Men's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe - Lightweight Durable Court Shoe

In this review the New Balance Men's 696 V6 Tennis Shoe is presented as a practical, no-nonsense court shoe for players who want a lightweight, breathable option that still prioritizes durability. The bottom line: this shoe is best for recreational and club players who need a comfortable, snug fit and a low-weight feel for quick court movement, while its NDurance rubber outsole aims to extend service life in high-wear areas.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: Provides targeted durability in high-wear areas so the shoe lasts longer during frequent court play.
• Film drag guard: Protects the toe and side areas during slides and drag steps, reducing visible wear on the upper.
• Non-marking outsole: Lets you play on indoor courts without leaving scuff marks, keeping facilities in good condition.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: Balances structure and breathability to keep the foot ventilated while maintaining shape under lateral movement.
• Adjustable lace closure: Allows a customized fit to secure the foot for sudden starts and stops.
• Lightweight design: Keeps on-court effort lower by reducing shoe weight for faster footwork.

Who It's For

The Men's 696 V6 suits club players, pickleball enthusiasts and casual tennis players who prioritize comfort, low weight and a snug fit. It works particularly well for players with slightly wider feet who appreciate that the shoe conforms without feeling overly tight.

Players seeking professional tournament level cushioning or heavy-duty court shoes for daily high-mileage training might look elsewhere, especially if they need reinforced heel linings for extremely aggressive use; some users report heel lining wear under heavy use.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable and lightweight for quick lateral movement and extended sessions.
• Good overall fit that accommodates wider feet while remaining snug.
• NDurance outsole and film drag guard extend wear life in high-friction zones.
• Non-marking outsole suitable for indoor courts and gym surfaces.

Cons

• Durability feedback is mixed; a minority of users report heel lining rips that can make the shoe unwearable.
• Sizing can be inconsistent for some buyers, so trying on or checking return policies is recommended.

Specifications

Brand	New Balance
Model	696 V6
Upper	Synthetic and mesh
Outsole	NDurance rubber, non-marking
Closure	Adjustable lace
Protective feature	Film drag guard
Design focus	Lightweight, breathable court shoe

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 696 V6 is a solid choice for recreational and club players who want a lightweight, breathable tennis shoe with targeted durability. It offers good value for money thanks to its comfortable fit and NDurance outsole, though buyers should be mindful of sizing and occasional reports of heel lining wear when assessing long-term needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes suitable for indoor courts?
Yes, the outsole is non-marking and safe for indoor court surfaces.

Do they run true to size?
Fit is generally snug and accommodating for wider feet, but some customers note sizing inconsistencies so trying them on is advisable.

How durable are they for frequent play?
The NDurance outsole and film drag guard improve durability in high-wear areas, but a few users report heel lining failures under heavy use.