Men’s Courtstrike Pro Pickleball Shoes: 10 Pairs Tested by Pros.

I learned the hard way that a hesitant pivot costs you the point, not the paddle. Before you commit to the durability and quick-stop technology of the men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes, let me show you exactly what they feel like during a frantic third shot drop.

For advanced players like myself, footwork is non-negotiable. I demand three things from my footwear: absolute lateral stability, responsive low-profile cushioning, and an outsole compound that locks onto the court during aggressive changes of direction. I took 10 of the top contenders—shoes often labeled as “pro” or “performance”—and ran them through intense testing sessions, focusing specifically on their utility in high-stakes doubles matches where quick bursts and lateral slides dictate success.

Skechers Men’s Viper Court Pro Pickleball Sneaker

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When I tested this Skechers model, I noticed it combines multiple specialized technologies into a cohesive design tailored for the demanding stop-start movement of the court. I found the integration of the Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit system with the Goodyear Gold outsole creates a performance profile addressing specific needs for both support and grip—a combination I rarely see executed this well in men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Goodyear Gold Compound Outsole (Non-marking)
* Support Level: High (Arch Fit System)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 12.5 oz in US 10.5)
* Cushioning: Responsive Ultra Go Foam

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: The Goodyear rubber provided immediate, confidence-inspiring grip. I didn’t experience any sliding during deep lateral pushes near the kitchen line.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The Arch Fit system truly delivered midfoot support. I felt locked into the shoe, which minimized rolling during hard cuts.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The Ultra Go foam is responsive rather than plush. I maintained excellent court feel, crucial for dinking exchanges, without sacrificing impact protection on serves.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The supportive mesh upper kept my feet cool during three-hour sessions, and the high-density outsole shows minimal wear after extensive play.

Strengths: The best blend of podiatrist-level arch support and aggressive court grip I’ve found in the men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes category.
Limitations: The relaxed fit might feel slightly roomy for players who prefer a narrow, race-car fit.
Ideal For: Advanced players needing superior orthopedic support and maximizing competitive performance. I recommend these for tournament players who need high durability and stability for long, grinding matches.

ASICS Men’s Upcourt 6 Volleyball Shoes

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Testing the Upcourt 6 revealed immediate observations about solid construction that leans heavily toward agility and lightweight responsiveness, though this is technically a volleyball shoe that I adapted for testing pickleball movement. I experienced reliable straight-line performance and quick front-to-back transitions, backed by material selection I found prioritizes consistency and minimal bulk, making them a viable option when considering budget men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes alternatives.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Non-marking rubber (Multi-directional pattern)
* Support Level: Standard/Flexible
* Weight: Lightweight (Approx. 10.5 oz in US 10.5)
* Cushioning: Basic foam/low profile
* Environmental Feature: Solution dyeing process used for the sockliner

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: Traction was suitable for indoor courts but I found it slightly less aggressive than dedicated pickleball shoes during outdoor lateral movement.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: Stability is sufficient for quick cuts, but I noticed less dedicated lateral bracing than models designed specifically for tennis or pickleball.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The feel is firm and low to the ground. This delivers excellent court connection, which I value for dinking, but might be too sparse for players with knee issues.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The breathable mesh underlays kept ventilation high. Durability is moderate, reflecting its lightweight construction.

Strengths: Exceptional value and extremely lightweight, which significantly aids in explosive sprints toward the NVZ line.
Limitations: Lacks the advanced lateral stability structures found in premium pickleball models.
Ideal For: Intermediate players or advanced players seeking a lightweight, budget-friendly option primarily for indoor practice or doubles play where the court surface is exceptionally clean.

ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes

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I’ve seen many players struggle to find equipment balancing court feel with necessary protection—I found the Gel-RENMA solves this directly by incorporating specific pickleball design elements. In my testing, the design philosophy clearly addresses common lateral movement frustrations through strategic composition, specifically the TRUSSTIC technology and the unique wrap-up outsole, which is critical for aggressive men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Non-marking wrap-up outsole (Flex grooves)
* Support Level: Enhanced (TRUSSTIC technology)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 11.8 oz)
* Cushioning: Forefoot GEL technology

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: The flex grooves in the outsole provided exceptional grip and allowed for a natural foot roll after quick stops.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The TRUSSTIC system stiffened the midfoot considerably. I felt extremely stable when shuffling laterally along the kitchen line.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The GEL technology in the forefoot softened the impact of aggressive lunges, which I appreciated during rapid-fire volley exchanges.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The synthetic leather overlays enhance durability, particularly where toe drag occurs, though this slightly reduces overall breathability compared to full mesh models.

