Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Tennis Shoes

5 Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing Tennis Shoes

Tennis players often say, “Find the right pair of tennis and you’ll rule the court.” You can wear your favorite running sneakers or walking shoes to the court.

Tennis shoes are usually more sturdy and flat with the specifically designed outsoles, which you choose based on the type of court surface you play on. There are many other factors to think over. Before you select your tennis shoes, ask yourself these important questions:

1. What’s my foot type?

Underpronation, neutral and overpronation are the three major foot types and you’re more likely to have one of these types. Figure out your foot type and choose tennis shoes accordingly. If your foot type is underpronation, you’re rolling your feet outward during each stride. You need flexible tennis shoes to prevent any shock issues.

In case you’re overpronator, you’re rolling your feet inward during each stride so you should opt for the stabilizing tennis shoes. If your foot type is neutral, you can wear any quality tennis footwear.

2. What’s the surface of the court?

If you play on the hard – usually concrete – court, you need a highly durable pair of tennis shoes. Look for a more supportive upper and more resilient outsole. Mind that even a super high quality tennis shoes won’t last for too long on the hard court, so be ready to replace the footwear frequently.

In case you play on a clay court, choose the footwear with more traction on the sole. There are also versatile tennis shoes that are designed for both soft and hard court surfaces, but they might be a bit expensive.

3. Which type of cushioning do I need?

Tennis shoes are typically designed with two kinds of cushions – ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyurethane (PU). PU cushions are a lot heavier than EVA cushions, but they’re very stable and durable. EVA cushions are more flexible and lighter and aren’t as durable as PU. Plus, EVA cushions provide less stability. If you’re ready to splurge, go for PU, albeit EVA cushions are good as well.

4. What’s my current size?

No matter what shoe size you had the last year, measure it right before your purchase. Consider the sock thickness. Or if you buy in the store, grab your socks with you and try tennis shoes with them. This way, you’ll be sure of your size and find the right fit for you.

5. What’s my playing style?

Finally, pick your tennis shoes based on your playing style. If you’re a baseline player who plays along the back line of the tennis court, you need the footwear with an excellent lateral support and durable outsole.

In case, you’re a serve-and-volley player who often charges the net, choose the tennis shoes with a highly durable toecap and good arch support, especially if you have flat feet. In fact, you can choose any quality tennis footwear that fits you well.

Here you have it: all the major questions you should ask yourself before you invest in a pair of tennis shoes. Now you’re ready to make your final choice.