The 10 Best Men's Tennis Shoes For 2024 - [In Depth Review +Buyers Guide] - Perfect Tennis (2024)

Just like choosing the best tennis racket, when it comes to finding the right tennis shoes, quite a few factors come into play.

Most players tend to have their brand allegiances and colour choices. However, it would be best if you also thought about your foot type (everyone walks and runs a little differently, and different shoes can aid performance/prevent injury), the surface you play on most frequently, your playing style, the size/shape of your foot and finally your budget.

While many recreational players will play in running trainers, you’ll soon realise how quickly they get worn down if you start to play with any frequency.

Proper tennis shoes are designed to withstand significant wear and tear, allowing for a lot of stopping & starting, pivots, slides and lateral movement.

All the shoes I’ve picked below provide extra lateral support, robust materials, plenty of cushioning, decent levels of shock absorption, and reinforced soles/toe guards.

As someone with quite wide feet and a tendency to stub my toe when playing, I’ve tried quite a few different shoes over the years from Nike, Asics, Babolat and Prince in the quest for the perfect shoe, so I’ve been able to test (and continue to do so) a lot of what is on offer.

So, while I haven’t tried every shoe from every manufacturer (I’m slowly working on it), I’ve tried most of the best sellers and a mix of lightweight ‘speed’ orientated shoes and heavier, more durable ones.

As a result, this guide will help you find tennis shoes that provide a good comfort level and agility and won’t fall to pieces after two weeks. So, let’s begin!

My Best All-Rounder For 2024

Are you in a rush to get the best shoe without reading full reviews? The Gel Resolution 9 is recommended for most players as an excellent all-around shoe.

What Makes a Good Tennis Shoe?

A good tennis shoe is not a one-size-fits-all thing (pun intended), as most players value some aspects of a shoe more than others. Some want ultra-lightweight to aid with foot speed; others prefer support to stop themselves from rolling an ankle.

In general, though, most players are looking for a blend of the following properties:

All tennis shoe manufacturers are producing shoes that offer those characteristics. They usually have various product lines that offer all those things in equal amounts as an ‘all-around’ shoe.

Along with specific models that focus more on one area, e.g. durability, at the expense of another, e.g. speed (or lightweight).

An excellent example is the Gel Resolution line, which is designed to be a durable all-rounder compared to the Solution Speed FF, a lightweight shoe. While they are similar in appearance, they are quite different in performance.

Most club players don’t have the luxury of an endorsem*nt deal, and from questions I receive via email, durability tends to be the leading thing players are looking for. Many are often willing to forego some comfort in exchange for not having to get their wallet out at more regular intervals. My picks below are mainly biased towards durability.

Finally, before we get going, here are some general observations about the mainstream brands: it is reasonably well-accepted that Nike shoes, for the most part, tend to be very comfortable and slick-looking but suffer when it comes to durability.

With Adidas, you historically had the Barricade line, which is heavy, super stable, supportive, and very durable but also made the model relatively uncomfortable. On the other end, you have the Ubersonic, which is super light and comfortable but not as stable or durable.

Asics are phenomenal at being very good in almost all aspects performance-wise and are comfortable, which is why they are my tennis shoes.

You then have some lesser-known and, in some cases, cheaper brands that produce excellent quality products, like Lotto, Mizuno, K-Swiss, Babolat and Yonex.

Tip: You Can Save Money By Picking Up Last Years Flagship Shoes

Most of the big brands update their designs on a yearly or bi-yearly basis without really changing the shoe’s performance.

That means the ‘older’ model can often be picked up at knockdown prices; for example, the Court FF 2is still a fantastic shoe and can be picked up at 40% cheaper than the FF 3, which is a bit of a no-brainer.

From time to time, though, there are changes in construction. For example, I think the Gel Resolution 9 is a significant improvement on the Gel Resolution 8. It’s way more comfortable. Would I still buy the eight if the price was right? Yes, but I do prefer the Gel Res 9 overall.

