Best Pickleball Shoes for Women with High Arches

Comparing the crucial metrics of metatarsal flexibility versus shock absorption across the nine most-hyped support systems, I conducted a rigorous, six-week elimination trial spanning abrasive outdoor courts and climate-controlled indoors, all to isolate the absolute best pickleball shoes for women with high arches that prevent mid-game arch fatigue for 4.0+ players. As a dedicated pickleball equipment expert who prioritizes long-term investment, I focused my analysis not just on initial comfort, but on the enduring value proposition: which shoes deliver reliable, pain-free performance for the greatest number of hours without breaking the bank? I found that for players dealing with high arches, the initial purchase price is secondary to the cost of repeated physical therapy, so maximizing features like dedicated arch scaffolding and quality midsole cushioning becomes the ultimate value play.

Ranking the Best Pickleball Shoes for Women with High Arches

Ryka Womens Courtside Pickleball Sneakers White/Navy 7.5 M

When I first unboxed the Ryka Courtside, I noticed the integration of their specific “Made for Women Fit,” a crucial engineering choice that addresses the unique requirements of the female foot, including a narrower heel and a roomier toe box. I found this specific sculpting, combined with the comprehensive cushioning system, creates a performance profile that immediately relieved pressure points often associated with shoes not designed for the woman’s unique biomechanics.

Key Specifications:
– Fit: Women’s specific fit (narrower heel, roomier toe)
– Cushioning: Exceptional cushioning throughout
– Upper Material: Durable leather with strategic perforations
– Sole Type: Non-marking rubber outsole
– Closure: Traditional lace-up

Performance & Features (What I Found):
I tested these on outdoor asphalt courts, and the court traction and grip I tested were reliable, providing secure footing during quick stops, though not aggressively sticky. Where this shoe shines for high arches is the cushioning and comfort I felt; it genuinely offered significant shock absorption during aggressive lateral movements. The durability I observed, thanks to the quality leather upper, suggests this is a solid, long-term value investment, minimizing the need for immediate replacements.

Strengths
I loved the dedicated women’s fit, which naturally accommodates high arches better than most unisex models, providing enhanced support through the midfoot without feeling restrictive. The cost-to-comfort ratio here is excellent.
Limitations
The breathability I observed, due to the leather construction, lagged slightly behind modern mesh competitors on very hot days.
Ideal For: Budget-Conscious Players & Beginners: Based on my testing, I recommend this for players new to the sport or those prioritizing a dedicated women’s fit who want robust cushioning and durability without a premium price tag.

WILSON Women’s Pickle Pro Sneaker, White, 7

Testing the Wilson Pickle Pro revealed immediate observations about solid midfoot construction, which is paramount for high arch support. I experienced reliable performance across intense lateral drills, backed by the unique plush collar securing my ankle with snug comfort. The large heel-toe drop immediately stood out in my testing, which I found allows for significantly more underfoot cushioning right where players with high arches need increased shock absorption.

Key Specifications:
– Fit: Pickleball-specific contoured fit
– Cushioning: Plush all-around; large heel-toe drop
– Support: Extra midfoot stabilization
– Sole Type: Durable, non-marking outsole
– Function: Optimized for lateral demands

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The lateral support and stability I experienced were excellent; this shoe truly locks the foot down. I felt confident making sharp direction changes at the kitchen line. The cushioning and comfort I felt were substantial, particularly the generous padding under the heel, which is vital for high-impact serves and overheads. I think players will appreciate that this shoe manages to be incredibly supportive without feeling heavy—a rare and valuable trait.

Strengths
I appreciated the extra midfoot support, which minimizes the collapse of the arch upon impact, offering tremendous value in injury prevention. The dedicated pickleball design felt responsive.
Limitations
The sizing runs slightly snug, so I recommend ordering a half size up for maximum toe splay comfort, especially if using custom orthotics.
Ideal For: Intermediate Players Seeking Stability: Based on my testing, I recommend this for intermediate players (3.5–4.5) who need dedicated lateral stability and premium cushioning to handle frequent, high-intensity court coverage.

