New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe - Durable Traction

In this review of the New Balance Men's 696 V4 Hard Court Tennis Shoe, the bottom line is simple: players who need a durable, grippy court shoe with lightweight cushioning will find a lot to like. Designed for hard court play, this shoe emphasizes traction and longevity through a full-length NDurance outsole and a herringbone-patterned, non-marking tread, making it a solid pick for frequent club players and practice sessions who want dependable court feel without extra weight.

Key Features

• NDurance Outsole: A full-length NDurance rubber outsole provides superior traction and durability so the shoe stands up to repeated hard court use.
• Herringbone Pattern: The herringbone-patterned, non-marking outsole gives reliable lateral grip for quick direction changes and aggressive movement.
• Hard Court Design: Outsole material is tuned for hard court surfaces to help maintain consistent performance during matches and drills.
• REVlite Midsole: The REVlite midsole delivers lightweight cushioning that helps the wearer feel quick and responsive on court without added bulk.
• Breathable Upper: A synthetic and mesh upper with forefoot perforations increases airflow to keep feet cooler during long practices.
• Seasonal Styling: Bright, seasonal colorways offer a fresh look that updates standard tennis gear while remaining functional.

Who It's For

The 696 V4 is best for recreational and club-level players who spend a lot of time on hard courts and need a shoe that prioritizes traction and durability over plush cushioning. Tennis players who move laterally often will benefit from the herringbone tread and non-marking compound.

Players seeking maximal court feel with minimal weight will appreciate the REVlite midsole, but those who require heavy stability features or extra motion control for serious competitive play might want to consider shoes with reinforced support or dedicated stability technologies instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable NDurance outsole extends wear life for frequent hard court play.
• Herringbone, non-marking tread offers confident traction for lateral movement.
• REVlite midsole keeps the shoe light and responsive during long sessions.
• Perforated mesh/synthetic upper improves breathability in the forefoot.

Cons

• Not a specialty stability shoe, so players needing heavy medial support may prefer a different model.
• Design focuses on hard courts; performance on clay or soft surfaces may be less optimal.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The New Balance 696 V4 is a practical choice for hard court players who value traction, durability, and a lightweight feel. It represents good value for club players and regular practice attendees because the NDurance outsole and herringbone tread extend shoe life while the REVlite midsole preserves agility on court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these shoes good for hard courts?
Yes. The outsole material and herringbone tread are specifically designed for hard court performance and durability.

Do they offer good breathability?
The synthetic/mesh upper includes forefoot perforations to increase airflow and help keep feet cooler during play.

Are these shoes non-marking?
Yes. The outsole uses a non-marking compound so they are suitable for indoor hard court facilities that require non-marking shoes.