7 Best New Balance Tennis Shoes of 2026

Plush, responsive, and built like a tank—the New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1007 V1 redefines comfort on hard courts. With its precision-engineered Fresh Foam X midsole, this shoe delivers an ultra-cushioned ride without sacrificing responsiveness, making every lateral cut and sprint feel effortless. The herringbone-patterned hard court outsole grips tenaciously, while NDurance rubber in high-wear zones ensures it won’t fray after a few matches. If you’re tired of shoes that promise cushioning but collapse under pressure, this model is a game-changer.

On the court, the 1007 V1 shines during long rallies and extended play. The lightweight mesh and synthetic upper offer excellent breathability, keeping feet cool even in sweltering conditions, while still providing structure for aggressive movements. At 13.2 ounces (size 10), it’s not the lightest in the lineup, but the trade-off is exceptional shock absorption—especially on unforgiving concrete surfaces. That said, the cushioning can feel a bit overly soft for players who prefer a low-to-the-ground, agile feel, and quick direction changes demand a slight adjustment period. It’s best suited for baseline grinders and recreational players who prioritize joint protection.

Compared to the FuelCell 996 V6, the 1007 V1 trades some explosive responsiveness for superior underfoot plushness, making it ideal for those who play multiple sets weekly and need long-term comfort. While the FuelCell models deliver more propulsive energy return, this Fresh Foam X version stands out for players with foot or knee sensitivities. It’s the go-to choice for hard court loyalists seeking a durable, breathable, and forgiving ride—a perfect blend of protection and performance.

Don’t let the budget-friendly tag fool you—the FuelCell 796 V4 punches well above its weight in performance and durability. Built with FuelCell foam, it delivers a surprisingly snappy, propulsive ride that keeps you springing forward during fast transitions. The NDure upper resists scuffing and stretching, even after weeks of intense play, while the flexible non-marking outsole adapts seamlessly to hard court textures. For players who want pro-level tech without the premium cost, this shoe is a stealth powerhouse.

In real-world play, the 796 V4 excels in consistency. It weighs in at just 10.1 ounces (size 8), making it nimble enough for net approaches and quick recoveries. The simple mesh and synthetic upper isn’t as ventilated as higher-end models, so feet can warm up during long matches, but it holds its shape impressively. Traction is reliable, though the outsole pattern lacks the aggressive bite of the 1007 V1, which can feel slightly less secure on dusty courts. Still, for weekend warriors and juniors, it offers more than enough grip and support for competitive play.

When stacked against the Coco CG2, the 796 V4 forgoes carbon fiber and flashy design for no-nonsense functionality and affordability. It doesn’t have the energy-storing pop of the CG2’s carbon plate, but it’s far more accessible for casual players. It’s the ideal pick for budget-conscious athletes who still demand real performance—a rare balance of economy and endurance. While it doesn’t dazzle with innovation, it delivers exactly what it promises: solid, dependable court time.

Engineered for explosion, inspired by excellence—the Coco CG2 is New Balance’s most technologically advanced tennis shoe to date. Co-designed with Coco Gauff, it features Energy Arc technology, a sport-specific carbon fiber plate that works with midsole voids to store and return energy with every step. Paired with FuelCell foam, this creates a rocket-like launch off the baseline, perfect for aggressive, dynamic players. The NDure upper adds ruggedness without bulk, making it a complete package for elite-level performance.

On the court, the CG2 feels responsive and alive—every split step and sprint triggers an energetic rebound that lesser shoes simply can’t match. At 10.3 ounces (size 8), it’s lightweight yet stable, with a snug midfoot wrap that locks the heel in place. The carbon plate enhances torsional rigidity, reducing energy loss during side-to-side movements, but it also makes the shoe less forgiving on uneven surfaces or for players with rigid gait patterns. It’s best suited for advanced players who dominate with speed and power, not those seeking plush cushioning.

Compared to the Fresh Foam X 1007, the CG2 is faster, firmer, and more aggressive—a race car versus a luxury sedan. While the 1007 prioritizes comfort, the CG2 maximizes efficiency and responsiveness, making it ideal for hard court point builders and net rushers. It’s the best overall performer in the lineup, blending innovation, durability, and athlete-driven design. For serious competitors, it sets a new benchmark in women’s tennis footwear.

If cloud-like comfort could be bottled into a tennis shoe, the Fresh Foam X 1007 V1 would be it. This model wraps your foot in luxurious cushioning thanks to its precision-engineered Fresh Foam X midsole, which absorbs impact like a high-end running shoe—without feeling sloppy on court. The breathable mesh upper keeps airflow steady, while the NDurance rubber outsole stands up to relentless hard court abuse. For players battling foot fatigue or joint pain, this is the ultimate comfort weapon.

