Racquetball Shoes Buying Guide

Before settling on a pair of racquetball shoes it is good to understand what kind of shoes would be ideal on a racquetball court. Racquetball is a high intensity sport that requires you to frequently switch from forward to backward to lateral movements. Inside racquetball is played on specific courts that have a protective coating of oil based polyurethane sealer. So a special consideration needs to be given to the kind shoes you use to play racquetball.

For example, running shoes are about the worst kind of shoes you can use on a racquetball court. They are designed for forward movement and provide thick padding at the soles to absorb the impact of running. There’s generally very limited ankle support, so you risk a high chance of rolling your ankle, if you play in running shoes.

Best racquetball shoes are either those made specifically for racquetball or basketball and volleyball shoes, since they are both played on the similar surface as racquetball and require a lot of similar kind of movements. You might think that tennis shoes would be good for racquetball, but that’s not really the case. Tennis is played on a very different surface which has a lot of friction. So they will not grip as well on a racquetball court and can cause you to slip.

No matter what shoes you go with, it is very important to keep these designated shoes for indoor playing only and not use them outside. You will contribute additional damage that will lead to the gum soles wearing out prematurely. If you have a layer of dust on your shoes, you will lose a lot of traction and will start to slip. It’s also very easy for small pebbles to get stuck to the bottom of your shoes and then either scratch up the surface of the court or detach and get someone else to slip on them. So it is considered proper racquetball etiquette to have a separate pair of shoes for strictly indoor use only.

Although I said that basketball and volleyball shoes can work just as well, I personally still prefer to buy shoes specifically geared toward racquetball. I just find them to be more comfortable and prefer their looks over most basketball shoes. Shoes manufacturers have developed a lot of proprietary technologies focusing on a particular aspect of the shoe, such as stability, comfort, or traction.

	HEAD Men’s Sonic 2000 Shoes are designed for athletes who demand top performance on the court. Engineered with non-marking rubber soles, these shoes provide exceptional grip, ensuring stability during quick movements. Their lightweight and breathable construction keep your feet cool and comfortable, allowing you to focus entirely on your game. The sleek design and durable materials make these shoes a stylish and long-lasting choice for both beginners and seasoned players.
	ASICS Upcourt 5 Shoes are designed to enhance your performance on the court with a focus on comfort, stability, and durability. These shoes feature a lightweight mesh upper for breathability, keeping your feet cool during intense matches. The supportive overlays provide additional stability, while the cushioned midsole ensures a comfortable fit throughout the game. The shoes also come with a durable rubber outsole that offers excellent traction, allowing you to make quick and confident moves. With their sleek design and reliable construction, the ASICS Upcourt 5 is a great choice for racquetball players of all levels.
	HEAD Men’s Grid 2.0 Shoes are crafted for athletes who demand both comfort and performance. Featuring non-marking rubber soles, they offer superior traction, ensuring you stay stable during quick, agile movements. The lightweight and breathable construction keeps your feet cool, making these shoes perfect for long matches. Built with durable materials and a reinforced toe box, they’re designed to withstand the rigors of regular play. Combining practicality with a sleek look, these shoes are an excellent choice for racquetball and squash players alike.
	While the HEAD shoes prioritize lightweight breathability and agility for fast-paced racquet sports, FitVille Wide Racquetball shoes emphasize a wider toe box and extra cushioning, making them ideal for players who need more room and stability. The FitVille shoes also feature anti-slip outsoles for excellent traction, similar to the HEAD shoes, but they are designed with a more cushioned feel, catering to players who prefer extra comfort. With a spacious toe box and plush cushioning, these shoes cradle your feet through every serve and volley. Their anti-slip outsole ensures you stay grounded during intense matches, while the versatile design makes them perfect for racquetball, squash, and pickleball.
	Finally, the Adidas Men’s Advantage sneaker is a stylish and functional choice for racquetball enthusiasts. Designed with a smooth leather upper, these shoes offer a sleek appearance while providing the durability needed for intense court play. The cushioned Cloudfoam midsole ensures excellent comfort, allowing you to stay light on your feet during fast-paced matches. A durable rubber outsole provides the traction and stability necessary for quick, agile movements on the racquetball court. The breathable design helps keep your feet cool, even during extended play. Combining classic Adidas style with performance-driven features, these sneakers are perfect for players who want both form and function.

Hopefully you find this information useful to make a more educated decision when it comes to selecting your racquetball shoes.