Best Shoes for Table Tennis – Top 10 Shoes Reviews in 2024
Playing table tennis is great fun. Whether you are playing it with your friends as entertainment or playing a professional game, proper movement in the game is important. How conveniently you can move your feet depends on the shoes you are using. Regardless of your skill level, you really have to pick the best shoes for table tennis. A perfect pair of shoes give you flexibility and adds comfort during the game.
The problem is, you can’t just visit an online store and pick your desired shoes. Instead, you need to spend dedicated time to get the right pair. Even if you spend one hour to pick a good one, chances are you won’t get the very best one in terms of your budget. To solve the issue, our research team has done the necessary research. Considering the most important facts, we finally picked the top 10 best shoes for ping pong.
Best Shoes for Table Tennis: Comparison Table
A Complete Buying Guide For Best Shoes for Table Tennis
In both online and offline stores, you will have tons of shoes for table tennis. This could easily puzzle someone who is going to purchase a ping pong shoe for the first time. So, before you visit an online store or looking for the right product, you need to do your research. There are actually some facts that you need to consider to have the right product. This buying guide will let you know what needs to be in your considerations to purchase the best pair of shoes.
A. Questions you need to ask yourself before buying a pair of table tennis shoes
The best way to find your perfect fit is, knowing what are your need. Because everybody doesn’t need the same style or the same feature in the shoe. For example, beginners pick something budget-friendly and comfortable while professionals look for advanced features. Find your actual need is easy if you ask yourself the following questions –
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Shape for Your Feet
If you carefully look at some people’s feet, you will find that they do have different types of shapes for their feet. You may even have experienced that sometimes the length of the shoe is perfect but it is not comfortable for you. Well, this issue is so common that you need to be very careful during picking a new pair.
The shape of your feet mostly comes from the genetic side. If you have relatively a wide foot, a regular shoe may not feet properly for you. Especially, if you pick a soccer-style shoe to play table tennis with it, that could be an uncomfortably way for you. Avoid such issues for your feet.
On the other hand, you might also have a narrow fit. If so, you need to be very concerned when buying a new pair. Because if you get a relatively wider pair, that would be so much uncomfortable. If your feet move inside the shoe when you are walking or running, that is not the perfect fit for you. Change that pair and look something narrow that properly fit to your feet and your feet remain stable.
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Your Feet Size
Did you ever struggled with a wrong-sized shoe? If so, you know how does it feel. You can’t even move comfortably for a few minutes. So, don’t make a mistake when picking the size. Some shoes mention that you need to purchase a half size larger or smaller than your regular fit. This is because of the style of the shoe.
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Shoe Width
Too much wide or too narrow both types of shoes is harmful to your feet. You need to remember that this won’t be a regular sneaker or a casual shoe. You are going to run and move very fast with it. Look for the width of the shoe in the mid and the toe area. If you got a wider foot, the toe area should be comfortable.
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Color
Though the color of the shoe is not going to impact your performance in the game, it can give you satisfaction. Because when you are wearing the right color, it will make your mode happy. Unfortunately, some shoes may have color limitations, be aware of it.
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Playing Surface
Table tennis could be in different forms. If it is hard to ground, the shoe you are wearing needs to be shock absorbing. This prevents your feet from getting injured. It bounced back when you jump the play an action short. For regular grounds, go for any type of shoes.
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Playing Style
How do you see yourself as a table tennis player? Are you an aggressive player or slower with more tactics? For aggressive players, the sole plays an important role to play the perfect short. It should be perfectly flexible. Because when you are trying to move fast, enough support from the sole would be needed. Moreover, it should be skid-resistant.
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Brands Reputation
When it comes to brand, there is no need to say branded products are a little bit costly. But the positive side is, they don’t compromise with quality as they have to keep their reputation. Shoe brands like Nike, Adidas, and others always bring market-leading products. So, consider your shoe brand carefully.
