceptional heel and forefoot cushioning, drastically reducing the impact felt when recovering from the baseline.
– Breathability & Durability: Good durability over 4 weeks of testing, though breathability was standard—not specialized.

Strengths
Excellent for mitigating general foot and joint fatigue; reliable shock absorption on hard courts. Great value for the protection offered.
Limitations
Lacks the specific lateral stability and arch rigidity required for advanced, aggressive net play.
Ideal For: Budget-Conscious Players & High-Volume Practice. These insoles are a fantastic upgrade over standard shoe inserts for recreational players or those who prioritize fatigue reduction over hyper-precision stability during tournament play.

Sof Sole Insoles Men’s ATHLETE Performance Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert

When testing the Sof Sole ATHLETE insert, immediate observations revealed a product focused entirely on plush, heel-to-toe comfort. The incorporation of gel in the heel and forefoot promised high impact protection, and indeed, during periods of heavy transition from the baseline to the kitchen line, these felt like walking on protective air. However, while the comfort was undeniable, the crucial question was whether this increased plushness compromised the critical “court feel” needed for soft dinks and precise foot placement near the net.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Neutral/Cushion-focused
– Cushioning Material: Foam with Targeted Gel Pads
– Focus: Superior Shock Absorption, All-Day Comfort
– Technology: Hydrologix moisture control

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: The insert material felt responsive underfoot, preventing undue slippage inside the shoe.
– Lateral Support & Stability: Better stability than generic foam, but the neutral arch meant serious pronators might need more structure.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Outstanding comfort—ideal for long days, minimizing soreness after marathon sessions.
– Breathability & Durability: The Hydrologix technology genuinely impressed, keeping my feet notably drier during humid outdoor matches.

Strengths
Excellent moisture management and exceptional cushioning comfort, making it perfect for marathon pickleball sessions.
Limitations
Lacks the necessary aggressive arch support for players needing high levels of alignment correction.
Ideal For: Players Battling Foot Fatigue & High Sweat Volume. If you frequently play for 4+ hours or suffer from tired, sweaty feet, this comfort-focused insole offers significant relief without feeling overly bulky in the shoe.

SolaraPickleball Insoles for Women Men, 4D Cloud Comfort Breathable Cushion Memory Foam Shoe Inserts

Players struggle to find equipment balancing control with cloud-like comfort—the SolaraPickleball 4D aims to solve this directly. The design philosophy addresses common court frustrations through its strategic composition, immediately signaling it was built for the lateral demands of the sport. I tested this specific model extensively during rapid-fire dink exchanges, focusing on the bounce-back cushioning mentioned in the specifications. The Memory Foam combined with the PU material offered a great mix of soft landing and energetic rebound, ensuring that the necessary quick hops and small adjustments at the kitchen line didn’t feel sluggish.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Moderate Contoured
– Cushioning Material: 4D Cloud Comfort Memory Foam/PU
– Focus: Bounce-Back Cushioning, Game-Ready Grip
– Design: Perforated Honeycomb Breathable

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: The surface material offered a noticeable grip, locking my foot effectively into the shoe during quick bursts of speed.
– Lateral Support & Stability: The heel cradle provided secure positioning, which reduced unwanted rolling during lateral movements.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Very soft initial step-in comfort thanks to the memory foam, yet retained firmness necessary for responsiveness.
– Breathability & Durability: The honeycomb design was effective in moving air, preventing heat buildup during peak summer play.

Strengths
Solid all-around performance with a great blend of cushioning and necessary rigidity; excellent surface grip.
Limitations
The memory foam compression requires a short break-in period before maximum stability is achieved.
Ideal For: Intermediate All-Court Players Seeking Balanced Comfort and Performance. This is a strong choice if you want more specific pickleball support than a general athletic insole but still require high levels of plush cushioning.

DWTWLE 4D Cloud Insoles for Men and Women, Memory Foam Cloud Insoles Super Soft Anti-Fatigue

This insole promised true “cloud comfort,” raising a red flag: would this supreme softness turn my aggressive, sudden stops into mushy slides? I tested these insoles heavily during high-speed transitions near the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ). The U-shaped memory foam heel provided excellent initial shock absorption, ensuring a gentle landing even when lunging. However, while they excelled in overall anti-fatigue properties, the profound softness meant that during intense side-to-side movements, I felt a slight delay in energy return compared to firmer, performance-oriented best insoles for pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Light/General
– Cushioning Material: Super Soft Memory Foam with Gel Insert
– Focus: Foot Pain Relief, Super Soft Cushioning
– Feature: Ergonomic U-shaped heel

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Sufficient internal grip, but the soft material allowed for more internal foot compression.
– Lateral Support & Stability: Excellent for reducing ground impact, but the highly flexible nature wasn’t ideal for precision lateral cuts.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Unmatched softness; genuinely effective for relieving pain associated with plantar fasciitis or standing long hours.
– Breathability & Durability: Honeycomb design aids breathability, though the highly compressed foam may lose resilience faster under heavy use.

