These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (2024)

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (1)

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Finding the perfect tennis shoe can be tricky if you don't know what you're looking for. The best tennis shoes for women are comfortable kicks that can keep up with the swift start and stop movements that accompany tennis. And that's why not just any sneaker will do.

Former D1 tennis player and Miami-based tennis coach Sara Andrade says tennis shoes can help support your foot during quick side-to-side moves, provide stability, and help prevent serious injuries.

Best Tennis Shoes For Women

“Your tennis shoe is your base, and you don’t want your foot or ankle rolling or moving around in the shoe because that can lead to a serious injury” she explains. Like any good workout sneaker, good tennis shoes can also improve your game by stabilizing your foot and keeping you light on your feet, ready to lunge after the ball.

What to consider

Size

When opting for the best tennis shoe, it really comes down to size. Gavin Glider, the head tennis coach at Apex Rack and Fitness in Maine, highlights that finding the perfect fit is crucial to comfort and protection. Shoes that are too big can lead to slipping and falls. Ones that are too small can lead to serious ankle or knee injuries. “When you’re thinking about sizing, it’s important not to get it too small,” Glider says. “If the shoe is too small, your toes are going to jam.” He recommends tennis shoes be worn a tad larger than your average sneaker to allow comfortable room for movement, similar to a running shoe. Your tennis shoes should fit tightly, but not too snug.

Width

Most tennis shoes come in a standard width size, but if you have wider feet you want to select a shoe that accommodates your needs. Andrade shares that it is important to have the correct width to help support your ankle and prevent any injuries. For instance, she has much more narrow feet, so she gravitates towards shoes that keep her foot feeling locked in. “There is no perfect shoe for everyone, so finding the right tennis shoe really comes down to the fit for the foot,” Andrade says.

Surface

Not all tennis shoes are made for every court. When purchasing a pair, it is crucial to understand what court they perform best on. For instance, for players playing on clay, Glider recommends “clay court shoes that have a wider tread, making it easier to slide on the clay.” In contrast, if you’re playing on a hard court, Glider suggests a shoe that doesn’t grip the court. He points out that “most tennis shoes are what’s called all court shoes, meaning they work on all types of surfaces.” Understanding what type of court you are playing on will help aid in your shoe shopping decisions.

How we chose

Women's Health editors, including fashion and lifestyle writer, Amanda Rosenthal, and tennis experts tested and researched the top-rated tennis shoes on the market. We consulted tennis professionals and coaches, Gavin Glider, Sara Andrade, and Leonardo Alfaro who provided shoe recommendations and tips on what to look for in the best tennis shoes for women. We then narrowed the list down to these seven tennis shoes for women, evaluating them on comfort, width, durability, and style.

Whether you’re stepping onto the court for the first time or trying to perfect your backhand, these shoes will get you going. So grab your racket and fave tennis skirt, and get ready to ace your game. Below, see the seven best tennis shoes for women.

Best Overall

Asics Gel-Resolution 9

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (9)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (10)Adds stability to your moves
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (11)Stylish 90's look

After testing and considering dozens of tennis shoes, the Asics Gel-Resolution 9 emerged as our "Best Overall" pick for its comfort, durability, stability features, and high praise by tennis coaches and players. A favorite for those who prefer control of the baseline (playing from the back of the court), the shoe features Dynawall technology that aids in stability during lateral movements.

A current favorite of Andrade, she points out that Asics' advanced gel cushioning provides improved shock absorption, which helps prevent injuries. “A lot of professionals wear them because they are known to be very supportive and are said to help injuries from impact,” Andrade says. Plus, the thick rubber outsole improves durability, while keeping your foot locked in. The chunkier style also sports a 90’s feel, making them cool and practical. No wonder Asics is a favorite among pros like Iga Swiatek and Ons Jabeur.

Read more: Best Tennis Skirts

Sizes5-12
WidthStandard
SurfaceHard court

Best For Wide Feet

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1007

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (13)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (14)Rubber outsole improves durability
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (15)Lightweight feel
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (16)Insole not the best for people with higher arches

The Fresh Foam Z 1007 is a great for those looking for a pillowy and lightweight shoe. It blends comfort, flexibility, and durability to give your feet the love and support they deserve. Made with their Fresh Foam insole, the shoe feels soft and molds to your foot as you move.

Recommended by Leo Alfaro, a New Jersey-based tennis coach, this trainer is great for beginners who need some extra cushion and protection. Not to mention, it comes in three different width options—standard, wide, and extra-wide—making them ideal for wider feet. The shoe's rubber outsole improves durability, so you’re investing in kicks made to last.