During extended play, the 1007 V1 excels in shock absorption, especially on back-to-back matches. At 10.5 ounces (size 8), it’s moderately lightweight, and the herringbone traction pattern provides reliable grip on dusty and dry surfaces. However, the soft midsole sacrifices some agility, making rapid direction changes feel slightly delayed compared to firmer performance models. It’s ideal for baseline endurance players who trade quick bursts for sustained rallies. While it’s not the most responsive, it’s one of the most forgiving shoes in the lineup.

Next to the FuelCell 796 V4, the 1007 V1 is slower but significantly more protective, catering to players who value long-term joint health over explosive speed. It doesn’t have the propulsive snap of FuelCell, but it cradles the foot in a way no other New Balance model does. For recreational athletes or those returning from injury, it’s the gold standard for comfort-driven performance. It proves that soft doesn’t mean weak—just intelligently cushioned.

The 696 V6 is a no-frills, high-value workhorse built for players who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. With its NDurance rubber outsole and film drag guard, it’s clearly designed to survive the grind of weekly hard court battles. The synthetic and mesh upper offers basic breathability and structure, while the adjustable lace closure ensures a secure, customizable fit. For entry-level players or casual match-goers, it’s a smart, durable investment.

On the court, the 696 V6 feels stable and grounded, with a low-to-the-ground profile that aids quick movements. Weighing 12.8 ounces (size 9), it’s not the lightest, but the moderate cushioning strikes a decent balance between protection and agility. The outsole provides consistent grip, though it lacks the advanced herringbone bite of higher-end models, making it less ideal for aggressive slide-and-recover play. It’s best for recreational players who play 1–2 times a week and need a shoe that lasts.

Against the FuelCell Delray V2, the 696 V6 trades lightweight design for rugged simplicity. It doesn’t have the breathable mesh or exposed shank of the Delray, but it offers better durability for the price. It’s the best value pick for players who want a dependable, no-surprises shoe that won’t wear out after a season. While it lacks high-end tech, it delivers exactly what it promises: solid, affordable performance.

Featherlight, fast, and fiercely agile—the FuelCell Delray V2 is engineered for players who live in the fast lane. With a full-length FuelCell midsole and laterally exposed nylon shank, it delivers explosive energy return and torsional stability in a remarkably lightweight frame. The breathable mesh upper with synthetic drag tip keeps weight down while protecting the toe from scuffs. If you’re a serve-and-volleyer or net predator who values speed over cushioning, this shoe is built for your game.

At just 12.1 ounces (size 11), the Delray V2 feels nimble and responsive, making it ideal for quick transitions and sudden stops. The exposed shank enhances lateral support, reducing roll during sharp cuts, while the minimalist upper maximizes airflow. However, the lightweight design sacrifices underfoot padding, so long baseline rallies can lead to foot fatigue. It also lacks the NDurance rubber in high-wear zones, meaning it may not last as long as the 996 or 1007 models. It’s best for intermediate to advanced players who prioritize speed and breathability.

Compared to the Fresh Foam X 1007, the Delray V2 is lighter and more dynamic, but far less cushioned. It doesn’t offer the plush protection of Fresh Foam, but it surges forward with every step thanks to its FuelCell core. For players who want a racing shoe feel on the tennis court, it’s unmatched in agility. It’s the best lightweight design in New Balance’s lineup—fast, fresh, and built to move.

Power, precision, and pro-level lockdown—the FuelCell 996 V6 is New Balance’s top-tier performance machine for serious competitors. Fueled by full FuelCell foam, it delivers a high-rebound, propulsive ride that drives you into every shot with authority. The enhanced heel and saddle lockdown wrap the foot like a glove, eliminating slippage during explosive movements. With NDurance rubber underfoot, it’s built to endure the punishing pace of tournament play. This is not a casual shoe—it’s a weapon.

On the court, the 996 V6 feels firm, fast, and fiercely responsive. At 13.0 ounces (size 10), it’s on par with other performance models, but the added stability features make it feel more planted during wide lateral stretches. The non-marking outsole grips reliably, though it doesn’t slide as smoothly as some clay-court specialists. It’s ideal for aggressive baseline players who rely on power and foot speed. That said, the firm midsole won’t suit players needing plush cushioning—this is for those who want direct feedback and explosive takeoffs.

Next to the Men’s 696 V6, the 996 V6 is far more advanced, trading value for high-performance engineering. It lacks the budget-friendly appeal of the 696 but delivers elite responsiveness and stability. For players who demand maximum propulsion and control, it’s the best performance model in the lineup. It doesn’t cushion like the 1007, but it launches like a sprinter’s spike—focused, fierce, and fast.