The Best Men’s Tennis Shoes For 2023

What we’re looking for

When choosing tennis shoes, durability is an important factor to consider due to the starting and stopping nature of the sport. Tennis shoes are designed to be more solid around the perimeter of the shoe, making them appear bulky but necessary for longevity. Durability ratings range from moderate to maximum, depending on the shoe. Adequate support is crucial for the lateral movement and frequent changes in direction required in tennis.

Tennis shoes are heavier than running shoes and provide better lateral support on the inside and outside of the shoe to protect the ankle from strain or twisting during side-to-side movement. The ideal tennis shoe should fit comfortably and prevent jammed or bruised toes or bloody toenails and blisters from a tight fit.

Experts recommend trying on shoes in person and mimicking explosive movements, split steps, and side steps to test the fit. If unsure about foot width, try shoes in all three sizes and bring in current shoes for comparison. Tennis players like Andy Murray often require two ankle braces due to the demanding nature of the sport, emphasizing the need for proper support in tennis shoes.

Durability: Enhanced | Support: Heavy | Fit: Versatile

The Asics Gel-Resolution is a top tennis shoe recommended by many experts, offering exceptional comfort and versatility for all skill levels. This shoe is suitable for all types of tennis courts and is considered the best option in the market due to its style and durability. It features a low profile design that improves speed and stability, making it a popular choice for athletes looking for a high performance shoe. According to Layton, this shoe offers excellent lateral support, stability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for people with foot problems. The Gel-Resolution is also a great option for general training as it meets all the requirements of a good tennis shoe.

Durability: Enhanced | Support: Good for sliding | Fit: Standard

According to Nike, the React Vapor NXT is their “next generation” tennis shoe that incorporates years of data to balance cushioning and traction. The shoe has gained popularity due to its excellent Achilles and lateral support, as recommended by Dana Mason. The structural support provided by this shoe is ideal for sliding, and the modified herringbone outsole offers the perfect grip to keep the wearer both stable and flexible. To ensure durability, Nike has used tough plastic and durable rubber in high-wear areas such as the inner side of the foot, ensuring that the shoes last even when you skid across hard or clay surfaces.

Durability: Moderate | Support: Flexible | Fit: Narrow

Approved by the elite, the Vapor 11 makes a smashing comeback. Closer to the pitch and featuring speed-enhancing elements, it helps you play at a very fast pace with enough sustain to keep you moving for entire matches. Classic elements like the ultra-reliable molded sidewall and breathable upper complete a durable, dynamic design you’ve come to know and love.

Durability: Enhanced | Support: Heavy | Fit: Wide

According to experts Parrish and Harry Tong, who hosts Tennis Spin on YouTube and is also a buyer at California Tennis Club, the New Balance 1296 V2 is an excellent choice for tennis players with wide feet as it comes in standard and 2E widths. Parrish also adds that the shoe is suitable for players with all-around heftier feet as well as wider ones. Karen Moriarty, co-owner of Sportech in Rye Brook, and Dana Mason, buyer at Mason’s Tennis, also recommend the 1296 V2, noting that it is a crowd favorite due to its accommodating fit. Mason highlights the shoe’s durable sole, which makes it perfect for hard courts, although it is designed to be an all-court shoe.

Durability: Enhanced | Support: Maximum | Fit: Slightly wide

Plantar fasciitis can significantly impact tennis players’ performance. This condition occurs when the band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed, making simple movements like pushing off and landing excruciatingly painful. Tennis players with plantar fasciitis should look for shoes with excellent shock absorption, thick soles, and extra padding in the heel. The Babolat shoe is an excellent choice as it features a thermoplastic rubber and a tube-compression system beneath the heel for exceptional shock absorption. This shoe offers both stability and comfort, making it an ideal option for players with plantar fasciitis. Mason recommends it as the “best-fitting tennis shoe” as it accommodates players with different foot types, including narrow, wide, and high-arched feet. Schneider adds that this model is slightly wider, making it easier to fit custom orthotics or extra-cushioned socks to alleviate plantar fasciitis pain.

Durability: Maximum | Support: Intense | Fit: Standard

This “classic tennis shoe” comes highly recommended by experts in the field. It is designed to accommodate a variety of foot types, similar to the Asics Gel-Resolution 9. The shoe features lock-in construction for the lacing, which molds the tongue to your foot, providing maximum stability and a snug fit, regardless of your foot type. Experts who have worn the shoes appreciate the mid-foot shank, which reduces weight while offering more stability. They explain that this design element is particularly useful as tennis requires a lot of side-to-side movement and demands a shoe that can handle it.

Durability: Maximum | Support: Heavy | Fit: Wide

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav V2 shoes are designed to give you precision, cushioning and a firm and safe step on all surfaces where you play tennis or paddle, thanks to its Fresh Foam X midsole that guarantees comfort and softness.

These tennis shoes are made with the NDurance outsole which is very durable and provides the grip needed on the tennis courts. The upper features NDure and FitWave technologies that provide flexibility, wear resistance and breathability, thanks to the mesh fabric and synthetic leather.

They feature an outer heel that increases fit, traditional laces and a protective toe that protects you from the elements and obstacles on the surface.

Durability: Enhanced | Support: Extra-cushioned | Fit: Extra-wide

When it comes to tennis shoes, older players prioritize weight and cushioning. The New Balance 1006 caters to these needs with its exceptional comfort and support, making it a popular choice among mature athletes. Thanks to the use of New Balance’s Revlite foam compound, this shoe is remarkably lightweight, weighing 30 percent less than other foam materials while still delivering top-notch padding and stability. Additionally, the New Balance 1006 is available in a 2E width, providing a comfortable fit for players with wider feet. If you’re an older player looking for a tennis shoe that offers both cushioning and support, the New Balance 1006 is an excellent option.