FuelCell 796 V4 Tennis Shoes for Men - Durable, Propulsive Cushioning

Our review of the FuelCell 796 V4 Tennis Shoes for men finds a purpose-built court shoe that prioritizes forward propulsion and long-term toughness. These shoes are best for players who want a lively, responsive ride thanks to the FuelCell foam midsole while still needing materials that stand up to frequent play. The overall package leans toward players who value durability and court feel over plush cushioning, and the shoe's construction makes it especially suited to quick lateral work on clay or hard courts.

Key Features

• FuelCell foam: delivers a propulsive feel to help drive you forward on serves and when closing to the net.
• NDure upper technology: uses reinforced materials in high-stress areas to resist abrasion and extend the shoe life under heavy use.
• NDurance rubber outsole: places tougher rubber in high-wear zones so the outsole holds up during frequent play and sliding.
• Flexible outsole design: allows natural foot motion for quick direction changes without leaving marks on indoor courts.
• Lightweight construction: balances cushioning and materials so the shoe does not feel bulky during extended sessions.

Who It's For

The FuelCell 796 V4 is well suited to club players and regular hobbyists who want a responsive shoe with a focus on durability; pickleball players have also reported good results because the shoe supports quick steps and lateral cuts. Those who play several times a week and need a pair that resists wear in the toe and inner side will appreciate the reinforced upper and NDurance outsole.

Players who prioritize maximal softness or need a very roomy toe box should look elsewhere, since customer feedback on fit and comfort is mixed and some find the sizing runs small. If you require a plush, cushioned ride for long-distance walking off court, a different model focused on comfort may be a better fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong forward propulsion from the FuelCell foam improves acceleration and court transitions.
• Durable NDure upper and NDurance outsole resist abrasion for longer service life under frequent play.
• Non-marking, flexible outsole supports quick lateral movement and indoor court use.
• Good value for players wanting durability and stability without a premium price tag.

Cons

• Fit and sizing receive mixed feedback; some users report they run small or can be tight for wide feet.
• Comfort is variable across users; a few find the cushioning less forgiving on prolonged wear.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	FuelCell 796 V4
Target	Men's tennis
Midsole	FuelCell foam for propulsive cushioning
Upper	NDure technology for durability
Outsole	NDurance rubber, flexible and non-marking
Use case	Tennis and racquet sports, including pickleball

Our Verdict

The FuelCell 796 V4 is a practical choice for players who want a responsive, durable court shoe that offers strong propulsion and good stability for its price. It is particularly good value for regular players and multi-court athletes, though those needing an extra roomy fit or ultra-soft cushioning should check sizing and try them on first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for pickleball?
Yes; customers report the shoe's responsiveness and lateral support make it a solid option for pickleball play.

Do they have a non-marking sole?
Yes, the outsole is flexible and non-marking, suitable for indoor courts.

Should I size up?
Consider trying a half size up if you are between sizes or have wide feet, as fit feedback is mixed and some users find them small.