Skechers Viper Court Pro Review: Best Features & More
It’s no secret that the right pair of shoes can make or break your game. Whether you’re an avid pickleball player or just getting started, you need a shoe that offers comfort, support, and durability to keep up with the intense pace of the game. Enter the
Skechers Viper Court Pro Pickleball Shoe. This shoe claims to tick all the boxes, but does it live up to its promise? We put it to the test to find out.
Brief Overview of Skechers Viper Court Pro Pickleball Shoe
The Skechers Viper Court Pro is a specially designed pickleball shoe that combines comfort, style, and performance. It boasts an upgraded Goodyear® Gold compound outsole for improved durability and controlled slides on the court. The shoe also features a supportive, breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for protection.
The Purpose of the Review
Our purpose in conducting this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Skechers Viper Court Pro Pickleball shoe. Through rigorous testing and examination, we aim to shed light on its features, performance, and overall value. By doing so, we hope to assist you in deciding whether this shoe would be a worthy addition to your pickleball gear.
Who Might Benefit from Wearing These Shoes
This shoe is designed specifically for the elite Pickleball athlete who needs maximum comfort, support, and durability during their games.
However, even casual players, beginners, intermediate, or advanced players could benefit from these shoes’ superior design and quality. If you’re someone who values performance and style in your sports gear, the Skechers Viper Court Pro could be a great fit for you.
Key Features of Skechers Viper Court Pro Pickleball Shoe
Design and Style: Are They Visually Appealing?
The Skechers Viper Court Pro doesn’t disappoint when it comes to aesthetics. With its sleek silhouette, subtle colorways, and stylish design, this shoe looks great both on and off the court. The design is functional yet eye-catching, making it a shoe you might find yourself wearing every day.
Comfort and Fit: How Well Do They Hug Your Feet?
One of the Skechers Viper Court Pro’s main selling points is its comfort and support. It features a supportive, breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays for extra protection.
The removable Arch Fit® insole ensures cushioning, allowing you to play your best game with total confidence. The relaxed fit at the toe and forefoot also makes for a roomy, comfortable fit.
Durability: Can They Handle Intense Pickleball Sessions?
When it comes to durability, the Skechers Viper Court Pro stands tall. Its Goodyear® Gold compound outsole is built to withstand the rigors of intense pickleball games, even on gritty surfaces. With this shoe, you don’t have to worry about wear and tear – they are built to handle it all.
Traction and Stability: How Stable Are They on the Court?
The Viper Court Pro excels in providing stability on the court.
The shoe’s Goodyear® Gold compound outsole allows for controlled slides and excellent grip on various court surfaces, including hardwood, concrete, and outdoor pickleball finished surfaces.
Whether you’re making quick lateral movements or performing controlled slides, these shoes ensure you remain stable and grounded.
Ventilation: Will Your Feet Stay Cool?
A common issue with many sports shoes is lack of breathability, resulting in sweaty and uncomfortable feet. Thankfully, the Skechers Viper Court Pro addresses this issue effectively. The shoe’s mesh upper allows adequate ventilation, keeping your feet cool even during intense sessions. The breathable upper also adds to the overall comfort of the shoe.
Summary of Features and Specifications
| Feature | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Patented Skechers Arch Fit® insole system with podiatrist-certified arch support | Yes | Yes |
| Podiatrist-designed shape developed with 20 years of data and 120,000 unweighted foot scans | Yes | Yes |
| Removable insole helps mold to your foot to reduce shock and increase weight dispersion | Yes | Yes |
| Ultra-lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning | Yes | Yes |
| Relaxed Fit® for a roomy comfort fit at the toe and forefoot | Yes | Yes |
| Unique multi-color outsole design | Yes | Yes |
| Supportive and breathable mesh upper with synthetic overlays and a lace-up front | Yes | Yes |
| 1 1/4-inch heel | Yes | Yes |
| Unique multi color outsole design | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 10.6 oz (296 g) | 9.6 oz (272 g) |
| Price | $109.99 | $119.99 |
Trying Them On First Impressions
Unboxing and Initial Thoughts
Upon unboxing the Skechers Viper Court Pro, our first impression was undoubtedly positive. The sleek design and subtle colorways are visually appealing, and the shoe feels sturdy and well-made.
