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

Our review of the New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe finds it best suited for players who need a light, supportive shoe for hard courts and fast lateral movement. The single biggest reason to consider these is the blend of a grippy herringbone outsole and a lightweight midsole that together deliver reliable traction and responsive court feel without adding unnecessary weight. The shoe's synthetic and mesh upper with perforations gives breathable comfort for long sessions, while NDurance rubber in high-wear areas aims to extend lifespan on abrasive surfaces.

Key Features

• NDurance outsole: Durable rubber in high-wear areas helps the shoe resist breakdown on hard courts and extend usable life.
• Herringbone traction: The grippy herringbone pattern provides dependable multi-directional traction for quick starts and stops.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: Perforations in the forefoot deliver increased breathability so feet stay cooler during long matches.
• Lightweight midsole: A low-mass midsole supports court responsiveness while keeping overall shoe weight down for quicker footwork.
• Adjustable lace closure: Traditional laces allow a customized fit and secure lockdown for lateral movements.
• Non-marking outsole: The sole is suitable for indoor and outdoor hard courts without leaving marks.

Who It's For

These shoes are ideal for club-level tennis players and pickleball players who want a lightweight, breathable shoe with solid traction and support for quick directional changes. Players with wider feet will appreciate the extra room noted by many customers, and anyone who values balance and stability during lateral movement will find the sole and supportive upper helpful.

Those who should look elsewhere include players who need an extremely plush, cushioned ride for long-distance running or players who require maximal ankle support from a high-top design. Also, if precise sizing is critical, be aware that some customers reported mixed experiences with fit and may prefer trying them on first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, breathable upper that reduces hot spots during play.
• Lightweight construction that aids quick footwork and agility.
• Good support and balance for lateral movements and direction changes.
• Durable NDurance rubber in wear zones helps with long-term use on hard courts.

Cons

• Some customers report sizing discrepancies, so fit may vary and trying on is recommended.
• Durability reports are mixed for a minority of users, so heavy frequent play may reveal wear sooner for some.

Specifications

Model	696 V4
Upper	Synthetic and mesh with forefoot perforations
Outsole	NDurance rubber, non-marking with herringbone pattern
Closure	Adjustable lace closure
Primary use	Hard court tennis and racquet sports
Support	Lightweight midsole with stable lateral support

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 696 V4 is a strong choice for players seeking a lightweight, breathable hard court shoe with solid traction and support at a good value. Its NDurance outsole and herringbone tread make it especially suited to quick-court play, while the comfortable upper and secure lacing suit wider feet and active movement. Try them on if exact sizing is critical, but for most club and recreational players these shoes deliver dependable performance without excess weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for pickleball?
Yes. The grippy herringbone outsole and stable midsole make them well suited to pickleball and other quick-court racquet sports.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing is generally close but mixed reports exist; customers with wide feet often find them comfortable, so trying them on is recommended if unsure.

Will the outsole mark indoor courts?
No. The shoe features a non-marking NDurance outsole designed for use on indoor and outdoor hard courts.