New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe - Durable Support

Our review of the New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe finds it best for players who want a lightweight, supportive court shoe that holds up in high-wear areas. The single biggest reason to consider these shoes is the NDurance rubber outsole, which targets durability where you need it most while preserving a grippy herringbone pattern for hard courts. The updated 696v4 blends a breathable synthetic and mesh upper with a responsive midsole, making it a practical choice for frequent indoor and outdoor hard-court play.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: Designed to provide superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoes last longer through repeated lateral movements.
• Herringbone outsole pattern: Offers dependable traction on hard courts to help quick starts and changes of direction feel secure.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: The combination gives structure and breathability, with perforations in the forefoot that improve airflow during long sessions.
• Lightweight midsole: Provides cushioning and responsiveness without adding unnecessary weight that could slow footwork.
• Adjustable lace closure: Allows a customized fit to lock the foot in place and enhance stability during lateral steps and pivots.
• Film drag guard: Adds abrasion protection in toe and drag zones to extend the life of the upper on hard surfaces.

Who It's For

The 696 V4 is ideal for recreational and club-level players, including pickleball enthusiasts, who need a shoe that balances support and breathability for frequent hard-court play. Wide-foot players will appreciate reports of extra room in the fit, and those who change direction quickly will like the stability and grip.

Players seeking plush, maximal cushioning or a very narrow, race-ready fit should look elsewhere. Likewise, if longevity under extreme use is critical, consider trying them first since durability feedback is mixed despite the NDurance outsole.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable outsole compounds concentrate wear resistance where it matters for longer life.
• Comfortable, breathable upper with perforations that reduce overheating during long matches.
• Lightweight construction and good support make quick lateral movement feel balanced.
• Non-marking outsole suitable for indoor courts and gym use.

Cons

• Sizing can be inconsistent for some buyers, so trying on first or checking size guidance is recommended.
• Durability reports are mixed; while many find them long-lasting, heavy hitters may see faster wear in extreme use.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance Athletics, Inc.
Model	696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe
Outsole	NDurance rubber with herringbone pattern
Upper	Synthetic and mesh with perforations in forefoot
Closure	Adjustable lace
Outsole type	Non-marking with film drag guard
Intended surface	Hard courts

Our Verdict

The New Balance 696 V4 is a solid, value-oriented hard-court shoe for players who prioritize lightweight support and targeted durability. It suits recreational and club players, especially those with wider feet or who play pickleball, offering breathable comfort and dependable court traction without excessive bulk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for pickleball?
Yes, customers commonly report they work well for pickleball thanks to the stable outsole and supportive fit.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing is mixed; some find extra width helpful while others note size inconsistencies, so try them on when possible.

Will they mark indoor courts?
No, the outsole is non-marking and suitable for indoor court play.