Are You Using the Right Tennis Shoes?

A game of short sprints, quick stops and starts, and lots of lateral movement, tennis requires footwear that can keep up. This is why you need the right tennis shoes. When choosing a pair, it helps to think about your style of playing, the court surface where you usually play, and your personal preferences.

The Anatomy of a Tennis Shoe

If you’re completely new to tennis then you can probably get away with using running shoes that are engineered for repetitive forward motion. But once you have decided to make tennis a part of your lifestyle, it makes sense to invest in proper tennis shoes, the same investment as buying a perfect tennis racket.

Unlike general training or gym shoes that have thicker and softer heels for added cushioning and less impact, tennis shoes are designed to be sturdier. They are built for frequent starts and stops and movement around the court. This is why most tennis shoes are more flat with specially designed patterns on the sole, which vary depending on the court surface.

Think About Where You Play

In general, hard court surfaces(such as concrete) require tennis shoes with extra durability. Go for a pair with resilient out soles and supportive uppers. Hard courts tend to wear soles out more quickly, so always check your shoes and assess if you need replacements.

On the other hand, soft courts or clay courts require tennis shoes with more grip.Tennis shoes for soft courts are usually designed for non-damaging traction.

Think About Your Playing Style

If you’re a baseline player and you love being along the baseline, then you need tennis shoes with lateral support and a highly durable sole. If you’re a serve-and-volley player and you frequently charge the net, then you probably slide your back foot often along the court during your serve. You might benefit from shoes with reinforced toes. Medials inside the arch are also essential.