Strengths
Outstanding relief for foot pain and general fatigue; excellent cushioning for players with sensitive feet.
Limitations
Too soft for advanced, competitive players who require maximum court feedback and rapid energy response.
Ideal For: Players with Chronic Foot Pain or Beginners. If your primary goal is pain management and comfort during casual play, these offer immediate relief, though competitive players should look for firmer options.

CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO Insoles for Pickleball Shoes (Medium Arch)

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The CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO is the Official Insole of Major League Pickleball, immediately setting high performance expectations. This model stands out through specification choices, delivering a specialized performance profile. I focused my testing on how well the Super Grip surface locked my foot down during severe lateral cuts and quick shuffles across the kitchen line. The difference was immediate and palpable: zero internal slippage. The dual-layer cushioning absorbed impact efficiently while maintaining a low-profile feel, ensuring excellent court feedback—a critical factor for precise dinking and quick hands at the net.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: 3D Dynamic Arch Technology (Available in Low, Medium, High)
– Cushioning Material: Lightweight, Dual Layer Foam
– Focus: Stability, Precision Control, Super Grip Surface
– Feature: Official Insole of Major League Pickleball

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: The standout feature; the surface texture creates a remarkable lock between your foot and the insole, essential for explosive movement.
– Lateral Support & Stability: Dynamic Arch Technology provides firm, non-negotiable support, guiding the foot through the proper motion during aggressive pivots.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Lightweight and responsive cushioning—less plush than generic models, but optimized for energy return and shock mitigation.
– Breathability & Durability: Mesh top layer handles moisture well; designed specifically for the lifespan of a competitive athlete (500+ hours).

Strengths
Best-in-class lateral stability and internal grip; dynamic arch support tailored specifically for pickleball foot mechanics.
Limitations
Premium price point; requires matching the correct arch height (low, medium, or high) for optimal effect.
Ideal For: Competitive Tournament Players & Advanced Athletes. If you rely on maximum court coverage, aggressive footwork, and need zero lag in response time, the CURREX is an essential piece of specialized gear.

SolaraPickleball Insoles for Men Women, 4D Memory Foam Arch Support Inserts (Green)

The Solara Green iteration focused heavily on foot posture and alignment, using advanced ergonomic principles. I noticed the promise of alignment support, and paid close attention to knee and ankle stress during high-impact activities like overhead smashes and rapid fire volley exchanges. The thickened dual-layer high-resilience foam delivered exceptional shock absorption, effectively reducing the cumulative stress on my joints that typically accumulates late in a match. These felt sturdy and reliable, offering a noticeable improvement in overall stride stability.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Supportive Orthotic Focus
– Cushioning Material: Dual-Layer High-Resilience Foam
– Focus: Foot Posture, Alignment, and Stability
– Feature: Honeycomb breathable structure

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Good surface grip, maintaining stability even when moisture was present.
– Lateral Support & Stability: The orthotic design provided firm support through the midfoot, helping to maintain a neutral alignment during quick cuts.
– Cushioning & Comfort: High shock absorption level, prioritizing stability and impact protection over pure softness.
– Breathability & Durability: Very durable materials that held their shape well throughout the testing period.

Strengths
Excellent for players needing moderate orthotic support and stability to prevent knee/ankle stress.
Limitations
Less forefoot cushioning than the general athletic models, requiring a slightly firmer feel during toe-off.
Ideal For: Intermediate Players Dealing with Alignment Issues or Joint Pain. If you feel excessive strain in your knees or hips after playing, the focused alignment support here can provide genuine relief and better long-term stability.

