Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe - Breathable Supportive Fit

Our review of the New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe finds it best for court players and pickleball enthusiasts who want a lightweight, breathable shoe with dependable traction. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a grippy herringbone outsole and the NDurance rubber in high-wear areas, which delivers confident footing and extended wear during repetitive lateral movement. The shoe's synthetic and mesh upper with forefoot perforations keeps the foot cooler while the adjustable lace closure lets players dial in a secure fit for aggressive direction changes.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: provides superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoes resist premature breakdown during frequent court play.
• Herringbone outsole pattern: offers consistent grip on hard courts to help with quick starts, stops and lateral cuts.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: combines structure and breathability so feet stay supported without overheating.
• Perforated forefoot: increases airflow to reduce moisture build-up and improve comfort during long sessions.
• Adjustable lace closure: allows a customizable fit to lock the foot in place for better stability and balance.
• Film drag guard and non-marking outsole: protect the upper and keep court surfaces clean so the shoes suit indoor and outdoor hard courts.

Who It's For

These shoes suit men who play tennis or pickleball on hard courts and need dependable traction with reasonable durability. Players with wider feet will appreciate the extra room reported by customers, and those who change direction quickly will benefit from the supportive sole and balance the shoe provides.

Casual court players or those seeking maximum cushioning for long practice days may prefer a different model with a thicker midsole. Also, if you require a very narrow fit or have strict sizing needs, note that some customers reported mixed experiences with sizing and should try them on before committing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight construction and breathable perforations for all-day comfort.
• Good lateral support and balance when changing direction thanks to the sole design.
• Durable NDurance rubber in high-wear zones extends the life of the outsole.
• Non-marking outsole and film drag guard protect courts and the upper.

Cons

• Sizing can run inconsistently for some buyers, so trying on before purchase is advisable.
• Durability reports are mixed; while many find them long-lasting, heavy hitters may see faster wear depending on play style.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance Athletics, Inc.
Model	696 V4
Upper	Synthetic and mesh with forefoot perforations
Outsole	NDurance rubber with herringbone pattern, non-marking
Closure	Adjustable lace closure
Special features	Film drag guard, lightweight midsole

Our Verdict

The 696 V4 is a solid choice for men who play on hard courts and want a breathable, supportive shoe with reliable traction and targeted durability. It represents good value for players who prioritize grip and a lighter feel, though shoppers who need an exact fit or extreme durability should try them on or consider heavier-duty court shoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for pickleball?
Yes, customers report they work well for pickleball thanks to the grippy herringbone outsole and supportive sole for quick lateral movement.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing is mixed in reviews; many find them comfortably wide while some note inconsistencies, so trying them on is recommended.

Can these be used indoors without marking courts?
Yes, the shoe features a non-marking outsole designed to be safe for indoor court surfaces.