Kuikma PS Stab 2025: The new benchmark for stability

Padel requires equipment adapted to respond to the rapid movements, sudden changes of direction and intense pressure that characterize it. In this quest for excellence, Kuikma, the padel brand of Decathlon, continues to stand out with products combining performance, accessibility and innovation. At the start of this season 2025, Kuikma reveals the PS Stab, a pair of shoes designed in collaboration with professional players to offer a perfect balance between stability, comfort et Sustainability, while sporting a bold and modern design. This article delves into the smallest details of this new product, exploring its technologies, its strengths and its positioning on the market.

A design that turns heads

At first glance, the Kuikma PS Stab capture attention with their vibrant hue, a flame orange which embodies the energy and passion of padel. Enhanced with nuances of Black and a striking contrast in Red, this color palette, both refined and striking, instantly stands out on the courts. The design is not purely aesthetic: it reflects the identity of Kuikma, which seeks to combine style and functionality.
As usual, no ostentatious logo of the French brand adorns these shoes, but the inscription Kuikma in relief, with its refined, yet sober, broken stick style, is enough to assert the brand's identity with elegance and discretion.
Note that they are also available in a version ash blue, embellished with touches of Black and yellow, a color combination slightly brighter than the dominant one Red that I received.

Cutting-edge technologies for optimal performance

The PS Stab reds don't just look good: they incorporate advanced technologies that place them among the best padel shoes on the market in terms of stability and proactivityHere's a look at the innovations that make the difference:

Sole Padel Dual Grip 2
The outsole, the centerpiece of this shoe, has been redesigned to provide a optimal grip on all padel surfaces, whether synthetic sand or porous concrete. The concept Padel Dual Grip 2 combines hybrid studs with a strategic layout: chevrons at the front for dynamic grip at start-up, and traction zones at the rear for clean stops without blocking. This design allows for fluidity in movement while reducing wear, a valuable asset for regular players.

Pebax® plate
At the heart of the stability of PS Stab, we find a plaque in Pebax®, an elastic and resistant material developed by Arkema. Positioned in the midsole, this plate provides a higher energy return, essential for explosive movements, while keeping the foot firmly anchored during lateral support. Unlike overly rigid soles, the Pebax® provides controlled flexibility, reducing the risk of twisting or discomfort.
M-Foam Cushioning
Inspired by running technologies, the foam M-Foam EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) cushioning is used in the midsole to absorb shock and provide dynamic rebound. This cushioning is particularly beneficial during long playing sessions, when joints are put under strain. Players will notice a feeling of lightness and comfort, even after hours on the court.
H-Flex Concept
To support the natural movements of the foot, the sole incorporates “H”-shaped flexion zones at the metatarsals. This technology, called H-Flex, improves the flexibility of the shoe without compromising its structure, allowing for rapid changes of direction and increased responsiveness.
Reinforcements and Lateral Support
The PS Stab shine for their ability to stabilize the foot during lateral movements, a crucial aspect in padel. Inserts in TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) in the heel and a support system in the forefoot (Forefoot Support) hold the foot in place, reducing the risk of slipping or twisting, even under extreme pressure. The upper has a finish in One-Mesh, a breathable and form-fitting material that molds to the shape of the foot, while reinforcements in KPU (injected polyurethane) on wear areas, such as the heel and forefoot, guarantee increased resistance to frequent friction on the abrasive surfaces of padel courts.

Focus on pebax

Le Pebax, or Polyether Block Amide (PEBA), is an innovative material developed by the French company Arkema, a world leader in high-performance materials. This amide block polyether stands out from traditional TPU (thermoplastic polyurethanes) by its exceptional elasticity, to mechanical resistance and lightness. It combines the toughness of polyamides with the flexibility of polyethers, thus providing a remarkably low density and optimal energy return, even under extreme temperature conditions. Used in the soles of Kuikma PS Stab, this rigid and flexible block copolymer guarantees stability without sacrificing flexibility, while being available in naturally sourced versions, an asset for players who are sensitive to eco-responsibility.

Comfort and adaptability: a shoe for all players

Flashed at 398 g (in size 45), this reference is positioned in the category of heavy shoes, a deliberate choice to favor the stability at the expense of extreme lightness, more sought after by players focused on pure speed. This mass, well distributed, does not feel like a handicap thanks to the careful ergonomics of the shoe.
Breathability is ensured by the fabric One-Mesh, which effectively wicks away perspiration, a significant advantage in the Mediterranean climate of Marseille or during indoor matches.
Midsoles Essensole, which equip the Kuikma PS Stab, are a guarantee of comfort and performance for padel players. Designed to offer excellent moisture wicking and long-lasting cushioning, they stay dry even after intense sessions, preventing odors thanks to optimal ventilation. This technology, dear to Kuikma for years, has supported the foot with suitable flexibility, ensuring an ideal balance between dynamism and well-being on the court.
The stiffness of the heel counter is a clever innovation, as it keeps the foot perfectly in place during lateral support and rapid changes of direction, thus reducing the risk of twisting or loss of balance.
The laces are just the right length, not too long or too short, allowing for a precise and comfortable fit while preventing them from dragging or coming undone during play, without even requiring a double knot.

An eco-responsible commitment

Faithful to the philosophy of Decathlon, PS Stab integrate a process ofEco conception which reduces their environmental impact by 20% compared to previous models. This involves optimizing materials (less waste) and more sustainable production, without sacrificing performance. This commitment reinforces the appeal of Kuikma with players concerned about their ecological footprint.

On the ground: what is it really worth?

Tested on different types of terrain, the PS Stab impress with their versatility. Their grip remains flawless, even on wet surfaces, and their stability proves particularly effective during fierce defenses or violent landings. Comfort is guaranteed thanks to well-calibrated cushioning, providing constant support without sacrificing responsiveness, even after hours of intense play.
However, this shoe requires a slight adaptation timeIts robust design and weight may surprise those used to lighter models, but after a few sessions, the comfort becomes evident and the stability it provides more than compensates for this first impression.

Who is it for?

The Kuikma PS Stab are primarily aimed at intermediate to advanced players looking for a shoe stable et fashion industry for intense play, whether offensive or defensive. Competitors will appreciate its ability to withstand long matches and frequent training, while regular amateurs will see it as excellent value for money (€ 80). Beginners or players who prefer lightness could, however, turn to models like the PS 990 Dynamic. Available from 39 to 47, these shoes fit a wide range of sizes to meet the needs of all padel enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Kuikma PS Stab embody the ambition of Kuikma to push the limits of padel equipment without breaking the bank. With their bold design, advanced technologies and versatility on the court, they are a must-have option for 2025. Available now in stores Decathlon and online, they are well worth a try on the court. Once again, Kuikma proves that performance and accessibility can go hand in hand.

Many thanks, as always, to Baptist Savary de Kuikma France for his exemplary commitment and expertise.

Stéphane Penso

Padel fan, Stéphane has become the official tester of the padel planet in Europe. Everything goes through his expert hands. Thanks to his extensive experience in the world of rackets, he is able to scan your equipment from head to toe!