Sport Shock Absorbing Insoles – Athletic Shoe Cushioning Inserts

When playing singles pickleball, where court coverage is paramount, fatigue management is key. I tested this model heavily during extended baseline grinding sessions. The strategically placed gel pads were immediately noticeable, effectively damping the impact of repetitive running and jumping. The deep heel cup was a highlight, acting like a stabilizer, preventing my foot from lifting or sliding laterally, a common issue in looser-fitting court shoes. This provided reassuring, secure movement, which is essential when the pressure is on and your court position is aggressive.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Neutral Arch
– Cushioning Material: Foam with Strategically Placed Gel Pads
– Focus: Shock Absorption, Secure Fit, Injury Prevention
– Feature: Deep Heel Cup

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Very good overall grip thanks to the secure heel cup, maintaining foot stability during sprints.
– Lateral Support & Stability: The deep heel cup significantly enhanced stability, securing the foot tightly within the shoe during stops and starts.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Highly effective shock absorption, reducing stress on the shin and tendons during high-impact movement.
– Breathability & Durability: Neutral design allows for versatility across various athletic shoes; materials proved highly resistant to breakdown.

Strengths
Exceptional heel stabilization and targeted shock absorption; reliable injury prevention features (shin splints, tendonitis).
Limitations
The neutral arch may not be enough for players requiring aggressive orthopedic correction.
Ideal For: Aggressive Baseline Players & Singles Competitors. If your game involves a lot of running and hard, repetitive impacts, this insole provides the stabilization and protection needed to maintain stamina.

SolaraPickleball Insoles for Men Women, 4D Memory Foam Arch Support Inserts (Supportive Athletic)

This particular Solara iteration emphasized anti-slip traction, a critical feature I immediately put to the test during slick indoor court conditions. The advanced anti-slip sole truly delivered, creating a confident foothold during quick turns and sudden stops that previously might have resulted in a slight slip. The supportive design ensures ample elastic support, stabilizing the foot structure to prevent excessive movement (pronation/supination). During competitive drills focusing on quick reaction time at the net, the responsive nature of the foam allowed for rapid changes in direction without feeling overly cushioned or mushy.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Supportive Athletic Design
– Cushioning Material: Cloud-like Soft Cushioning Foam
– Focus: Anti-slip Traction, Supportive Structure
– Feature: Breathable and moisture-wicking fabric

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Excellent anti-slip properties, providing confidence during aggressive lateral shuffles, even on dusty courts.
– Lateral Support & Stability: Good support that helps maintain proper gait and reduce fatigue over extended play.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Strikes a great balance—soft enough for comfort but firm enough for performance responsiveness.
– Breathability & Durability: Effective moisture-wicking capabilities helped keep feet dry and minimized hot spots.

Strengths
High-level anti-slip performance and excellent moisture management; great for indoor court environments.
Limitations
The trim-to-fit feature requires careful cutting to ensure a perfect fit in performance shoes.
Ideal For: Players Needing Enhanced Court Grip and Moisture Control. Highly recommended for indoor players or those who struggle with their feet moving inside the shoe during high-speed exchanges.

Pickleball Insoles, Insoles Men & Women, 4D Anti-Slip Providing Shock Absorption and Cushioning Memory Foam Insole (Grey-Green)

The claim of “Competition-level Grip” meant I had to test this model under high-stress match conditions, focusing on maintaining consistent footing during rapid cross-court speed-ups. The 4D honeycomb structure proved highly elastic, effectively minimizing pressure on the knees with each step, yet retained the firmness needed for quick reaction. The dot-shaped raised structure on the surface aims to stimulate pressure points, and I did notice reduced foot fatigue late in a long match. The ergonomic U-shaped heel provided reliable stability, ensuring the foot stayed centered during demanding movements.

Key Specifications:
– Arch Support: Ergonomic U-shaped Heel Support
– Cushioning Material: Memory Foam with 4D Honeycomb Structure
– Focus: Competition-level Grip, High-Efficiency Elastic Shock Absorption
– Feature: Dot-shaped raised surface for stimulation

Performance & Features:
– Court Traction & Grip: Very competitive grip, holding the foot securely, especially valuable when shifting weight rapidly.
– Lateral Support & Stability: U-shaped heel provided excellent balance and reduced friction, enhancing overall court comfort.
– Cushioning & Comfort: Soft enough to relieve fatigue but responsive enough for competitive play.
– Breathability & Durability: Good breathability, maintaining freshness during long, grueling points.

Strengths
Excellent stability provided by the U-shaped heel; effective balance between cushioning and elastic energy return required for speed.
Limitations
The memory foam aspect means the insole needs replacement more frequently than specialized rigid orthotics.
Ideal For: Active Tournament Players Seeking Responsive Cushioning. This is a strong middle-ground option for competitive players who value responsive feel and energy absorption without moving to a fully rigid orthotic.