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Price or Budget
Often you might surprise that some products come with so many features but with less price. Well, that won’t be so common all the time. Do you want quality and longevity? You will have to increase the budget. But I would suggest buying expensive pairs only when you are a professional. For hobbyists, spending too much is not a good idea.
B. What Features Are Important to Consider When Buying Table Tennis Shoes?
Table tennis or ping pong shoe may come with a variety of features. But you need to understand what features should be in consideration and what is not. Just buying fancy sports shoes won’t give you a better result. Instead, you need to identify if the shoe does have all the essential features that actually matter for the game.
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Sole
There are so many myths about sports shoes. One of the most common myths is that you need to purchase shoes that come with more cushioning. Most people think a thick sole would help them to keep the joints safe and it may impact less. But the reality and research say, too much cushioning is not good at all. Thin sole prevents rolling your ankle when moving in different directions in the game.
The sole need to be thin instead of thick. However, too much thin is also harmful. So, you need to have a mid-range sole thickness. The main problem with the thicker sole is, when you are running, a thick sole can’t fold properly or provide the flexibility. It may reduce your performance during the game.
To run fast with your shoes, pick a flexible and thin sole shoe. I would suggest picking a rubber sole as the outsole. The benefit is, rubber has a natural elasticity that allows you to go far enough to keep your ankle safe.
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Lightweight
If you check some really expensive shoes, you will find that all of them are lightweight. You got the point! Lightweight shoes are more comfortable than a heavier one. Professional sportsperson and athletes don’t hesitate to spend on a lightweight shoe. If you want to be comfortable and bring speed in your game, pick a lightweight shoe.
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Arch Support
The arch in the feet may vary from person to person. Low arch on the feet can impact more the shine bone and may cause shin split. You might also have some issues when the arch is too large. So, the sports shoe needs arch support that can help both flat feet and high arch feet.
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Grip
During running and walking in the game, you need to balance the feet. The shoe you are wearing should grip properly to the ground. This ensures your feet are not slipping. For instance, when you are going to return a super-fast serve, probably you will run fast and the shoe needs to provide the support. Look for a shoe pair that ensures proper gripping on the ground.
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Ventilation system or Breathable
when wearing your shoes for a long time, your feet may sweat inside. That can cause odor and grow bacteria. To prevent the issue, you should always wear something breathable. Look for a vented design or mesh design that passes hot air from inside. Usually, the top of the shoe comes with the mesh or ventilation system.
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Perfect fitting
It is mandatory to pick the right fitting for a shoe for table tennis. The term fitting means the proper length and width. The wrong fitting can increase the risk of injury. For both professional players and beginners, proper fitting is crucial. Carefully check the details before you place an order.
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Cushioning or Shock Absorption
When you jump or run on the ground, it impacts the whole body, especially the joints. Now modern shoes come with a feature that reduces this impact. They make it possible with cushioning that absorbs shock. As a result, your joints remain safe and you remain comfortable. the cushioning mainly come in the midsole and the material may vary based on the price and brand.
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Durability
As you are going to buy a sports shoe, it needs to be durable so that you get the best support. Also, to ensure the longevity of your shoes, the product should have a durable construction. Durability depends on several facts. Check the materials used in the shoe, the sole, the stitching, and other details to order durable shoes for ping pong.
Final Tips
The things that matter most are listed above. You may still have some confusion when picking a new pair and it is totally ok. To be comfortable in buying and bring some confidence, look for the user reviews on the product page. There you will get to know everything that customers faced after buying the particular product. If you know someone who is a professional TT player, you can also ask him for some pro tips.
Advantage of Table Tennis Shoes
It is not uncommon that thought comes in your mind why you need to purchase a particular type of shoes for table tennis. You may also think of using other sports shoes for the game. Once you know the benefits of using table tennis shoes, this though won’t come ever.
Table tennis shoes are particularly designed that fit to the game. Manufacturer companies monitor each small thing of the game. Based on their research, they produce modern products that help the players. They are usually lightweight and don’t put too much pressure on your feet. So, when you are wearing them for a long time and running with them, you won’t feel something extra on your feet.