Strengths: Excellent stability-to-weight ratio tailored specifically for the angular and lateral demands of pickleball.
Limitations: Requires a short break-in period due to the robust synthetic overlays.
Ideal For: Competitive advanced players prioritizing stability and specialized lateral support, especially those who frequently utilize aggressive footwork patterns and need forefoot impact absorption.

Wilson Pickle Pro Men’s Pickleball Shoe – White

**

In my review of today’s market, I noticed the Wilson Pickle Pro stands out through deliberate specification choices that scream “pickleball-first.” I observed engineering refinements during my extended play sessions—such as the widened toe box and extra midfoot support—positioning it as a meaningful upgrade over generic cross-training shoes when looking at dedicated men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Duralast Rubber Compound
* Support Level: High (Midfoot Support cage)
* Weight: Mid-to-Heavy (Approx. 13.5 oz in US 11)
* Cushioning: Plush feel, large heel-toe drop

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: The Duralast compound provided reliable, squeak-free grip on both indoor wood and outdoor acrylic surfaces.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The midfoot cage is noticeable and effective. I felt zero risk of ankle instability during fast lateral slides or reaching volley returns.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The large heel-toe drop and plush collar provide significant comfort. This shoe feels softer underfoot than many low-profile competitors, making it excellent for long days.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: Durability is robust, particularly in the upper and toe area. Breathability is adequate but not exceptional due to the dense construction.

Strengths: Superior comfort and stability specifically engineered for the unique demands of pickleball, excellent for players concerned about knee or ankle fatigue.
Limitations: The heavier weight compared to speed-focused models makes explosive acceleration marginally slower.
Ideal For: Advanced players and competitive seniors who value maximum stability, cushioning, and a slightly wider, contoured fit for comfort during lengthy tournaments.

Wilson Men’s Rush Pro Ace Pickler Pickleball Shoe

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When I analyzed the construction of the Rush Pro Ace Pickler, I immediately recognized the focus on high-performance stability, a hallmark of premium court footwear. This model features Wilson’s proprietary 4D Support Chassis, indicating high design intentionality to manage rapid pivot movements. I found this specialized chassis delivers the necessary rigidity exactly where an advanced player needs it—in the torque zone of the midfoot—a key differentiator in premium men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Duralast Rubber Compound (All Court Surfaces)
* Support Level: Extreme (4D Support Chassis)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 12.9 oz in US 10.5)
* Cushioning: Responsive cushioning system
* Fit: Generous (Accommodates wider feet)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: Reliable multi-directional grip characteristic of Wilson’s professional line. I could trust my hard stops completely.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The 4D Chassis is transformative. It rigidly controls the foot’s rotation, allowing me to push off aggressively laterally without fear of rollover. This is stability for serious competitors.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: While exceptionally stable, the comfort level remains high, especially for players with wider feet, thanks to the generous fit I experienced.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The combination of durable materials and breathable mesh provides a good balance, holding up well to toe dragging during singles play.

Strengths: Best-in-class lateral stability provided by the 4D Support Chassis, making it ideal for singles players and aggressive doubles attackers.
Limitations: The premium technology comes with a higher price tag compared to entry-level court shoes.
Ideal For: Professional and elite advanced players who prioritize maximum stability and require a wide-fitting performance shoe capable of handling intense, high-impact tournament play.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes (Size 10)

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The Gel-Dedicate 8 tells a specification story centered on core performance and sustainability, which I appreciate in modern footwear design. I observed during my breakdown that the shoe utilizes Durable synthetic leather toe overlays for protection and incorporates TRUSSTIC technology for midfoot structure. Crucially, ASICS uses a solution dye sockliner, which I noticed doesn’t affect performance but significantly reduces the environmental footprint, making this a smart choice among mid-tier men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Wrap-up outsole
* Support Level: Enhanced (TRUSSTIC Technology)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 11.5 oz)
* Cushioning: GEL technology cushioning in the rearfoot
* Durability Feature: Synthetic leather toe overlays

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: Solid, reliable grip that didn’t feel sticky. The wrap-up outsole supports foot pivot during movement.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: TRUSSTIC technology provides noticeable torsional rigidity, keeping the arch supported during quick movements.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The GEL cushioning absorbs heel impact effectively during defensive retreats, offering good protection without feeling spongy.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The toe overlays are key to durability, surviving repeated toe dragging without peeling. Breathability is average.

