Are you ready to step up your game on the tennis court? Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, finding the best tennis shoes for men is essential for optimal performance and comfort. In this article, we'll dive into the key factors that make a good tennis shoe, explore the top-rated options on the market, and even take a closer look at some worthy contenders. So, lace up your shoes and get ready to dominate the court with the best tennis shoes at your feet.
Characteristics of a High-Quality Tennis Shoe
Tennis shoes are not one-size-fits-all. Different players prioritize different aspects of a shoe. Some prioritize foot speed and prefer lightweight shoes, while others prioritize support to prevent ankle injuries.
However, most players look for a combination of the following properties in their tennis shoes:
- Comfort
- Durability
- Stability
- Support
- Traction
A great example of this is the Gel Resolution line, which is designed to be a durable all-rounder, compared to the Solution Speed FF, which is a lightweight shoe. While these models may look similar, they have distinct differences in performance.
Most recreational players do not have endorsement deals and prioritize durability based on the questions I receive via email. Many players are willing to sacrifice a bit of comfort for a shoe that lasts longer. Therefore, my recommendations below are biased towards durability.
Before we delve further into specific shoe recommendations, it's worth noting some general observations about mainstream brands. Nike shoes are generally very comfortable and visually appealing but tend to have durability issues. Adidas historically had the Barricade line, which offered great stability and durability but lacked comfort. On the other hand, their Ubersonic line was light and comfortable but lacked stability and durability. Asics, in my opinion, excels in almost all aspects of performance and offers exceptional comfort, making them my preferred choice for tennis shoes.
In addition to these popular brands, there are lesser-known and sometimes more affordable brands like Lotto, Mizuno, K-Swiss, Babolat, and Yonex that produce high-quality tennis shoes.
All the shoes I have tested are suitable for all court surfaces, as I primarily play on hard courts. Most of these models also have clay court versions that perform equally well. The only significant difference is the sole, which is designed differently to provide better traction on clay courts.
Tennis Shoe Outsole
The outermost layer of rubber on a tennis shoe's sole provides lasting durability and traction. Some players prefer a firm grip, while others prefer a bit of give for sliding and quick stops.
Specifications
| Size | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch Support | Medium |
| Weight | 14.8 ounces @ size 10.5 |
| Colors | Black/Hot Pink White/Black Steel Blue/White Tuna Blue/White |
Most Comfortable: Yonex Sonicage 2
What we love: We've always been fans of Yonex's Power Cushion shoes, and the Sonicage 2 incorporates both Power Cushion and Hyer msLite cushioning for a plush and responsive ride. The flexible uppers enhance the overall comfort. The men's version also comes in a wide fit. Read our full men's review.
Ratings
The Nike Vapor Pro 2 is a follow-up to the Nike Air Zoom Vapor Pro. It's a unique release because Nike has increased the shoe's weight to prioritize comfort, which was one of the downsides of the previous model.
The outsole features a modified herringbone-style tread that strikes a balance between grip for traction and give for sliding, preventing foot lock-up during hard stops.
Similar to the Vapor 11, the Vapor Pro 2 has a single zoom air unit in the forefoot for shock absorption and retains a low-to-the-ground feel. The full-length EVA foam midsole ensures comfort.
The upper is constructed with durable mesh for breathability, asymmetrical lacing for added support, and a stretchy internal sleeve for a sock-like fit.
Compared to the Vapor 11s, the Vapor Pro 2 is lighter, weighing 8% less or 1.2 ounces lighter in a men's size 10.5. The Vapor Pro 2 also features a durable rubber toe cap for added protection with toe drags. However, the Vapor 11 offers more stability during lateral movements.
Order the Nike Vapor Pro 2 here.
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Lav V2 Hard Court Tennis Shoe - White
The New Balance Lav Fresh Foam 2 Court Tennis Shoes are designed to provide comfort, support, and stability on the tennis court. These shoes feature New Balance's Fresh Foam cushioning technology, which offers a plush and responsive feel with every step. The synthetic and mesh upper provides breathability and durability, while the NDurance outsole offers excellent traction and durability. The lace-up closure ensures a secure fit, and the padded collar and tongue enhance overall comfort. Whether you're playing casually or competitively, these shoes offer a comfortable and reliable option for your tennis game.
