Everyone needs tennis shoes. They’re durable, multipurpose, and incredibly inexpensive for all the functions they provide. But, this multi-functionality coupled with their soaring popularity has lead to massive amounts of tennis shoes entering the market. There are just so many different kinds to choose from that it is nearly impossible to make an informed decision without some outside help. That’s where we come in.
We reviewed dozens of tennis shoes to identify the best of the best. We took into account factors like durability, cost, aesthetic, functionality, and support when determining which tennis shoes were the best.
After carefully considering all the options, we concluded that the Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Tennis Shoes are the best tennis shoes. They’re stylish without being overwhelmingly so and have all the necessary components of a tennis shoe, including a rubber sole and synthetic, breathable fibers. Customers reported that they provided great comfort and held up through plenty of activity.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Tennis Shoes
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Tennis Shoes | 4.4 |
| Runner Up | Asics Men’s Gel Venture 5 Running Shoes | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | Men’s Lightweight Breathable Tennis Shoes | 4.3 |
| Best Tennis Shoes for Women | Women’s Fashion Casual Sport Shoes | 4.3 |
| Best Tennis Shoes for Men | NIKE Men’s Air Monarch Iv Cross Trainer | 4.4 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Tennis Shoes
If you’re looking for a tennis shoe that will hold up in a variety of sports and isn’t super showy, then the Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Tennis Shoes are the ones for you. Though they might be a little expensive, they are of much better quality than nearly every other tennis shoe out there. Customers loved that they were extremely durable without being overly heavy or stuffy. They are incredibly durable and versatile enough to be used in nearly every sport you can think of. Do you play hours of tennis every day? Then get these shoes. Do you only run occasionally on the weekend? Then get these shoes. They really are a tennis shoe that can perform in whatever situation you throw at them.
For those who are aesthetically minded, they also come in a variety of colors and patterns. From white and grey to white and bright pink, these shoes are sure to fit anyone’s visual preferences. The shaft measures approximately as a low-top, which means that they will not come up very high at all. This might be a great selling point for you or something you absolutely hate; it just depends on your personal preference. The sole is made out of 100% rubber with grooves to increase grip, and the rest of the shoe is made out of breathable, synthetic fiber to keep your feet secure without making them impossibly sweaty.
Adidas Men’s Barricade Club Tennis Shoes Key Features:
- Low-top
- Rubber sole
- Synthetic construction
- Multiple color options
Our Runner Up: Asics Men’s Gel Venture 5 Running Shoes
Are you looking for an everyday pair of tennis shoes that are extremely light while also withstanding rugged conditions? Then the Asics Men’s Gel Venture 5 Running Shoes are for you. They’re made for comfortable, everyday use but are also strong enough to hold up to regular runs and intense training. They even have a removable sockliner to accommodate medical orthotics. Now, if you use orthotics every day or even just when you run, you can easily accommodate them with this shoe and don’t have to worry about the added material crowding your shoe or making it too small. Simply remove the sockliner and replace it with your medical orthotics and you’re good to go! This shoe also features a rearfoot GEL cushioning to maximize comfort and prevent injury while running.
Customers loved that this shoe comes in a variety of color and patterns – 14 to be exact. Almost every model features a stylish brush-stroke pattern that helps these tennis shoes stand out without being too flashy. All models come with outdoor-ready mesh to keep your feet cool without sacrificing durability.
Asics Men’s Gel Venture 5 Running Shoes Key Features:
- Rubber sole
- Outdoor-ready mesh
- Rearfoot GEL cushioning
- Removeable sockliner
Best Budget Pick: Men’s Lightweight Breathable Tennis Shoes
We get it; tennis shoes can be expensive. If you don’t regularly play sports or aren’t very active, it is hard to spend that much money on a pair of tennis shoes. If you’re looking for a pair of tennis shoes that are inexpensive while also holding up to most activity, then the Men’s Lightweight Breathable Tennis Shoes by Caitin are what you need to get. They’re extremely inexpensive compared to many of our other top picks but are designed for everyday use and casual wear. If you just go running occasionally or would like a pair of comfortable shoes to wear while you’re running errands, then these are perfect for you. However, if you play tough sports or run miles every day, we suggest buying a pair of more expensive, high-quality shoes. These are great for everyday wear, but not so much for rough-and-tumble activities.
They are made of a lightweight and breathable mesh, which is perfect for running or just every day wear. They are also decently fashionable and come in a number of styles and colors to fit everyone’s taste. The sole is non-slip and extremely flexible. These shoes are not your average thick, heavy tennis shoes, but extremely light and flexible.