The best shoes for table tennis also come in the thin sole. That means it will prevent rolling your ankle when playing the game. In the heel area, the shoe may have additional support. Also, the arch support in the shoe give you comfort and keep you safe.
If it is your first time purchase, maybe you are thinking that you will have to spend tons of money. But the truth is, you can have the best shoe for ping pong within your budget. Also, they are used to be breathable which gives more comfort to the feet.
The disadvantage of Table Tennis Shoes
Though table tennis shoes mean to be safe for you, there are some disadvantages to the shoes. Table tennis or ping pong shoes used to come in a thin sole. That means you will get less cushioning. Now, if you got regular feet, that won’t be an issue. But for low arch feet, this could be injurious. At the same time, they are a little bit costly compared to traditional sports shoes.
Top 10 Best Shoes for Table Tennis Review
During our research, we have found some amazing shoe pairs. Some of them are attractive looking, some are budget-friendly, and some are best for performance. Here in the product selection, we tried to blend everything in a single pair. This means the following list contains only those products that are versatile. They are good looking and will provide full support when playing and moving very fast.
1. Butterfly Trynex Table Tennis Shoes
It is often very difficult to balance between price and features, but when buying this butterfly trynex table tennis shoes, you will have all the essential features in it. No matter if you are just a beginner or playing professional games, you will find it comfortable. This item could be a blessing for those who are struggling to purchase the best shoe pair just because of the tight budget.
The first noticeable thing in this shoe is its outlook. The symbol of table tennis is embossed in the shoe that looks amazing. Moreover, the top design comes with breathable material. The mesh design passes air frequently and avoid any odor or sweating. Even when you are wearing it for a longer time, you won’t feel irritating. The top is attached to a rubber sole. The benefit of having a rubber sole is, when you are moving very fast, this rubber sole ensures perfect gripping. Which means you will have well control. To give the maximum comfort to your feet, the shoe does have EVA sport foam memory.
Despite mid-level pricing, Butterfly Trynex Table Tennis Shoes is heavily durable. The construction is similar to other athletic shoes that ensure longevity.
Pros
- Mesh design on top for breathability.
- Highly comfortable with Eva sports insole.
- Shock absorption when moving fast on the ground.
- Different colors are available for it.
- Wide range of sizing to fit everyone.
Cons
- For professional table tennis players, this may not be the best.
2. LI-NING Men Table Tennis Shoes National Team Sponsor Wearable Breathable Lining Sports Shoes Sneakers APTM003 APPM001 APPN009
If you have a good budget and looking for some topnotch ping pong shoes, should check this out. This item is designed and constructed by LI-NING. It is for men and suitable for all levels of professional players. Matures who have a fascination with fancy shoes will like this item a lot. With the advanced features, this one would make you happy in the game.
Featuring a stunning look, it is built for comfort. The top is combined with synthetic leather and textile. This upper material is both breathable and durable. In professional games, players used to wear the shoe for a longer period. With the breathable top, it will pass hot air from inside and will bring fresh air. There will be no odor or sweating inside. The top is attached to the rubber outsole that features special grooves designed for abrasion-resistant. Moreover, it is skid resistant to ensure safety for the player. Proper gripping keeps the bodyweight balance and ensure more speed.
There is a common scenario for most of the table tennis shoes which is the collision of the toe. To give you comfort from the collision, it features an anti-collision toe cap for comfort during walking, running, and other activities. There is an extra layer of reinforceWoment inside in the toe area for a longer life of the shoe.
Pros
- Heavily strong with top quality materials
- Anti-collision toe cap to keep your toe comfortable
- Breathable upper to stay comfortable in all weather
- Synthetic leather with textile for durability
- Skid resistance for proper gripping
- Rubber and EVA sole for comfort and longevity
Cons
- It is relatively heavy which you may not like
3. KELME Star 360 Mens Michelin Leather Mesh Inset Soccer Shoes
When you are not in the professional table tennis, you can choose something budget-friendly. Though most of the time it is almost impossible to have the best shoes with a low-budget, this KELME Star 360 is something different. The shoe pair is mainly designed for men and most common in futsal players. As you will have to move frequently when playing table tennis, this shoe pair could be a good pick.
