T22 Lite
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
Prince
Release Year
2023
Price in USD
120
Summary:
The Prince T22 Lite is a comfortable, stable, and breathable shoe ideal for players seeking plush cushioning and a roomy fit. However, durability, especially in the toe area, is a concern for aggressive movers.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for club and recreational players who prioritize comfort cushioning and a wide fit the T22 Lite stands out as a thoughtful option for those with foot issues or who rely on orthotics. It is best suited for hard courts both indoor and outdoor where its durable outsole and stable platform can be fully utilized; players who spend most of their time on softer surfaces may find the traction overly aggressive. Its key strengths include plush cushioning, a roomy and comfortable fit, reliable traction, and strong outsole durability. The shoe is breathable and accommodates orthotics well. On the downside it carries a heavier than expected feel, provides less than ideal support for narrow feet, and its upper durability is reduced for toe draggers. It may feel clunky during fast aggressive movements.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
Stepping onto the court with the Prince T22 Lite, you immediately feel the focus on comfort. Its plush cushioning and a slightly roomier toe box stand out, and most testers found this combination comfortable straight out of the box. The upper materials are lighter and softer than the original T22, delivering a more supple and flexible feel from the first wear.
The fit plays a big role in the overall impression. The shoe runs notably wide, especially in the forefoot, which makes it a strong option for players with wider feet or those who use orthotics. Testers with narrower feet did find it a touch too spacious, sometimes resulting in a less secure fit. Despite that, the underfoot and ankle collar padding left a strong impression, with many describing the shoe as cushy and supportive for long sessions. The mesh upper adds to the initial comfort by being softer and more accommodating right away.
Break in was brief for most, thanks to the flexible mesh and immediate plushness underfoot. The T22 Lite feels game ready almost as soon as you lace up. Compared to the original T22, the Lite version is lighter and more comfortable out of the box, though it remains heavier than many other so called lightweight court shoes. Players chasing a truly ultra light, fast shoe may find the T22 Lite a bit bulkier than some competitors.
SPECS
Surface
mixed
Available Widths
Standard, Wide
Arch Support
Medium
Weight (Grams)
360
Heel Stack (MM)
28
Forefoot Stack (MM)
20
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
Herringbone
Rubber Hardness
65
TORSION SHANK
TPU
Lateral Outrigger
yes
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
Mesh
Breathability Design
Mesh upper with perforated straps
Heel Rigidity Note
Moderate
Fit Shape
Roomy toe box, standard fit
T Test Time (Secs)
Stop distance (M)
Subjective Stability
8
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
Comfort After 45 Minutes
9
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
Traction stands out as a highlight, with the outsole delivering reliable grip for quick stops and starts. Some testers noted the grip could be a bit too aggressive, making quick lateral cuts feel sticky at times.
Lateral stability is solid thanks to welded TPU foot straps and a supportive midsole. However, some testers felt the ankle support was lacking, particularly for aggressive lateral movements, and those with narrow feet experienced some foot slippage.
Responsiveness sits in the middle, with plush cushioning that absorbs shock well but can make the shoe feel less connected to the court. The higher ride height and extra padding can reduce court feel and make quick transitions less snappy.
While the shoe is more flexible than its predecessor, several testers described it as feeling clunky during fast movements. The weight and elevated cushioning can hinder quick footwork, especially for players who prioritize speed and agility.
The T22 Lite is best suited for players who value comfort, cushioning, and a wider fit over lightweight speed. It caters to club level and recreational players who prioritize support and shock absorption over maximum agility.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Cushioning is the standout feature here with testers praising the plush midsole that absorbs shocks and the generous padding that runs through the entire shoe. The result is a comfort level that feels welcoming even during long sessions, and it is particularly noticeable for players with foot issues or those who log extended play time.
The mesh upper is a clear breathability upgrade over the original T22. On court the ventilation sits above average and most testers reported little to no overheating, even during demanding sets.
