Clay court tennis shoes

Since the creation of modern clay courts, the number of clay-specific shoes swelled across the globe. As you dig into the details of clay tennis shoes, it is advisable to go over some of the vital points that constitute clay courts and their impact on performance. 

We have listed on this page some of the pros and cons of playing on this court which you can use as a checklist to manage your expectations and set more definite goals.

What makes the clay court tennis shoes unique?

Tennis is the type of sport that’s dependent on a variety of court surfaces. What sets the clay-court tennis footwear apart from grass and hard court tennis shoes is the use of a full-length herringbone tread. Below are the specific benefits offered by this fish-like, zigzag design: 

• It lets you slide and glide laterally when aiming for points or recovering from shots
• It provides traction when propelling forward or moving backward
• It prevents clay dirt from getting stuck between the grooves, which allows for enhanced grip 
• Clay that gets lodged in the tread during matches can be quickly released by tapping the sole of your shoe with your racquet

Features to look for in men’s and women’s clay court shoes

Clay court tennis shoes often fall under the category of speed court trainers since these commonly come in the lightweight build so as not to weigh down your foot during prolonged matches. 

Unlike most hard court shoes, clay court trainers are created with minimal makeup for enhanced flexibility and maneuverability. Mesh, knit, and synthetics are the typical components that make up the cover of clay-specific footgear. Below are some of the factors to consider when picking your next pair.

Upper

• Tightly woven knit upper that doesn’t collect fine particles inside the shoe 
• Synthetic materials with perforations that let the hot air out, so the feet stay cool 
• Vamp and tongue made of open mesh and breathable lining that keeps everything light and breathable

Midsole

• Constructed with a low-to-the-ground sole with minimal cushioning for better surface contact
• Designed with midfoot stability that will keep you supported during lateral cuts, sudden stops, and slides

Outsole

• Though lightweight, these are made of heavy-duty rubber that’s ready for repeated pounding on dirt clay
• Full herringbone tread that rises up to the toe tip for better grip and protection during foot drag

It doesn’t have a durability guarantee like other hard court shoes but offers enhanced stability in high-wear zones.

General characteristics of clay court

Of the major tennis courts, clay court has a standout character as it serves as an ideal training ground for rearing future ace players. 

• Since it’s a soft court, it doesn’t put much stress on the foot during landings
• Delivers higher bounce versus hard and grass courts 
• Has the tendency to slow down the ball, which makes it the slowest among other court setups
• Its lines are made of coated fabric or plastic
• It needs to be rolled to maintain flatness 

Effect of the court makeup to performance

• Clay courts let you slide sideways and hit the next shot instead of arriving at a complete stop 
• Due to the speed and spin of the ball, server-based players find it hard to dominate on this court
• Creates a slow-paced game that makes you more exhausted than you would be on grass and hard courts
• Balls that hit the lines are usually unplayable
• Patches of bumpy clay can impede your smooth slides
• Baseline players or those who can play defense than approach the net tend to excel on clay as the pacing gives them time to prepare for the next stoke

Benefits of training on the clay surface

• It allows you to improve on tactical moves as longer rallies occur on clay
• It helps enhance your mental endurance and strength
• You get to develop patience, stamina, and resilience on clay more than on fast-paced grass and hard courts
• You get to practice a variety of shots, stances, and ball spins to ace points

• Due to its soft makeup, stress to the body is limited
• It minimizes the risk of injury versus playing on hard court

Disadvantages of playing on the clay court

• Sliding at a wrong angle can cause sores in the foot, ankle, knee, leg, and back 
• The loose surface can dissipate sidespin 
• Erosion caused by wind and rain is inevitable on clay 
• Clay dust can rain down your head or get into your eyes especially during windy games

Did you know…

• Clay specialist and King of Clay Rafael Nadal has popularized several Swoosh clay court shoe series like the Nike Ballistic and Nike Zoom Cage. 
• Over many decades only few American men turned out as champions on clay, specifically in the French Open. They are Andre Agassi (1999), Jim Courier (1991-1992), and Michael Chang (1989).
• Some of the female American players who dominated on the dirt clay are Serena Williams, Jennifer Capriati, Chris Evert-Lloyd, Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King, among others. 
• The accidental discovery of clay surface came as a practical idea by the Renshaw Brothers. These two top Wimbledon players from the late 1800s used crushed terracotta pots to cover grass court that was withering under the scorching heat. 
• French Open that’s held annually in late May to early June is the only Grand Slam event played on clay.
• The Roland-Garros red clay court was developed in 1891, a well-attended French clay court championship ground.  
• Modern versions of clay courts were developed through time, leading to the creation of Har-Tru, a US-based company that provides clay court surfaces via licensed contractors and distributors.
• Har-Tru is named after a contractor who established a clay surface in 1931 made out of natural stone mined in Pennsylvania, USA. Har is derived from his name, Henry Alexander Robinson. Tru stands for the actual green color of the stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I play on the hard court wearing my clay court shoes?

There’s no strict rule prohibiting you from wearing clay court trainers on hard court. However, they aren’t fully equipped with cushioning to keep you supported on concrete.

Also, the rubber quality of your clay court tennis shoe isn’t as resistant to abrasion as hard court shoes. For more extended play on concrete, it’s advisable to obtain a hardcourt-specific tennis footgear. 

How to tidy up clay court tennis shoes?

Dirt on tennis shoes can be a nuisance. Here’s a quick guide on how to clean up your clay court shoes:

1. Whack your shoes against each other to loosen up dirt on the upper and outsole.
2. Create a cleaning paste by mixing equal parts of water and powdered detergent. Dab the paste on the stain and let it sit for a couple of hours.
3. Using a damp cloth, remove the remaining clay, then rinse.
4. Air dry your shoe away from direct sunlight.  

What are the brands that offer clay court trainers?

Adidas, Asics, Nike, Babolat, Diadora, Head, Lotto, New Balance, Yonex are the prominent brands that have a variety of clay court shoes. 

What are the professional tournaments played on clay?

• French Open (aka Roland Garros) is held annually from late May to early June in Paris, France 
• ATP Masters 1000 (aka Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters) held second week of April in Monte Carlo, Monaco
• Madrid Open occurs early May in Madrid, Spain
• Italian Open (aka the Rome Masters) happens second week of May in Rome, Italy

Is it possible to play on clay court during winter? 

Although winter signals the closing of the tennis season, there are tennis clubs that cater climate-controlled clay-courts. These indoor venues give you the opportunity to practice those tennis skills during the cold months. These are called “bubbles” or dome-shaped, insulated courts that keep you protected from the inclement weather. 

Some are temporarily available and are constructed up until the beginning of spring, while the rest are permanently installed. Playability in these indoor setups versus the outdoors is a bit different due to the absence of wind, snow, and rain.