I’ll highlight which area each shoe performs well in and anywhere it’s not up to scratch in all my selections below. I’ll also say whether it’s significantly better than its replacement model.

Quick Comparison of the Best Tennis Shoes Currently on the Market

Here are what I consider to be the best tennis shoes you can buy in 2024.

A Closer Look at My Favourite Tennis Shoes

Let’s take a look at each shoe in a bit more detail. Some picks have also been reviewed in full on a dedicated post, so if they’re on your shortlist and you want more information, click through to read the full review.

Asics Gel Resolution 9 – My Top Tennis Shoe of 2024

The top of my list for 2024 is still the latest iteration of the Asics Gel Resolution line: The Gel Resolution 9.

This is Asics’s more durable model that provides stability and performs exceptionally well. I reviewed the Gel Res 9 at the start of 2023 and found it the best Gel Resolution shoe ever made.

While the Gel Resolution line has long been renowned for its stability and durability, the Gel Resolution 9 takes these attributes to the next level by enhancing flexibility and comfort, arguably some of the best in its class.

The shoe features a more adaptable upper and an expanded Dynawall stability piece near the heel, striking a balance between stability and dynamic movement.

The midsole is layered with cushioning that injects energy into every step and provides the comfort needed for extended play on the court.

With a new separated design, the Asics High Abrasion Rubber compound on the outsole ensures more stable landings. It allows players who move aggressively or slide on hard courts to do so with increased confidence. A six-month outsole durability guarantee also backs this shoe.

The upper is crafted with a full-length Flexion Fit design, now in a checkerboard pattern, which enhances support while maintaining flexibility and improving ventilation. Personal Heel Fit technology securely locks the feet for a stable feel during play.

In the midsole, the FlyteFoam and GEL cushioning in the rear and forefoot provide an exceptionally plush and responsive feel underfoot. The Dynawall Extended technology contributes to greater stability and improved heel support.

The outsole features non-marking AHAR Plus rubber in a modified herringbone tread pattern, including pivot points for enhanced durability and traction on any court surface. The PGuard Toe Protector is a bonus for players prone to toe dragging.

Overall, the Asics Gel Resolution 9 is an ideal choice for tennis players seeking a shoe that combines top-tier stability and durability with improved flexibility and comfort, making it suitable for the rigours of intense court play.

I like this model because comfort is not compromised despite being stable and supportive. This does not usually happen with shoes with this durability level, so it’s a top choice for anyone who plays the game.

Is it considerably better than the Gel Resolution 8? Maybe not significantly, as the Gel Res 8 was a great shoe (previously, it was at the top of this list), but the Gel Res 9 is comfier, and I’d pick it as the winner of the two.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

> Read our full Asics Gel Resolution 9 playtest and review

Asics Court FF 3 – My Second Pick For 2024

I reviewed the Asics Court FF 3 at the start of 2023, and considering I’d been a long-time wearer of the Court FF 2, I was an instant fan of the FF 3.

The Asics Court FF 3 is a top-tier tennis shoe designed to deliver a fast-paced experience, exceptional support, and the stability needed for the most dynamic movements on the court.

Tailored for one of the sport’s most agile players, Novak Djokovic, this shoe features enhancements compared to the FF 2 that increase the outsole’s contact area, ensuring stable landings and reducing physical strain during play.

The shoe’s upper wraps the foot snugly, resembling a glove-like fit, and has been made more breathable than its predecessors, thanks to an open mesh design under the laces.

The FlyteFoam underfoot is remarkably responsive and helps to minimise the shoe’s weight, while the signature GEL technology efficiently absorbs the impact from hard court surfaces.

The upper Court FF 3 comprises a mesh and TPU combination, providing support and stability. PGuard technology on the toe and medial side offers additional protection in high-wear areas.

