New Balance 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 to players who need a dependable, breathable shoe for frequent play on hard courts and pickleball courts. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a grippy herringbone outsole and a lightweight, ventilated upper that delivers stable movement and keeps feet cool during long sessions. Reviewers repeatedly mention comfortable support and a fit that accommodates wider feet, making these shoes a practical choice for players prioritizing courtfeel and breathability over flashy extras.

Key Features

• NDurance rubber outsole: provides superior durability in high-wear areas so the shoes last longer under regular court use.
• Herringbone outsole pattern: delivers reliable traction on hard courts and quick directional changes for better balance.
• Synthetic and mesh upper: offers breathability with perforations in the forefoot to help keep feet cool during extended play.
• Lightweight midsole: reduces overall shoe weight so players feel less fatigue and can maintain quicker footwork.
• Film drag guard and non-marking outsole: protect the upper and the court while allowing confident slides and stops.
• Adjustable lace closure: enables a customized fit for different foot shapes, including extra-wide feet.

Who It's For

This shoe is aimed at recreational and club-level tennis and pickleball players who spend a lot of time on hard courts and want a comfortable, breathable option that still provides dependable traction. Players with wider feet will likely appreciate the accommodating fit noted by multiple customers, as well as the good support when changing direction.

Serious competitive players seeking maximal court feel or advanced cushioning systems may want to compare higher-end performance models, and those who prefer very soft, plush midsoles for long-distance walking should look elsewhere. If durability in extremely heavy-use environments is the sole priority, pairing these with care and rotation is recommended given mixed durability feedback.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comfortable, breathable upper that reduces foot heat during play.
• Good support and balance for quick lateral movements.
• NDurance outsole plus herringbone tread gives solid grip and extended wear in high-wear zones.
• Lightweight construction that helps reduce fatigue over long matches.

Cons

• Sizing can run inconsistent for some buyers, so trying them on or checking return options is advisable.
• Durability reports are mixed; some users see excellent longevity while others note faster wear in heavy-use cases.

Specifications

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

Our Verdict

The New Balance Men's 696 V4 is a sensible, value-oriented choice for players who need breathable comfort, good support, and dependable court traction without overspending. It stands out for accommodating wider feet and for a lightweight, ventilated feel, making it a strong pick for regular hard-court players and pickleball enthusiasts who want practical performance over bells and whistles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for pickleball?
Yes, customers report they perform well for pickleball thanks to the herringbone outsole and supportive fit.

Do they run true to size?
Sizing can be inconsistent for some buyers; several customers note extra-wide fits, so try them on if possible or confirm return options.

How durable are they?
Durability is generally good in high-wear zones due to NDurance rubber, but reports are mixed so rotating shoes can extend life.