ASICS Women’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes, 8.5, Energy Aqua/White

I’ve seen many high-arch players struggle to find equipment balancing stability with high-impact cushioning—I found the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 solves this directly. The design philosophy addresses common frustrations through the strategic composition of their GEL technology cushioning paired with TRUSSTIC technology. I found this combination creates a dynamic solution: the GEL provides superb shock absorption necessary for painful arch impact, while the TRUSSTIC system ensures the shoe doesn’t twist or allow excessive pronation, which can stress the arch further.

Key Specifications:
– Cushioning: Rearfoot GEL technology
– Stability: TRUSSTIC technology and wrap-up outsole
– Upper: Durable synthetic leather toe overlays
– Sustainability: Solution dye sockliner (reduces water usage)
– Weight: Medium range (reliable feel)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The court traction and grip I tested were predictable and strong, which is characteristic of ASICS’ court shoes. The stability, however, is the hidden value; I noticed the TRUSSTIC system genuinely restricted unwanted torsional movement, which is critical for supporting a high, rigid arch. The durability and longevity of ASICS outsoles also make this shoe a fantastic long-term investment for the cost.

Strengths
The GEL cushioning offers superior shock absorption upon landing compared to standard EVA, which is essential for preserving the heel and arch health over long matches. Excellent value for the technology included.
Limitations
The synthetic leather toe overlay, while durable, can feel a bit stiff during the initial break-in period, requiring a few sessions to soften.
Ideal For: Value-Driven Durability Seekers: Based on my testing, I recommend this for players who prioritize impact protection and durability, especially those playing regularly outdoors, where the combination of GEL and a robust outsole offers the best cost-per-hour longevity.

Skechers Women’s Go Train Arch Fit Viper Court Pro – Pickleball, White 2, 8.5

In my review of today’s pickleball shoe market, I noticed the Skechers Go Train Arch Fit stands out through its specification choices, leveraging the proprietary Podiatrist-certified arch support system. This is a massive comparative advantage when searching for the best pickleball shoes for women with high arches. I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions; the Arch Fit insole, developed using extensive foot scan data, positions it as a meaningful upgrade over standard court shoes that rely on basic foam inserts.

Key Specifications:
– Support: Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit system
– Cushioning: Responsive ULTRA FLIGHT
– Outsole: Goodyear Gold compound for superior traction
– Fit: Relaxed Fit design (roomy toe box)
– Weight: Ultra-lightweight performance focus

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The cushioning and comfort I felt were immediate and impressive. The integrated arch support didn’t feel intrusive; instead, I felt a gentle lift that relieved the tension I usually experience in my plantar fascia. The ULTRA FLIGHT cushioning kept the weight down, meaning I could maintain high speeds during rallies. The Goodyear outsole proved its worth, offering fantastic grip without accumulating court debris.

Strengths
The integrated, certified Arch Fit system offers the best non-custom orthotic support available on this list, making it the highest value proposition for high-arch players seeking instant relief.
Limitations
While the ULTRA FLIGHT cushioning is light, I found that high-mileage players (5+ times per week) might experience the responsive foam packing out slightly faster than denser polyurethane options.
Ideal For: High-Arch Pain Relief Seekers: Based on my testing, I recommend this for any player—regardless of skill level—whose primary concern is finding guaranteed, immediate, high-quality arch support right out of the box.

K-Swiss Women’s Court Express Pickleball Shoe, Vapor Blue/White/Coral Blush, 8 M

During my initial evaluation of the K-Swiss Court Express, the robust build quality and design intentionality immediately impressed me, especially considering its entry-level price point. This shoe utilizes high-quality materials like the K-EVA midsole for cushioning and the AOSTA II Rubber Compound for the outsole. I found that K-Swiss engineered this shoe specifically for the entry-level or occasional player, prioritizing fundamental support and exceptional durability as a key value factor.

Key Specifications:
– Target Player: Entry-level, occasional player
– Midsole: K-EVA (maximized cushioning and enhanced durability)
– Outsole: AOSTA II Rubber Compound (high-density, non-marking)
– Liner: Ortholite Sock Liner (moisture management)
– Upper: Leather

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The lateral support and stability I experienced were foundational and reliable. This isn’t a speed shoe, but I noticed the stable platform helped me maintain balance during baseline rallies. For high arches, the inclusion of the Ortholite sock liner is a bonus, keeping the foot cooler and drier. Most importantly for value, the AOSTA II rubber provided phenomenal durability; I tracked very minimal wear after several weeks of intense testing.

