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When you think of the term tennis shoe, it conjures images of virtually any type of athletic shoe. But the specific needs of the sport demand further scrutiny. Quick, lateral movements, pivoting, and varied play surfaces all contribute to the specific design of tennis shoes.
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The latest addition to Wilson’s most popular line, the Rush Pro 4s are lightweight, versatile, and comfortable. Minimal layering on the upper portion of the shoes, accented with engineered mesh, keeps them light and breathable, while offering support and cushioning specifically for women. Also available in a model for clay courts. Shopping tip: Wilson also made our list for the best tennis rackets and the best tennis balls.
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For an all-around comfortable, supportive and durable shoe, it’s hard to top the Gamecourt line. Supportive ethyl vinyl acetate offers cushioning while signature outsole provides traction and lasting durability. Bonus points for its partial construction from recycled materials.
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For players who live with the pain of plantar fasciitis—the inflammation of the band of tissue at the bottom of your foot that runs from your heel to your toes—finding the right cushioning in a tennis shoe is crucial. With high marks for cushioning, durability, and responsiveness, the Gel Resolution 8 is a solid pick.
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With a springy feel, an outsole that's great for traction, and a comfortable fit, the NikeCourt Air Zoom Lites update the previous model’s leather version for a streamlined, more minimal construct to keep things feeling light and airy. Shopping tip: Nike also made our list for the best sports bras and the best running shoes for women.
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Nike generally reports its shoes run about a third narrower than regular-width shoes, making the brand appealing for women with a narrower heel or foot.
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K-Swiss’s best-selling shoe comes in a wide model for those who need a little more room. The latest version is more lightweight.
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Designed with New Balance’s signature REVLite midsole foam and breathable mesh, the 1007 model offers the high-level cushioning that older players look for while maintaining an ultra-light feel.
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Consistently ranked as a staple for quality and stability, the T-22s are a well-respected and affordable route for players who need a little more stability on the court.
Just like choosing the best tennis shoes for men, we made our picks for women based on extensive research that included interviews with tennis experts to understand what features matter most when playing. From there, we researched the top brands and models, then searched through countless reviews.
Tennis shoes, versus other athletic shoes, are engineered specifically for the distinct movements and physical requirements of the sport, such as pivoting quickly and lateral motions.
The right tennis shoe should fit snugly without feeling too tight, which can cause foot and toe pain. Too loose, though, and your shoe can slide and cause blisters. Experts suggest roughly a half an inch between your big toe and the tip of the shoe. A trained professional can help you determine the best size for you.
Lighter shoes provide more agility during play, while heavier shoes may offer higher durability and support. Both can work for players, depending on age, size, weight, and play level.
Sports retailers generally do not recommend washing tennis shoes in the washing machine, as it will break down the shoe’s special construction over time, decreasing efficacy. Rather, try hand-washing your shoes with a mild detergent and brush and allowing them to air dry. This will prevent unnecessary wear and tear and extend shoe longevity.
A few clues can help indicate when you should consider purchasing new tennis shoes. Depending on how often you play or wear the shoes, over time they will start to wear down in key areas, losing traction in the outer sole and shock absorption in the midsole. Often, physical symptoms, like shin splints or ankle soreness, could signal that it’s time to consider new shoes. Podiatric sports experts recommended swapping out shoes after a year, even if they don’t appear worn.
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