Asics Pickleball Shoes For Men Review: 4 Things to Consider

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I had a horrible experience with Adidas pickleball shoes, but I had a great experience with my basketball shoes. That said, I realized I was playing more competitively, so I decided to invest in Asics pickleball shoes. 

The first pair I purchased was the Asics Gel-Renma pickleball shoes, and let me tell you, these shoes are amazing. I’ll cover first impressions, playability, cost considerations, and specifications, so let’s get started.

From the picture below, you can see that the basketball shoes don’t look much different than the other pickleball shoes.

I actually purchased the Asics due to a friend’s recommendation as he was considering between these and the Sketcher’s pickleball shoes.

Let’s chat first impressions.

First Impressions

When I first slipped on the Asics Gel-Renma shoes, I noticed how comfortable they felt. The cushioning was soft yet supportive, and they hugged my feet in all the right places. In addition, there were no weird pieces of the shoe cutting into my feet as I had experienced before.

Here’s a side view of the Asics pickleball shoes.

When I weighed the shoes, I noticed that the shoes were 13.5 ounces which is about the same weight as my basketball shoes, but significantly lighter than my other pickleball shoes.

Let’s talk about how these Asics pickleball shoes played on the court.

How The Shoes Performed On the Court

I loved the shoe’s design, but if these shoes are terrible on the court, I do not like the shoe.

Grip

The grip on these shoes was outstanding.

Most of my pickleball play is outdoors and I felt stable and in control pivoting from one side of the court to the other.

Also, I play significant amount of singles pickleball where you are having to pressure test the grip more, and these shoes did awesome.

The wrap-up outsole and wider gauge design made it easier to stop and pivot without slipping. It gave me the confidence to go all out during matches.

Speed

These shoes felt surprisingly light for how durable they are.

The flexibility from the flex grooves in the outsole allowed me to move quickly in every direction.

I could sprint, lunge, and make quick cuts without feeling weighed down. I believe the speed was enforced by the lightness of the shoes.

My other pickleball shoes are around 16 ounces, so the additional ~2.5 ounces really weigh my other shoes down.

Durability 

After weeks of use, the shoes still look and perform like new.

The materials hold up well against the rough outdoor courts I frequent. Unlike my previous shoes, the Gel-Renma seems built to last.

This durability makes them a great long-term investment for any pickleball player. I could see these shoes lasting 6 months of active play as I play around 3 times per week.

Let’s look at the shoe’s specifications.

Cost Considerations

In terms of cost, I would argue that the Asics pickleball shoes are a mid-cost range pickleball shoes. These are much less expensive than Adidas baricade shoes that will run you around $160, but cheaper than other shoes I own like the Reebok Uni-sex pickleball shoes.

As these are my favorite pickleball shoes, I feel that the shoes are worth the investment for me, but that’s also for you to decide for yourself.

Specifications

Here are some of the Asics Gel-Renma pickleball shoes specification. I don’t understand why brands use fancy words to describe their technology, but here goes.

• Technology: TRUSSTIC® system in the midsole enhances stability and reduces twisting.
• Cushioning: GEL® technology provides excellent shock absorption.
• Outsole: Wrap-up design with flex grooves for lateral stability and smooth transitions.
• Fit: True to size with a snug yet comfortable fit.
• Weight: Lightweight for quick movements.
• Breathability: Features mesh panels to keep your feet cool.

Conclusion

I can confidently say that the Asics Gel-Renma pickleball shoes are worth every penny and are one of the top pickleball shoes for men.

The Asics shoes provide everything I need: grip, speed, and durability. These shoes have truly elevated my game from playing with basketball shoes.

If you want pickleball shoes, I would definitely consider these shoes.