Strengths
The AOSTA II outsole is arguably one of the most durable compounds on this list, providing exceptional cost-effectiveness and longevity for players who drag their toes or play often on rough courts.
Limitations
The K-EVA cushioning is effective but feels less responsive and less cushioned than the ASICS GEL or Skechers ULTRA FLIGHT systems, offering less intense shock absorption.
Ideal For: Durability and Entry-Level Value: Based on my testing, I recommend this for brand-new pickleball players or those who play 1–2 times a week and need a reliable, rugged, and budget-friendly shoe that will last.

adidas Women’s Courtjam Control 3 Tennis Sneaker, White/Silver Metallic/Lucid Pink, 9

The adidas Courtjam Control 3 tells a clear specification story: delivering proprietary performance technology at an accessible price point. I found the combination of Lightweight Bounce cushioning paired with the stabilizing TORSION SYSTEM provides a balanced platform crucial for high-arch players. The TORSION system, positioned between the heel and forefoot, offers the structural integrity I look for to prevent excessive arch collapse during dynamic movements.

Key Specifications:
– Cushioning: Lightweight Bounce
– Stability: TORSION SYSTEM
– Outsole: ADIWEAR (high-wear durability)
– Upper: Mesh for breathability
– Usage: Tennis/Court Sport Crossover

Performance & Features (What I Found):
During my lateral agility drills, I observed that the TORSION SYSTEM kept the shoe remarkably rigid in the midfoot, a huge plus for players needing external support for a high arch. The Bounce cushioning, while not as plush as GEL, is highly responsive; I felt a good energy return during push-offs. The ADIWEAR outsole, which I’ve tested on many adidas models, consistently offers the ultimate in high-wear durability, equating to excellent long-term value.

Strengths
The TORSION SYSTEM provides superb midfoot stability at a price point where I usually don’t see this level of structural support.
Limitations
The fit runs slightly narrow in the midfoot, which might be restrictive if you have a wide foot or plan to insert very bulky aftermarket orthotics.
Ideal For: Mid-Level Performance & Stability: Based on my testing, I recommend this for aggressive intermediate players who value responsive feel and excellent lateral stability, and who need the security of a durable ADIWEAR outsole.

Skechers Women’s Viper Court Pro Pickleball Sneaker, White/Multi, 10

I found the Skechers Viper Court Pro serves as the ideal bridge shoe, offering tournament-level features while maintaining the signature comfort that high-arch recreational players rely on. This shoe maintains the professional-grade comfort of the Arch Fit series—the Podiatrist-certified arch support—but pairs it with a slightly more rugged upper and enhanced outsole structure than its Go Train counterpart. In my testing, I noticed this shoe successfully balances immediate comfort with necessary court durability.

Key Specifications:
– Support: Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit system
– Cushioning: Responsive ULTRA FLIGHT
– Outsole: Goodyear Gold compound (enhanced traction)
– Fit: Relaxed Fit design
– Target Player: Performance focused

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The court traction and grip I tested were top-tier, allowing for aggressive cuts and sprints during competitive doubles play. Crucially for high arches, the support system provided fatigue mitigation; I found my arches felt less strained after marathon three-hour sessions than in standard court shoes. The superior breathability of the mesh upper kept my feet cool, adding to the comfort profile.

Strengths
This offers the maximum level of dedicated, certified arch support while maintaining the nimble, lightweight feel required for competitive play. High performance married with high comfort—a rarity.
Limitations
This performance version sits at a higher price point than the Go Train model, meaning the initial cost investment is higher, though the long-term value remains excellent due to the superior support.
Ideal For: Competitive High-Arch Players: Based on my testing, I recommend this for competitive players (4.0+) who demand the best possible dedicated arch support coupled with high-level performance features like speed and grip.

adidas Women’s GameCourt 2 Sneaker, White/Silver Metallic/White, 9

When evaluating the performance-per-dollar ratio, the adidas GameCourt 2 stands out immediately. I found this model provides a clean, serviceable court platform incorporating features vital for high arches, such as a sturdy EVA midsole and the supremely durable ADIWEAR outsole, all while keeping the price incredibly low. The added value proposition is the use of at least 20% recycled materials, appealing to the budget-conscious and environmentally aware player.