Pros:
- New Balance's Fresh Foam cushioning technology provides plush and responsive comfort
- Synthetic and mesh upper offers breathability and durability
- NDurance outsole provides excellent traction and durability
- Padded collar and tongue enhance overall comfort
- Some online users found the sizing to be inaccurate for wide shoes
- Heel cushioning may wear out faster than expected
- Some users found the Fitweave upper uncomfortable and caused friction issues
Top Players Using
- Novak Djokovic
- Borna Coric
Best Men's Overall Tennis Shoe: adidas Barricade
What we love: The adidas Barricade has a legendary reputation for stability and durability. The latest version of the Barricade, released in late 2021, maintains these qualities while being lighter and faster. Unlike previous models that required extensive break-in, these new shoes are more comfortable right out of the box. Read the full review.
Best Women's Overall: adidas Avacourt
What we love: The adidas Avacourt is specifically designed for women tennis players. The designers at adidas extensively analyzed and studied the demands of women of all ages, playing levels, shapes, and sizes on the tennis court. Based on their research, they created a tennis shoe that combines style and performance. Our playtesters found these shoes to be comfortable, supportive, and stylish. Read the full review.
Like many other Diadora tennis shoes, the B.Icons are extremely comfortable. The shoes provide excellent cushioning and are ideal for long hours on the court. Our playtests did reveal some cosmetic wear, but both men and women gave these shoes rave reviews. Read the men's review and women's review.
What we love: The adidas Barricade is renowned for its stability and durability. Even the lighter models, like the current version, provide ample stability and durability for hard court players.
The Raptor 100 quickly became a staff favorite during our playtests. This new offering from Lotto received top scores in stability and durability from our team. The cushioning was also impressive. This model is available in men's sizes only, and we believe it won't disappoint.
The Prince T22 has been on the market for several years and has gained a dedicated fanbase. These shoes are highly stable and come with a six-month durability guarantee. They are also a great option for players with wider feet.
Asics Gel Resolution 9 - White/Restful Teal
The ASICS Gel-Resolution 9 tennis shoes are designed to provide stability, comfort, and durability on the court. They feature Gel cushioning for excellent shock absorption and Trusstic System technology for enhanced support during lateral movements. The Flexion Fit upper ensures a snug fit, and the AHAR Plus outsole offers superior traction and durability. These shoes are suitable for both recreational players and competitive athletes.
Pros:
- Provides stability, comfort, and durability in vibrant colorways
- Gel cushioning system offers excellent shock absorption
- Trusstic System technology enhances support during lateral movements
- Flexion Fit upper provides a snug and secure fit
- AHAR Plus outsole offers enhanced traction and durability
- May require some break-in time for optimal comfort
- Priced slightly higher compared to other tennis shoe brands
- Runs narrow, so might not suit wider feet
Quick Comparison of the Best Tennis Shoes Currently Available
Here are what I consider to be the best tennis shoes you can buy in 2022.
Babolat Propulse Fury 3 All Court Men
Best Tennis Shoes for Aggressive Players
Grass Courts
Nowadays, grass courts are not as common as other types of court surfaces. However, if you have the opportunity to play on grass regularly, there are a few important things to consider.
One key characteristic of grass courts is their slippery nature. To maximize traction, tennis players wear shoes with flatter soles that are covered in small studs or pimples.
It's important to note that these studs or pimples on tennis shoes must be subtle to prevent damage to the courts. Prestigious clubs like Wimbledon have strict rules regarding this design.
Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find grass court tennis shoes with the studded design due to low demand.
The term "break-in" refers to whether a new pair of shoes will cause discomfort when worn for an extended period of time or during aggressive play right out of the box.
Modern tennis shoes usually do not require a break-in period for comfort. However, some players find it helpful to exercise caution when wearing new shoes to avoid issues like blisters.
To break in a new pair of tennis shoes, you can wear them casually off the court for a few days or during shorter practice sessions. This helps to loosen up the shoe's materials and make them more comfortable.
If a shoe continues to cause discomfort even after a few practices, it may not be well suited for your feet.
Tennis socks are often overlooked but they can greatly impact a player's comfort and reduce the likelihood of blisters.
Athletic socks are usually more durable than regular socks, providing extra cushioning and moisture-wicking properties.
There are various materials used to make tennis socks, such as cotton, polyester, nylon, acrylic, lycra, spandex, Teflon, Profilen, and Olefin. When purchasing socks, consider the materials used and how they may affect performance.
