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Head-to-head · Best Pickleball Shoes

ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 vs Frankworks The One

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Frankworks The One comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 3.8). Frankworks The One is best for: Players prioritizing forefoot space and secure lockdown over minimal weight. Read the strengths below before deciding.

ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8
Ranked #4 in Best Pickleball Shoes
ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8
1 source$65as of Oct 17

FORWRD found that the APMA certification provides genuine arch support and stability, while runrepeat confirmed effective GEL cushioning with above-average energy return. The shoe offers strong traction on varied surfaces and requires zero break-in time, making it immediately comfortable for lateral movements. However, the narrow forefoot makes it unsuitable for wide feet, and the synthetic upper runs warm in high-heat outdoor conditions. Average outsole durability means the rubber wears faster than premium picks during frequent use. This model fits budget-conscious players with standard or narrow feet seeking immediate comfort, while those needing wide widths or extreme longevity should look elsewhere.

Strengths
  • — APMA certified for foot health and arch support
  • — Requires zero break-in time, ready straight out of the box
  • — Provides strong traction on both indoor and outdoor courts
Watch-outs
  • — Narrow forefoot makes it unsuitable for wide feet
  • — Runs warm in high-heat outdoor conditions
  • — Outsole durability is average and wears faster than premium picks
$65 · Buy at zappos.comFull review →
Frankworks The One
Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Pickleball Shoes
Frankworks The One
2 sourcesall derived$96as of Oct 17

Advanced Pickleball found that the laceless sock-like upper and single Velcro strap eliminate pressure points while providing a secure fit, complemented by a wider toe box that allows natural foot splay. Famous by Friday Pickleball noted that despite its low-profile look, pronounced heel counters and sidewall overlays deliver unexpected ankle security during lateral movements. However, the shoe weighs 428 grams, which exceeds many players' preference for lightweight court shoes. It runs half a size small, requiring buyers to size up for proper comfort. This model suits players prioritizing forefoot space and lockdown over minimal weight or budget cost.

Strengths
  • — Laceless sock-like upper with a single Velcro strap provides an even, secure fit without lace bite or pressure points.
  • — Wider toe box allows toes to spread naturally, improving balance and comfort during side-to-side court actions.
  • — Pronounced heel counter and sidewall overlays lock the foot in place, providing unexpected ankle support despite the low-profile look.
Watch-outs
  • — Runs half a size small, requiring buyers to size up for a proper fit.
$96 · Buy at frankworksshoes.comFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8

The ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 offers zero break-in time and APMA certification for arch support, whereas the Frankworks The One provides a wider toe box and laceless lockdown that accommodates natural foot splay. However, the Asics runs warmer in high-heat conditions compared to the more breathable knit upper of the Frankworks model.

Frankworks The One

Frankworks The One features a wider toe box and laceless design for natural foot splay, contrasting with the narrower fit of the ASICS Gel-Dedicate 8 which lacks wide options. It also provides more ankle security via pronounced heel counters than the Selkirk CourtStrike Pro 2.0, though it is significantly heavier at 428g compared to the JOOLA R4lly's 280g.

Specs side-by-side

SpecASICS Gel-Dedicate 8Frankworks The One
Weight11.3 oz428g
Drop10.2 mm4mm
Upper MaterialSynthetic leather with mesh panelsKnit sock-style
CushioningGEL rearfoot + TRUSSTIC arch supportFEETCRAFT cushion
Outsole PatternHerringbone treadFull herringbone design
Outsole Material—Full herringbone design, so an all court pattern
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