By clicking on the product links in this article, we may receive a commission fee at no cost to you, the reader. Sponsorships and affiliate commissions help support our research so we can help you find the best products. Read the full affiliate disclosure here.
Whether you compete regularly or just like to hit the court a few times a year, having the right pair of tennis shoes can help you feel and play your best. While they may seem similar, tennis shoes are not the same thing as running shoes or even all-purpose sneakers. During a tennis game, you'll be making a lot of lateral movements, so you'll need shoes that provide extra stability. Unlike running shoes, tennis shoes for women often have a lower stack height and less cushioning. This helps the player feel closer to the ground and ultimately have more control and stability.
The Best Tennis Shoes for Women - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Tennis Shoes for Women: Reebok Club C Double Tennis Shoes
- Best Lightweight Tennis Shoes for Women: New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav V2 Tennis Shoes
- Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Wide Feet: New Balance FuelCell 996v4.5 Tennis Shoes
- Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Narrow Feet: New Balance 1006 Tennis Shoes
- Most Durable Tennis Shoes for Women: adidas Barricade Parley Tennis Shoes
- Best Walking Tennis Shoes for Women: adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 Tennis Shoes
- Best Tennis Shoes for Flat Feet Women: adidas Avacourt Tennis Shoes
- Most Comfortable Tennis Shoes for Women: Asics Gel Resolution 8 Tennis Shoes
- Best Budget Tennis Shoes for Women: Asics Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes
- Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Plantar Fasciitis: Babolat Women's SFX3 Tennis Shoes
In this guide, we explore our 10 favorite tennis shoes for women. Our list includes a little something for every player, from players who need a little extra cushioning in their shoes to those on a budget.
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Tennis Shoes For Women - Reebok Club C Double Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Leather upper, double rubber outsole
- Color options: White / Reebok Rubber Gum-07, Ftwr White / Cold Grey 2, Chalk / Core Black
- Features: Retro style, extra thick rubber sole, lightweight
When you want to look as stylish on the court as you do on the streets, slip on a pair of Reebok Club C double tennis shoes. The leather upper and double-stacked outsole stand up to countless wears—these shoes are built for durability. And despite being built like a tank, these shoes are also surprisingly comfy and lightweight. Which is why they're topping our list as best overall.
Originally launched in the 1980s, the Reebok Club C series was a mainstay for tennis players. This iteration features the same timeless style, but with a platform midsole. These shoes veer more towards street style than the competition, but the tennis-inspired design means they're more than capable of handling a match.
What We Like
- Stylish and retro-looking
- Great budget option
- Double stack sole is a height enhancer
What We Don't Like
- Leather isn't as breathable as mesh uppers
- Shoe lacks cushioning
BUY: Reebok Club C Double Tennis Shoes
Best Lightweight Tennis Shoes for Women - New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav V2 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Mesh FitWeave upper, Ndurance outsole, Fresh Foam X midsole
- Color options: White with Laser blue
- Features: NDure technology in the upper upper for durability, plush Fresh Foam X cushioning, heel counter for extra support
If you're looking for a shoe that won't weigh you down, the Lav V2's are just the ticket. These shoes clock in at under 12 ounces each. Inspired by New Balance's OMNIS basketball shoes, these tennis shoes offer both style and comfort.
The Fresh Foam X cushioning absorbs impact as you make your way across the court (and the street) and features like the Fit Weave upper and heel counter keep your feet stable and supported. No matter how hard you play, the Ndurance rubber outsole and toe drag tip provide supreme durability, helping you get the most out of your shoe.
What We Like
- Ndurance outsole and toe drag tip for extra durability
- Stylish basketball-inspired design
- Upper is made with mesh FitWeave for breathability and support
What We Don't Like
- Fits a bit narrow
- Some wearers disliked the plastic logo piece on the tongue
BUY: New Balance Fresh Foam X Lav V2 Tennis Shoes
Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Wide Feet - New Balance FuelCell 996v4.5 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Hypoknit upper, Fuel Cell midsole, Ndurance outsole
- Color options: White with Pink Glow and Glacier
- Features: Hypoknit upper with Ndure technology, Fuel Cell cushioning, sleek design
For women with flat feet, the FuelCell 996 tennis shoes offer up a sleek, low-to-the-ground design that minimizes bulk while the foam in the midsole absorbs impact. The lightweight Hypoknit upper is supportive and also features New Balance's Ndure technology for added durability. The outsole on the 996s features New Balance's Ndurance technology which offers up grippy traction and long-lasting wear. These shoes can stand up to dozens of matches before they begin to show signs of wear.
