Attack the Net with the Best Tennis Shoes | Gear Patrol (2024)

Home / Fitness / Buying Guides

Looking for a new way to stay active? Tennis can be an excellent sport to take up. The game is a ton of fun, and pace of play can be curated to your individual skill set. Plus, it’s a pretty efficient workout with notes of cardiovascular training, agility and endurance strewn across every match point.

Naturally, to get started in this entertaining activity, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment. A racquet and tennis ball are no-brainers, but it’s also wise to invest in a quality pair of tennis shoes, too. You rely on your feet plenty in tennis as you work and slide across the court for each shot. As such, having the right support and traction underfoot can make a huge difference in not just your performance, but your enjoyment within the game itself.

But which tennis shoe is truly king of the court? How do you know which silhouettes are best for certain surfaces, playing styles and other factors? Well, that’s where we come in. Think of us as your doubles partner when it comes to finding the ideal gear for your next weekend match.

How We Tested

Ben Emminger

I’ve been dabbling in tennis for a little while, and it only took my first match with friends to realize that my daily running shoes were severely underpowered atop the court. Since then, I’ve been researching and testing shoes — including a number in this guide — to find the ideal profile based on multiple factors.

Naturally, traction and support were considered when curating this roundup, as well as how durable each profile was over extended use. I also tried to vary my playing style from active and speedy to controlled and defensive in order to get a feel for the perfect kicks for these aesthetics. Finally, if you look good, you play better, so style and shoe design were also top points of emphasis.

Ready to rally, then? Let’s lace up and get into the best tennis shoes available today.

The Best Tennis Shoes

Asics Gel Resolution 9

Asics

BEST OVERALL TENNIS SHOES

Asics Gel-Resolution 9

• $150.00 at Asics

Asics’s Gel technology is one of my favorites in footwear for underfoot cushioning, and I’m happy to say it’s very present in this top-performing tennis shoe, too. The Gel-Resolution 9s employ this responsive yet comfortable tech in the rearfoot and forefoot, which is prime for the start-and-stop nature of play. Additionally, these Asics profiles showcase a Dynawall technology that extends along the side of the midsole and wraps around the heel for extra stability.

I also enjoy the durable, grippy outsole across these tennis sneakers, which employs the brand’s AharPlus rubber for even more toughness and integrity. The fit is snug yet not so much that you can’t wear these for multiple matches in a row. I would recommend kicking these puppies off in-between games, however, as the layered upper can begin to run a little hot under certain conditions.

On Roger Pro

On Running

BEST UPGRADE TENNIS SHOES

On Roger Pro

• $199.99 at On

Unless you lived under a rock in the 2000s and 2010s, you know how much of an impact Roger Federer had on the sport of tennis. The iconic athlete continues to shake up the discipline with his signature collection from On Running. I appreciate the minimalist feel of this profile that lends itself to faster play. Plus, On is a brand known for that visual appeal, and there’s lack of style across this build.

Ben Emminger

The On Roger Pros are definitely designed for more experienced athletes, though, which is showcased by the sneaker’s unique geometry that practically throws you onto the balls of your feet. This can be great when picking up the pace, but prolonged wear can become uncomfortable for the uninitiated. Additionally, I’ve noticed that the outsole can begin to wear even after just a few hours on the court. With such a high price tag to boot, it may be best to reserve these tennis shoes for your wall of sports memorabilia — a little trinket from one of the sport’s finest.

Prince T22

Amazon

BEST BUDGET TENNIS SHOES

Prince T22

• $99.00 at Amazon

The T22s from Prince are excellent kicks for new and experienced players alike due to their impressive comfort and durable makeup. These sneakers boast a wider toe box than other silhouettes in this roundup, too, which makes for a more accommodating fit across multiple foot shapes. I also appreciate the Shock Eraser midsole, which is great for absorbing impact during hard-fought rallies.

The one area that may be a challenge for some athletes, though, is the arch support. There’s not a lot of material at this key area, which may make playing in the T22s a less comfortable experience. Thankfully, this issue can be quickly resolved by employing a worthwhile insole that better suits your footprint. Yes, this alteration can drive up the cost, but with a profile that’s less than $100, you’ll likely have room in your budget for the quick modification.

New Balance Coco CG1

New Balance

BEST UPGRADE PICKLEBALL SHOE

New Balance Coco CG1

• $169.99 at New Balance

Inspired by basketball shoe silhouettes of the 1990s, these mid-cut New Balance tennis shoes serve as the brand’s first signature silhouette for tennis star Coco Gauff. I really enjoy these stylish sneakers as there’s plenty of support and stability across the frame promoting a ton of active matches. I don’t feel like the higher profile limits my abilities on the court, and there’s a good sense of traction underfoot thanks to the NDurance rubber outsole.

