Reviews
Reviews from a podiatrist
who actually wears them.
Independent reviews of footwear and foot-care products. Every review discloses how the product was obtained (personal, purchased, or press sample). No paid placements. See the full review policy for our editorial rules.
Hoka Mach 7
First impressions of the Hoka Mach 7 after a Disneyland day of around 30,000 steps: light, phenomenally breathable, cloud-like cushioning, real support.
Clove Forte 2
The Clove Forte 2 healthcare-worker shoe, tested on shift for a month by a podiatrist and a hospital-based physician: comfortable, supportive, waterproof, durable, and still looking new. Final verdict: recommended.
Diadem Court Burst (2E Wide)
A podiatrist's full review of the Diadem Court Burst pickleball shoe in 2E wide. A season of regular play plus a five-hour 4.5 doubles tournament in Arizona: snug midfoot, roomy 2E toebox, locked-in lateral support, zero break-in, and durability that held up like new. Final verdict: exceptional. Recommended.
Tyrol Velocity V
After nearly two years of weekly play in Arizona, indoor and outdoor, the Tyrol Velocity V is one of the most stable, most durable pickleball shoes I've tested. Heavier than ultralight options, but the lateral support, toe-box room, and Vibram outsole earn the trade.
Forward Motion Comfort Pro (High Arch)
A podiatrist's take on the Forward Motion Comfort Pro insert (High Arch profile): well-padded on top, genuinely supportive arch, deep heel cup, and no trimming needed. Thicker than the StepCraft, so the shoe's own liner has to come out. Two weeks to get used to it, and worth it for walking and running.
StepCraft OTC (Low Arch)
A podiatrist's take on the StepCraft OTC insert (Low arch): thin enough for a snug shoe yet genuinely supportive, on a carbon fiber-reinforced shell, and a true drop-in with no modification. It took up the least space of any orthotic I have tried, at $54.95 a pair.