Despite the lite naming, the shoe carries more weight than you might expect. It is lighter than the original T22 but still bulkier than many modern court shoes, and that heft becomes noticeable during extended play or when making rapid cuts.
Comfort remains steady over time with the cushioning staying plush and the upper continuing to vent well. Impact fatigue is kept to a minimum, though a few testers felt the extra weight contributed to overall tiredness after long matches.
There are few pressure points thanks to the wide fit and ample padding, but players with narrow feet may experience some instability or slippage that could lead to discomfort over time.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
Durability starts at the outsole with impressive longevity for frequent play. Testers report minimal wear after several weeks, and the six month durability guarantee sweetens the deal by giving players assurance that the shoe will stand up to the rigors of the court. The mesh upper is lighter and more comfortable than before, but it trades some abrasion resistance for that weight savings, so aggressive toe draggers may notice toe area wear earlier than expected.
On the midsole, cushioning holds up well with little compression over time, and shock absorption remains steady throughout the shoe’s life. The T22 Lite performs well on indoor and outdoor courts, with outsole durability and traction especially well suited to hard surfaces. Outdoor players who drag their toes may see faster upper wear. Considering comfort, durability and support, the T22 Lite offers strong value for its price, particularly for players who prioritize cushioning and a wide fit, and the durability guarantee adds to that value.
Marketing Claims
Plush cushioning, Good support and stability, Lightweight and breathable, Good traction
PROS:
Excellent cushioning and comfort, Good stability and support, Breathable mesh upper, Roomy toe box
CONS:
Toe durability issues for aggressive players, Not the lightest option available
Who Is It For?
Club players and recreational athletes who prioritize comfort, support, and breathability over maximum durability or lightweight speed.
Who Should Skip?
Aggressive baseline players who drag their toes frequently or those seeking the lightest, fastest shoe possible.
Test Notes
Sources note the T22 Lite improves on the original with a lighter, softer upper and maintained cushioning, but durability remains a weak point for toe draggers. Fit is praised for comfort, especially in the toe box, but the shoe does not feel as light as some competitors. Traction and stability are consistently rated well.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the Prince T22 Lite good for wide feet?
Yes, the T22 Lite features a roomy toe box and is available in wide widths, making it a good choice for players with wider feet.
How does the T22 Lite compare to the original T22?
The T22 Lite is lighter and has a softer, more breathable upper than the original T22, while maintaining the plush cushioning and stability. However, durability, especially in the toe area, remains similar and may not suit aggressive toe draggers.
Is the T22 Lite suitable for outdoor courts?
The T22 Lite is designed for mixed surfaces, but its durability may be a concern for frequent outdoor play, especially on abrasive surfaces.
How is the breathability of the T22 Lite?
Breathability is a strength, thanks to the mesh upper and perforated straps, keeping feet cool during long matches.
Does the T22 Lite run true to size?
The T22 Lite generally runs true to size with a standard fit, but the roomy toe box may appeal to those who prefer a bit more space in the forefoot.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The Prince T22 Lite remains a standout choice for pickleball players who want cushioning, support, and a roomy fit. It feels especially welcoming for those with wider feet or foot issues. This model shines in comfort and durability, though it is not the best option for players chasing a lightweight and ultra responsive ride.
Compared with other court shoes, the T22 Lite excels in comfort and fit but slows down in speed and agility. Fans of the original T22 will appreciate the improvements, but if you are after a truly lightweight option you may want to explore alternatives.
To wrap things up this Prince T22 Lite is a dependable choice for players who want cushion and room to move along with reliable durability. If speed and a truly light feel are non negotiable you should consider other options. Thank you for reading and I hope this helps you pick the right court partner for your game. In conclusion the T22 Lite earns its place for comfort minded players though it is not the fastest option on the court.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
8
Cushioning
9
Upper durability
6
Breathability
8
Stability
8
Fit
Roomy toe box, standard fit
Outsole Durability
7
Value
7
Final Score
78
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