To create a world-class pickleball shoe, you need a performance-driven design backed by science and high-level, real-world experience. That’s why SQAIRZ teamed up with elite players to develop the all-new XRZ™ pickleball shoe for women and men.
Our expert collaborators included Zane Navratil, who’s won over a hundred PPA tournament medals and four Major League Pickleball titles. Zane worked closely with Jonathan Bacon, head of design at SQAIRZ, to test early prototypes on the court. “Every part of the shoe needed to be designed around performance,” Jon says. “Zane was great because he could detect things the average player might not and was very detailed with his feedback. He knew exactly what he was looking for in a shoe.”
We spoke with Zane and Jon about XRZ™’s innovations and the process of crafting a winning shoe.
A roomy and reinforced toe box and cap
SQAIRZ’s famous square toe box delivers the stability and superior energy generation that are essential for quick yet stable changes in direction and powerful movements, as well as safe play. “With more contact with the ground, you disperse the shock of running and bouncing over a larger surface area,” Zane says. “This may help reduce overuse injuries and prevent the rolling of ankles.”
The toe box is enclosed in a reinforced cap that protects the shoes—and toes inside—when players shift from side to side or lunge for tough shots. “A lot of times tennis players and pickleball players will drag their toe across the court,” Zane says. “We had to make sure those high-wear spots don't wear out.”
Built with silicone-like simulated rubber, the toe cap fortifies at-risk zones and extends well into the upper. “The biggest reinforcement is on the medial side, or inside,” Jon says. “That’s where you see the most wear and tear, and there are also raised islands across the top that add a nice design element and more protective material.”
“Pickleball has a lot of quick stopping and starting, and your feet take a beating. SQAIRZ’s wider toe box allows for more comfort.”— Zane Navratil, Pro Pickleball Player and Certified Instructor
Outriggers enhance a unique outsole
The superior grip of XRZ™’s durable Smart Traction rubber outsole began with a unique multi-directional herringbone tread. “To that, we added flex grooves at the forefoot and heel,” Jon says, “and a pivot point in the forefoot, so you have the ability to turn smoothly without losing grip. You get 360 traction, from side to side and from front to back.”
The outsole is complemented by four lateral side outriggers designed specifically to prevent rollovers. “That was so important,” Jon says. “Zane talked about the risk of ankles rolling over when you do particular movements. The outriggers add a lot of structure and stability.”
Increased stability means greater confidence on the court, Zane says. “When you change directions as much as you do in pickleball, the shoe needs to be able to support your movement. It's good to be able to trust your shoes!”
Stability from bottom to top
The responsive energy rebound of the XRZ™’s lightweight EVA NRG Foam midsole is the result of carefully refining the shoe’s high-tech cushioning systems. “We wanted the EVA to be supportive, but never too soft,” Jon says. “Overly soft shoes make you lose stability and energy. We also adjusted the dual-density foam foot bed to minimize the drop from the heel to the toes.”
Keeping the internal height of the shoe in check without sacrificing comfort and impact protection is critical for players who tend to maintain a low center of gravity. “When you're changing directions quickly, it's important to feel like you are low to the ground,” Zane explains.
A closed-cell Lycra mesh upper is secured in place with a breathable foam-backed mesh collar and tongue that gently cradle the foot—all held securely in place by SQAIRZ’s patented Sta-Put laces. “We added these little islands around the eyelets that are incredibly durable,” Jon says. “We’ve seen other shoes where the laces literally tear through the upper. Our uppers feel as secure as the soles, which creates a complete package that’s just really stable and comfortable.”
Are you tough on your shoes? SQAIRZ XRZ™ can take it. With our 6-Month Sole Warranty, your shoes will go the distance or you’ll get your money back.