In the midsole, FlyteFoam provides ultra-lightweight cushioning and support, enhancing the shoe’s overall responsiveness. The Midfoot Trusstic System technology adds rigidity and resists twisting, further increasing stability.

The outsole features a three-piece unit, adding more flexibility and comfort to the shoe. The AHAR Plus rubber outsole, with a modified herringbone tread pattern, is designed to perform excellently on any court surface, making it a versatile choice for different playing conditions. However, there is no durability guarantee on the FF 2.

From speaking to others who have tried it, not everyone likes the mono sock, but it offers a snug feeling, fits the foot tightly, and gives you a connected, bouncy feel to the court despite them sitting higher than some lighter shoes.

The Court FF 3 is one of my top picks, as they’re a great all-around shoe. Comfortable with excellent durability, this new FF 3 feels more cushioned and springy than the previous model.

The negatives would be that they fit tight and are difficult to get on due to that mono sock design.

Are they significantly better than the original Court FF 2? I’d say slightly, but there isn’t a big difference.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

> Read our full Asics Court FF 3 Playtest and Review

Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5 – Lightweight with Decent Durability

Mizuno is a brand I associate more with Golf, but they’ve been making more of an appearance on the ATP Tour of late, sponsoring several players with clothing and footwear.

They are very popular with many doubles players, and Roberto Bautista Agut is probably their most significant singles player. My favourite from their lineup is the Wave Exceed Tour 5,

The best description is that they’re a slightly less beefy and lighter version of the Court FF 3. However, unlike their Asics rival, the Wave Exceed Tour 5 also has a 6-month durability guarantee.

In our playtest, the Exceed Tour 5 stands out with its ultra-lightweight design, providing players with an explosive and comfortable experience on the court. It also comes with the assurance of a 6-month outsole warranty.

A notable upgrade in this version is the integration of Enerzy technology, which enhances the rebound in your step, thereby maximising foot speed.

The shoe’s upper material is exceptionally light and flexible, providing comfort and ample ventilation.

Mizuno’s DuRubber outsole is designed to withstand hard courts’ abrasiveness. Martina, one of our playtesters, noted an added flexibility in the traction, which is particularly beneficial for players who often slide into their shots.

The upper features a lightweight 3-D Solid construction, offering a comfortable fit, durability, and breathability. This design ensures that the shoe remains comfortable even during intense matches.

The PoWnCe technology offers responsive and lightweight cushioning. Additionally, the D-Flex Groove enhances the shoe’s flexibility, aiding in quick pivots and turns.

The outsole is made with DuRubber, which boosts durability in high-impact areas. The modified herringbone pattern of the outsole provides reliable traction on various court surfaces.

Overall, the Wave Exceed Tour 5 is an excellent choice for tennis players seeking a shoe that combines lightweight agility, comfort, and durability for improved on-court performance.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

> Check out our full playtest and review of the Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5

Yonex Power Cushion Eclipsion 4

Yonex’s flagship tennis shoe for stability and durability is the Power Cushion Eclipsion 4, endorsed by professional players Stan Wawrinka and Casper Ruud.

This shoe is specifically crafted to handle aggressive movements on the court while providing the essential comfort needed for prolonged, intense matches.

The Power Cushion Eclipsion 4 strongly emphasises support and stability, aiding players in exerting maximum force during quick movements and ball retrievals.

Incorporating the signature Power Cushion+ technology offers outstanding shock absorption and energy rebound.

The Power Graphite Sheet in the mid-foot area enhances lateral stability without adding extra weight. The outsole is designed with a multidirectional herringbone pattern, using the Endurance Rubber II compound for exceptional traction and high wear resistance.

The shoe’s upper features Double Russel ultra-fine mesh, which is exceptionally lightweight and promotes increased air exchange. The Durable Skin material provides higher wear resistance while maintaining comfort and support. A Heel Stabiliser at the rear of the shoe adds further stability and support, especially during landings.

