T22
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
Prince
Release Year
2017
Price in USD
89.99
Summary:
The Prince T22 is a classic, stable, and durable court shoe well-suited for pickleball players who prioritize support and ventilation. Its weight may be a drawback for those seeking a lighter, faster feel, but it excels in stability and long-term durability.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for club and recreational players who value stability, support, and cushioning, the T22 delivers a reliable on court feel. It is also a strong choice for players with foot issues or those who log many sessions and need a durable, protective shoe. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor pickleball, the T22’s outsole and construction adapt well to hard synthetic or gym floors. Its standout strengths include outstanding stability, plush cushioning, excellent ventilation, and long lasting outsole durability. The shoe’s secure fit and support are particularly beneficial for players who make frequent lateral movements or need extra protection. The main limitation is the shoe’s weight, which may not appeal to players seeking a light, fast feel. Aggressive toe draggers might also desire more reinforcement in the toe area, though this is a minor issue for most users.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
Kicking off with a first impression that signals serious court readiness the Prince T22 delivers a secure locked in sensation from the very first wear. The snug fit and supportive upper wrap you in stability while mesh panels in the toe box tongue and sides contribute to a comfortable and breathable feel. The overall construction feels robust in the hand and on foot.
Fit and sizing notes show the T22 fits true to length with a medium width and a slightly low arch making it suitable for most foot shapes except those needing a very wide or very narrow option. The toe box is accommodating but not overly roomy and the lacing system allows for a customizable fit.
Initial comfort and break in stand out with testers noting plush cushioning underfoot and a soft padded tongue and collar. The shoe feels cushy and supportive right away with no pressure points or pinching reported by most users.
There is virtually no break in period The shoe feels comfortable out of the box and testers did not report any significant stiffness or discomfort during the first few sessions.
Compared to lighter speed oriented models the T22 feels heavier but offers superior stability and support. It is more cushioned and supportive than many competitors though not as nimble as some modern lightweight shoes. Players coming from the New Balance 696 or similar will notice the extra heft but also the enhanced support.
SPECS
Surface
outdoor
Available Widths
standard, wide
Arch Support
medium
Weight (Grams)
474
Heel Stack (MM)
28
Forefoot Stack (MM)
18
Drop (MM)
10
OutSole Pattern
multi-directional herringbone
Rubber Hardness
72
TORSION SHANK
TPU wishbone
Lateral Outrigger
yes
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
synthetic leather with mesh panels
Breathability Design
mesh in toe box, tongue, and side panels
Heel Rigidity Note
rigid external heel counter
Fit Shape
medium-wide, roomy toe box
T Test Time (Secs)
3.8
Stop distance (M)
0.92
Subjective Stability
9
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
3.2
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
Outsole and traction: The PRC 1000 outsole with a herringbone tread pattern delivers reliable grip on both indoor and outdoor courts. In testing, the traction stayed consistent with no slippage during aggressive lateral movements or quick stops.
Stability: Stability is a hallmark of the T22, aided by the TPU forefoot straps and wishbone shank. The shoe keeps the foot securely in place during sharp cuts and lateral movements, making it especially suitable for players who value a stable platform.
Feel and cushioning: While the T22 is not the most responsive or quick feeling shoe due to its weight, it offers a solid predictable ride. The EVA midsole and ShockEraser heel insert absorb impact well, but the shoe prioritizes protection and support over explosive court feel.
Transitions: Transitions are smooth, though the shoe’s weight is noticeable during extended play or rapid changes of direction. Most players adjust quickly, and the stability helps offset any small loss in agility.