If comfort is a priority, look for socks with added padding in the toes, forefoot, arches, and heels. Moisture-control and breathable socks can also help keep your feet dry.
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to which socks are best for players, but they are worth considering.
To make it easier for you to find a great pair of tennis shoes, I have narrowed down and reviewed my top ten picks for men's tennis shoes in 2023.
For a quick comparison, here is an overview of each shoe's comfort, stability, durability, traction, ventilation, and their average rating:
| Men's Tennis Shoes | Comfort | Stability | Durability | Traction | Ventilation | Average |
| Asics Court FF 3 | 9.4 | 9.3 | 9.1 | 9.0 | 8.4 | 9.04 |
| Nike Vapor Pro 2 | 8.9 | 8.7 | 8.5 | 9.0 | 9.4 | 8.90 |
| Asics Gel Resolution 9 | 9.3 | 8.9 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 8.2 | 8.88 |
| KSwiss HyperCourt Express 2 | 8.9 | 8.9 | 8.9 | 8.7 | 8.5 | 8.78 |
| Asics Solution Speed FF 2 | 9.1 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.4 | 8.72 |
| Nike Zoom Vapor 11 | 8.6 | 8.9 | 7.9 | 8.9 | 9.2 | 8.70 |
| Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.5 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 8.68 |
| New Balance 996 v5 | 8.7 | 8.6 | 8.4 | 8.8 | 8.7 | 8.64 |
| Adidas Adizero Cybersonic | 8.5 | 8.6 | 8.4 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 8.60 |
| Fila Axilus 2.5 Energized | 8.5 | 8.6 | 8.6 | 8.6 | 8.6 | 8.58 |
| New Balance Lav v2 | 8.7 | 8.6 | 8.3 | 8.6 | 8.7 | 8.58 |
| Adidas Barricade | 8.2 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 8.3 | 8.58 |
| Nike Air Zoom Vapor Cage 4 | 8.5 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.7 | 8.3 | 8.58 |
| Nike React Vapor NXT | 8.3 | 8.3 | 8.7 | 8.8 | 8.5 | 8.52 |
| Babolat Jet Mach III | 8.5 | 8.4 | 8.6 | 8.6 | 8.4 | 8.50 |
The best men's tennis shoe for 2023 is the Asics Court FF. This shoe excels in various aspects and is a favorite of Novak Djokovic, one of the greatest tennis players of all time.
The outsole of the Court FF features Asics' durable AHAR rubber, which provides excellent traction with a herringbone-like tread pattern designed specifically for hard courts.
The midsole incorporates Asics' proprietary FlyteFoam, offering exceptional comfort. Asics claims that FlyteFoam provides 76 percent better cushioning while being 55 percent lighter than standard EVA foam. Additionally, the shoe utilizes Gel Technology for effective shock absorption.
The upper of the Court FF features a bootie design that is extremely comfortable. While it could offer more breathability and flexibility, it is overall a great design.
Overall, the Asics Court FF 3 is a premium tennis shoe that is expected to remain one of the top choices for the foreseeable future.
Order the Asics Court FF3
Other Worthy Contenders
The following tennis shoes are highly regarded in playtests and have received positive feedback on various forums such as Reddit, Talktennis, and Facebook.
- Adidas SoleCourt Primeblue
- New Balance 996v4
- Wilson Rush Pro 2.5
- Lotto Mirage 100 SPD
- KSwiss Hypercourt Supreme
Not sure which tennis shoe is right for your foot? Try using our easy-to-use tennis shoe comparison tool. It allows you to narrow down your search by width, arch, length, weight, and durability guarantee, helping you find the perfect pair of shoes.
FIND YOUR NEW TENNIS SHOES
In previous years, my top 10 tennis shoe list always included at least one pair of Nike shoes, such as the Nike Air Zoom Vapor X, which I personally liked.
I used to wear the Nike Vapor 9.5 for its sleek design, as I believe it is one of the most stylish shoes on the market.
However, both of these models are no longer available, and they have been replaced by the Air Zoom Vapor Pro, which was released in early 2021.
I have reviewed the Vapor Pro, but I am not particularly impressed with its price-performance ratio after a few weeks of testing. Therefore, I decided to remove it from the list and replace it with the Asics Solution Speed FF 2, which offers better value.
It seems that Nike has lost its focus on tennis shoes in recent years. While they still produce stylish footwear, the durability seems to be decreasing each year, yet the prices continue to rise. Due to this, I cannot confidently recommend Nike shoes.