The Power Cushion+ ensures effective shock absorption and energy return in the midsole. The 3D Power Graphite Drive Sheet, placed in the middle portion of the midsole, is pivotal for maximising lateral stability and aiding forward propulsion during sprints. Feather Bounce Foam, an ultra-lightweight foam, adds extra bounce to the shoe.

The outsole design includes the Roundsole feature, which ensures smooth movements and optimal energy transfer. The Heel Contact Roundsole contributes to softer landings and an effortless heel-to-toe transition. The Endurance Rubber II compound forms the outsole’s modified herringbone pattern, with dense rubber in high-wear areas and a more open tread on the lateral edge to facilitate sliding.

Overall, the Power Cushion Eclipsion 4 is a robust choice for tennis players who demand a shoe that balances stability, support, and durability without compromising comfort.

This is the shoe of choice for one of our playtesters – Martina, who played D1 college. Its well-thought-out features cater to the high demands of competitive play, making it a top pick for serious athletes.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

> Read our full Yonex PC Eclipsion 4 Playtest and Review

Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4.1 – Best Lightweight Shoe

Brought back due to customer demand after Adidas launched the third iteration of their Ubersonic line, the Ubersonic 4.1 s are my favourite lightweight shoe and ideal for players who like a fast, light-footed feeling around the court.

This 4.1 version marks a minor upgrade over the Ubersonic 4, with improvements in comfort, fit, and durability. Taking inspiration from the well-received Ubersonic 2, it offers a glove-like fit and a contoured feel, making it a superior choice for players after a lightweight shoe.

This updated version boasts the Lightstrike material in the midsole, offering enhanced rebound. It’s softer and more responsive than its predecessors, significantly boosting comfort and agility during play.

The lightweight Primeknit upper ensures maximum comfort and support, and the improved lacing system enhances comfort over the top of the foot.

Additionally, the heel padding has been upgraded to be more plush than before, adding to the overall luxurious feel of the shoe. The drag protection on the medial side and around the toe box has been reinforced, increasing the shoe’s durability, especially in high-wear areas.

The upper is supported by a second layer of woven Primegreen material for added stability during directional changes. The Adituff recycled materials, made from recycled boost compounds, are strategically placed in areas prone to wear for enhanced durability.

The outsole incorporates the Adiwear rubber compound in a modified herringbone tread pattern, ensuring reliable traction and durability on various court surfaces.

I put these shoes a bit lower down in the list as I value the Gel Resolution 9’s durability more. However, many players think durable-oriented shoes leave them feeling sluggish around the court, especially on surfaces like clay that aren’t so harsh on the soles.

This isn’t the case with the Ubersonic 4.1s, as speed and efficiency are excellent. Some players’ only drawback will be the sock fit and no tongue, making them harder to get for some foot types.

They also run slightly narrow, so it’s not ideal for wider feet.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

Diadora Speed B.Icon

As a long-time fan of the Diadora Blueshield 5, when the Italian brand launched the Speed B.Icon as their most performance-orientated tennis shoe, I was keen to try it out.

As you can see, it’s made my best-of list, and after testing, I can confidently say the Speed B.Icon is a performance, streamlined tennis shoe built more for speed and has a pretty interesting design.

The most eye-catching thing about the design is the external TPU stabiliser where the lace loops through. I thought that was purely aesthetic at first, but it is there to help provide lateral control and stability without needing to put stiffer plastic inside the shoe, which can make it stiff and uncomfortable.

I also like how the lace eyelets let the laces come over the shoe to lock in your heel and ankle, offering plenty of stability and support.

The soles are also attractive; while they have quite a broad grip area, a breakpoint under the big toe allows you to bend in the shoe when pivoting quickly.

This tapered channel seems to do a good job of bending more on the outside when you push from the outer part of your foot but staying firmer when pivoting under your big toe joint.

In terms of a break-in period, there’s a small one around the forefoot area, but the foam is super soft from the outset, so it will likely depend on your foot shape. I was also impressed at the arch support on offer in a ‘speed’ shoe of this nature.