The synthetic overlays add a touch of sophistication to the overall look. The shoe certainly looks like it’s built to last, and we couldn’t wait to try them on.
Putting Them On Fit and Feel
Slipping on the Viper Court Pro, the first thing I noticed was the comfortable fit. The shoe hugs your feet snugly without feeling overly tight. This is by far one of the most comfortable shoes I have worn right out of the box.
The arch support felt excellent, and the cushioning provided by the Arch Fit® insole was noticeable. Walking around, the shoe felt lightweight yet supportive, promising good things for their performance on the court.
First Steps: Walking Around in the Shoes
Taking our first steps in the Skechers Viper Court Pro, we immediately appreciated the soft landing and impact absorption.
The shoe’s lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning lived up to its promise, making walking around feel effortless. The relaxed fit at the toe and forefoot added to the overall comfort, making these shoes a delight to wear.
Performance Test
How They Fare in a Real Game Situation
In a real game situation, the Skechers Viper Court Pro truly shone. The Goodyear® Gold compound outsole delivered excellent traction, allowing controlled slides and swift lateral movements.
The shoe provided excellent grip on various court surfaces, enhancing our agility and speed. Our feet stayed comfortable and cool despite the intense gameplay, thanks to the breathable mesh upper.
They did well with lateral stability in challenging shots. There are other shoes that provide more lateral stability if this is what you are looking for in your game.
Impact Absorption: How Soft is the Landing?
When it came to impact absorption, the Viper Court Pro performed admirably. The ultra-lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning ensured soft landings, reducing shock and increasing weight dispersion.
Whether we were jumping for a smash or running for a drop shot, the shoe handled it all with ease, providing a comfortable and smooth experience.
Speed and Agility: Do They Enhance Your Movements?
During the gameplay, the Skechers Viper Court Pro significantly enhanced our speed and agility due to their lightweight and great traction.
The excellent grip of the outsole allowed for quick and agile movements, while the lightweight design ensured we didn’t feel weighed down. The shoe’s design supports quick pivots and lateral movements, which is crucial for a fast-paced game like pickleball.
Endurance Test: Wear and Tear After Several Games
After several intense games of pickleball, the Skechers Viper Court Pro held up well. Despite the hard wear and tear, the shoe showed minimal signs of damage, a testament to its excellent durability.
The Goodyear® Gold compound outsole continued to provide excellent traction, and the mesh upper maintained its breathability. This shoe is undoubtedly built for endurance.
Pricing and Value for Money
Cost of Skechers Viper Court Pickleball Shoe
The Skechers Viper Court Pro is priced higher than the original model by about $30. However, considering the upgraded features and superior performance, we believe the price is justified.
It’s crucial to remember that with sports gear, you often get what you pay for. By investing in a high-quality shoe like the Viper Court Pro, you’re ensuring a comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable game.
Comparing Price Against Other Pickleball Shoes
Compared to other pickleball shoes in the market, the Viper Court Pro is competitively priced. While cheaper options are available, they often lack the advanced features and superior quality that the Viper Court Pro offers.
Conversely, more expensive shoes don’t necessarily provide significantly better performance or durability, making the Viper Court Pro a worthy investment.
Men’s Comparison Summary
| Feature | Skechers Viper Court Pro | Babolat Jet Mach 3 | Acacia Proshot | Tyrol Volley V |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 10.6 oz (296 g) | 10.4 oz (292 g) | 10.0 oz (283 g) | 10.2 oz (290 g) |
| Cushioning | Ultra-lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning | 360º Dynamic Stabilizer System | Dual-density EVA midsole | EVA midsole |
| Outsole | Goodyear® Gold compound outsole | Michelin® Performance Outsole | High-abrasion rubber outsole | High-abrasion rubber outsole |
| Traction | Relaxed Fit® for a roomy comfort fit at the toe and forefoot | Excellent traction on all surfaces | Excellent traction on all surfaces | Excellent traction on all surfaces |
| Support | Relaxed Fit® for a roomy comfort fit at toe and forefoot | Dynamic Fit Cage | Dynamic Fit Cage | Dynamic Fit Cage |
| Price | $109.95 | $139.95 | $109.95 | $120 |
- Skechers Viper Court Pro: The Skechers Viper Court Pro is the most affordable option on this list, but it still offers excellent performance. It has a lightweight, responsive cushioning system and a durable outsole that provides great traction.