Men’s Lightweight Breathable Tennis Shoes Key Features:
- Breathable and lightweight mesh
- Number of designs available
- Non-slip sole
- Ultralight
Best Tennis Shoes for Women: Women’s Fashion Casual Sport Shoes
So far, all of our top picks have been shoes for men. But, women need tennis shoes too! While men arguably wear tennis shoes more commonly than women, many women do exercise regularly and benefit from have a supportive, comfortable shoe that is also very stylish. The Women’s Fashion Casual Sport Shoes fit this bill. They come in a variety of colors from pink to black to purple. The unique knitted design makes them extremely stylish. Many customers were very pleased with how stylish these tennis shoes were when compared to other options on the market.
However, despite their fashion-forward look, these shows are also very practical. They’re lightweight, which makes them perfect for running or everyday wear. They feature a breathable mesh and a padded collar to keep your feet cool and comfortable. The inside lining of the shoe is extremely soft and comfortable. Many customers reported that these shoes were comfortable to wear even without socks and some reported that they commonly used them as slip-on shoes to run to the store in. Plus, these shoes are so inexpensive that you won’t feel bad if you don’t use them for running or exercise purposes.
Women’s Fashion Casual Sport Shoes Key Features:
- Mesh upper
- Padded collar
- Soft lining
- Fashionable
Best Tennis Shoes for Men: NIKE Men’s Air Monarch Iv Cross Trainer
The NIKE Men’s Air Monarch Iv Cross Trainer is designed for intensive exercise that can easily wear out other tennis shoes. They’re incredibly durable with a solid rubber outsole that also provides traction on a wide variety of surfaces. These shoes also feature a leather upper that overlays for support and perforations for airflow. In other words, these shoes are designed to give you maximum support and stability without suffocating your feet. This makes them perfect for hours of intensive training or exercise where your feet are bound to sweat, but you’re also in need of support and comfort.
For maximum comfort, these shoes feature a full-length Air-Sole unit cushions that help to give you comfort after long hours of wear and support your feet to prevent soreness or injury. Customers reported that these shoes take pressure off your knees and lower back due to their uniquely designed arch and comfort system. Customers who were bigger also reported that these shoes were extremely supportive and helped them stand for hours before they became uncomfortable. We recommend these shoes if you need something that will hold up to a lot of activity or need something that is extra supportive, especially if you’re experiencing knee and back pain.
NIKE Men’s Air Monarch Iv Cross Trainer Key Features:
- Solid rubber outsole
- Leather upper
- Full-length Air-Sole
- Synthetic sole
Who Should Buy a Pair of Tennis Shoes
Tennis shoes were, obviously, first designed for tennis. However, they have since grown a lot in popularity and have become extremely versatile. Not only are they good for more intensive activities such as weightlifting and long runs, but they are also a great choice for everyday wear. Many tennis shoes are designed with functionality and comfort in mind, which is different than many other types of shoes on the market. Because of this, they are often far more supportive than other shoes and are far more comfortable for long-term wear.
Anyone who is up on their feet a lot, needs extra support, or does a lot of intensive activities needs a pair of tennis shoes. If you’re older and have begun to experience back and knee problems, you might also benefit from a pair of supportive tennis shoes for your everyday wear. Those with careers that require them to spend long hours on their feet, such as nurses, should also wear a good pair of supportive tennis shoes to ensure that they don’t injure their back and knees or experience pain related to their long hours on their feet. Even if you don’t particularly need extra support, tennis shoes are a great, versatile shoe that can be worn every day.
Important Features to Consider
A pair for tennis shoes should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a pair of tennis shoes:
- Durability. One of the biggest things that set tennis shoes apart from other types of shoes is their ability to intense activity and frequent wear. Your average casual shoe will be unable to stand up to frequent running, exercising, or long days on your feet. Tennis shoes, though, should be able to withstand these things without breaking or becoming uncomfortable. We recommend checking the customer reviews and purchasing from companies known to only sell high-quality products.
- Aesthetic. Tennis shoes should look good or at least be visually appealing in some way. No one wants to wear ugly tennis shoes all day, even if they are the best pair of shoes in the world. Of course, what is appealing for you is dependent on your taste. We recommend buying tennis shoes from a site like Amazon, as there tends to be a higher number of colors and styles available on websites like that than at a physical store.
