The Roger Pro
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
ON
Release Year
2022
Price in USD
199
Summary:
ON The Roger Pro delivers excellent stability, traction, and step-in comfort for pickleball and tennis on outdoor hard courts. Durability at the toe drag area is a concern for aggressive movers, and some users may need to adjust lacing for optimal heel lockdown.
PLAYER PROFILE:
This shoe is ideal for competitive or advanced pickleball players who demand stability, quick responsiveness, and a connected court feel. It is suited for those who play aggressively and value performance over plush comfort. Best on hard court surfaces both indoors and outdoors, the outsole and stability features are tuned for these environments. The shoe delivers outstanding stability, responsive energy return, immediate comfort, and excellent breathability, supporting fast multidirectional movement and a secure locked in fit. Limitations include firmer forefoot cushioning, moderate upper durability especially for toe draggers, and a premium price tag. Some players may notice the ankle area running slightly loose and may need a quick adjustment for a snugger fit.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
Kicking off the review, the ON THE ROGER PRO makes a confident entrance with immediate step in comfort. Testers note a plush yet secure sensation right out of the box, thanks to an insole and ON’s CloudTech technology that contribute to a soft underfoot feel, while a carbon fiber plate and mesh cage provide a sense of sturdiness and support from the outset.
Fit and feel move this shoe into the realm of user friendly. It generally fits true to size for most, though a few testers reported a slightly loose feel around the ankle, something that can be addressed with thicker socks or a tighter lace. The forefoot is roomy, and the heel counter delivers a secure hold, helping to minimize heel slippage.
Break in and comfort come together in a striking way. Initial comfort is a standout with no break in period required for most users. The interior is thoughtfully constructed, allowing players to feel comfortable during their first session. Some testers did wish for more forefoot cushioning, especially during longer periods of play nonetheless the overall experience remains game ready.
There is virtually no break in period; the shoe feels ready to play out of the box. Testers appreciated being able to wear them for extended sessions immediately without discomfort or hotspots.
When placed against the competition, the ON THE ROGER PRO balances stability with lightweight comfort. Compared to contenders like the Adidas Barricade and Nike Zoom Vapor, it pairs the stability of the Barricade with the lightweight comfort of the Vapor. The carbon fiber Speedboard sets it apart for energy return and responsiveness, though some may find it firmer than shoes with more plush cushioning.
SPECS
Surface
outdoor
Available Widths
standard
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
385
Heel Stack (MM)
28
Forefoot Stack (MM)
20
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
open herringbone
Rubber Hardness
75
TORSION SHANK
carbon fiber Speedboard
Lateral Outrigger
no
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
engineered mesh with synthetic overlays
Breathability Design
ventilated mesh with perforated tongue
Heel Rigidity Note
molded heel counter for improved lockdown
Fit Shape
medium anatomical
T Test Time (Secs)
3.8
Stop distance (M)
0.85
Subjective Stability
8
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
4.2
Comfort After 45 Minutes
7
Heel Slip Present?
Yes
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The outsole features a durable rubber compound with an open herringbone tread, providing excellent grip and controlled slides on hard courts. Traction is reliable for quick stops and starts, though some wear was noted after repeated sessions. Stability is a highlight, with a carbon fiber Speedboard, wide forefoot platform, and a rigid heel counter all contributing to a locked in, secure ride. The shoe resists torsional twisting and lateral rollover, making it ideal for aggressive lateral movements and sudden changes of direction. Responsiveness is excellent due to the carbon fiber plate, which acts as a springboard for explosive movements. The shoe feels dynamic and fast, especially during sprints and quick transitions, supporting both vertical and lateral play. Transitions are smooth and efficient, aided by the thin, flexible forefoot fabric and the energy return from the Speedboard. Players can move quickly to the net or shift laterally without feeling bogged down or unstable. The shoe is best suited for competitive players who value stability, responsiveness, and a firm, connected to court feel. It supports both baseline rallies and net play, making it versatile for various pickleball play styles, though those seeking maximum plushness may prefer a softer model.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
The cushioning reads firm and responsive rather than plush, thanks to high performance foam that delivers solid court feel and solid impact protection. Some testers wished for a bit more forefoot padding for those extended sessions, but the overall balance favors stability and responsiveness on the court.
