Types of padel shoe soles and which one suits you best
Choosing the right sole determines your grip, stability, and durability on the court. In padel, we work with three options: Clay/Herringbone , Mixed , and Padel . In this guide, you'll see their differences, advantages, and who each one is best suited for.
Clay or Herringbone Sole: the most popular and versatile
The Clay (or Herringbone ) sole uses a zigzag pattern that offers excellent traction on artificial turf with sand , the most common type of court.
Advantages
- Excellent lateral grip and safe braking even on loose sand.
- Controlled sliding for comfortable ball access.
- High durability on abrasive surfaces.
Disadvantages
- Sand can accumulate between the grooves.
- It is not the best option on very dry indoor courts or courts without sand.
Ideal for: those who play mainly on sand courts and prioritize safety.
Mixed Sole: balance between grip and fluidity
The Mixta combines a herringbone pattern with micro-studs or dots. It's a good fit if you alternate between courts with and without sand or change clubs frequently.
Advantages
- Versatile: performs well on various surfaces.
- Smoother gameplay feel in turns and starts.
- Fewer slips in polished areas or areas with little sand.
Disadvantages
- Grip is slightly less than Clay on courts with a lot of sand.
- Intermediate durability compared to pure ear.
Ideal for: intermediate/advanced players who alternate between indoor and outdoor play.
Padel Sole: specifically designed for modern courts
The Padel sole is specifically designed for this sport. It typically combines microchannels and structures that promote lateral movement and reduce sand accumulation.
Advantages
- Very high lateral stability .
- Optimized traction for explosive padel movements or changes of direction.
- Less sand retention under the sole.
Disadvantages
- More specific use: it is not intended for other surfaces.
- It may have a higher price in technical ranges.
Ideal for: frequent training on new generation synthetic turf (little visible sand) and fast tracks.
Quick comparison of soles
| Sole type | Grip | Glide | Durability | Best use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clay | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Tracks with sand |
| Mixed | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Varied tracks |
| Padel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Modern slopes (little sand) |
Recommendations according to your level
- Beginner: Clay/Herringbone or Mixed for maximum stability and confidence.
- Intermediate: Mixed if you alternate clubs and conditions.
- Advanced/competitive: Padel sole for fast courts and modern grass.
You may also be interested in: How to choose your racket according to your level · Racket hardness: 3K, 12K and 15K
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear tennis shoes to play padel?
Yes, especially if they have a clay/herringbone sole. Even so, dedicated padel shoes offer better lateral stability and more even wear.
Which sole is best for indoor use?
It depends on the sand level. With little or no sand , Mixed or Padel courts work very well. If the indoor court has sand, Clay is still the safest option.
How often should I change my shoes?
As a guideline, every 6–12 months for regular players. If you notice loss of grip, tread wear, or less cushioning, it's time to replace them.