- Sizing Options. If your shoe size is in the “normal range,” you might not have to worry about this. However, if you have smaller or larger than average feet, you need to be sure that the shoe you pick actually comes in your size.
- Comfort. Your tennis shoes should be comfortable. The level of comfort will depend a lot on how the shoe was designed and how high-quality the material is. Many tennis shoes will simply contain high-quality arches and a well-fitted design, which will be enough to keep most people comfortable. Other shoes will contain gel and a variety of other extra features for maximum comfort. It is hard to tell which shoes are going to be most comfortable for you until you’ve worn them for a while but checking the customer reviews can give you a heads up on how comfortable they are.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are tennis shoes?
Tennis shoes are also known as athletic shoes, sneakers, and gym shoes. They are primarily designed for sports or other forms of exercise and activity. However, today many are worn as everyday wear due to their generally high level of comfort and durability. Very generally, any show that has a flexible, rubber sole and an upper that is made of leather or synthetic material is a tennis shoe. But, some modern tennis shoes are designed to handle activity better than others.
How should tennis shoes fit?
Tennis shoes should feel comfortable as soon as you put them on. It is a myth that tennis shoes will “wear in” over time. In fact, if your tennis shoes wear down quickly, it is probably a sign that they are not durable and are made using low-quality materials. There should be approximately half an inch between the top of your big toe and the end of the shoe. Your heel should fit rather tightly and not slip at all when you walk. The upper part of the shoe should be snug but not constricting. In other words, you should tighten your shoelaces as tight as they will go without causing discomfort. You should be able to freely wiggle all your toes with your tennis shoes on. If you can’t, it is a sign that they are either too small or the laces are too tight.
Are tennis shoes slip resistant?
Some tennis shoes are very slip resistant. Others… not so much. It really depends on what brand you get and even your particular pair of shoes. If you need a pair of non-slip shoes, look for a pair of tennis shoes with a softer sole. The softer the sole is, the better it can conform to and grip the ground. A hard sole will only sit on top of a slippery surface and not provide much grip. A soft sole, however, has a decent amount of flexibility that conforms to the ground and provides more traction.
The design of the sole also matters. The design on the bottom of your shoe should not be enclosed. In other words, it should be open on both ends to allow water and any other liquid you might step on to easily flow out of the sole design. No matter what activity you’re involved in, your bound to step in water or sweat at some point. If your shoe’s sole design is enclosed, the liquid has nowhere to go. This causes it to bunch up underneath your shoe, which limits that amount of contact you have with the ground. This can cause you to slip, much like a car might hydroplane.
Can tennis shoes be used for running?
If you are planning to run regularly, we recommend that you purchase a pair of tennis shoes that are designed for running. An average pair of tennis shoes will probably work fine if you run in them, but a pair that is specifically designed for running will provide you with more comfort and support.
Other Tennis Shoes We Reviewed
We also reviewed 20 other pairs of tennis shoes. While these did not make out 5 best tennis shoes list, they’re the best of the rest, and each is still a great option for your feet. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Tennis Shoes for Women
Adidas Women’s Barricade Court
Featuring 3D torsion technology and a cloudfoam midsole, these shoes are extremely comfortable and can be used as everyday wear or for your exercise routine.
Key Features:
- 3D torsion
- Cloudfoam
- ADIWEAR sole
Cost: $57 – $133
Fashion Brand Best Show Women’s Athletic Shoes
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to expensive tennis shoes, these might be the pair for you. They’re designed for everyday wear.
Key Features:
- Available in six colors
- Versatile
- Breathable mesh
Cost: $8 – $18
Are you looking for a tennis shoe to wear every day and don’t want to spend excess money for durability you don’t need? Then these shoes are for you. They’re stylish, knitted, and far cheaper than many other brands.
Key Features:
- Breathable knitted upper
- Seamless design
- Anti-slip rubber outsole
Cost: $20
PUMA Women’s Tazon 6 Cross-Trainer Shoe
These shoes were designed for intense training and activity. Looking for a pair of shoes to hit the gym with? You can’t go wrong with these.
Key Features:
- Breathable EcoOrthoLite sockliner
- TPU shank
- Comes in 7 colors and styles
Cost: $50 – $100
With a heel grid system for maximum comfort and a plush tongue and collar, this pair of tennis shoes is designed for all-day wear and would be a great choice if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
Key Features:
- Heel grid system
- Mesh upper
- Plush tongue and collar
Cost: $19 – $171
Tennis Shoes for Men
Adidas Men’s Approach Tennis Shoe
These tennis shoes are a great all-around option if you need a pair of shoes that are versatile. They feature a rubber outsole, a low-top shaft, and a synthetic upper.
