Hiring remote: Content writer / review specialist in 6 Best Tennis Sneakers
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Look your best on and off the court with these best-rated tennis sneakers. Everyone has a go-to pair when it comes to lifestyle shoes. If you don’t have one yet, you're in the right place.
Whether you’re into modern or retro designs, we have tested all these tennis sneakers. We selected the best out of the best based on our first-hand experience with them during our wear tests and lab tests.
How we test tennis sneakers
To choose our top recommendations, we bring all the tennis sneakers to our lab. We thoroughly scrutinize each pair. We cut the sneakers in half and measure e v e r y t h i n g.
Here’s our approach:
- We buy tennis sneakers using the money from our personal funds to keep the reviews 100% objective.
- We wear-test each sneaker. It’s not just about an on-foot try but wearing the shoes during our day-to-day activities. This way, we can discuss its comfort, fit, cushioning durability, and other features.
- We cut the shoes in half so we can see all of the components from different perspectives. We also use durometers, force gauges, calipers, a smoke machine, and other tools to deliver 20+ data points for each tennis sneaker.
- We present our conclusions and lab data in a concise and comparable way.
Best tennis sneakers overall
What makes it the best?
We conducted extensive testing on numerous sneakers, both in the lab and around town, in our quest to find the ultimate tennis sneaker—and the Reebok Club C 85 shone with many colors. The sneaker surpassed its competitors with its unparalleled comfort and durability befitting that of a true legend. Additionally, the C85 boasts exceptional breathability, ensuring cool and fresh feet whether on the court or out in the streets.
Our firsthand experience of wearing these sneakers around town confirmed their legendary status. The incredibly soft terry cloth liner provided an exquisite feeling of comfort. Coupled with the breathability of the leather upper, it elevated the overall experience to extraordinary levels. These sneakers felt so amazing that even without socks we were reluctant to take them off!
In the lab, we subjected the sneakers to an abrasion test, vigorously scratching the upper using a power drill fitted with a metallic wire brush. Despite the intense friction, the Club C 85 displayed remarkable resilience, showing no signs of wear and tear.
Moreover, after applying dry and wet colors to the leather upper, the sneakers proved to be stain-resistant! And easy to maintain, further demonstrating their superstar performance.
The Club C 85 is an iconic tennis sneaker from the 80s, maintaining its minimalist and clean design since its initial release. Remarkably, it has remained a popular fashion staple for over 40 years, thanks to the endorsement of tennis superstars such as Venus Williams, Madison Keys, and Guillermo Vilas.
However, we must note that they tend to fit slightly loose. Consequently, we do not recommend the Club C 85 for those seeking snug-fitting sneakers.
Pros
- Ideal price point
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Durable construction
- Easy to clean
- Lightweight
- Water-resistant
- Surprisingly breathable
- OK for sockless wear
Cons
- Lacks modern inner shanks for support
- Slightly loose fit
Best minimalist tennis sneakers
What makes it the best?
From its sleek and slim build to its low $60 price, the Nike Court Legacy is our tennis sneaker that truly embodies minimalism. In the lab, we discovered the absence of a midsole, which kept us connected to the ground and very free to move.
Our caliper shows a stack height of 19.6/13.0 mm, both below average, the heel being just as tall as the average forefoot of other sneakers. This gave us a good sense of the surface and boosted our stability.
Because of its low profile, it follows the movement of our feet with basically zero resistance. It twisted freely with our hands, earning the lowest 1/5 torsional rigidity rating. In our bend test, it needed one of the lowest forces to reach 90 degrees. Its result is 62.1% more flexible than average, explaining why the shoe felt so comfortable for prolonged wear even without the plush midsole.
As expected, it’s light and easy on the foot too. Our scales confirm it’s 26.9% lighter than the average sneaker. However, we highly discourage this pair for those with foot conditions because it doesn’t offer any arch support.
Pros
- Looks good with literally everything
- Good mix of durability and breathability
- Minimal and sleek style
- Pretty comfortable and lightweight
- Clean branding and details
- Grounded platform
- Lots of plain colorways to choose from
- Incredibly affordable
Cons
- Narrow toebox
- No arch support
- No cushioning
Best lightweight tennis sneakers
What makes it the best?
Our in-foot experience tells us Nike Killshot 2 aced its lightweight feel among tennis sneakers. It’s all things minimalist: from its clean aesthetics to its grounded platform and its $90 price tag. As a bonus, our lab confirms its high-quality construction that will make the shoe last longer.
Our feet never felt burdened with Killshot 2 even if we wore it for long hours. Its weightlessness and flexibility helped us move without restriction. Our scales confirm it’s only 11.3 oz (319g), 19.6% lighter than average. Meanwhile, it emerged 57.0% more bendable than average in our flex test, translating to a more natural and forgiving ride.
