Choose a shoe with a toecap if you’re a “serve and volley” player. Buy shoes with lots of lateral support and a durable sole if you run from side to side a lot. [3] X Research source www. myactivesg. com/Sports/Tennis/How-To-Play/Tennis-Equipment/How-to-choose-your-tennis-shoes
For clay or grass courts, the soles may not be as durable, but they are designed to provide traction without damaging the court. Multi-court shoes are also available that adapt well for a variety of surfaces. Shoes with a herringbone style outer sole work especially well for clay. The narrow treading helps grip the floor and prevent loose grains on the surface from entering the sole and smoothing it out. [5] X Research source www. myactivesg. com/sports/tennis/how-to-play/tennis-equipment/how-to-choose-your-tennis-shoes
Use the “wet test” to determine your foot type. Wet the soles of your foot and step onto a flat surface, such as a piece of construction paper or the sidewalk. Look at the area between the ball of the foot and the heel of the foot. A large gap indicates a high arch, which means your feet are supinated. No gap at all indicates flat feet, which means your feet are pronated. If your feet are in between, then they are neutral. For supinated feet: Opt for a more flexible shoe. You will experience most wear and tear around the heel and toes. [7] X Research source www. marshfieldclinic. org/sports-wrap/choosing-athletic-shoes For pronated feet: Buy a stabilizing tennis shoe, since you will experience most wear and tear around the front inside area of your foot. For neutral feet: You can try just about any shoe.
Even if budget is a factor, buying the best shoes you can afford will help protect your feet and ensure your shoes last as long as possible. Remember that purchasing tennis shoes is an investment. It will reduce your chances of succumbing to injury. Shopping around and visiting different stores and websites can help you find the best deal. In general, you get what you pay for, and $80 shoes will be higher quality and last longer than $15 shoes—but paying big bucks for celebrity-endorsed shoes may not be worth it.
Unlike leather shoes, most tennis shoes do not need to be “broken in” and should feel ready to play in when you try them on. They should fit snugly but not so tightly they will chafe. [10] X Research source www. myactivesg. com/sports/tennis/how-to-play/tennis-equipment/how-to-choose-your-tennis-shoes Stores specializing in athletic shoes may have employees who can recommend brands and styles that will work well for you. If you’re ordering shoes online, be sure you know the site’s return policy and how to return shoes that don’t work for you.