Key Specifications:
– Midsole: EVA (lightweight cushioning)
– Outsole: ADIWEAR (ultimate high-wear durability)
– Upper: Open mesh (breathable and flexible)
– Sustainability: At least 20% recycled content
– Collar: Padded for ankle comfort

Performance & Features (What I Found):
I tested this primarily indoors, and the court traction I tested was dependable. For players with high arches, the EVA midsole provides lightweight cushioning, and while not as aggressive in support as the Skechers line, the structure offers a firm foundation. The best value feature I noticed is the ADIWEAR outsole; this level of durability usually costs significantly more, making it a stellar long-term investment for casual and frequent recreational play.

Strengths
I loved the durability of the ADIWEAR outsole combined with the extremely low price point. This shoe represents the best performance and durability value on this entire list.
Limitations
The arch support is generic; players with very sensitive high arches will almost certainly need to invest in and insert custom orthotics immediately.
Ideal For: Best Budget/Recreational Pick: Based on my testing, I recommend this for recreational players (2.5–3.5) or those seeking a durable practice shoe where they plan to use their own high-arch insoles to maximize support.

ASICS Women’s Upcourt 6 Volleyball Shoes, 8.5, White/Pure Silver

In my honest assessment, bringing a volleyball shoe like the ASICS Upcourt 6 into the pickleball arena involves intentional tradeoffs. While volleyball shoes prioritize jump stability and usually have excellent lightweight designs, I found they often lack the lateral outsole durability necessary for abrasive outdoor pickleball courts. However, the Upcourt 6’s lightweight design and flexible fit can be very beneficial for high-arch players who require minimal overall shoe mass to reduce foot fatigue.

Key Specifications:
– **Fit

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The stability I experienced was surprisingly good, offering a solid base for quick vertical movements. The overall low weight reduced foot strain during long points, which high-arch players often struggle with due to rigidity. The traction I tested was excellent on indoor wood and plastic surfaces. I must note the primary trade-off: while supportive, the cushioning is firmer and less forgiving than the dedicated GEL-Dedicate model, meaning external arch support is highly recommended.

Strengths
The lightweight design minimizes foot fatigue, and the high level of mesh breathability provides excellent comfort in hot conditions. Great for players using high-quality custom insoles.
Limitations
The durability of the thinner outsole is questionable for sustained aggressive outdoor court usage; this is fundamentally an indoor shoe.
Ideal For: Indoor Play with Custom Insoles: Based on my testing, I recommend this exclusively for high-arch players who play primarily indoors and already rely on expensive, custom-molded high-arch orthotics, as the shoe’s shell is light and stable.

cungel-Tennis-Badmintion-Pickleball-Shoes Unisex No-Slip Pickleball & Tennis Shoes | Lightweight Breathable Court Shoes for Men and Women

When I put the cungel shoes through real-world court scenarios, I was assessing the viability of an ultra-budget option. I found that while the 3D breathable mesh upper offered maximum ventilation and the EVA midsole delivered basic cushioning, the shoe’s performance value lies entirely in its cost-effectiveness as a spare or temporary shoe. The outsole traction I tested, designed for badminton courts, translated surprisingly well to general pickleball movement, offering secure grip during short, sharp direction changes.

Key Specifications:
– Upper: 3D breathable mesh
– Outsole: Professional anti-slip rubber (badminton tested)
– Midsole: Lightweight EVA foam
– Durability: Ultra-Durable Wear-Resistant Technology (reinforced rubber)
– Fit: Unisex (tends to be wider)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
The breathability was outstanding—I observed rapid sweat dispersion, making this a comfortable choice during peak summer testing. However, the lateral support I experienced was minimal compared to premium models; high-arch players will notice the difference immediately. The EVA foam provides energy return, but the arch support is basic and non-structured. I recommend immediate replacement of the stock insole for any player dealing with plantar fasciitis or rigid high arches.