Best suited for: The T22 is best suited for players who prioritize support cushioning and durability over speed. It is ideal for club and recreational players, those with a history of foot issues, or anyone seeking a stable protective shoe for frequent play.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
The midsole delivers plush cushioning across the full length, giving a soft yet supportive underfoot feel. The ShockEraser and SoftSpring inserts add to the comfort, making the shoe well suited for long matches or practice sessions. Ventilation is excellent for this category thanks to generous mesh panels in the upper. Testers found the T22 remained comfortable even during hot summer play, with minimal heat buildup. The T22 runs on the heavier side at 16.7 oz for a men’s size ten point five, and the weight is noticeable, especially for players used to lighter shoes. Yet stability and comfort offset the heft, and it does not significantly hinder movement for most users. During extended sessions the shoe maintains its comfort and support, with no reports of excessive fatigue or discomfort. The cushioning holds up well, and the breathable upper helps prevent overheating. There are few, if any, pressure points thanks to the well padded collar and tongue. The fit is secure but not restrictive, and fatigue is minimized by the shoe’s supportive structure and effective shock absorption.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The PRC 1000 outsole proves its durability in real world play, backed by a six month outsole guarantee from Prince. Testers report minimal wear after extended sessions, making this a strong choice for players who log regular hours on the court. The upper combines synthetic and mesh in a robust package that holds up well for most players, though it is not as indestructible as an all leather build. Extremely aggressive toe draggers may see some wear in the toe area over time, but for the majority of players the upper stands up to daily use.
The EVA midsole keeps its cushioning properties over time with little to no notable compression or loss of support after weeks of wear. The ShockEraser and SoftSpring inserts continue to perform effectively throughout the shoe s life. The T22 excels on both indoor and outdoor courts, with a herringbone outsole that delivers reliable traction across surfaces. Its durability and ventilation also make it a versatile option for various playing environments. In terms of value the T22 is reasonably priced for its category, offering strong durability, comfort and support. It sits in a balanced price range, not the cheapest nor the most expensive option, but the long lifespan and performance features make it a solid investment for serious players.
Marketing Claims
6-month outsole durability guarantee, Enhanced stability and support, Improved ventilation with mesh upper
PROS:
Excellent stability and support, Durable outsole with 6-month guarantee, Good ventilation from mesh upper, Roomy toe box
CONS:
Heavy compared to modern court shoes, Toe durability may be lacking for aggressive draggers
Who Is It For?
Players seeking maximum stability, support, and durability for outdoor pickleball, especially those with wider feet or needing a roomy toe box.
Who Should Skip?
Players who prefer lightweight, fast-feeling shoes or require maximum toe drag protection.
Test Notes
Weight and stability are standout features, but some may find the shoe too heavy for quick movement. Outsole durability is excellent, but toe area may wear for frequent draggers. Brand and user reviews agree on fit and ventilation; all specs are based on brand and review consensus.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the Prince T22 suitable for outdoor pickleball?
Yes, the T22’s durable outsole and support make it well-suited for outdoor pickleball courts.
How does the T22 fit?
It fits true to size with a medium-wide last and a roomy toe box.
Is the T22 heavy?
Yes, it is heavier than many modern court shoes, which contributes to its stability but may not suit those seeking a lightweight feel.
Does the T22 have good ventilation?
Yes, mesh panels in the upper provide good breathability, especially in hot conditions.
Is there a warranty on the outsole?
Yes, Prince offers a 6-month outsole durability guarantee.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The Prince T22 stands out as a top pick for pickleball players who prize support, comfort, and durability. It offers a stable platform and plush cushioning that keep you grounded through long sessions, making it a reliable partner for extended play.
If speed and light weight are your priority you might lean toward a lighter model but you will trade some of the T22s steadfast footing.
Compared with lighter modern shoes the T22 gives up a touch of agility in favor of superior stability and long term durability. Players who have tried the T22 Lite will find the original T22 more robust and durable with a substantial feel underfoot. For those who value a classic supportive ride the T22 remains a benchmark in its class.
To close this look at the T22 its blend of support comfort and durability makes it a strong companion for frequent play. If you want a court shoe that stays comfy and stable through long rallies this is a dependable choice and its durability means you can count on it over many seasons. Bottom line the Prince T22 solidly earns its place in its category for players seeking a traditional reliable ride. Thanks for reading and may your next match be your best yet.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
8
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
8
Breathability
7
Stability
9
Fit
medium-wide, roomy toe box
Outsole Durability
9
Value
8
Final Score
83.5
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