It’s time for a summertime update for the top new tennis shoes of 2024. Let’s take a look at some of the newest releases!
adidas Defiant Speed 2
This model improves on the original with the addition of a LightStrike midsole. The LightStrike midsole creates close-to-the-court cushioning which provides better agility. The upper has been redesigned with a recycled polymer and converted into mono-mesh for lightweight flexibility. The transparency of the mesh reveals the shoes` impressive midfoot support system.
A TPU heel counter works with the upper and midsole to stabilize the heel and prevent slippage. The Defiant Speed 2 is an intriguing shoe from adidas. The more forgiving price point delivers premium technology that will save some money and deliver on the courts.
Highlights
-Court hugging Lightstrike midsole puts you in control
-TPU Heel clip for lock-down fit
-Excellent performance/price ratio
adidas Solematch Control 2
If the Defiant Speed 2 is built in the image of the Ubersonic, then the Solematch Control 2 is heavily influenced by the Barricade. The shoe`s upper is comprised of mesh for comfort and breathability. New in this version is the ADITUFF+ abrasion zone which improves durability.
The SoleMatch Control 2 should appeal to avid players who want a supportive and stylish tennis shoe, with extra durability where needed most. The TPU torsion element creates more support in the midfoot. The midsole delivers stout cushioning thanks to Boost, and the Torsion system adds impressive lateral support.
Highlights
-Boost midsole for cushioning
-TPU Torsion system for support
-Wide toe box for all day comfort
Wilson Rush Pro 4.5
Wilson updated their flagship shoe, the Rush Pro to version 4.5. This model introduces a simplified and speedier lacing system for easier entry. The engineered mesh upper uses a broader weave in the forefoot for better airflow and a tighter weave around the ankle for more support. The 4D Support Chassis 2.0 incorporates a split chassis design for propulsion, stability, and control during dynamic movements. Wilson also bolstered the medial drag pad, and now the medial side holds up incredibly well to wear and tear. It does this without adding unnecessary bulk to the shoe. The Duralast outsole is made from a hard rubber compound that offers impressive traction right out of the box. The Rush Pro 4.5 is a tougher shoe than the previous generation, yet it has not lost any of the cushion and comfort that made the Rush Pro a household name for tennis players.
Highlights
-Very cushioned from the first step
-Better airflow thanks to the revamped mesh upper
-6-month outsole warranty
-Outsole is very hard and the tread offers consistent give and grip
On THE ROGER PRO 2
It isn’t news that Roger Federer is a stakeholder in On-Running. That is old news. What isn’t old news is that THE ROGER Pro 2 was released this summer with a slew of updates that competitive tennis players will love. The shoe still features design elements of Roger’s timeless style, but this model is worn on tour by world number one Iga Swiatek and up-and-coming American Ben Shelton. These players are two of the most dynamic movers on a tennis court, so THE ROGER PRO 2 had to get tougher, and faster.
Changes include an open herringbone outsole tread for more reliable traction. The 100% carbon fiber Speedboard® maintains stability, while the molded heel counter locks the foot into place.
A new upper construction with abrasion-resistant mesh and a perforated tongue to make it tougher yet more breathable. Those wanting improved durability will be happy with the reinforced rubber toe cap and the lateral TPU clip which provide added support.
Overall the shoe is a revamped entry and an extra eyelet to help players lock their heel down, and while this seems a minor detail, players will love the ability to better customize the fit. While the shoe maintains a premium price tag, improved durability, and a lower heel-toe-drop should inspire competitive players to give version 2 a look.
Highlights
-Open herringbone outsole adds predictable traction
-The redesigned entry loses the stylish button clasp, but the perforated tongue fits better.