The whole construction of the shoe is made of leather and rubber. The combination of these two materials has made it extremely strong that you can use it in all conditions. The top is constructed with leather and it does have a good ventilation system. You can comfortably complete a game with this pair without getting hot feet. The inside of the shoe is also comfortable for the players. It features a comfortable insole that provides good support for flexibility. Also, moving frequently won’t be an issue with it.
The overall support from the KELME Star 360 is good. You can use them for regular game playing. It doesn’t require much care. Besides a comfortable wearing, it ensures the safety for the players. Especially when you are on a flat surface, the rubber sole will prevent skidding to avoid a muscle strain.
Pros
- Its price is affordable for all
- Breathable upper to keep inside cool
- Stylish color that looks attractive and has two color options
- Wide range of sizes are available for proper fit
- Leather upper is durable and lasts longer
- Less weight that feels comfortable during the game
Cons
- It is not a good pair for professionals
- You may sweat inside the shoe
4. JOOLA Court Ping Pong Shoe
When you are a beginner in table tennis, you may sacrifice several things in a new pair of shoes. But for professionals, it is mandatory to ensure that the selected shoe comes with all the essential features. For intermediate and professional level ping pong players, JOOLA court would be a great selection of shoes that come with a good look. Unlike some conventional table tennis (TT) shoes, it has a stunning look.
This is one of the best shoes for table tennis that comes with modern features. Especially, for flexibility, this shoe is engineered with a comfortable outer sole. It provides full support when you are moving in different directions. No matter which kind of shorts do you want to play, you would be comfortable with it for sure. The sole can grip tightly in the ground that there is a very less chance of skidding or getting injured with it. On the upper, it features comfortable textiles. Moreover, the mesh design ensures proper ventilation.
Customers who purchased the shoe pair mostly liked it because of comfortable wearing. Your feet will be comfortable. The insole provides shock-absorption when you are jumping or returning a hard serve. The good thing is, all these features you will get with a little spending. It is not expensive but will support like an expensive ping pong shoe pair.
Pros
- Lightweight enough to give a good experience
- Variety of sizing to fit everyone from kids to adults
- Supportive insole for optimal comfort in the court
- Heavily strong construction for durability
- Flexible for all kinds of movements during the game
- Breathable upper keeps the feet dry and cool
Cons
- Requires regular cleaning and maintenance
5. NIKE Men’s Court Lite Tennis Shoes
When it is about sports shoes, nothing can challenge the most popular brand Nike. They always ensure the very best quality for each of the shoes they make. If really want to grab a good table tennis shoe from Nike, I would recommend picking this pair. It may seem something impossible as they are offering a low price for it. Though it is mainly constructed for tennis, you can also have a good performance in the table tennis game.
The top of the shoe is constructed with leather and synthetic that ensures bot comfort and durability. Instead of the mesh on top, this features a mesh tongue. This has more area than typical shoes for sports. So, you will have enough ventilation for your feet. Even when you are continuously wearing this shoe, you won’t feel bad. The synthetic and leather upper is attached with a rubber sole. The benefit of this rubber sole is, it will keep your balance. Which means you will never slip on the ground. It keeps the feet flexible so that you can conveniently move for a variety of shorts.
Inside the shoe, feature s a Phylon midsole that provides a comfortable cushioning and makes it lightweight. There extra layer of the toe area keeps your feet protected from abrasion. With great comfort and the best materials, this shoe provides the best performance and lasts longer than regular sports shoes.