Ben Emminger

In fact, there’s almost too much traction, especially when playing on well-kept courts. For example, when I try to slide out of specific shots I can sometimes feel my feet grabbing the hard court, which leads to imbalances across my form. If this is your preferred playing style, you may want to look for a different silhouette. For everyone else? The Coco CG1s should definitely be on your radar.

NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor 11

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST TENNIS SHOES FOR TRACTION

NikeCourt Zoom Vapor 11

• $159.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Looking to really keep your footing when in the throws of a match? Consider the Zoom Vapor 11s from Nike. A chain link-style outsole provides premium grip across your footwork, and I like how the pattern is continued up the medial side of the toe box for extra control during sliding motions. Plus, these low-profile tennis shoes boast an integrated Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for added cushioning and responsiveness.

Overall, the Zoom Vapor 11s are a fairly stable profile for most needs, especially when performing lateral movements thanks to the sturdy sidewall design. I do recommend taking the necessary time pre-match to work your laces into place, however. The eyelets across the lacing system aren’t as smooth, so achieving that optimal lockdown can take some doing.

Adidas Barricade

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST TENNIS SHOES FOR STABILITY

Adidas Barricade

• $159.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

The Adidas Barricade remains a popular profile for tennis athletes thanks to its stunning physique and exceptional stability. A midfoot shank helps create a more rigid feel across the midsole, which promotes a heightened sense of confidence when jumping from side to side across the court. I also appreciate the wraparound tongue design, which helps create that optimal lockdown you’d want in an ultra-sturdy sneaker.

Given the added emphasis on stability in this tennis shoe, it’s understandable that it weighs more than others in this guide, which can lead to comfort issues during play for some. While I don’t view the added weight as an inconvenience, I do caution that these sneakers should be paired with well-cushioned ankle socks. The heel counter is more rigid and unforgiving, so if you’re prone to Achilles discomfort and rubbing, you may want to look elsewhere (or pad up accordingly).

K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST TENNIS SHOES FOR WIDE-FOOTED ATHLETES

K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2

• $109.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

Tennis shoes often feature a narrow fit to help accentuate a locked-in aesthetic, but not all athletes have narrow feet, which can lead to sizing mishaps and uncomfortable scenarios. Thankfully, there are wide-footed options on the market, and few can match the performance in-tote of the Hypercourt Express 2 from K Swiss. The leather-synthetic upper is flexible enough to house a slew of foot shapes and builds, and the lightweight frame can be versatile enough for a number of playing speeds.

Despite this lightweight, versatile composition, the K Swiss Hypercourt Express 2s still have stability in mind, showcased by a midfoot shank and tacky outsole design. These tennis sneakers are fairly priced, too, which is a definite plus considering the upper’s tendency to weaken during extended wear. There’s no external overlays or other protective features, so if you play aggressively, I wouldn’t be surprised if you developed a few extra scuffs and tears.

NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Pro 2

Dick’s Sporting Goods

BEST LIGHTWEIGHT TENNIS SHOES

NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Pro 2

• $129.99 at Dick's Sporting Goods

For quick action on the court, you can’t go wrong with these low-profile Nikes. A modified herringbone pattern across the outsole can be great for tacky traction, and the durable mesh upper helps keep you kicks cool during intense rallies. I also enjoy the Zoom Air cushioning across the midsole, which does a great job of absorbing the shock associated with fast-paced play.

Unfortunately, while the Zoom Vapor Pro 2s are great for speedier performances due to their lightweight nature, that trimmed aesthetic is at the detriment of stability. You really need to be confident in your footwork when playing in these tennis shoes, as there’s fewer components to help keep your steps in-line and protected. I would recommend these sneakers for any intermediate or advanced athlete looking to take their play to quicker levels. For those still figuring out the ins and outs of tennis, though, you may want to opt for a more supportive profile.

New Balance FuelCell 996v5

New Balance

MOST COMFORTABLE TENNIS SHOES

New Balance FuelCell 996v5

• $107.99 at New Balance

  $134.99(20% off)

If you’re looking for that plush on-court sensation, these New Balance FuelCell 996v5s are definitely worth a look. The brand’s FuelCell foam technology is perfect for keeping your footwork comfortable yet energetic, and I appreciate the synthetic-mesh upper that keeps that comfort cloaked across the top of your foot as well. The full-length NDurance outsole is also plenty grippy, so there’s no issues in loss of traction during your next enjoyable game.