- Babolat Jet Mach 3: The Babolat Jet Mach 3 is a bit more expensive than the Skechers Viper Court Pro, but it offers a few additional features, such as a 360º Dynamic Stabilizer System for enhanced stability and a Michelin® Performance Outsole for excellent traction on all surfaces.
- Acacia Proshot: The Acacia Proshot is a good option for players who want a shoe with a bit more support. It has a Dynamic Fit Cage that helps to lock the foot in place, and it also has a dual-density EVA midsole for added cushioning.
- Tyrol Volley V: The Tyrol Volley V is the most expensive option on this list, but it is also the most durable. It has a high-abrasion rubber outsole that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Women’s Comparison Summary
| Feature | Skechers Viper Court Pro | Tyrol | Fila Volley Zone | K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 9.6 oz (272 g) | 9.8 oz (275 g) | 9.4 oz (270 g) | 9.6 oz (272 g) |
| Cushioning | Ultra-lightweight, responsive ULTRA FLIGHT® cushioning | EVA midsole | EVA midsole | Responsive cushioning |
| Outsole | Goodyear® Gold compound outsole | High-abrasion rubber outsole | High-abrasion rubber outsole | High-abrasion rubber outsole |
| Traction | Enhanced traction, stability and durability | Excellent traction on all surfaces | Excellent traction on all surfaces | Excellent traction on all surfaces |
| Support | Relaxed Fit® for a roomy comfort fit at toe and forefoot | Dynamic Fit Cage | Dynamic Fit Cage | Dynamic Fit Cage |
| Price | $119.99 | $150 | $110 | $125 |
- Skechers Viper Court Pro: The Skechers Viper Court Pro is an affordable option and offers excellent performance. It has a lightweight, responsive cushioning system and a durable outsole that provides great traction.
- Tyrol: The Tyrol is a good option for players who want a shoe with a bit more support. It has a Dynamic Fit Cage that helps to lock the foot in place, and it also has an EVA midsole for added cushioning.
- Fila Volley Zone: The Fila Volley Zone is a good option for players who want a shoe with a bit more flexibility. It has a flexible outsole that allows for a wider range of motion, and it also has a Dynamic Fit Cage for added support.
- K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme: The K-Swiss Pickleball Supreme is the most versatile. It has a responsive cushioning system that provides good support and shock absorption, and it also has a durable outsole that provides great traction on all surfaces.
Is the Price Justified by the Features and Performance?
Based on our testing and review, we can confidently say that the price of the Viper Court Pro is justified by its features and performance.
The shoe offers excellent comfort, support, durability, and style, all of which contribute to improved gameplay. Moreover, its high-quality construction ensures the shoe will last, providing good value for money in the long run.
Customer Support Experience
Our interaction with Skechers’ customer support was positive. They were responsive, knowledgeable, and helpful in addressing our queries. The company provides robust product support, adding to your overall customer satisfaction.
Customer Service and Warranty
Warranty Policy and Claims
Skechers offers a comprehensive warranty policy covering manufacturing defects. You can file a claim with their customer service if you encounter any issues with your Viper Court Pro within the warranty period. The retailers handle this very well.
Our experience with their warranty claims process was smooth and hassle-free, further enhancing our confidence in the brand.
Additional Services (e.g., Size Exchanges, Returns)
Skechers also offers additional services such as size exchanges and returns, ensuring you get the right fit for your feet. Their return policy is straightforward and customer-friendly, making the entire process convenient and stress-free.
Pros and Cons
What Makes Skechers Viper Court Stand Out
The Skechers Viper Court Pro stands out due to its superior design and performance. The upgraded Goodyear® Gold compound outsole, supportive and breathable mesh upper, and Arch Fit® insole all contribute to a comfortable and efficient game. Its stylish design is another bonus, making it suitable both on and off the court.