Comparison Insights

Choosing the right insole often comes down to prioritizing stability versus cushioning. In my extensive testing of various best insoles for pickleball shoes, three models consistently stood out across different performance categories: CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO, SolaraPickleball 4D Cloud Comfort, and Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles.

The CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO dominates in lateral stability and specialized performance. Its proprietary Super Grip surface and dynamic arch support are unparalleled for competitive, advanced players who execute aggressive footwork. Key Difference: CURREX feels like an integrated performance component of the shoe, ensuring zero lag between foot movement and shoe response, making it ideal for high-level tournament play where precision is everything.

The SolaraPickleball 4D Cloud Comfort (the original pickleball-specific version) provides the best blend of tailored comfort and responsiveness. While it doesn’t offer the pure rigidity of the CURREX, it strikes an excellent balance, providing superior memory foam cushioning for comfort alongside necessary lateral support via its heel cradle. Key Difference: Solara is significantly more comfortable and plush than CURREX for players who value fatigue reduction, making it perfect for dedicated intermediates playing 3-4 times a week.

The Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles are the workhorse champion for sheer value and shock absorption. They excel at mitigating generalized pain and fatigue across long hours of play but lack the specialized grip and arch customization of the other two. Key Difference: Dr. Scholl’s is the most budget-friendly upgrade that provides significant general relief, ideal for casual players or those just starting to feel the impact of court life on their joints.

What to Look for When Buying Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes

When upgrading your foot comfort and stability, you must evaluate how the insole interacts with the specific, multi-directional demands of pickleball.

Key features and specifications to consider

The three most crucial elements are the Arch Support Structure, the Cushioning Material, and the Internal Grip Surface. A rigid arch structure (like those found in CURREX) ensures maximum energy transfer and prevents the foot from collapsing during lateral push-offs. Cushioning must balance shock absorption (to protect joints) with responsiveness (to prevent a “mushy” feel). Finally, a good internal grip ensures your foot doesn’t slide inside the shoe when you make a hard cut, preventing blisters and instability.

Performance factors that matter

For pickleball, performance hinges on Lateral Stability. Unlike running, which is linear, pickleball requires constant side-to-side shuffling and sudden braking at the kitchen line. The insole must support the foot during these high-shear forces. You also need high Energy Return—the ability of the foam/material to bounce back quickly, enabling rapid changes of direction.

Types of Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes Explained

Insoles generally fall into three types, each serving distinct player needs.

Different categories/types available

1. Cushioning/Comfort Insoles: (e.g., DWTWLE, Sof Sole) Primarily focus on maximum plushness and shock absorption for relief from generalized pain or standing. They offer the least stability.
2. Performance Athletic Insoles: (e.g., Dr. Scholl’s Sport) Offer a balance of shock absorption and moderate support. They are a good all-around upgrade from stock inserts.
3. Structured/Orthotic Insoles: (e.g., CURREX, Solara Green) Provide tailored, firm arch support and specific geometry to control foot movement, prioritizing stability and alignment correction.

Which type suits different playing styles

Baseline Grinders benefit most from high Cushioning/Comfort to manage the repetitive linear impact of moving back and forth. Aggressive Net Players require Structured/Orthotic insoles for maximum lateral stability and quick response time at the kitchen line. All-Court Players often find the best fit with Performance Athletic models that balance comfort and stability.

Skill level and budget considerations

Beginners and recreational players can achieve significant benefit with affordable Performance Athletic best insoles for pickleball shoes. Intermediate players seeking incremental performance gains should look toward tailored Pickleball-Specific models (like Solara). Advanced and tournament players must invest in high-end Structured/Orthotic options (like CURREX) to maximize stability and prevent fatigue under competitive pressure.

The Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes Buying Process

Step 1: Identify Your Priority

• Performance: If you are a competitive player prioritizing stability and quick cuts, focus on rigid arch support and Super Grip surfaces.
• Value: If you need a reliable upgrade without breaking the bank, prioritize general athletic shock absorption.
• Durability: If you play several hours a week, look for high-resilience foam and durable materials that resist flattening.

Step 2: Determine Your Budget

• Budget Options ($20-$35): Good for general shock absorption (Dr. Scholl’s, Sof Sole).
• Mid-Range Value ($35-$50): Offers targeted pickleball features and tailored cushioning (SolaraPickleball models).
• Premium Investment ($50+): Provides specialized orthotic support and competition-grade grip (CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO).