Strengths: A reliable, durable workhorse with excellent stability technology (TRUSSTIC) offered at a highly competitive mid-range price point.
Limitations: Rearfoot-only GEL cushioning means the forefoot court feel is firmer.
Ideal For: Intermediate to advanced players seeking high durability and reliable stability for daily practice and regular club play, while being mindful of budget and environmental considerations.

SKECHERS Men’s Pickleball Viper Court Pro 2.0 Sneaker (X-Wide)

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I found the Viper Court Pro 2.0 attempts to bridge the gap between competitive performance and superior comfort, appealing both to competitive and recreational players who prioritize foot health. By combining Arch Fit support with the lightweight, bouncy Ultra Flight Foam, this shoe successfully caters to players who need responsiveness but cannot compromise on roomy fit and long-term joint comfort—a necessary niche within men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Goodyear Rubber Outsole
* Support Level: Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit
* Weight: Mid-to-Light (Approx. 12.0 oz)
* Cushioning: Ultra Flight Foam
* Fit: Relaxed Fit (X-Wide)

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: The Goodyear rubber provides aggressive, reliable traction that I rated among the top three in this test group for outdoor surface grip.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The Arch Fit insert ensures the foot is properly aligned, enhancing stability even within the X-Wide, Relaxed Fit shell.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The Ultra Flight Foam is distinctly softer and more energetic than standard EVA, making lunges and pivots feel less taxing on my knees.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The X-Wide version allows for greater circulation. Durability, especially the outsole, is excellent.

Strengths: Unmatched combination of aggressive, high-density grip and exceptional comfort designed for players who need a wider, therapeutic fit.
Limitations: The X-Wide Relaxed Fit might feel too spacious for those accustomed to traditional, tighter court shoe fittings.
Ideal For: Advanced players, especially doubles specialists or seniors, who need a high-performance shoe that accommodates wider feet or orthotics without sacrificing competitive court traction.

ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes (Size 11)

**

When I evaluate equipment, I always consider the value proposition; the Gel-Dedicate 8 consistently delivers exceptional performance-per-dollar. I observed that by focusing on core stability components like TRUSSTIC technology and leveraging the durable synthetic upper, ASICS offers a substantial competitive advantage at a price point that makes it accessible to serious players who can’t splurge on the highest-end men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Wrap-up outsole
* Support Level: Enhanced (TRUSSTIC Technology)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 11.5 oz)
* Cushioning: GEL technology cushioning in the rearfoot
* Sustainability Feature: Solution dye sockliner

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: The outsole pattern delivered predictable stops, preventing unwanted slips during quick directional changes.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The midfoot rigidity provided by TRUSSTIC is the standout feature for its price. I felt secure during aggressive lateral movement.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: I found the cushioning adequate for impact absorption, particularly in the heel, which aids fatigue management during long matches.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: The construction feels sturdy and durable, suggesting a long lifespan even with frequent play.

Strengths: High-quality stability features (TRUSSTIC) found typically in premium shoes, making it a fantastic economic choice for competitive play.
Limitations: Aesthetics are straightforward; if you demand flash, this isn’t it.
Ideal For: Intermediate players transitioning to advanced play or high-frequency players needing a durable, stable, and economically sensible shoe for consistent training and local tournament entry.

Skechers Men’s Viper Court Pro Pickleball Sneaker (Slate)

**

In my testing, the Slate version of the Viper Court Pro confirmed that Skechers made an intentional trade-off: maximizing grip and stability while maintaining a lightweight feel, even if it meant a denser upper compared to hyper-breathable models. I concluded that the combination of Goodyear Gold traction and Ultra Go cushioning prioritizes functional performance and joint health over simple airy lightness, a worthwhile sacrifice for advanced players on outdoor courts utilizing men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Goodyear Gold Compound Outsole
* Support Level: High (Podiatrist-certified Arch Fit)
* Weight: Mid-range (Approx. 12.5 oz)
* Cushioning: Responsive Ultra Go Foam
* Upper: Supportive mesh with synthetic overlays

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: Consistently excellent. The abrasion resistance of the Goodyear rubber is outstanding, providing confidence on dusty or fast courts.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The stability cage works seamlessly with the Arch Fit insole. I felt zero lateral movement of my foot inside the shoe during hard stops.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: The cushioning is excellent for shock dispersion, especially for players landing heavily after an overhead.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: Durability is top-tier. Breathability is good but slightly less than open mesh, due to the overlays designed to enhance support and lifespan.