Potential Drawbacks of the Shoes
Despite its many advantages, the Viper Court Pro has its drawbacks. The shoe is more expensive than the original model, which might deter some buyers. Additionally, some users have reported that the laces don’t hold as much tension as they’d like. However, these shortcomings are minor compared to the shoe’s overall benefits.
Ideal Player Profiles for These Shoes
The Viper Court Pro is perfect for pickleball players who value comfort, performance, and durability in their footwear. Whether you’re an elite player or a casual enthusiast, this shoe could be an excellent addition to your gear. Its supportive and breathable design ensures a comfortable game. At the same time, its durable construction means it can withstand even the most intense sessions.
Alternatives to Skechers Viper Court
Other Pickleball Shoes Worth Considering
If the Viper Court Pro doesn’t meet your needs or fit within your budget, there are other pickleball shoes worth considering. Some alternatives include the K-Swiss, Babolat, Tryol, Fila, and Acacia. Head also makes excellent court shoes.
Feature and Price Comparisons
Compared to the alternatives, the Viper Court Pro offers superior features such as the Goodyear® Gold compound outsole and Arch Fit® insole. While the other shoes are less expensive, they may not provide the same level of comfort, support, and durability that the Viper Court Pro offers.
Recommendations Based on Different Player Needs
We highly recommend the Viper Court Pro for players who prioritize comfort and performance. If, however, budget is a concern, then the K-Swiss Express Light or the New Balance Men’s 806v1 might be more suitable options. Ultimately, the best shoe for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Final Verdict
Summary of the Shoe’s Strengths and Weaknesses
In summary, the Skechers Viper Court Pro shines in its comfort, performance, and durability. Its upgraded outsole, breathable upper, and superior cushioning make it a top pick for pickleball players looking for a high-quality shoe.
However, it is more expensive than the original model, and some users have reported issues with the laces. These minor drawbacks are outweighed by the overall benefits of the shoe.
Personal Recommendation: Who Should Buy These Shoes?
Based on our review, we highly recommend the Skechers Viper Court Pro to pickleball players who prioritize comfort, performance, and durability. Whether you’re an elite athlete or a casual player, these shoes will provide the support and style you need to excel on the court.
This shoe is one of the most comfortable shoes on the market and it has solid stability.
Are Skechers Viper Court Shoes Worth Buying?
Yes, the Skechers Viper Court Pro pickleball shoes are definitely worth buying. With their exceptional design, comfort, and performance, they offer great value for money. If you’re serious about improving your game and want a shoe that can keep up with your skills, the Viper Court Pro is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Pros wear Skechers Viper Court Pro pickleball shoe?
Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau
Does the Skechers Viper Court Pro shoe come in men’s and women’s styles?
Skechers Viper Court comes in both men’s and women’s styles. They are worn by the Pros.
Are these shoes suitable for outdoor pickleball courts?
Yes, the Skechers Viper Court Pro is designed for both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts. The Goodyear® Gold compound outsole provides excellent traction and stability on various surfaces.
Do these shoes run true to size?
A: Yes, the Viper Court Pro generally runs true to size. However, it’s always recommended to refer to the sizing chart provided by Skechers to ensure the perfect fit.
Should you wear special shoes for pickleball?
The simple answer is yes. Running shoes or sneakers are not made for the lateral, side-to-side movements that you make in pickleball. Without the proper shoe and support, you risk injury.
Is there a difference between pickleball and tennis shoes?
The short answer is no. A good tennis court shoe is excellent for playing pickleball. Head, Wilson, Prince, and more make great court shoes. So if you have a tennis court shoe, you are all set.
Tips for Care and Maintenance
To keep your Skechers Viper Court Pro shoes in optimal condition, it’s important to follow proper care and maintenance practices. Here are a few tips:
- Regularly clean the shoes using a mild soap and water solution.
- Avoid machine washing or drying the shoes, as this can damage the materials.
- Air dry the shoes after each use to prevent odor and prolong their lifespan.
By taking good care of your shoes, you can ensure they last longer and continue to provide excellent performance on the pickleball court.