And if you're looking for cushioning, the shoe's Fuel Cell foam does a great job absorbing impact and providing energy return. This foam tech was originally created for running shoes, so you know it can stand up to even the most active of players.
What We Like
- Ndurance outsole resists wear and is very durable
- Low profile helps with stability
- Fuel Cell foam for shock absorption and comfort
What We Don't Like
- Hypoknit upper can feel a bit tight
- Not the most flexible shoe
BUY: New Balance FuelCell 996v4.5 Tennis Shoes
Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Narrow Feet - New Balance 1006 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Synthetic mesh upper, Revlite foam midsole, Ndurance outsole
- Color options: White with silver
- Features: Reinforced toe tip for durability, Revlite foam cushioning
Like other New Balance models, the 1006s also feature an Ndurance rubber outsole and reinforced toe tip for increased durability. The mesh upper is breathable and flexible enough to accommodate a variety of foot widths (we see you narrow-footed players!). The overlays on the outer add an extra layer of support. The shoes also have Revlite foam cushioning in the midsole for shock absorption.
We like this shoe for its sleek design - unlike some tennis shoes, these aren't clunky at all. However they're not the lightest pair on the market, so if weight is important to you, keep that in mind. Otherwise, these are a great option for tennis players, especially women with narrow feet.
What We Like
- Flexible outsole
- Breathable upper
- Sleek, non-bulky design
What We Don't Like
- Weight is on the heavier side
- Limited colorways
BUY: New Balance 1006 Tennis Shoes
Most Durable Tennis Shoes For Women - adidas Barricade Parley Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Rubber outsole, Bounce midsole, Recycled polyester upper
- Color options: Cloud White / Orbit Grey
- Features: Adaptive lacing and foam sensepads
adidas partnered with Parley for the Oceans to create a shoe made entirely from reclaimed ocean waste. The shoe's upper is made with about 50-percent plastic taken from the ocean while the rest of the upper is made of recycled yarn. Besides being good for the planet, these shoes are durable, stable, and lighter than previous iterations. The TPU shank and Boost cushioning in the midsole offer a stable, yet cushioned feel underfoot. And the asymmetrical lacing locks the shoe into place, so you won't have to worry about slipping as you play.
So whether you're sliding sideways to make a shot or jumping to volley the ball, these shoes are a great option for all hard courts. It’s worth noting that some wearers noted a break in period, so consider wearing them for short durations at first.
What We Like
- Upper is made from recycled polyester, 50% of the material is recycled ocean waste
- ADIWEAR rubber compound on the outsole for added traction and durability
- Asymmetrical lacing system for a secure fit
What We Don't Like
- Can take awhile to break in
- Wearers commented that the tongue and heel can be uncomfortable when worn with low socks
BUY: adidas Barricade Parley Tennis Shoes
Best Walking Tennis Shoes for Women - adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Mesh upper with Adituff toe, Adiwear outsole, Lightstrike cushioning
- Color options: Almost Yellow / Impact Yellow, Cloud White / Silver Metallic / Bright Cyan, and Crystal White / Impact Orange / Semi Pulse Lilac
- Features: Adiwear outsole with a herringbone profile for added traction and durability, lightweight foam cushioning, reinforced mesh upper
Whether you're looking for speed on the court or comfort on your daily walk, the adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4s deliver cushioning and stability. The mesh upper is made with 50-percent recycled materials, but beyond doing good, it also looks good. Available in three distinct colorways, the mesh upper hugs the foot for a secure and breathable feel. The Lightstrike cushioning in the midsole absorbs impact and keeps a low profile, so you'll feel stable whether you're stepping off a curb or getting ready to serve.
The Adiwear outsole is grippy for a variety of surfaces from hard courts to suburban streets. These shoes make a great companion for time on the court, but if you're simply looking for a stylish and comfy walking shoe, these still work nicely.
