Tennis Shoes – Why They Matter

I wanted to write about tennis shoes because players, especially those new to the sport, often ask if they’re really necessary. Surely running trainers or casual shoes will do? The truth is, a proper pair of tennis shoes can make a huge difference. Not just for comfort and performance, but for keeping injuries at bay.

My views on footwear have changed slightly as I’ve coached more. I still buy based on looks. I’ve got to be seen wearing them, after all! Now I understand just how much the design of a shoe affects how you move and how long your body lasts on court.

Look good, play good, but make sure your shoes are built to do the job.

Tennis shoes aren’t just trainers with a logo. They’re built differently, extra support at the heel and toe, stronger sides to prevent rolling your ankle, and a sole that grips properly for side-to-side movement. The right shoe gives you stability and confidence with every step. I’ve made the mistake of wearing running trainers a few times, and the second I move in for a demo, I regret it. You can feel the lack of control straight away.

For most players, an all-court shoe is perfectly fine. Tennis has its seasons, hard court, clay, and grass. While serious competitors might switch between them, the average player doesn’t need to overcomplicate it. Just be mindful of grip patterns and, if you’re buying white trainers, maybe don’t take them near red clay unless you’re okay with the new “vintage” look.

The grip, the fit, the surface. they all work together to keep you balanced.

When coaching, comfort becomes the priority. Long days on court mean my feet need support that’ll last through ten hours of movement. Since working with Asics, I’ve tried a few different models and been surprised how much lighter some are. Weight makes a big difference. I do still wear my running trainers before lessons or for red-ball sessions where I’m not moving much, but once the real hitting starts, it’s tennis shoes only.

Most pairs last me three or four months. I once had a Nike pair that ripped after three weeks, and I could feel my toe and hip niggles creeping back when I kept using worn-out shoes. Lesson learned.

Fit matters too, you want the shoe snug to your foot, comfortable but locked in. If someone tried to yank it off, they shouldn’t be able to. Always wear them in before your first session, and if you know where you usually blister, tape up beforehand.

I used to be a die-hard Adidas Barricade fan before Federer made me switch to Nike. Over the years, I’ve owned plenty, but lately, Asics have impressed me most. They’re light, well-built, and fit my coaching life perfectly.

For players buying their first pair: don’t go straight for the most expensive option. There are great mid-range models from Nike, Adidas, and Asics that perform brilliantly. Always try before you buy walk, move side to side, get a feel for how the shoe responds.

The shoes won’t make you faster or hit the ball cleaner. that’s on you.

Durability varies with how much you play, but three to six months is a fair rule for regular coaches and players. Keep an eye on the soles, when the tread starts to go, you’ll know. Spending more often means better materials, but you can still find solid deals if you look.

Personally, I go through three pairs a year: September to Christmas, January to Easter, and Easter through summer. I don’t rotate pairs, I commit to one, wear it in around the house, adjust the laces, and go.

Check the surface. Read the reviews. Pick a colour you love. your feet (and your confidence) will thank you later.

Tennis shoes might not win you matches, but they’ll help you get to the next one in one piece.