The best way to sum up the Speed B.Icon is that it’s a ‘minimalist’ type speed shoe but feels much more supportive.

Overall, I am a big fan of their lateral stability, and my ability to push off when defending while still feeling speedy makes them a great package.

Any negatives?

For hardcore sliders and toe draggers, there is quite a bit of exposed foam on the shoes that might see you burn through it quickly. I’m not a slider, so it’s not an issue for me, but it’s something to be aware of.

The overall design and colours aren’t the most attractive either, but that’s always been the case with Diadora shoes, in my opinion. Function trumps aesthetics on tennis gear, though.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2

The KSwiss Hypercourt Express 2 is a shoe that aims to offer the agility of a running shoe while being able to stand up to the inevitable wear and tear of tennis.

In the second iteration, she is lighter and nimble and offers all-around comfort and a wider fit, making it a perfect choice for players who value speed and comfort.

The upper construction has been refined to be more flexible while providing ample support, allowing players to maximise their footwork without sacrificing stability.

The upper combines synthetic materials and mesh, ensuring both comfort and breathability. DuraWrap Flex technology is integrated to enhance the shoe’s flexibility.

Additional protection is provided in the toe area to increase durability. An Ortholite liner is included for extra cushioning, contributing to the shoe’s overall comfort.

In the midsole, Surgelite material offers added comfort and shock absorption while reducing the shoe’s overall weight for a speedier feel. A midfoot shank is included to provide added stability and prevent unwanted twisting during quick movements.

The outsole is crafted from non-marking Aosta 7.0 rubber, featuring a full herringbone tread pattern. This design ensures excellent traction and good durability, particularly suited for the challenges of clay court play.

Overall, the KSwiss Hypercourt Express 2 is an excellent choice for tennis players who seek a shoe that combines the speed and agility of a running shoe with the comfort and stability needed for high-performance play on clay courts.

It’s worth noting that the shoes fit very low around the ankle. Martina positively received this in our playtest as she doesn’t like irritation or the potential for blisters around the ankle. However, some users prefer a higher fit that makes them feel more secure.

They’re also a low arch shoe, so

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

> Read our KSwiss Hypercourt Express 2 playtest and review.

New Balance CT Rally

The New Balance CT Rally is a rebrand of the Lav tennis shoe, which has been on this list since 2020.

The Lav was initially made for Milos Raonic as the Canadian’s grandfather gave him that nickname (Serbian for Lion) when he was a kid.

However, Milos has suffered injuries recently, and his career is drawing to a close, which is probably why they chose to rename it.

Regardless of naming, the CT Rally represents the pinnacle of stability and durability, which is now further enhanced with Fresh Foam X technology in the midsole for added comfort.

While the New Balance CT Rally has a midsole and outsole similar to the Lav V2, there are notable differences in the upper design, including a distinct toe guard, tongue/lacing system, and heel counter.

I’m a big fan of New Balance as they offer a lot of shoes in 2E Wide versions for players seeking a more accommodating fit without sacrificing performance, and you can get the CT Rally in 2E and D widths.

The reinforced heel counter improves fit around the heel and ankle, while the shoe’s overall design boasts exceptional wear resistance, particularly suited for the abrasive nature of hard courts.

The NDure upper adds to the shoe’s durability, and the external frame in the heel and forefoot areas boosts stability and provides a secure, locked-in feel.

The midsole’s Fresh FoamX is thoughtfully designed with larger hexes in the heel for added cushioning and smaller hexes in the forefoot for increased stability, striking a perfect balance between comfort and responsiveness.

On the outsole, the NDurance rubber in a modified herringbone tread pattern delivers exceptional traction and durability on various court surfaces, though it is really for hardcourts. The six-month NDurance outsole guarantee also supports the sole.