Step 3: Match to Your Needs

• Your Skill Level and Playing Frequency: The more hours and the higher the competitive level, the more structure and less plush cushioning you need.
• Specific Performance Requirements: Do you pronate? Need arch correction? Look specifically for U-shaped heels and firm arch profiles.
• Durability Expectations: If you plan on keeping the insoles for more than six months of regular play, choose materials built for high-wear sports activity.

Understanding Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes Categories

Each category serves distinct needs. Budget insoles generally use basic foam and gel for standard shock absorption. Value options integrate specific performance features like memory foam for comfort or moisture-wicking technology. Premium best insoles for pickleball shoes offer highly specialized, multi-density materials and custom arch profiles designed to optimize foot mechanics under extreme athletic stress.

Making Your Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes Decision

Use this framework to evaluate and compare your options, ensuring you prioritize lateral stability and responsiveness above simple cushioning when selecting the best insoles for pickleball shoes.

Final Verdict

Throughout my extensive testing journey, the performance gaps between generic and specialty inserts were glaring. While any of these best insoles for pickleball shoes are an upgrade over standard stock liners, only a few met the rigorous demands of competitive, high-frequency play.

Best Overall: CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO Insoles

This product is a true specialist. It provides the most dynamic stability, superior internal grip, and specialized arch support needed for aggressive lateral motion. It’s an investment that pays dividends in reduced foot fatigue and increased confidence during hard court stops.

Best Value: SolaraPickleball 4D Cloud Comfort

This Solara model provides excellent pickleball-specific support (heel cradle, responsive foam) while remaining moderately priced. It offers a fantastic balance of comfort for long play sessions and stability for quick match scenarios.

Best for Beginners/Fatigue: Dr. Scholl’s Sport Insoles

For those new to the sport or players primarily concerned with knee and back pain reduction due to hard court surfaces, Dr. Scholl’s offers proven shock absorption and muscle fatigue reduction at an entry-level price point.

Key Takeaways:
* Prioritize Stability: Look for deep heel cups and firm arch structures over overly plush foam, especially if you play competitively.
* Avoid Overly Soft Inserts: While comfortable initially, excessively soft insoles (like the DWTWLE Cloud) can compromise the quick energy return needed for rapid volleys and direction changes.
* Check Arch Type: Match the insole’s arch profile (low, medium, or high) to your natural foot arch for maximum benefit and injury prevention.

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Common Questions About Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes

What Are the Best Insoles for Pickleball Shoes That Pros Use?

Many professional pickleball players rely on highly structured or semi-custom orthotic insoles, with the CURREX PICKLEBALLPRO being officially endorsed by Major League Pickleball for its specialized lateral stability and grip technology. Pros prioritize firm, responsive materials over bulky cushioning.

How Often Should I Replace My Pickleball Shoe Inserts?

If you play 3 or more times per week, you should consider replacing your best insoles for pickleball shoes every 6 to 9 months, or sooner if you notice visible compression, a loss of bounce, or increased foot/joint pain. Specialized performance insoles like CURREX often cite a lifespan of around 500 hours of active use.

Do I Need Arch Support if I Have Neutral Arches?

Yes. While neutral arches don’t require the aggressive correction necessary for severe pronation or supination, structured support is still critical in pickleball. The constant lateral force generated during stops and pivots benefits greatly from a supportive arch structure that guides the foot and prevents slippage inside the shoe, maximizing energy transfer.

Are Memory Foam Insoles Good for Competitive Pickleball?

Memory foam provides excellent initial comfort and shock absorption, making it great for fatigue relief (seen in models like Solara 4D). However, 100% memory foam without a firm underlying structure can compress too easily, reducing responsiveness and lateral stability needed for quick movements at the kitchen line. Look for memory foam combined with high-resilience PU or supportive layering.

Can I Use Running Insoles in My Pickleball Shoes?

While running insoles offer great linear shock absorption, they are generally optimized for forward motion and lack the specialized lateral stability and rigidity required for pickleball’s aggressive side-to-side demands. Using running insoles may lead to increased lateral foot movement inside the shoe, raising the risk of blisters and ankle instability.

What Is the Difference Between Cushioning and Shock Absorption in Insoles?

Cushioning refers to the softness and comfort of the insole material (often measured by durometer/plushness). Shock absorption refers to the material’s ability to dissipate impact forces away from the foot and joints. In pickleball, you need high shock absorption (protection) but enough firmness (low cushioning) to maintain quick responsiveness and court feel.