What We Like
- Upper is made with 50% recycled materials
- Lightstrike midsole and Adiwear outsole combine for stability and traction
- Reinforced mesh upper for extra stability and secure fit
What We Don't Like
- Shoe runs a bit narrow
- Extended heel tab caused rubbing on some wearers
BUY: adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 Tennis Shoes
Best Women's Tennis Shoes for Flat Feet - adidas Avacourt Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Mesh upper, Boost Pro midsole, rubber outsole
- Color options: Cloud White / Zero Metallic / Impact Yellow, Pulse Lilac / Vivid Pink, Cloud White / Silver Metallic / Bright Cyan, Cloud White / Silver Metallic, Almost Lime / Core Black / Pulse Lime
- Features: Boost Cushioning, TPU toe cap, TPU Torsion system
For women with flat feet, it's important to look for shoes with extra support. The TPU torsion system in the Avacourts help with stability, so no matter the shape of your feet, you'll feel supported. As for comfort, the soft Bounce cushioning helps to absorb impact. These shoes are also specifically designed for women's bodies—they're based on the preferences and sizes of females rather than just a scaled-down version of a men's shoe.
The Avacourts are well-cushioned and have a short break-in period so you can start playing ASAP. And they're versatile—you can wear them on both hard or clay courts. Some wearers noted durability issues, so if you're a heavy or very aggressive player, you may want to choose a different style.
What We Like
- Specifically designed to fit the bodies and feet of female players
- TPU toe cap for added durability
- Lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Wearers report that the tongue can cause rubbing and irritation
- Upper isn't very breathable
BUY: adidas Avacourt Tennis Shoes
Most Comfortable Tennis Shoes for Women - Asics Gel Resolution 8 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Asics High Abraision Rubber (AHAR) outsole, Gel cushioning, Flexion fit upper
- Color options: Nearly a dozen colorways ranging from pure white to brighter combos
- Features: PGuard Toe Protector, Removable sockliner for orthotics users, Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology, AHAR outsole
Whether you're a casual or a competitive player, the Asics Gel Revolution 8s keep you feeling your best throughout a match. While they scored about average in terms of weight and breathability, these shoes really shine when it comes to comfort. They're well-cushioned and feature GEL technology in the rear and forefoot. Plus the removable sock liner makes it easy to pop in orthotics if you need them.
The AHAR outsole is textured for extra grippiness, helping you feel stable throughout the game. And the reinforced toe cap helps these shoes resist signs of wear. Plus, the shoes come in a variety of colorways so there's a look for everyone from classic tennis white to a peppier gray and pink combo.
What We Like
- Good mix of support and cushioning
- Reinforced toe protector
- Removable sock liner for orthotics users
What We Don't Like
- Fit is a bit long, especially in toebox
- Upper not as breathable as some competitor models
BUY: Asics Gel Resolution 8 Tennis Shoes
Best Budget Tennis Shoes for Women - Asics Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Synthetic leather upper, Gel cushioning in midsole, Rubber wraparound outsole
- Color options: Black / White, White / Pure Silver, White / Smoke Blue, Light Indigo / White, Peacoat / Pure Silver, Soft Sky / Dive Blue, White / Periwinkle Blue, White / Lapis Lazuli Blue
- Features: TRUSSTIC technology for stability, GEL Technology for cushioning
Whether you're a casual tennis player or just looking to save some dough, it's nice to have a budget tennis shoe option. The Asics Gel-Dedicate 7s are made for the casual player. If you're an aggressive player or spend a ton of time on the court, you may want something with a bit more durability. For most players, however, they'll work just fine.