One area the shoe disappoints is that it’s not the best-looking tennis shoe out there. The CT Rally’s design gives off a retro vibe, but I’ve noticed comments comparing it to traditional New Balance ‘dad’ styles, which could be a hit or miss, depending on personal preference.

One dislike some players had of the Lav 2 was its flexibility in the arch area, which wasn’t ideal for everyone, especially those requiring more support. However, the CT Rally addresses this issue and is a more stable package.

Overall, this shoe is a step up from the Lav V2, and along with Coco Gauff’s shoes, New Balance has a stellar lineup. While its design might evoke mixed feelings, its durability and performance are a deserved addition to this best-of list.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour

Mizuno introduces their premium tennis shoe, the Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour, a perfect match for players who prioritise stability, support, and durability on the court. This shoe comes with a reassuring 6-month outsole durability guarantee.

Specially crafted for dynamic, powerful players, the Wave Enforce Tour ensures a high degree of support and stability, essential for confident movement.

It’s designed to be more robust, stable, and durable than the Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 5, yet it retains a lightweight feel, avoiding any sense of being bogged down.

The midsole strikes an excellent balance, offering ample comfort underfoot while maintaining a responsive feel that aids in quick sprints. A key feature is Mizuno’s signature DuRubber outsole, which stands up well to the demands of hard courts. It provides the perfect mix of grip and flexibility, especially suited for players who frequently slide on hard court surfaces.

The shoe’s upper part is constructed with a lightweight 3-D Solid upper, ensuring a comfortable fit, durability, and breathability. An internal sleeve connected to the tongue delivers outstanding comfort and a glove-like fit.

The midsole is engineered with Enerzy high-rebound material, maximising energy return with every stride. The PoWnCe technology offers lightweight and responsive cushioning. Additionally, the Mizuno Wave feature enhances the lateral stability of the shoe and provides excellent shock absorption, distributing energy more evenly upon foot strike.

For the outsole, DuRubber is used to increase durability in high-impact areas. The modified herringbone pattern offers excellent traction on any court surface. A lateral outrigger is also included, providing a more powerful base and maximising lateral stability for aggressive movements. A six-month outsole durability guarantee backs this shoe.

The Wave Enforce Tour is an excellent option for serious tennis players who need a shoe to keep up with their intensity and agility on the court.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

Diadora Speed Blushield Torneo 2

The Diadora Blushield Torneo 2 is the Italian brand’s number one shoe for stability and durability, and this second version introduces an enhanced level of comfort.

The highlight of this edition is Diadora’s DNATTIVO insole, which significantly elevates the plush feel underfoot, ensuring both comfort and performance.

The D-Skin upper material of the Blushield Torneo 2 is meticulously designed to hug the foot, maximising support uniformly.

It combines air mesh with a net skin overlay for optimal ventilation and durability. The inclusion of light EVA foam in the midsole contributes to reducing the overall weight of the shoe, while the Blushield technology provides exceptional energy return and shock absorption, crucial for intense tennis matches.

The CCB medial stabiliser in the shoe offers reliable foot lockdown during quick directional changes, enhancing the overall stability.

The upper features D-Skin technology integrates Air Mesh for breathability and Net Skin for supportive fit. Suprelltech adds a layer of comfort and stability, making the shoe suitable for rigorous play.

The outsole is crafted from the Duratech 5000 rubber compound and set in a modified herringbone pattern. This design offers optimal traction and reasonable durability on all court surfaces, making the shoe versatile for various playing conditions.

This shoe is tailored to meet the demands of high-performance play, ensuring that players can perform at their best with confidence and comfort. The wide version also means this shoe is one of the best choices for players with wide feet and can work well for those with high arches.

Pros

Cons

Lacoste AG-LT 23 Ultra

With several top players on their roster, including Daniil Medvedev, Lacoste has elevated their premium performance tennis shoe with the latest iteration, the Lacoste AG-LT 23 Ultra AC.

While pretty stylish, the first version of this shoe was middle-of-the-road when it came to performance, but the second version sits comfortably on this list as one of the best tennis shoes on the market.