-Extra eyelet (not in version 1) helps lock down the heel into the shoe
-Abrasion-resistant mesh upper is more practical and holds up better than the previous model
-Reinforced Rubber toe cap will improve durability, big time
On ROGER Clubhouse Pro
The Roger Clubhouse Pro is a court shoe, not to be confused with THE ROGER Clubhouse, which is for casual wear. This model is more comfortable and offers more bounce than the Roger Pro models. It also has a higher cut around the ankle which many recreational players will love. The Clubhouse Pro is being marketed toward tennis players of course, but also for pickleball and other court sports. Players who wanted to like THE ROGER Pro, but found the cushioning too firm and the fit too narrow, will love the Clubhouse Pro for its more forgiving forefoot fit and added cushioning.
Highlights
-Soft cushioning, “bouncy”
-Higher cut around the ankle
-Generous fit, wider toe box
-Lacks stability found in the Roger Pro
-More colorways
NikeCourt GP Challenge 1
Tennis professionals can be very picky, and when they find the footwear they feel most comfortable with, they can be resistant to change. We saw as much when Frances Tiafoe stuck with the GP Turbo, even after the shoe was discontinued. Well, toward the end of last year, Frances debuted a new shoe which is now available, the GP Challenge 1. The shoe has Air Zoom units in the forefoot AND the heel for an ideal blend of speed and support. The stability is further enhanced by a midfoot plate which assists with quick changes of direction.
The medial toe has extra rubber to help withstand excessive wear and tear and the forefoot is protected with high abrasion rubber as well. The traditional U-throat design provides easy entry and adjustment, and an extra padded tongue is constructed with breathable mesh for cool comfort. With subtle nods to the GP Turbo, the GP Challenge 1 offers spacious width in the forefoot and it is probably the most well-cushioned tennis shoe in Nike’s lineup.
Highlights
-Wider Fit.
-Fantastic Cushioning.
-Nice Toe protection.
-Padded tongue is very comfortable.
NikeCourt GP Challenge Pro
Nike’s GP Challenge Pro has a nice wide base for stability and soft foam inside the midsole. The stability is further enhanced by a midfoot plastic plate which helps with quick direction changes. While it is missing the TPU containment cage of the GP Challenge 1, the Pro offers a synthetic cage for a slightly softer and more adaptable fit. The Challenge Pro wins the price battle for sure, as it lands right at $120 (in line with the Vapor Pro 2).
Highlights
-Synthetic Cage for a softer fit.
-A wider base helps with a connected-to-the-court feel.
-The price is right!
adidas BARRICADE 13
The BARRICADE 13 keeps a lot of the same features that have made it adidas’ most popular tennis shoe on the pro tour. Let’s start with what is new. The tongue design has been reinvented and it has some comfortable stretch and it is easier to get into. A recycled BOOST abrasion zone protects the medial toe box from hard court abrasions. Adidas new dual-density midsole foam is firmer in the forefoot to provide better lateral stability and softer under the heel to absorb shock. adidas tried and true Torsion system puts you in control of each step, and it helps stabilize the foot in high-speed rallies. The Barricade 13 features a six-month outsole warranty.
Highlights
-Stretchy tongue improves the shoes’ overall fit.
-The torsion system offers an ideal connection to the court.
-The new upper material is a more breathable and durable mesh.
Fila Axilus 3
The Axilus has been a staple in Fila’s tennis shoe lineup for years, and in 2024, they finally turned the page to version 3! The Axilus has always had a very wide fit, but Fila used a new last for the shoe’s design and the toebox is slimmer in version 3. Other updates include a reinforced TPU heel clip which stabilizes the heel and locks it into place and a new outsole design for multi-directional traction. The shoe continues the durable, stable, and comfortable tradition which the Axilus is known for.
Highlights
-New outsole improves traction.
-Narrower forefoot hugs the foot more than preview models.
-Heel section has been stabilized thanks to the TPU heel clip.