Breathability is strong thanks to a lightweight mesh upper and a perforated tongue, which helps manage heat and keep feet cool during intense rallies. The shoe feels lightweight on the foot, contributing to a speedy and agile experience that doesn’t drag you down even in lengthy matches.
During long sessions the shoe stays comfortable for most players, though those who are sensitive to firmer cushioning may notice forefoot fatigue over time. The secure fit and breathable design help reduce discomfort as play continues, and there are minimal pressure points thanks to the well padded heel and snug lockdown. However, the firm forefoot may cause mild fatigue after hours of play for those accustomed to softer footwear.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The outsole proved more durable than expected, thanks to a new rubber compound that holds up well to hard court play. Heavy sliders may see wear in high abrasion areas after a couple of months of intense use. The mesh upper is reinforced with a cage for stability, but some testers reported wear through in the toe drag area after extended use. Overall the upper is reasonably durable but not the strongest in its class. The midsole retains its bounce and shape with no significant compression or loss of energy return after dozens of hours on court. The shoe performs best on hard courts, both indoor and outdoor, with traction tuned for those surfaces, and it is not recommended for clay or soft courts due to the outsole design. At a premium price point the ON THE ROGER PRO offers cutting edge technology and performance, but some may find it expensive given the durability; it is a strong value for players prioritizing stability and responsiveness over maximum longevity.
Marketing Claims
100% carbon fiber Speedboard for energy return, High-performance foam for cushioning and responsiveness, Superior traction and controlled slides on hard courts, Immediate step-in comfort with no break-in required
PROS:
Outstanding stability and torsion support, Immediate comfort with no break-in, Excellent traction on hard courts, Responsive energy return from carbon plate
CONS:
Toe drag area wears quickly under heavy use, Heel slip possible for narrow heels, Forefoot cushioning is firm, Premium price for moderate durability
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a stable, responsive shoe for outdoor pickleball or tennis, especially those who value step-in comfort and quick transitions.
Who Should Skip?
Aggressive toe draggers or those needing plush forefoot cushioning should consider alternatives. Not ideal for indoor-only play or wide feet.
Test Notes
Weight, stack, and rubber hardness are based on brand and third-party measurements. Some sources report faster outsole wear at the toe drag area, but the outsole itself is durable. Heel slip noted by multiple testers unless laced tightly. Price is premium compared to similar models with better durability.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is ON The Roger Pro suitable for pickleball?
Yes, its stability, traction, and energy return make it well-suited for outdoor pickleball, though toe drag durability may be a concern for some players.
Does the shoe require a break-in period?
No, most users report excellent step-in comfort with no break-in needed.
How does the fit compare to other tennis shoes?
Fit is medium anatomical; some users with narrow heels may experience heel slip unless laced tightly.
Is the outsole non-marking?
Yes, the outsole is designed for hard courts and is non-marking.
What is the main durability concern?
The toe drag area can wear through after heavy use, especially for aggressive movers.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The ON THE ROGER PRO is a top tier choice for serious pickleball players seeking a blend of stability, speed, and responsive performance. Its innovative design and immediate comfort make it a standout, though those seeking maximum cushioning or durability may want to consider alternatives.
Compared with leading models from Adidas and Nike, the ON THE ROGER PRO stands out for its carbon fiber Speedboard and firm stable ride. It is best suited for players who prioritize court feel and support over plushness, and who are willing to invest in premium performance technology.
In summary the ON THE ROGER PRO delivers a high level of performance for serious players who value stability speed and a responsive ride. Those seeking plush cushioning or exceptional long term durability may want to explore alternatives, but for players who prize court feel and premium technology this shoe makes a compelling case. To close this review and wrap up the verdict if your game relies on stability speed and quick reactions this shoe is a strong match for you. Thanks for reading and may your next match be fast and controlled.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
9
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
6
Breathability
7
Stability
9
Fit
medium anatomical
Outsole Durability
8
Value
6
Final Score
78.5
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