The grippy outsoles on these shoes can keep up with all the stops and starts you throw at them. They have great stable support for all kinds of lateral movements. In addition to being a good deal, these shoes are also lightweight and are comfy to wear right out of the box.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly price
- Little to no break-in period
- Very lightweight
What We Don't Like
- Lacks breathability
- Cushioning on the firm side
- Laces are short
BUY: Asics Gel-Dedicate 7 Tennis Shoes
Best Tennis Shoes for Women with Plantar Fasciitis - Babolat Women's SFX3 Tennis Shoes
SPECS
- Material: Michelin rubber outsole, Mesh upper, Bi-density insole
- Color options: Clearwater / Cherry, Blue, White / Silver, Honeysuckle, White
- Features: Kompressor System heel cushioning, Memory foam insole
If you've ever suffered from plantar fasciitis—also known as an inflamed tissue that runs from the heel to the toe—you know it's a huge pain (literally). But, the Babolat SFX3 tennis shoes are designed to provide cushioning and comfort for those struggling with this condition. The shoe's Active Flexion technology and design were specifically created to relieve pressure points and reduce pain. Plus, the shoe features Babolat's proprietary Kompressor System to absorb impact.
These shoes feature a generous toe box and the upper features internal straps that work to create a stable and supportive fit. However, it’s worth noting that these shoes are a bit wider than normal, so if you have narrow feet, they may not work. However, if you're looking for exceptional cushioning (did we mention the memory foam insoles?!), we recommend giving these a try.
What We Like
- Plush cushioning
- Durable, grippy outsole
- Memory foam insole
What We Don't Like
- Might be too wide for narrow feet
- Not the most supportive upper
BUY: Babolat Women's SFX3 Tennis Shoes
What to Look for in Tennis Shoes for Women
Unless you're simply looking for a fashionable shoe to wear with jeans, it's important to pay attention to the specs. Tennis players need a shoe with a low stack height and extra stability to avoid rolled ankles and injury. You'll also want something with a durable outsole to put up with the slides, backward runs, and lateral hops that are part of tennis. Try a few pairs on to make sure you've got a good fit—you want about a finger's width of room in the toe box. And if you'll be buying your tennis shoes online, always check the return policy!
Material
When it comes to tennis shoes, the outsole is made of carbon or blown rubber and the upper is often a synthetic polyester. A shoe's midsole uses plastic-derived materials to create cushioning. These materials are often described as foam and absorb impact. Common midsole materials include ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), Polyurethane, and Thermal Plastic Unit (TPU).
Comfort and Style
Fit matters a lot when choosing a pair of tennis shoes. If the shoes are too big, your foot may get banged up when you lunge forward or make sudden stops. And a shoe that's too small isn't any better; you could be dealing with black toenails or blisters if you don't find the correct fit. Many shoe companies make wide and narrow widths, so try a few different options if your foot size doesn't feel comfortable in a regular-width shoe. As far as aesthetics, every brand has a different look—whether it's a logo or a colorway, you may need to look at a few options before you find the right style. Also keep in mind that in general, tennis shoes are heavier than running orcross-training shoes because they provide extra support for lateral movements.
Durability
Tennis involves a lot of quick movements. A few minutes of play can have you hopping back and forth, lunging forward, and running backward. You need an outsole that can stand up to the demands of the game, so don't be surprised if your tennis shoes seem a bit clunky compared to your other sports shoes. How long shoes last also depends on your body build and how frequently you play, but the average tennis player can expect to buy a new pair of shoes about once a year. To make them last longer, keep your shoes away from sunlight and extreme temperatures. For example, your car trunk is not the ideal storage location!
FAQs About Tennis Shoes for Women
How often should you replace tennis shoes?
According to the United States Tennis Association (USTA), if you play for an hour about once per week, your tennis shoes should last about a year. If you play more often than that, you may need to buy new shoes more often. In general, the midsole of a pair of tennis shoes holds up through about 45-60 hours of play.
What is a good everyday tennis shoe?
The answer to this really depends on what your goal is. Do you want a pair of tennis shoes that helps you feel stable on your feet during an intense game? Do you have any specific conditions such as flat feet or a history of plantar fasciitis? Or do you just want a pair of shoes that looks good with jeans? Most tennis shoes have a low stack height and less cushioning than running shoes, so those are good starting points to look for. Beyond that, look at a few different pairs and see what style (and price point) strikes your fancy.
How do you clean tennis shoes?
Experts are divided when it comes to tossing tennis shoes in the washing machine. A safer alternative is to use a dry brush to remove debris from the shoe, then wipe the shoes down with a mix of mild detergent and water. Allow them to air dry to preserve the cushioning. If you do end up putting them in the washing machine, use cold water and a gentle cycle. Blot excess water with a towel and let it air dry.