Key Features:
- Adizero Approach
- Low-top
- Rubber sole
Cost: $45 – $130
Asics Men’s Gel-Dedicate 5 Tennis Shoe
If you need a little extra support or spend long hours on your feet, then you’ll appreciate the extra supportive features in these tennis shoes.
Key Features:
- Forefoot GEL Cushioning System
- Trusstic System Technology
- Solid Rubber Outslore
Cost: $57 – $120
Featuring a large amount of cushioning and stretch lining, these shoes are great for everyday, moderate wear.
Key Features:
- Mesh upper
- Stretch lining
- High-quality rubber
Cost: $25 – $36
NIKE Men’s Court Lite Tennis Shoes
With a full-length pylon midsole, added material in the toe area, and a GDR outsole, this pair of tennis shoes takes durability to a whole new level.
Key Features:
- Combination of upper materials
- Mesh tongue
- Full-length phylon midsole
Cost: $25 – $125
Skechers Men’s Afterburn Sneaker
These lace-up sneakers feature a mesh upper with supportive overlays and a padded collar. The tongue is also cushioned and mesh to provide maximum comfort.
Key Features:
- Mesh upper
- Memory foam insole
- Padded collar and tongue
Cost: $33 – $89
Tennis Shoes for Running
Champion Women’s Gusto Cross Trainer
These shoes are lightweight, flexible, and built for running. A memory foam insole means that you’ll have maximum comfort and minimal injuries while the soft lining ensures that your foot stays secure without restricting movement.
Key Features:
- Fabric
- Memory foam insole
- Lightweight
Cost: $25 – $60
Feetmat Women’s Ultra Lightweight Sneakers
With a super lightweight upper and bendable rubber soles, these tennis shoes are amazingly lightweight and flexible, which makes them perfect for aerobic exercise.
Key Features:
- Ultra-light
- Non-slip rubber soles
- Comfortable
Cost: $30 – $37
NIKE Men’s Lunarconverge Running Shoes
There are significantly fewer options for male runners than there are female runners. However, these tennis shoes have about everything you could ask for and are a great option for male runners.
Key Features:
- Strategically placed rubber improves durability
- Flexible outsole
- Minimal, no-sew overlays for a lightweight
Cost: $39 – $199
Ponyka Women’s Lightweight Tennis Shoes
When it comes to running, having a lightweight shoe is essential. With a mesh upper and EVA sole, these shoes are about as light as they come.
Key Features:
- Breathable
- Lightweight
- Fabric upper
Cost: $10 – $18
Welmee Men’s Knit Running Tennis Shoes
Are you a fashion-conscious runner? Then these are the shoes you need to get. They’re extremely flexible and well made while also being stylish.
Key Features:
- Lots of cushioning
- Non-slip MD sole
- Versatile
Cost: $29
Tennis Shoes for Kids
ASICS Kids’ Gel-Resolution 7 GS Tennis Shoes
These tennis shoes were designed with kids in mind. They feature a proprietary upper construction that makes the shoes very form fitting, perfect for kids who tend to lose their shoes.
Key Features:
- Rearfoot gel comfort system
- Toe protector
- Form-fitting
Cost: $70 – $80
ASICS Kids’ Upcourt 2 GS Tennis Shoes
Featuring a gum rubber outsole and rearfoot comfort gel, these are a great option for kids who spend a lot of time running and playing.
Key Features:
- Low-top
- Gum Rubber Outsole
- Rearfoot GEL
Cost: $45
K-Swiss Kid’s Classic VN Sneakers
Available in a variety of sizes from infant to big kid, these shoes have everything you could ever want in a kid’s tennis shoe from lace closures to textile collar lining.
Key Features:
- Lace closures
- Molded rubber outsole
- EVA sock liner
Cost: $17 – $ 67
These tennis shoes come in a number of different colors, which makes them fitting for both little boys and little girls. They are designed to protect a child’s growing feet while they go about their daily activities.
Key Features:
- Lightweight
- Hook-and-loop fastener
- Fabric shoe lining
Cost: $16 – $22
NIKE Kids’ Revolution 3 Running Shoes
Designed for children up to age four, these are the perfect option for infants and toddlers. They’re extremely lightweight, very durable, and come in a large variety of colors.
Key Features:
- Lots of color options
- Low-top
- Lightweight
Cost: $29 – $119