ASICS Solution Speed FF 3
The Solution Speed FF has been one of the lightest new tennis shoes on the market, but the new version takes that to a new level. With the Solution Speed 3, ASICS chopped 20 grams off the version, and it makes the shoe freakishly fast. The SPEEDTRUSS is designed for internal torsion and to help you get off the mark quickly. The outsole has been revamped with an algorithmic generated tread pattern which is lightweight, grippy, and flexible. The shoe’s upper construction pairs engineered mesh with film to create ideal flex at high speeds, and the TPU paneling helps protect the upper from wear and tear. Worn on tour by Alex de Minaur, one of the speediest movers in the world.
Highlights:
-A lightweight shoe gets lighter!
-Flyte Foam design keeps the foot close to the playing surface.
-The outsole pattern requires no break-in! (Though it is NOT a durability shoe).
K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2
The Hypercourt Supreme 2 from K-Swiss takes a comfortable shoe and improves fit and durability. Key updates are a more secure fit and increased support. The Durawrap X upper provides support and drag protection while keeping a flexible feel as you track down the next ball. The Dual-density midsole utilizes the lightweight Surgelite external foam for maximum comfort and support. A high rebound Shock Spring inner foam on the forefoot allows a quicker reaction in every step. The Dragguard 7.0 rubber outsole is formed into a modified herringbone tread pattern for traction and durability on all court surfaces. The newly engineered soft bootie collar gives a more secure fit around the ankle.
Highlights:
-The new soft bootie collar is a huge plus.
-Shock Spring inner foam adds comfort.
-The upper is protected, but surprisingly breathable.
Wilson Rush Pro Lite
The Wilson Rush Pro Lite is a speedier version of Wilson’s most popular performance tennis shoe, the Rush Pro 4.0. Featuring the Pro Torque Chassis Lite, the Rush Pro Lite provides impressive support and it is nice and wide in the forefoot for comfort on the court. Players can expect better ventilation thanks to a more breathable upper construction.
Highlights:
-Wide forefoot for improved comfort
-Curved heel means a faster heal toe transition
-Improved ventilation
HEAD Revolt Pro 4.5
HEAD’s stability and durability shoe, the Revolt Pro, gets a slick new upper design for the new year. Mesh with an integrated TPU molded chassis cradle and support the foot, not to mention protect the upper design from wear and tear. The pairing of mesh with TPU also gives the shoe a little bit more flex than the previous version. The update includes an improved lacing system with the HEAD Lockdown Strap, which keeps your foot in place. This tennis shoe comes with a six-month outsole warranty.
Highlights:
-Best looking Revolt design ever
-The improved lacing system helps with lock-down
-Upper design offers support but improves the flex for added comfort.
Babolat Jet Tere 2
The Jet Tere 2 is designed to provide club players lightweight performance which keeps you connected to the court surface. Active Flexion technology in the Jet Tere 2 addresses 9 key pressure points for additional responsiveness. These shoes represent a great option for tennis players seeking greater agility, and more dynamic quickness. For version 2, the Tere has a thicker sole for improved durability and a 5% thicker midsole for increased comfort. The Jet Tere 2 is the lightest tennis shoe Babolat makes.
Highlights:
-Babolat’s lightest shoe.
-Thicker midsole means more cushioning.
-Increased outsole thickness in high-wear areas improves durability.
Mizuno Wave Exceeds Tour 6
Mizuno’s Wave Exceed Tour has had a loyal following for years. Their most well-known technology, the MIZUNO WAVE® plate redistributes shock and stabilizes the ankle. MIZUNO ENERZY is made from extremely responsive and flexible material to provide the ultimate in energy return and cushioning. PoWnCe midsole cushioning saves weight and ensures optimal energy return. The D-Flex Groove is a diagonal groove in the midfoot area that efficiently transfers energy as the player changes direction. The Wave Exceed Tour 6 is an impressively lightweight shoe, especially for one with a six-month outsole warranty.
Highlights:
-Wave technology redistributes shock well.
-Improved midsole cushioning
-A durable shoe without being heavy
Get the season started right with the best new tennis shoes from Tennis Express. Don’t forget our wide selection of racquets, strings, and apparel as well.
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