Verdict from 3 experts and +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- A bulk of the commenters find the Babolat SFX3 All Court a great option for wide footed users.
- Many are hooked to the maximum comfort this cushioned trainer offers right out of the box.
- It comes with a soft and plush midsole that’s a magnet to lots of satisfied playtesters.
- A large sum of reviewers rave about how superbly breathable this mesh-made athletic shoe is.
- Plenty of the testers claim that the Michelin rubber delivers the right balance of grip and give.
- A considerable number of users find the heel platform to be reliable and stable.
2 reasons not to buy
- Numerous owners feel that this footgear needs more stability across the top as it flexes liberally.
- Several narrow-footed wearers find the forefoot to be too roomy.
Bottom line
Babolat SFX3 All Court may not belong to the brand’s top-tier selection, but it remains a charmer, equipped with a breathable outer membrane and responsive cushioning. The third appearance of the SFX line also garnered heaps of praises from those who like some extra space in the toe box. The rubber outsole’s stability and durability give wearers the confidence to sprint and fly on multiple court setups.
Tip: see the best tennis shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 74/100 by Tennis Warehouse
User reviews:
- 4.3/5 by Amazon UK (+20)
Video reviews
Good to know
Who is it best for? The SFX3 All Court may not belong to Babolat’s premium tennis shoe collection seen widely among players on tours, but this is one of the brand’s excellent choices for club players looking for an all-round performer. Babolat SFX3 AC is also best suited for players with wide feet who value breathability and durability. Its key storyline includes:
- pliable mesh covering with adequate ventilation
- plush heel cushioning
- advanced layered memory foam insole
- Michelin-performance outsole with long-lasting traction
Upper structure. Players who have tried on the flagship SFX and its subsequent model will instantly spot the noticeable difference in the upper’s DNA. The SFX models come out sleeker as it goes through some modifications. The third generation departs from the thick synthetic overwrap used in the earlier models to welcome a lighter dual-layer mesh outer shell. The improved upper design is created to boost flexibility, reduce excessive weight, and enhance airflow.
Adaptive fit. From a poorly fitted second version, the multi-court SFX3 is modified with a wider last, which is a step up to the narrow width assembly of the SFX2. Because of such a standout feature, this trainer garnered a fanbase among wide-footed players. This footgear is also equipped with internal straps plotted along the midfoot base and heel up to the laces to ensure a secured fit.
Ergonomic insole. The updated SFX3 offers a more ergonomic insole made of dual-density memory foam than the standard models by the brand. It molds to the contour of the foot to provide padding and comfort where it’s needed.
Premium-grade rubber. With its partnership with one of the world’s reliable brand in tire manufacturing, Babolat gets to administer Michelin performance rubber compound to the outsole of the SFX3. Babolat and Michelin took inspiration from the composition of road rally tires and incorporated it into the development of rubber outsole compound and tread design.
Tread engineering. The technical soles of the SFX3, which has gone through longevity and endurance tests, are designed to deliver optimum grip, stability, and durability across all surfaces. This factor makes the SFX3 one of the tennis shoes in the market with a stable base.
Innovative heel system. Since the heel takes up loads of pressure during landings, this section is safeguarded by Babolat’s innovative Kompressor System. This heel structure is composed of ethylene vinyl acetate cushioning and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) tubes.
Springy rear end. When the heel strikes the ground, the shock is absorbed by the foam and rubber components. Meanwhile, the energy is compressed homogenously into each of the rubber tubes. After compression, the rubber tubes spring back to their original shape and restore strength.
Responsive support tech. Active Flexion technology, a responsive support system, is applied throughout the shoe to alleviate pressure from nine sensitive points of the foot. By addressing the impact issues around these regions, the wearer can perform better and longer whichever the court surface they play in.
Breathable covering. Double-layer mesh with synthetic detailing takes up the entire area of the upper. This material is utilized to warrant excellent airflow across the top, flexibility, and comfort during movements, and enduring value for longer hours of play.
Protective toe shield. Babolat dispensed an extra layer of toe guard to safeguard the tip of the shoe against abrasion during serves and toe drags.
Supportive fit. This shoe relies on built-in straps for added support. These straps run along the midfoot base and heel up to the laces. These internal straps clinch the top to provide an adaptive fit.
Comfy insole. Right below the foot is a bed of bi-density foam unit that serves as a mattress for comfort during extended hours on the court. It takes up the shape of the foot to provide relief where it’s needed.
- Babolat’s SFX series turned out to be one of the most popular lineups by the brand for two reasons. The SFX shoes are designed to be extremely comfortable and fit players with wider feet.