The 9 Best Tennis Shoes for Serving This Summer

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There’s no denying the term tenniscore, coined in 2021, focused more on aesthetics than the actual sport. The fascination was justified: Pleated miniskirts, stretchy headbands, and tennis dresses are all unquestionably sophisticated. Those outfits, however, rarely included the most important category of the sport (besides a racket, of course). Tennis shoes are essential for on-court playing, and with the right cushioning, protection, and fit, they prevent falls, discomfort, and injury.

The best tennis shoes for women focus on comfort above all. But what makes a comfortable sneaker tennis worthy? “The main thing that goes into making a tennis sneaker comfortable—other than making sure that you’re wearing the correct size—is cushioning,” says Matthew Gomes, senior director of retail at Stadium Goods. “Make sure you have a sneaker with ample foam cushioning.” Gomes points out that when it comes to a supportive, comfortable, and stylish tennis shoe, quality matters. “Like most other things, you get what you pay for when it comes to performance tennis shoes. High-quality leather, suede, mesh, and rubber make a difference when it comes to comfort.”

A lot of people are finding out just how essential the right tennis shoes are to a good game. According to a recent U.S. Tennis Association report, participation in the sport has grown by 5.9 million people, or 33 percent, since the start of 2020, with newcomers embracing its physical and mental benefits. If you’re ready to join the cross-court movement with more than an outfit, look ahead for the best tennis shoes for women, including Gomes’s expert suggestions.

Hypercourt Express 2 Tennis Shoe

When comfort is discussed around tennis shoes, the Hypercourt Express 2 continuously comes up. KSwiss re-engineered the uppers with a seamless construction and added Surgelite material to the midsole for additional cushioning and durability, without the heaviness. An OrthoLite X-40 footbed recovers quickly after each stride.

Sizes: 5-11

Solution Speed FF 2

Gomes always recommends ASICS. "Modern tennis shoes are usually designed to offer extra support for side-to-side movements and quick cuts and stops," he says. And that the Solution sneaker does. It features Dynawrap Technology for stability during said movements, and Twistruss tech in the midsole for players who move out of baseline.

Sizes: 5-12

Court Zoom NXT Sneakers

For Gomes, Nike is always at the forefront of quality tennis shoes. "Many Nike tennis models utilize the brand’s proprietary Zoom Air Cushioning, the same cushioning used in a lot of Nike basketball footwear," he explains.

Extra cushioning has been added at the front of the foot in this tennis sneaker, which helps players push off while serving.

Sizes: 5-11

GEL-Kayano 14 Mesh and Rubber Trainers

"Look for a brand’s proprietary cushioning technology like ASICS Gel, Nike Air, and Adidas Boost," Gomes says. "If you’re concerned with getting a proper fit, the best thing to do is try them on."

The GEL-Kayano from Asics is a favorite among players and hot-girl-walking fans. Subtle adjustments made to both the upper and midsole have kept this trainer a must for stability and comfort.

Sizes: 3.5-8

Barricade Tennis Shoes

The Barricade has over 20 years of history behind it—beginning as a sneaker made to sport. Now, the modernized version has a GEOFIT padded collar to eliminate heel slipping, a bounce midsole for comfort and flexibility, and an asymmetric lacing system to improve fit and lockdown.

Sizes: 5-11

What reviewers are saying: "Great ankle support for side-to-side motion. Using for pickleball and was very happy. Took a few times wearing them to break them in and now they are comfortable court shoes."

806 Sneaker in White

New Balance is always a go-to, whether for sporty afternoons leisurely hitting a tennis ball or for long summer walks. The extra-wide toe box on the 806 sneaker makes these the best bet for women with wider feet or for those who wear particular orthotics.

Sizes: 6-10.5

Wave Exceed Tour 5 AC

The Wave from Tokyo-based Mizuno apparently requires no break in time due to its bootie design. And for good reason—it's made for advanced players who don't have time to wait.

Sizes: 6-11

What reviewers are saying: "My old shoes always felt bulky and my feet needed a while to relax when I started to play. This shoe improved my tennis, by allowing me to move much better. It is lightweight but provides stability and support as well."

TechLoom Pro Mesh Sneakers

For those who want to look good on and off the courts, look no further than APL's TechLoom sneakers. Framed by breathable white mesh, they sit on lightweight grooved soles, with cushioning provided by their proprietary Propelium mid and outsole.

Sizes: 5-11

Rush Pro Ace

If you're wondering about the Wilson brand, don't wonder any more. Ideal for pickleball and tennis, the Rush Pro Ace features a breathable upper, extra cushioned support, and heel-to-toe chassis that improves stability while reducing tension during matches.

Sizes: 5.5–11

What reviewers are saying: ""I bought these about a month ago and when I wore them for the first time I knew they were the most comfortable tennis shoe I ever wore."

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