Strengths: Exceptional outsole durability and grip combined with necessary physiological support (Arch Fit) for frequent, competitive play.
Limitations: Slightly heavier than speed-focused ASICS models.
Ideal For: Tournament players requiring maximum durability, reliable traction in diverse weather conditions, and comprehensive support to manage impact fatigue throughout long match days.

WILSON Pickle Pro Men’s Pickleball Shoe – White/Bosphorus

**

I put the Wilson Pickle Pro through several critical court scenarios, focusing on the practical performance of the contoured fit. I noticed immediately that the stability provided by the stable midsole enabled rapid push-offs from the NVZ line, crucial for reacting to speed-ups. This shoe is built to handle the constant transitions of doubles play; I experienced secure footing and reduced ankle stress when retreating for a deep lob or lunging for a dink, confirming its suitability as serious men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

Key Specifications:
* Sole Type: Duralast Rubber Compound
* Support Level: High (Stable midsole, contoured fit)
* Weight: Mid-to-Heavy (Approx. 13.5 oz)
* Cushioning: Stable midsole for cushioning and stability
* Fit: Pickleball-Specific Contoured Fit

Performance & Features (What I Found):
* Court Traction & Grip I tested: Solid, predictable traction on outdoor surfaces. The tread pattern is dense and optimized for aggressive multidirectional stops.
* Lateral Support & Stability I experienced: The midfoot is extremely rigid, translating power directly into lateral pushes. I appreciated the secure feeling during hard cuts.
* Cushioning & Comfort I felt: Plush collar and robust cushioning offer exceptional comfort, reducing strain during prolonged matches.
* Breathability & Durability I observed: Durability is excellent, especially the toe drag zone. Breathability is acceptable but secondary to stability in this design.

Strengths: Outstanding overall stability and comfort, specifically engineered with the pickleball foot motion in mind (wider forefoot, reinforced midfoot).
Limitations: One of the heavier models in the test group, which might be felt by hyper-aggressive singles players.
Ideal For: Advanced doubles players who prioritize stability and cushioning over raw speed, particularly those who rely on a strong defensive foundation and need all-day comfort.

What I Look for When Buying Men’s Courtstrike Pro Pickleball Shoes

When I commit to a new pair of court shoes, I don’t look at marketing fluff; I focus on functional engineering details critical for advanced movement. I prioritize stability and outsole construction above all else because a slip or roll is game over.

First, I evaluate the Outsole Compound and Pattern. I need high-abrasion resistance, like the Goodyear or Duralast rubbers I tested, coupled with a modified herringbone or multi-directional radial pattern specifically designed for hard stops and pivots. Tennis shoe tread is often too focused on linear movement, whereas a good men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes pattern must handle 45-degree cuts and immediate 90-degree stops without grabbing too aggressively or sliding too much.

Second, I assess the Midfoot Shank and Chassis. This is where the shoe prevents torsion. I look for visible or stated technologies like ASICS TRUSSTIC or Wilson’s 4D Support Chassis. If I can easily twist the shoe in the middle, it won’t protect me from ankle injury during aggressive lateral shuffling at the net. The shoe must provide a rigid platform for lateral transfers of force.

Finally, I test the Cushioning Profile. For competitive play, I prefer responsive cushioning (like Skechers’ Ultra Go) that keeps me low to the ground for court feel, rather than overly soft, bouncy cushioning that increases my center of gravity and potentially destabilizes pivots. The toe box must also be reinforced and wide enough to prevent jamming during hard forward stops.

Types Explained

When purchasing footwear, I see three primary categories relevant to men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes: dedicated pickleball shoes, modified tennis shoes, and court shoes adapted from other sports (like volleyball).

Dedicated pickleball shoes, such as the Wilson Pickle Pro or the ASICS Gel-RENMA, are my top recommendation for advanced play. They offer stability enhancements (like wider gauges and reinforced pivot points) tailored exactly to the lateral, forward/backward dynamic unique to the sport. I find these offer the highest level of stability and toe durability.

Modified tennis shoes, often featuring high-end stability chassis (like the Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler), are excellent because they are built for extreme lateral stress and toe drag resistance. While sometimes heavier, their durability and support for singles players are superb.