Sizes5-12
WidthStandard, Wide, X-Wide
SurfaceHard court, Clay

Best For Narrow Feet

K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (17)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (18)Thicker heel increases stability
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (19)Molds to your feet as you move
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (20)Aren't as cushioned as other shoes on this list

The Hypercourt Express 2 is KSwiss’ bestselling shoe, and justifiably so. Recommended by Andrade, these are her personal favorite as she finds these kicks meet all her needs on the court. The shoe is extremely lightweight, enhancing agility and maneuverability during intense rallies. Plus, made of ortholite lining, the sneaker is breathable, keeping feet dry and cool during long matches and practices.

“Not only are they super comfortable for my narrow foot and high arch, but they also have a nice cushioned heel that helps me move easier on the court,” Andrade says. They sport a molded outsole that provides a stable base for your feet, decreasing the chance of any knee or ankle-related injuries. “And, they’re super cute, coming in fun colors, like the ones I have that are white with a pop of orange and blue,” she adds.

Sizes5-11
WidthStandard
SurfaceAny surface

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Best Lightweight Shoe

Nike Court Air Zoom Vapor Pro 2

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (21)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (22)Lightweight feel boosts your speed
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (23)Very grippy
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (24)Thinner outsole makes them less durable than other shoes on the list

This low-to-the-ground sneaker is for those with a need for speed. Featuring a thinner herringbone outsole, these sneakers will have you zooming around the court, while providing your foot enough grip and flexibility to make swift movements without sliding around.

Alfaro highlights that the cushioned sole adds protection without adding weight to the shoe. Made with a stretchy internal sleeve, the shoe fits like a glove and helps stabilize your foot as you move. What’s more, it boasts a mesh fabric that keeps your feet cool and ready for your next match. It’s important to note, though, “these shoes tend to burn out quicker” due to their thinner sole, Galvin warns.

Sizes5-12
WidthStandard
SurfaceHard court

Best For Beginners

On The Roger Clubhouse Pro

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (25)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (26)Suitable for all racket sports
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (27)Provides great return energy
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (28)Not great for more seasoned players

Crafted with practicality in mind, this kick blurs the lines between performance and style. It’s no surprise that this baby is trending in the tennis world. Made to be worn on and off the court, the shoe features a sleek and timeless look that can take you from practice to lunch with the girls.

But don’t let its cute looks fool you. The Roger Clubhouse Pro has boomed in popularity for beginners because it has reinforcements on the upper to help keep your foot in place. And, it uses a nylon blend 'Speedboard' in the heel and midfoot. This standout feature gives your feet some flexibility on the court, while enhancing return energy. “These shoes are newer in the tennis world, so there is room for improvement in durability and performance,” Glider says, making them a better option for beginners or casual players.

Sizes5-11
WidthStandard
SurfaceHard court, Clay court, Multi-court

Best For Advanced Players

Adidas Barricade 13 Tennis Shoes

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (29)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (30)Made from 20% recycled materials
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (31)Keep you stable during quick lunges or cuts
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (32)Not supportive enough for beginners

This shoe comes with high accolades. One of Glider’s top must haves, the Barricade tennis shoe is best for seasoned players. “Adidas makes phenomenal tennis shoes,” says Glider, and these sneakers are no exception. Structured with a torsion system, your feet are locked in when making quick lunges or cuts.

The asymmetric lacing also adds additional security, keeping your feet stable as you move. Another prominent feature that makes these great for experienced players is the "Repetitor" midsole, which aids your feet in quick transitions. That said, we found that this shoe isn’t the most protective against ankle injuries, so we recommend a different pair for newbies who may need more supportive shoes that guide their movement.

Sizes5-11.5
WidthStandard
SurfaceHard court

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Most Comfortable

New Balance Fresh Foam X CT-Rally

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (33)

Pros
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (34)Very cushioned and soft
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (35)Outsole is more durable in places with high wear
Cons
  • These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (36)Not the most supportive in the ankle area

Inspired by professional rally cars, this kick will have you ready to face any opponent. Made with New Balance’s most cushioned foam, the midsole of this sneaker promotes superior softness. Andrade recommends this shoe to players who value comfort and are prone to foot pains and aches post games. Its supportive sponge-like feel leaves players’ feet feeling secure and ready to spring into action.

Plus, the shoe was designed keeping wear in mind, so the outsole is more durable in the areas that get the most high-wear. It’s important to mention that because they are so pillowy some people may find that they don’t offer enough ankle support. If you’re looking for a shoe that's extra supportive, you may want to opt for another option on this list that offers more support.

Sizes5-12
WidthStandard, Wide
SurfaceHard court

These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (37)

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These Tennis Shoes Can Help Your Improve Your Game, Say Pros (2024)

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