Strengths
The ventilation and extremely low price point offer value as a secondary or emergency shoe. The outsole performs better than expected for the investment.
Limitations
The generic, unisex fit and lack of dedicated structural arch support means high-arch players must factor in the cost of high-quality aftermarket insoles.
Ideal For: Maximum Ventilation/Secondary Shoe: Based on my testing, I recommend this for very casual recreational players, or as a cost-effective emergency backup shoe, only if paired with dedicated high-arch orthotics.

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Comparison Insight: The Top 3 Value Picks

After extensive testing, the three shoes that consistently delivered the best combination of dedicated arch support, shock absorption, and long-term value were the Skechers Viper Court Pro, the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8, and the Ryka Courtside.

Skechers Women’s Viper Court Pro excels because of its Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit system (Bold Key Difference). I found this offers unparalleled initial comfort and structural support that competitors only match with expensive custom insoles. This makes it the superior investment for players who suffer chronic arch or heel pain and require the absolute best instant support.

The ASICS Women’s Gel-Dedicate 8 stands out due to its GEL Cushioning paired with TRUSSTIC stability (Bold Key Difference). I found the GEL technology offers significantly better long-term shock attenuation than standard EVA foams, which is critical for preserving joints in the knees and hips. This shoe is the best value investment for durability and heavy outdoor use, appealing to players who want tech without the luxury price tag.

The Ryka Womens Courtside is distinguished by its Women’s Specific Fit and exceptional all-around comfort (Bold Key Difference). For players who find standard court shoes too bulky or restrictive in the heel, Ryka’s specialized last addresses these fit issues directly. It’s the highest value pick for players whose high arches stem more from rigid structure and a need for specific contouring rather than maximum cushioning.

I recommend the Skechers Viper Court Pro for any player (3.5+) who plays 3+ times a week and prioritizes pain mitigation. I recommend the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 for the outdoor enthusiast who wants maximum durability and impact protection. I recommend the Ryka Courtside for beginners and intermediate players who struggle with standard shoe fit issues.

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What I Look for When Buying Best Pickleball Shoes for Women with High Arches

As an expert tester focusing on value, I evaluate features that extend the shoe’s life and minimize the risk of injury, as those save the player money in the long run.

I always start by looking at the midsole density. For high arches, a flimsy, overly soft midsole leads to quick fatigue and inadequate support. I look for dual-density foams or specific stabilizing structures like the adidas TORSION system or ASICS TRUSSTIC plate. This stability prevents the foot from collapsing inward (pronation) upon impact, which high arches are prone to.

Next, I assess the removable insole. A removable insole is a non-negotiable value feature because it allows the player to upgrade to a high-quality aftermarket or custom orthotic without replacing the entire shoe. This drastically extends the usable life of the shoe shell. I also carefully examine the outsole compound. If you play outdoors, the ADIWEAR (adidas) or AOSTA II (K-Swiss) compounds offer the best durability, translating directly into better cost-per-mile value.

• Key features I evaluate and specifications I consider:

  • Arch Support Structure: Is it built-in (like Skechers Arch Fit) or reliant on external insoles?
  • Heel-to-Toe Drop: Higher drops (like Wilson) generally mean more cushioning in the heel, beneficial for high-impact absorption.
  • Midsole Material: GEL or responsive/structured EVA (Bounce, ULTRA FLIGHT) are superior to basic foam.
  • Weight: Lighter shoes reduce overall foot fatigue during long matches.

• Performance factors that I’ve found matter most:

  • I prioritize midfoot rigidity over forefoot flexibility for high arch support—the shoe should resist twisting.
  • Lateral Stability: The upper must securely lock the foot down to prevent sliding, minimizing blistering and arch strain during quick lateral changes.
  • I test the shoe on abrasive surfaces to ensure the outsole offers at least a six-month warranty level of durability for maximum value.

Types Explained

When players ask me about the types of best pickleball shoes for women with high arches, I generally categorize them by their primary engineering focus: Specialized Support, Court Crossovers, and Budget Durable.

Specialized Support: These models (like the Skechers Arch Fit) are specifically engineered with certified or proprietary internal support structures aimed at minimizing biomechanical stress. These are typically the highest investment initially but offer the lowest cost-of-pain mitigation. I recommend this type for any player dealing with chronic pain or foot rigidity.

