WINDHAM, NH – In a first-of-its-kind clinical study comparing the impact of commercially available pickleball shoes on balance and stability, SQAIRZ has emerged as the clear leader—outperforming major brands like ASICS, HOKA, and Nike.
Conducted during a live tournament in Crestview, Florida, the study—A Comparison of Balance with Adult Pickleball Players in Commercially Available Shoes—was led by an elite team of medical professionals: Dr. Paul Klutts, D.P.M., Dr. Heiko Adams, D.P.M., Dr. Ryan Krupp, M.D., Chad Miller, M.A..
Using the Kinetisense Risk of Fall motion capture system, the team studied 53 adult players (ages 27–63), testing each athlete in three conditions: barefoot, in their standard pickleball shoes, and in the SQAIRZ XRZ™ Pickleball Shoe. The trials were randomized to eliminate bias.
The results were decisive:
- Players improved their balance scores by 15% on average wearing SQAIRZ over their personal shoes.
- Compared to barefoot, balance scores improved by 58% in SQAIRZ.
- Female athletes (average age 49.4) showed the biggest gains—68% improvement over their standard shoes.
While improvements were seen unanimously against all brands tested, the data revealed striking deltas between SQAIRZ and top athletic brands:
- 33% better balance vs. ASICS
- 5% better balance vs. HOKA
In each case, researchers cited flaws in the competitors’ narrow toe boxes, unstable heel construction, and design biases toward supination and forward-motion running—not lateral court play.
“Several athletes showed noticeable head sway and lateral ankle movement in their current shoes,” said Dr. Paul Klutts. “When they switched to SQAIRZ, those movement patterns stabilized instantly.”
How SQAIRZ Came Out on Top
At the core of SQAIRZ’s performance advantage is a fundamentally different approach to design. While most pickleball shoes on the market are adapted from running or general training footwear, SQAIRZ is purpose-built for the specific demands of pickleball—where lateral movement, sudden stops, and directional changes are constant.
One of the most impactful differences lies in the patented, roomier toe box. Unlike the narrow, tapered shapes common in traditional athletic shoes, the geometry allows the toes to splay naturally and fully engage with the court surface. This expanded contact area enhances balance, stability, and energy transfer. Paired with a wider forefoot base, it creates a more stable foundation for movement, helping reduce wobble and lowering the risk of ankle roll or joint strain.
SQAIRZ further separates itself with reinforced medial sidewalls and lateral outriggers, delivering the kind of structured support needed for explosive side-to-side motion—something conventional footwear simply isn’t engineered to handle. The SmartTraction™ outsole offers dependable grip on any court surface while minimizing torque on the joints, allowing for quicker, safer pivots.
Another key performance feature is the integrated heel-to-arch stabilizer, which keeps the foot securely aligned through every phase of movement. This structural system supports the entire rearfoot and midfoot providing torsional rigidity, helping reduce fatigue while promoting consistent footwork. And with SQAIRZ’s patented Sta-Put Laces, players can count on a locked-in fit that won’t loosen mid-match—eliminating distractions and keeping focus on the game.
“Balance starts with connection,” said Dr. Heiko Adams. “The SQAIRZ platform promotes full-ground contact and natural movement. That’s something most mainstream shoes aren’t designed to do.”
Validation from the Court and the Community
The findings were first exclusively reported by Pickleheads, the premier online hub for players of all levels. Their detailed coverage has already sparked conversation across rec leagues, clubs, and pro tour circles.
And many of those pros are making the switch to SQAIRZ.
Chicago Slice, one of Major League Pickleball’s top teams, wears SQAIRZ as their official footwear. Top-ranked pro Zane Navratil also relies on the XRZ™ every time he steps on the court.
The Bottom Line
The findings of this independent clinical study establish a clear conclusion: SQAIRZ outperforms the leading brands in balance, stability, and overall design for pickleball athletes. With measurable advantages confirmed through motion-capture data, and validation from both the medical community and top professionals, SQAIRZ has set a new standard in court footwear.
To learn more or to shop the XRZ™ Pickleball Shoe, visit SQAIRZ.com.
About SQAIRZ
SQAIRZ is a performance footwear brand built on ground force science and biomechanical innovation. With patented technology and independent clinical validation, SQAIRZ delivers measurable improvements in balance, stability, and power for athletes across baseball, golf, and pickleball. Learn more at www.sqairz.com.
Media Contact:
Savannah Smith
Senior Marketing Director
savannah@sqairzgolf.com
www.sqairz.com