Ben Emminger

I also love the style across this silhouette, particularly the Sea Salt with Timber Wolf colorway. It has a good mix of flash and minimalism, and I wish New Balance would add a few more options to the lineup. Oh well, perhaps there’s more in store for this ultra-cozy court king.

Asics Solution Speed FF2

Asics

BEST TENNIS SHOES FOR CLAY COURTS

Asics Solution Speed FF 2

• $140.00 at Asics

I like these Asics tennis shoes for clay environments for two reasons. One, the impressive AsicsGrip outsole provides multi-directional traction that bites into the surface without becoming too caked up. Additionally, the softer clay pairs perfectly to the Solution Speed FF2s lightweight, fast aesthetic. The ground itself is more forgiving, which gives you plenty of room to push the limits of speed and responsiveness.

Because you’re relying on the clay to deliver that cushioning underfoot, I wouldn’t recommend these for extended play on hard courts unless you’re looking for a fast and quick playing sensation. There is some Gel technology in the rearfoot to give your landings some sense of comfort, but I feel there’s more suitable profiles in this roundup for those court conditions. Keep these for the clay and watch your game take off.

How to Choose the Right Tennis Shoes

Fit

Above all else, your tennis shoes should fit well to your specific foot type, but there are some key things to consider when searching for that ideal fit. For one, the added support at the medial and lateral sides of the foot can make for a more rigid sensation at first, but this should break-in and become a non-issue over time.

Additionally, you want to look for tennis shoes with some room in the toe box, but not so much that you find yourself sliding over the shelf of your outsole during cuts and stops. Lastly, a lot of tennis shoes feature a narrower fit to help promote better lockdown overall, so if you have wider digits be sure to pay close attention to sizing charts.

Weight

Because of the emphasis on stability and durability, tennis shoes are oftentimes heavier than your dedicated running shoes or gym shoes. This can leave novice athletes with a clunky feeling underfoot at first, but the extra weight is almost a necessity because of the agility and footwear abuse at play in the sport.

Now, there are lightweight tennis shoes out there that allow for a faster pace of play, but in order to create this more nimble aesthetic, these silhouettes will often sacrifice some durability and stability along the way. Be sure to think through your preferred playing style, how often you play and how much stability you truly need across your footwork before opting for a lighter, more responsive profile.

Durability

When playing on hard courts and cutting constantly from side to side, expect to put some wear and tear on your tennis sneakers. In order to help keep you playing longer with worthwhile kicks, look for silhouettes that are durable enough to withstand the thrashing. Toe and side abrasion guards are popular components to help defend against premature blowout, along with sturdy, abrasion-resistant outsoles.

Your tennis shoe’s upper can also promote extended wear by beefing up the design with thicker, more sturdy textiles in key areas. This isn’t to say you need a full leather profile for optimal play — mesh is still prevalent due to its breathability — but having a little more structure and support is never a bad thing.

Ben Emminger

Support and Flexibility

Tennis is full of lateral movement and rapid changes in direction, so your tennis shoes should provide your feet with plenty of medial and lateral support. This may contribute to some added weight across the silhouette itself, but trust me when I say the extra ounces are worth it if they help prevent a rolled ankle. Stability can also be boosted by a few features including a more narrow fit, rigid midsole shank and tight yet comfortable lacing systems.

While stability is a point of emphasis in tennis sneakers, you don’t want to be playing with bricks on your feet. So, try to find a pair that offers a good mix of flexibility across the upper to help keep your steps nimble and aggressive during matches. More flexibility in a shoe often lends itself to speedier play, too, so if you’re confident in your footwork and want to quicken your pace, you can always opt for a lighter, more flexible profile.

Court Surface

Most public tennis courts are hard concrete or asphalt, so be sure to choose a pair of tennis shoes that can keep you comfortable and agile across the unforgiving surface. For hard court tennis shoes, look for a midsole that is soft yet still energetic enough for rapid, dynamic play. A grippy multi-directional outsole is also a must when looking at hard court tennis shoes.

If you play at a country club that offers clay tennis courts, you should match the surface to your footwear as well. Clay court tennis shoes often feature a herringbone outsole pattern and favor grip over underfoot cushioning. This is because clay is more forgiving than concrete or asphalt, but can loosen and slide if your traction doesn’t match the surface.

Editor’s Note: If you play on clay, be sure to store your tennis shoes in an individual shoe bag. This can help keep clay residue from getting all through your larger tote as you travel from the court to your home.

Related Topics