How to Compare Tennis Shoes

Tennis equipment is as important to the game as the person playing. The appropriate tennis shoes can provide comfort, support and increase agility, however players wearing non-tennis shoes or tennis shoes that are not well suited to them will find their game suffers. Luckily, there are many different tennis shoes on the market and comparing shoes is relatively easy.

Things You'll Need

• Tennis sneakers
• An idea of your body type

Instructions

Finding the Right Tennis Shoes

1. Before you begin looking for tennis shoes, pick up an older pair of sneakers and examine the bottom. Look for wear on the sole of the sneaker and where it has formed. Check the inside of each sneaker and check for extensive wear. This will tell you whether you are dragging your foot or if you need a shoe with more cushioning.

2. Head to a sneaker store and grab a couple of pairs of tennis shoes that appeal to your sense of style. Look at the sneakers to see whether there is extra durability on the inside of each sneaker toe box. This is necessary since tennis players tend to drag one foot when they serve and extra durability will protect your foot and prolong the life of the shoe.

3. Hold the sneakers in your hand to compare the weight of the shoes. If you are looking for increased speed, a lighter sneaker is better. If you want more support and stability, a slightly heavier shoe is what you should be looking for. The sneakers should not feel too heavy in your hand, go for a lighter sneaker when possible.

4. Try on a few different sneakers for fit. Some sneakers are wider or narrower than others and your foot will be the judge. Check to see whether you can lunge from side to side in the sneakers with ease and comfort. Check to see whether you have a bit of room at the side of the toe box and in the front. A half-inch at the front of the toe box is normally a good fit.

5. Finally, flip the sneakers over and look at the soles. Tennis shoes should have a smooth, flat sole. If you flip over a sneaker and find ridges or nubs on the bottom, put it back because it is not a tennis shoe. The shoe is likely a cross trainer that is being advertised as a tennis shoe. Not only will ridges and nubs slow down your game but they will also damage clay courts.

6. Once you have picked the shoe that is right for you, care for them appropriately. Never were your tennis shoes outside of courts because the rigors of everyday walking will lead to premature wear and tear.