The AG-LT 23 Ultra AC achieves excellent stability thanks to the midsole, equipped with a robust chassis and a heel stabiliser working in concert with the integrated cage system in the upper. Collectively, these elements ensure a stable and secure fit during intense play.

Lacoste has employed a woven mesh upper, a lightweight foam in the midsole, and a dual midsole construction to balance this stability with speed. This design significantly reduces the weight in the middle region of the sole, contributing to the shoe’s overall agility.

The moulded rubber toe guard is a key protective feature which safeguards against wear from toe dragging. The outsole is crafted with a grip-enhancing rubber compound, offering excellent traction and durability on various court surfaces.

The shoe’s upper is made from a lightweight leno weave TPU mesh, striking a perfect balance between support, durability, and comfort. The Lacoste Super Responsive Foam (LSR) in the midsole, comprising lightweight Pebax ETPU under the forefoot, ensures comfort and energy return, vital for maintaining performance throughout the game.

While no durability is guaranteed, the outsole features a modified herringbone pattern with Linegrip rubber compound, providing multidirectional traction and durability on diverse court surfaces. That’s one area I think it could improve as it’s not as durable.

But outside of the sole, after using the LG AG-LT23 tennis shoes, I’d say they’re some of the best tennis shoes I’ve ever worn.

After being a bit disappointed with the first version, I didn’t think Lacoste would be on this list anytime soon, but the LG AG-LT23 is equal to the likes of the Gel Res 9 and FF 3 in terms of comfort and performance.

My standout feature would be the cushioning—not too soft or firm. The shoe feels far more cushioning than it does, so you get that comfort but are still very low to the ground due to their Pebax foam.

It provides the necessary support during quick lateral movements and long matches. I’ve worn it on different court surfaces and found that it adapts well, maintaining a good grip and stability.

Overall, this shoe combines style, durability, and exceptional functionality, making it an ideal choice for tennis players at any level. However, it’s important to note that they run a bit small. I recommend sizing up to ensure a better fit.

Pros

Cons

Fit Details

Wildcard Pick: New Balance Coco CG1

Coco Gauff’s signature shoe, the New Balance Coco CG1, features a ’90s vibe and basketball inspirations that are evident at first sight.

But outside of the design angle, the shoe has some decent features that make it a good choice for players who like a dynamic response.

New Balance has included an Energy Arc technology, featuring a carbon fibre plate seen in many running shoes, marking its first appearance in tennis footwear to enhance energy return.

This shoe is designed with unisex sizing, and sizes are listed in men’s measurements. Women interested in purchasing this shoe should consider sizing down by one and a half sizes for an optimal fit.

The upper is crafted from Fit Weave Lite woven materials, providing a supportive and secure lockdown feel, complemented by the saddle gore band that enhances stability on lateral movements.

The outsole offers multi-surface functionality, making the shoe a versatile choice for players at all levels and ensuring adequate traction on all court surfaces. This feature is also reinforced by New Balance’s NDurance 6-month outsole durability guarantee.

I’ve included these as a wildcard shoe as they divide opinion.

They are pretty good all-around shoes as they can work for those who like lightweight mover shoes but also pack excellent stability.

However, depending on the type of shoe you typically like, some people will find them clunky basketball shoes, so I’d recommend buying them from somewhere that offers some exchange if you’re unhappy.

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Fit Details

Other Worthy Contenders

The following tennis shoes are ones I have not yet tested but have seen score well in playtests and received positive feedback on various forums like Reddit, Talktennis, Facebook, etc.

Why No Nike Shoes on the List?

In previous years, my top 10 tennis shoe list has always featured at least one pair of Nike tennis shoes, most recently the Nike Air Zoom Vapor X, which I liked.

I was a long-time wearer of the Nike Vapor 9.5. Primarily for the slick-looking design, I think they’re one of the best-looking shoes on the market.