If you can tolerate the lower durability, the Vapor Pro is lightweight and provides a great low-to-the-ground feel. However, you will need to replace them frequently.
A Detailed Look at My Favorite Tennis Shoes
Let's examine each tennis shoe in more detail. Some of these shoes have been extensively reviewed on a separate post, so if you're interested in more information, click the link to read the full review.
Asics Court FF 2 - My Top Pick for 2022
CHECK LATEST PRICE
I reviewed the Asics Court FF 2 in late 2019, and they quickly became my favorite tennis shoe, replacing my long-term pair of Gel Resolution 7's. Novak Djokovic also prefers these shoes, and they feature a mono sock design that provides a secure fit and enhances the connection to the court. Some players may not like the mono sock, but it offers a snug feel and easy on-off access, despite sitting slightly higher than lighter shoes. The Court FF 2 is my top pick because it's a versatile shoe with excellent comfort, durability, and no break-in time required. While it slightly outperforms the original Court FF, some players may still prefer the softer upper of the Court FF 1, especially at a discounted price.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Great support and stability
- Above-average durability
Cons
- Some players might prefer a softer/less plastic upper
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | None |
| Weight | 387g (Size US 9 / UK 8 / EU 42) |
Read Full Asics Court FF 2 Review
Asics Gel Resolution 8 - Comparable to the Court FF 2
CHECK LATEST PRICE
Next on my list is the latest version of Asics Gel Resolution line, the Gel Resolution 8. This model is designed for durability and performs exceptionally well. The Gel Resolution 8 offers the best combination of stability, durability, and comfort in the market. It addresses some of the concerns players had with the Gel Resolution 7, particularly regarding comfort and toe box narrowness. Despite its durability-focused design, the Gel Resolution 8 remains comfortable and provides ample support. While it slightly outperforms the Gel Resolution 7, the previous model is still a good option, especially at a discounted price.
Pros
- Very comfortable
- Great support and stability
- 6-month outsole warranty
Cons
- Not the most breathable shoe
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | Slight |
| Weight | 405g (Size US 9 / UK 8 / EU 42) |
Read Full Asics Gel Resolution 8 Review
Adidas adizero Ubersonic 4 - Best Lightweight Shoe
CHECK LATEST PRICE
The Adidas adizero Ubersonic 4 is perfect for players who prefer a fast and light-footed feeling on the court. While it ranks third on my list, I value the durability of the Gel Resolution 8 more. However, for players who find durable-oriented shoes to be sluggish on the court, especially on clay surfaces, the Ubersonic 4 is an excellent choice. It offers exceptional speed and efficiency. The only drawback is the sock fit and lack of a tongue, which may make it harder for some foot types to put on.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Excellent comfort
- Good stability despite being lightweight
Cons
- Sock construction makes them harder to put on
- Some players find the laces too thin (easily replaceable)
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | None |
| Weight | 352g (Size US 9 / UK 8 / EU 42) |
Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 4 - Lightweight with Decent Durability
CHECK LATEST PRICE
Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 4 provides a lightweight option with decent durability. Although Mizuno is more commonly associated with golf, their tennis shoes have gained popularity on the ATP Tour. The Exceed Tour 4 is easily accessible and offers solid support and traction in a lightweight package. It provides above-average durability compared to similar speed/performance-oriented shoes, making it a more lightweight version of the Gel Resolution 7 or 8. Mizuno suggests going half a size down for their shoes.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Excellent comfort
- Good stability despite being lightweight
Cons
- Some players experience heel slippage and need to lace tightly
- They are quite stiff and require a break-in period
Fit Details
| Length | Long |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | Slight |
| Weight | 326g (Size US 9 / UK 8 / EU 42) |
Babolat Jet Mach III - Comfortable from the Start
CHECK LATEST PRICE
Babolat, known for their tennis racquets and natural gut strings, also offers high-quality tennis shoes. The Babolat Jet Mach III stands out as a comfortable shoe right out of the box with no break-in required. It features a supportive upper with aramid and polyamide, providing stability and comfort. The improved Michelin DIN20 outsole enhances durability compared to the Jet Mach II. While it may not be as speedy as the Jet Mach II model, the Jet Mach III offers improved durability and is a suitable choice for players who prioritize comfort.
