Former pro David Paynter, founder of Payntr Cricket, tells WCM about the journey of his brand – one which is rooted in cricketing royalty, now operating at the cutting edge of the footwear market
"As an ex-player myself,” says David Paynter, founder of Payntr Cricket and one of the most engaging characters in the business, “I’ve always wanted to design footwear that anybody at the top level, whether it be a batter, bowler or wicketkeeper, can say in confidence that these are fantastic shoes. It’s the ultimate endorsement if you can get players at the top to recognise the quality, as that message then filters down the whole way.”
Cricket runs in the Paynter family. David, who played for Northants in the early years of this century, is also the great-grandson of the great Eddie Paynter, the Lancastrian legend who starred in the infamous Bodyline series and amassed over 20,000 first-class runs. The business too has had a remarkable ride, from the initial lightbulb-moment idea to the here and now.
“It’s been a journey these last few years,” he says. “I’m proud of both myself and the guys, that we’re in a position to be able to launch this range. Running a business is tough, and we’ve been through a lot since its inception, but I feel like we’ve learnt so much over the years. It’d be pretty boring if no one made mistakes and I don’t think it’s a bad thing, it’s part of the process.”
For Paynter, 2025 marks the end of the beginning – the point at which he can finally say he has the perfect product to match his vision. “I’ve learned a lot personally with implementing the various aspects of the new shoes. This range has been a labour of love for two years, I was going to beg, steal and borrow to get them out in 2025, and fortunately I’ve teamed up with the best people to bring this to life. Getting these shoes out there brings with it the new era of Payntr.”
"I recently had the chance to try out the new Pro-X Carbon Speed spikes and I am genuinely impressed. The advanced performance technology they feature provides the perfect balance of comfort and speed. The grip is phenomenal, offering great stability. Overall, it’s a fantastic fast bowling shoe" - David Willey – Northants & England
The Pro - X Carbon Speed
The jewel in the 2025 range’s crown is the Pro-X Carbon Speed shoe. While the properties of such a model is a first for cricket, Payntr is utilising carbon fibre in a way that many other sports do, most prominently in running.
“The shoe has a carbon fibre powerplate sandwiched inside the midsole, maximising the energy return. Every time you step, the carbon flexes and generates energy from your foot and into your body that will give you that extra pace, while also taking strain away from your body.
“For a fast bowling shoe, it makes sense to use carbon fibre so you can squeeze every last ounce of performance out of it.
“We’ve also encased the front vamp area in something called KPU which is a brilliant material. It’s used a lot in American Football shoes and is really flexible and strong, helping alleviate some of the stress a fast bowler will put their body through. It sits on top of a textile material so you’ve still got that breathability and aesthetic look, but it also doesn’t take away any comfort or add any weight.”
To perfect the 2025 range, Payntr have tapped into the knowledge of a renowned American shoemaker, whose background comes in the creation of golf shoes, meaning they’ve been able to put together a shoe that draws on knowledge from across the
sporting landscape.
“The feedback from the early ventures of the shoes has been unbelievable. While I was quietly confident when we were putting them out there, it’s different when they’re being used on the pitch. The top players need their equipment to be top notch as that’s how they make their living. That’s why I’m so excited to bring this to the cricketing world.”
The Lowdown - The Pro-X Carbon Speed
• 12th extra spike, filling the outsole void to maximise traction
• PIP corkscrew spikes, increasing ground penetration and release speed
• Moulded cast PU upper on a breathable textile base for maximum durability and comfort
• 3D moulded strap to lock the foot down and in position
• 3D moulded insoles
• EVA midsole, tuned for maximum response in performance
• 2 shot TPU outsole with a separate shank support for foot stability
And that's not all
Pro-X Club Spike
• Clarino microfibre upper
• 12th extra spike
• 8/4 spike formation
• 2 shot TPU outsole with separate shank support
• Single density EVA midsole
• Full length tongue wings
• Pebax stability plate
• Moulded memory foam footbed
Pro-X All Rounder
• Full textile mesh upper
• Clarino microfibre overlays on pressure points
• 12th extra spike
• 8/4 spike formation
• Pebax stability plate
• 2 shot TPU outsole with separate shank support
• Full length tongue wings
• Single density EVA midsole
• 3D moulded memory foam footbed
Payntr's Junior Ambassador Programme
Payntr’s commitment to junior cricket at all levels is evidenced by their Junior Ambassador Programme. Designed to inspire and equip young players with the best footwear and accessories, the scheme aims to help the next generation of cricketers grow their passion for the game and enable them to reach their full potential.
They want to foster a community of young athletes, with a view to nurturing talent and making cricket more accessible for all. This investment into the future of the sport will help ensure that aspiring cricketers have the support they need to excel. The programme applies to children at all levels, and comes with perks including a discount on Payntr products. If you’re 17 or under, and love the game, we’d urge you to apply.
WCM says
The roll-out of the Pro-X Carbon Speed shoe for 2025 is a measure, beyond everything else, of a man’s enduring passion. When David Paynter set out in 2017 to make the perfect cricket shoe, his ambition far outstripped his knowhow. Since then he’s navigated a path through the trading chaos caused by Brexit, kept his business afloat through Covid, dealt with shipment issues along the Suez Canal, conducted countless trips to China and the US, consulted hundreds of players, and come out the other side holding aloft a new model which he insists is the company’s most complete creation to date. WCM has backed Paynter’s vision since the start of his journey. In part, in truth, because he’s a good man trying to do a good thing in difficult times. Now it appears to have paid off. The shoe to match his dream has finally arrived.