Pros
- Highly durable for longevity
- Comes with GDR outsole for durable traction
- Mesh tongue for breathability
- Comfort with flexibility with insole and outsole
- The supportive shaft from low-top from arch
- Available in four different styles
Cons
- Relatively old fashioned style
6. adidas Performance Men’s Samba Classic Indoor Soccer Shoe
If someone makes a list of top sports brands, there is no doubt that Adidas will be on the list. This became possible because of their quality and comfort. If you would like to have a topnotch shoe pair for regular usages in TT, I would suggest going for this item. This shoe is versatile which means you can wear them for a wide range of sports including ping pong. It is particularly engineered for indoor games. So, you can expect to have all the support that requires any indoor game.
Adidas keeps this pair classic and features the three straps branding on it. If you are a brand freak like me, you would like this for sure. The top is designed with leather and it is durable. The outsole is constructed with rubber for both flexibility and durability. Shaft measures in this pair approximately 0 to 3 inches.
For added comfort, there is EVA insole. This will give comfort to your feet. The best feature of this table tennis shoe is its abrasion resistance. If you are a very aggressive TT player, you know that how does it feel when you moving too fast. The abrasion resistance keeps your feet safe during the movement.
Pros
- Full-grain leather upper for durability
- Perfectly fits all kind of feet
- Rubber sole provides flexibility
- Suede overlay prevents abrasion
- Stunning look with good design
Cons
- The top doesn’t have a mesh design
- Not particularly designed for ping pong
7. ASICS Men’s Gel-Rocket 8 Volleyball Shoe
When you are choosing a new shoe pair, it is a big question about what do you prefer most. If you are not in professional game and comfort is the priority, you can pick this one from ASICS. This shoe pair is for men and comes with a comfortable structure. Though it is named as a volleyball shoe, you will get the full benefit for table tennis too.
As I mentioned, this one is recommended for comfort, the reason is its breathability. While typical sports shoe doesn’t give importance on ventilation, this one is different. It comes with a mesh upper which is constructed with synthetic. It passes air and keeps inside dry and cool. For a longer period of gaming, you will get the benefit. The sole is just perfect for gripping on the ground. You will never skid on the ground and get the full traction for improved performance.
Inside the shoe, there is a gel cushioning. If you ever used this cushioning, you know that how does it feel during the game. You will be so happy in the game with it.
Pros
- Medium width design to provide enough area
- Versatile design to use in different sports
- Mesh upper keeps inside cool
- Gel cushioning to save your feet
- Flexible rubber sole with better gripping
- Features Asics Trusstic System Technology
- Available in different colors
Cons
- It is a little bit costly compared to average pricing
8. LI-NING Men Table Tennis Shoes Wearable Breathable Lining Sports Shoes Ping Pong Sneakers APTP001
Professional table tennis is not a simple thing. It requires all the small supports to perform well and the right shoe is crucial. If you are a professional TT player and looking for something budget-friendly, this one would be a good choice. LI-NING APTP001 shoe is particularly designed for playing ping pong or table tennis. So, it features all advanced and basic features. Customers like this shoe not only for features but also for the stunning look.
The upper is designed with a combination of textile and synthetic leather. As a result, it is both comfortable and durable. Mesh vent on top will pass hot air from inside and keep your feet dry. You will be comfortable in it when playing a longer game. Also, unlike some conventional shoes, the outsole provides 100% flexibility during the movement. This is a huge support for a professional player.
The anti-collision toe cap is implemented in this pair that will reduce toes collision to have a comfortable run and walk. The lightweight will give you a feather-like feel when running with it. With the topnotch materials and unique design, this shoe pair lasts longer.
Pros
- Rubber sole with full flexibility
- EVA sole for added comfort
- Mesh vent ensures a comfortable inside
- Skid resistance design to avoid injury
- Anti-collision toe cap to keep the feet safe
- Wide range of sizing options
Cons
- Not the best pair if you have really narrow feet
9. Butterfly Lezoline Rifones Table Tennis Shoes
When we were doing the market research, we surprisingly found that there are already tons of ping pong shoes available in the market. But if you may want to buy something new. If so, you should check this Butterfly Lezoline Rifones table tennis shoes. The popular brand Butterfly is the manufacturer of this shoe which brand has a reputation in making high-quality products. Lezoline Rifones shoe features advanced styles for comfort and support during the game.
