Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe - Breathable Support

Our review of the New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe finds it best suited for players who need a breathable, supportive shoe that handles hard courts without weighing them down. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a grippy herringbone outsole and a lightweight midsole that together deliver stable, responsive movement and comfort over long sessions. The shoe reads like a practical upgrade for men who play tennis or pickleball and want a durable, well-ventilated option that keeps feet cooler and supported during quick changes of direction.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: Provides superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoe lasts longer under frequent play.
• Herringbone hard court pattern: Delivers reliable traction on hard surfaces for confident starts, stops and lateral movement.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: Offers a balance of structure and breathability so the forefoot stays ventilated during long matches.
• Film drag guard: Protects the toe and high-friction zones during slides and drags for added longevity.
• Adjustable lace closure: Lets players fine-tune the fit for a secure, customized feel that supports quick direction changes.
• Non-marking outsole: Keeps indoor and court surfaces free of scuffs while maintaining grip.

Who It's For

These shoes are ideal for men who play on hard courts and need a lightweight, breathable shoe with dependable traction. Players with wider feet will appreciate the roomier fit reported by customers, and those who play pickleball or frequent court sessions will value the balance of support and reduced foot fatigue.

Players seeking maximal cushioning for long-distance running or those who require very narrow or highly specialized orthotic support should look elsewhere, as this model focuses on court performance, breathability and stability rather than long-run cushioning or bespoke orthopedic features.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good durability in high-wear areas thanks to the NDurance rubber outsole.
• Lightweight construction and breathable perforated forefoot keep feet cooler and less tired.
• Supportive feel with stable balance for quick lateral movements and direction changes.
• Non-marking outsole and film drag guard add practical court-friendly protection.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed results on long-term durability and an inconsistent size fit, so trying them on or checking return options is advised.

Specifications

Model	696 V4
Upper	Synthetic and mesh with forefoot perforations
Outsole	NDurance rubber, non-marking with herringbone pattern
Protective features	Film drag guard
Closure	Adjustable laces
Primary use	Hard court tennis and racket sports

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 696 V4 is a solid, value-focused tennis shoe for men who need breathable support and dependable court traction. It suits players who prioritize stability, a lighter feel and a roomy fit, especially for pickleball or frequent hard-court play. Given its practical protections and focused design, it is a good purchase for court players who want comfort and functional longevity without premium cushioning bells and whistles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes suitable for pickleball?
Yes. Customers note they work well for pickleball thanks to the stable outsole and lightweight construction designed for quick lateral movement.

Do they run true to size?
Fit can vary; some customers mention extra-wide sizing and mixed size feedback, so trying them on or confirming return options is recommended.

Will the outsole scuff indoor courts?
No. The shoe features a non-marking NDurance rubber outsole designed to protect indoor and hard court surfaces while providing traction.