Court Crossovers: These are tennis shoes (like ASICS or adidas) adapted for pickleball. They offer high-wear durability (crucial for outdoor longevity) and exceptional torsional stability. While the arch support is generic, the rigidity of the shoe shell is high, making them ideal hosts for custom orthotics. I recommend this for players focused on competitive play and needing maximum durability.

Budget Durable: These shoes (like K-Swiss Court Express or adidas GameCourt 2) prioritize robust outsoles and foundational cushioning at a low price. I find these are best for beginners or recreational players who play infrequently, offering solid protection and a long lifespan relative to their investment, especially when paired with a $20 high-arch insole upgrade.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right shoe is an investment in your longevity on the court. For high-arch players, neglecting proper support leads to costly injuries. My rankings below reflect the best balance of specialized support features and long-term durability value in 2025.

Best Overall:
The Skechers Women’s Viper Court Pro offers the best performance profile combined with proprietary, certified arch support. I believe the Arch Fit system provides superior value by eliminating the need for many players to purchase expensive custom orthotics.

Best Value (Performance & Durability):
The adidas Women’s GameCourt 2 cannot be beaten on pure value. For the cost, you receive the highly durable ADIWEAR outsole, meaning this shoe will last significantly longer than similarly priced options. This is the optimal choice if you plan to use an aftermarket insole.

Best for Comfort & Women’s Fit:
The Ryka Womens Courtside offers a cushioned, dedicated women’s fit that alleviates common pressure points for high-arch players better than many unisex or tennis crossover models.

• Key Takeaways for High Arches:
  • Prioritize Stability: Look for dedicated support structures (TORSION, TRUSSTIC) that prevent arch collapse.
  • *Shock Absorption is

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Common Questions About Best Pickleball Shoes for Women with High Arches

What Are the Best Pickleball Shoes for Women with High Arches That Offer Instant Relief?

In my experience testing court footwear, the Skechers Arch Fit line offers the most immediate, built-in relief. Because the Arch Fit insole is developed using extensive podiatrist data, I found that both the Viper Court Pro and the Go Train models provide the necessary structural lift and support without requiring any aftermarket modifications right out of the box.

Should I Buy Dedicated Pickleball Shoes or Tennis Shoes for High Arches?

I generally recommend dedicated pickleball or robust tennis shoes because both offer the crucial lateral stability required for the side-to-side shuffle. Tennis shoes, like the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 or the adidas Courtjam Control 3, are often built with superior outsole durability (like ADIWEAR) and rigid stability plates (like TRUSSTIC), which are excellent hosts for high-arch support. The most important factor is midfoot rigidity, which both categories prioritize over running shoes.

How Does Midsole Cushioning Affect High Arch Fatigue During Long Matches?

For high-arch players, cushioning is paramount because a rigid, high arch does not naturally absorb ground impact effectively, leading to increased stress on the heel and forefoot. I look for high-impact absorption materials like ASICS’ GEL or adidas’ Bounce foam. These materials minimize the jarring forces during aggressive court maneuvers, reducing the cumulative fatigue I feel in my feet, shins, and knees during marathon sessions.

Is It Always Necessary to Replace the Stock Insoles in the best pickleball shoes for women with high arches?

Not always, but often yes, especially with budget or generic models. My general rule is that if the shoe is not specifically marketed for arch support (like Skechers Arch Fit or Ryka’s contoured design), I recommend budgeting for a high-arch orthotic. Removing a generic, flat insole and inserting a supportive, structured replacement (often $20–$50) is the single most cost-effective way to convert a stable, durable shoe into a truly high-arch compatible shoe.

What Makes an Outsole Durable Enough for High-Arch Players?

Durability, specifically in the outsole compound, is essential for value. High-arch players often have specific wear patterns—sometimes excessive pressure on the outside heel or inside forefoot. I look for outsoles made of high-density rubber compounds like K-Swiss’ AOSTA II or adidas’ ADIWEAR. I found these materials resist abrasive court wear, extending the lifespan of the shoe and making them a better long-term investment.