The top comes in KPU material which is comfortable. The front of the upper has cushioning that provides support in movement. Instead of just a small area as mesh vent, this pair comes with mesh design all over the top. Even on a hot summer day, this shoe feels comfortable. Inside the shoe, you will never sweat and there is no chance of causing the odor. The superior fit gives a feel of proper fitting and supports a sliding motion when playing. The rubber sole is extremely flexible to give you the chance of moving conveniently.
This is a lightweight shoe pair that feels good in a long time wearing. It contains a B-Absorber which is a shock-absorbing sponge. When you are jumping or running too fast, you will be shaken free. Regardless of your playing style, you can move smoothly.
Pros
- Features KPU material for forefoot cushioning
- Comfortable inside with a bounce-back insole
- Shock absorption to prevent injury
- Bridge-shaped middle sole for sliding motion
- Durable upper with mesh vent
- Wide range of sizing with two different colors
Cons
- As it is a professional-grade shoe, price is a little bit high
10. Butterfly Table Tennis Shoes
It is no need to say that high-end table tennis shoes are comparatively expensive. If you are looking for the best shoes for table tennis with advanced features, you need to have a good budget. If you have a good budget, go for this pair from Butterfly. This dedicatedly designed shoe pair can be the best companion in your game. With the advanced features, this is a stylish ping pong shoe to wear.
The top is constructed with top-grade materials is durable. The traditional mesh is removed from this item and it is covered which makes it more durable. However, that doesn’t mean that you won’t be comfortable with it. It still keeps your feet cool and comfortable. The ankle part of the shoe is particularly engineered to provide ample support during the game.
Outer sole of the shoe is flexible. So, when you are running, you will get full support. At the same time, this sole is heavily skid-resistant. As a professional player, you can’t take the chance of getting injured. The sole prevents falling on the ground when moved too fast.
Pros
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Sizing is available to fit everyone
- Flexible and durable rubber sole
- Slip-resistant to prevent skidding
- The comfortable sole inside to keep comfortable
- Suitable for all-weather
Cons
- It is a little bit expensive because of the topnotch quality
- Doesn’t have traditional mesh on top
Frequently Asked Question
Q. 1. When Do I need table tennis shoes?
Answer: For professional players, it is mandatory to wear a TT shoe. If you are starting the game for the first time and want to be safe, you must order a table tennis shoe. You also need to get a new pair when you are thinking to enter the upper level of the game.
Q. 2. Can I use Running shoes, badminton shoes, volleyball shoes, squash shoes, tennis shoes, or any indoor sports shoes for table tennis?
Answer: It depends on your gaming style and on which level are you playing. For instance, for beginners, it is ok to use some other sports shoes like running or squash shoes. Once you enter the professional level, you can’t rely on such shoes. You need to get the right pair that is particularly manufactured for ping pong game.
Q. 3. When I replace the shoes?
Answer: This is the most common question from people that when they need to replace the shoe. If we consider traditional shoes or regular shoes, we used to wear them until the shoe have some major issues. But in TT shoes, the same may not suit.
The very first thing to check is if the inside of the shoe has everything okay. The mid-sole, the insole everything needs to be in the tiptop condition. Your feet shouldn’t get hurt when playing with the shoes. If anything that hurts you, immediately replace the shoes.
The next thing you should check is the gripping of the shoes. Is it gripping properly in the ground? Does it skid when running? If the gripping is not perfect, you must have to replace them with a new pair.
Final Verdict
Buying the best shoes for table tennis is not an easy task as it seems. But if you have gone thoroughly this article, now you have to proper knowledge about this particular style of shoes. Now it is time to choose the right pair from the list and placing the order. Make sure that you are placing the order only from the real vendor to avoid further issues.
For some people, they may not find their type in the above exclusive list of ping pong shoes. In that case, read the buying guide section. There everything is mentioned clearly. Follow the guideline and reach your desired product.