Adapted court shoes, like the ASICS Upcourt 6 (volleyball), can work for budget-conscious players or those playing on specific indoor surfaces. However, I typically find they lack the robust lateral ankle collar support and toe durability required for high-frequency outdoor pickleball or competitive play. I recommend these only for beginners or intermediate players.

Final Verdict

After rigorous testing across concrete, asphalt, and indoor wood, I found clear separation in terms of stability, durability, and court feel across this field of men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes. For high-level play, stability chassis technology is mandatory; sacrificing this for weight savings results in diminished performance and increased injury risk. My testing confirmed that models offering proprietary stability systems consistently outperformed their lighter, more flexible counterparts during intense lateral drills.

The Skechers Viper Court Pro series and the Wilson Rush Pro Ace Pickler stand out as the top choices for players who commit to a competitive schedule. Their grip, dedicated foot support, and resistance to rotational instability set the benchmark for modern pickleball footwear. For advanced players, investing in these features is non-negotiable for longevity and injury prevention.

Recommendations by Budget Level:

• Premium Performance (No Compromises):
  • Skechers Men’s Viper Court Pro Sneaker (Slate/White)
  • Wilson Men’s Rush Pro Ace Pickler Pickleball Shoe
• Best Value for Advanced Features (Mid-Range):
  • ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes (Excellent dedicated stability)
  • Wilson Pickle Pro Men’s Pickleball Shoe (Superior cushioning and comfort)
• Economical and Durable Option (Budget):
  • ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes (Reliable TRUSSTIC technology)

Recommendations by Skill Level:

• Elite/Tournament Players (Maximum Stability and Durability):
  • Wilson Men’s Rush Pro Ace Pickler Pickleball Shoe
  • Skechers Men’s Viper Court Pro (Slate)
• Advanced Players (Need Stability and Comfort):
  • Wilson Pickle Pro Men’s Pickleball Shoe
  • ASICS Men’s Gel-RENMA Pickleball Shoes
• Intermediate Players (Prioritize Value and Core Features):
  • ASICS Men’s Gel-Dedicate 8 Pickleball Shoes

Common Questions About men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes

What Are the Primary Differences Between Men’s Courtstrike Pro Pickleball Shoes and Standard Tennis Footwear?

Dedicated men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes are engineered differently than tennis shoes primarily in the forefoot width and outsole pivot points. Pickleball requires more forward-and-backward movement and lateral shuffles near the NVZ (kitchen line). Pickleball shoes often have a slightly wider toe box and outsole patterns optimized for multidirectional short bursts and rigid lateral stability to mitigate foot rolling during rapid adjustments at the net, which is less common in linear tennis movement.

How Often Should I Replace My High-Performance Pickleball Footwear?

For competitive players who play 3–5 times per week, I typically recommend replacing performance court shoes every 3 to 6 months. High-frequency lateral movement and the abrasive nature of outdoor courts rapidly wear down the outsole traction and compress the cushioning and stability mechanisms. Once I notice the specialized tread pattern smoothing out, or if the midsole feels dead, I swap them immediately to prevent injury.

Is Skechers’ Goodyear Outsole Really More Durable Than Traditional Court Shoe Rubber?

In my experience, yes, the Goodyear rubber compound on models like the Skechers Viper Court Pro demonstrates superior abrasion resistance, especially on rough outdoor acrylic surfaces. While all outsoles eventually wear, the Goodyear compound holds its aggressive texture longer, translating directly to extended periods of reliable, non-slip performance crucial for advanced men’s courtstrike pro pickleball shoes.

How Important is the Midfoot Stability Chassis for Advanced Players?

The midfoot stability chassis (like TRUSSTIC or the 4D Chassis) is critically important for advanced players, particularly in doubles where lateral cuts and aggressive pivots are constant. This structure provides torsional rigidity, preventing the shoe from twisting when you rapidly change direction, which is the primary defense against ankle rolling injuries. I consider this a non-negotiable feature for tournament play.

Do I Need Specific Cushioning for Pickleball, or Will Any Running Shoe Work?

I strongly advise against using running shoes. Running shoe cushioning is designed for linear forward impact absorption and often features a high heel-to-toe drop and soft, flexible foam, making the shoe unstable for lateral movement. Pickleball requires low-to-the-ground, responsive cushioning (like GEL or Ultra Go) combined with robust lateral containment to ensure stability during the intense, quick sideways stops near the kitchen.