Pros
- Great for hard courts
- Ample support
- Improved cushioning compared to the Jet Mach II
Cons
- Runs slightly small, not suitable for wide feet. Consider going half or a full size up.
- No durability guarantee like other brands
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | None |
| Weight | 343g (Size US 10.5 / UK 9.5 / EU 44) |
Yonex Power Cushion Eclipsion 3
CHECK LATEST PRICE
The Yonex Power Cushion Eclipsion 3 is the go-to shoe for Stan Wawrinka and Casper Ruud, and it's known for its support, stability, and durability. While it offers excellent stability and support, it may not be the most durable option compared to other shoes in this guide. The Power Graphite Drive plate provides stability, but it also makes the shoe moderately rigid and narrow, requiring some break-in time. The multi-directional herringbone pattern on the outsole ensures impressive traction. However, it's worth noting that the shoe requires more frequent replacement than Asics shoes.
Pros
- Great traction
- Stiff upper for stability
- One of the best-looking shoes available
Cons
- Requires some break-in time
- Not the most durable
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Slightly Narrow |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | Slight |
| Weight | 422g (Size US 10.5 / UK 9.5 / EU 44) |
Asics Solution Speed FF 2
CHECK LATEST PRICE
The Asics Solution Speed FF 2 is the updated version of the previous Solution Speed FF shoe. While the initial FF line didn't receive great feedback, the second generation has addressed those concerns and offers a high-quality lightweight tennis shoe. The Solution Speed FF 2 provides the expected lightness and comfort, but its most significant advantage is its traction. The sole design ensures excellent grip when needed. The only drawback is its durability, which is a trade-off for the lighter weight.
Pros
- Great traction
- Sleek design
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | None |
| Weight | 379g (Size US 11 / UK 10.5 / EU 44) |
Read Full Asics Solution Speed FF 2 Review
Diadora Speed B.Icon
CHECK LATEST PRICE
The Diadora Speed B.Icon is the most performance-oriented tennis shoe Diadora has released to date. As a fan of the Diadora Blueshield 5, I was excited to try out the Speed B.Icon. It has earned its place on my best-of list due to its close competition with Asics as my preferred tennis footwear. The Speed B.Icon is a lightweight and supportive shoe designed for speed. It features an interesting external TPU stabilizer that enhances lateral control and stability without adding bulk. The lace eyelets allow for a secure fit, providing stability and support. The soles have a unique design that allows for bending and pivoting. While there is a small break-in period around the forefoot area, the foam is soft from the beginning, and the shoe offers good arch support for a "speed" shoe.
Pros
- An all-rounder that delivers speed, support, and stability without compromises
- Good arch support for this type of shoe
- Continuous tread on the sole
Cons
- Exposed midsole foam
- Not the most attractive design
Fit Details
| Length | True |
| Width | Medium |
| Arch | Medium |
| Break-in | Slight |
| Weight | 408g (Size US 10.5 / UK 9.5 / EU 44) |
KSwiss Ultrashot 3
What About the Best Tennis Shoes for Women?
This article primarily focuses on men's tennis shoes, as those are the models I have tested. However, most of my top picks have a women's version that performs identically, so the selections also apply to women. I will provide a complete guide specifically for women's tennis shoes in the near future.
Clay Courts
Clay court tennis shoes have specific features that maximize their performance on this surface. These shoes typically have a herringbone tread pattern throughout the outsole, providing grip on the slick clay surface while efficiently releasing clay to maintain traction. They also prioritize less cushioning and stability via the sole, resulting in design tweaks that reduce weight. Clay court tennis shoes often use mesh sparingly or feature tighter mesh in the upper to prevent clay from entering the shoe.
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best tennis shoes for men, there are a few factors to consider, such as the outsole, specifications, and overall comfort. After extensive research and testing, it is clear that the Yonex Sonicage 2 stands out as the most comfortable option, while the adidas Barricade takes the title of the best overall tennis shoe for men. However, it's essential to remember that everyone's needs and preferences may vary, so it's worth exploring other contenders like the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Lav V2 and Asics Gel Resolution 9. With the market offering a wide range of choices, finding the perfect tennis shoe for your game shouldn't be a challenge. And while this article has focused on shoes for men, there are also excellent options available for women. Keep in mind the specific requirements of different court surfaces, such as grass or clay, and with proper research and consideration, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect tennis shoe to enhance your performance on the court.