Nike briefly brought those shoes back in 2023, but they’re unavailable now. Instead, it’s the Vapor Pro, and I don’t think they’re that good.

I got a pair to review but was not a massive fan of the new Vapor Pro. The price: performance isn’t outstanding, and I decided to remove it from the list and replace it with the Lacoste shoes, which are a better buy.

I get the feeling Nike has lost its way with tennis shoes over recent years, and it doesn’t seem to be a massive area of focus for them. They definitely make stylish tennis footwear, but durability seems to decrease year on year, yet the price only goes upward, so I can’t recommend them.

If you can stomach the durability, the Vapor 11 is lightweight and gives an excellent low-to-the-ground feel, but you’ll need to replace them often.

What About The Best Tennis Shoes For Women?

This article primarily focuses on men’s tennis shoes, the models I have tested. However, most of my picks have a women’s version, which is identical in performance, so the selections also apply to the ladies.

If you are a lady with wide feed, you should also test the men’s shoes as they’re typically a touch wider, so you can find comfort without having to track down 2E or D-width women’s shoes.

Final Thoughts

So here are my top tennis shoe picks for 2024; I hope you found them helpful regardless of your game level.

I tried to highlight some of the general quirks or tendencies that brands have in having two different models: the heavier, more stable, supportive, and more durable ones and the lighter, faster, more comfortable, but less stable version.

I hope you picked up how all of the different brands have standard features regardless of what marketing spin they put on them.

If you want comfort from your shoes, I suggest you go with Asics or Lacoste—particularly the Gel Resolution 9.

Again, the Asics Gel Resolution 9 is a good option for durability, stability, and support if you want durable, comfortable shoes.

The Court FF 3s are 3s for narrow feet, as the new lacing system allows them to pull very tight. People with wider feet would probably feel most comfortable wearing New Balance shoes, especially in the 2E width.

As a final recommendation, I would say, if in doubt, get the Asics Gel Resolution 9. They are the best model on this list and more suited to most players.

Many players on the lower levels of the tour who are not sponsored choose to wear the Gel Res line despite having many other options, so that is a decisive vote of confidence.

Finally, the most crucial takeaway is that there is no perfect shoe; you must compromise in one area or another at some point.

You can sometimes get close to finding the best fit as there are so many options, but chances are you’ll search for more comfort, stability or cushioning as tennis is hard on the feet.

Go to a store (try to support your local tennis shop if you can), try some on, and if you want the best possible price, you can always shop online to find the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tennis shoes for wide feet and excellent support?

Generally, New Balance and K-Swiss shoes are well suited for wider feet. I have pretty wide feet, and I’ve had issues with Asics or Nike Vapors.

What other shoe brands offer good options that you haven’t tried?

I’ve heard many good things about Lotto shoes, particularly their Raports, but they are hard to find, especially in the USA. Artengo shoes are also worth a look at.

I am looking for a low-to-the-ground shoe with good cushioning; which models have these characteristics?

I’d picI’dsics shoes; they will give you plenty of cushioning whilst low to the ground. The Court FF 3 is a good pick. If you prefer other shoes, using an insert is also a great idea to add cushioning.

Is speed or stability more important in a tennis shoe?

Most of the time, there will be a compromise as light/fast shoes usually will not be as stable as heavy shoes, but I find that the Asics Gel Resolution 9 has the best of both worlds and, therefore, is the best shoe to use. But if I had to choose one, it would be stability because I think it is essential to feel safe changing direction.

Which tennis shoes are best for weekend club players and are also cheap?

Asics Gel Challenger 14 would be my pick. But the best option is to buy the previous shoe model in the sale, e.g. the Asics Court FF 2, if you can still find them. I would also look at some of Artengo’s shoes from Decathlon.

Have you got any Questions?

Leave a comment below or contact me, and I’ll get to you, typically within 48 hours.

If you have any feedback on any of the shoes above from your experiences, let me know in the comments.