Its low number on the scale is due to its absence of a midsole foam. Its 16.9 mm heel stack is the lowest among sneakers in our lab, while its forefoot follows at a humble 12.3 mm. This translates to the lowest drop we’ve also measured at 4.6 mm, enhancing ground feel and stability.
Other than the upper’s classic look, it features authentic leather and suede materials, as confirmed by our torch test when they stayed intact. Testing for durability, we put the upper against our Dremel and it excelled with a 4/5 score. However, its solid leather material and lack of ventilation holes sacrificed airflow. We can’t recommend this shoe to buyers in warm weather.
Pros
- Looks great with pretty much anything
- Clean and minimalist aesthetics
- Timeless design
- Stylish and long-lasting structure
- Quite comfortable and lightweight
- Very high value for money
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Crease marks appear soon
- Not breathable
Best classic tennis sneakers
What makes it the best?
More than five decades since its initial release, Adidas Stan Smith continues to steal the spotlight as the best classic tennis sneaker today. We found through hours of lab testing and wearing them around the city that the kick’s secret to withstanding the test of time lies in its extremely durable leather upper. This minimalist tennis sneaker has transcended its sports origins to become a fashion staple, a cultural icon, and a legendary piece of footwear history.
When we took the Stan Smith to the streets, it lived up to its reputation. The sneaker proved to be exceptionally comfortable, even when worn without socks, and the breathable leather upper kept our feet fresh throughout. In the lab, we've used a bar clamp to test its flexibility - and we've seen that the sneaker considerably flexes at the toes. This only confirmed our experience - Stan Smith surely flexes and offers an unobtrusive ride.
We've also subjected the leather to rigorous testing by scratching it with a power drill fitted with a metallic wire brush. The Stan Smith demonstrated remarkable resilience, handling the abrasions with finesse and exhibiting minimal signs of wear and tear.
Originally released in 1971, the sneaker quickly gained popularity, largely due to the influence of tennis legend Stan Smith, who lent his name to the shoe. In 2018, Smith himself authored the book "Stan Smith: Some People Think I'm A Shoe," delving into the rich heritage and history of the iconic sneaker.
However, it is worth mentioning that the kicks take some time to break in. We recommend that those who want to skip the break-in period look elsewhere.
Pros
- Classic silhouette
- Numerous colorways and collaborations
- Easy to style
- Durable
- Weatherproof
Cons
- Runs large
- Lack of support
- Takes some time to wear in
Best platform tennis sneakers
What makes it the best?
For us, the New Balance CT302 was the tennis sneaker with the best platform because it featured a clever combination of thick midsole and wide platform. The result was a comfortable ride that did not jeopardize stability. We also loved how durable the toebox was.
The stack height at the heel was 36.9 mm while at the forefoot it was 24.6 mm. The average figures were 30.4 mm and 19.3 mm, respectively. We loved how the thick midsole made us feel and look tall. We loved even more how it protected us from impact.
Despite having an elevated platform, the New Balance CT302 remained stable because of its wide footprint, especially at the forefoot. Based on our caliper measurements, the forefoot was 112.9 mm wide when the average was only 108.6 mm.
Aside from being made of real leather, the toebox was also durable enough to leave a lasting impression on us. Our Dremel drilling in the lab barely left a mark on it. A perfect 5 was what it deserved for toebox durability.
Aside from the good stuff, our lab tests also revealed the NB CT302’s bad side. It was insanely inflexible. Our digital gauge showed that we needed a mind-blowing 51.8N of force to bend the shoe at 90 degrees. The typical sneaker would have required only 22.6N. This much inflexibility surely made the shoe feel like a brick on the foot.
Pros
- Exquisitely comfortable
- Subtle yet stylish design
- Looks and feels premium
- Easy on the wallet
- Height booster
- Feels supportive underfoot
- Not your everyday NB design
Cons
- Extremely heavy
- Very stiff
- Limited colorways
- Smudge magnet
Best vintage tennis sneakers
What makes it the best?
We fell in love with Reebok Club C 85 Vintage not only because of its retro looks but also because of its worthiness to be called a true tennis sneaker. It delivered a lot of court feel that allowed for more precise footwork. It was also light with a very flexible structure to support agile movements. It easily became the best vintage tennis sneaker in our book.
We were able to feel the ground more because this Reebok sneaker kept a really low profile. According to our caliper, the heel was only 23.2 mm (vs 31.3 mm average) thick while the forefoot was only 14.7 mm (vs 20.0 mm average) thick.
The Reebok Club C 85 Vintage was also light at only 11.96 ounces (339 grams). The average sneaker weighed 14.04 ounces (398 grams). The shoe’s overall flexibility complemented its lightness quite well. We learned in the lab that it needed only 17.3N of force to bend at 90 degrees while the average kick would require 23.2N.
We had one important complaint, and that was about this shoe’s breathability. Or lack thereof. It got only a 2 out of 5 during our breathability assessments. Do proceed with caution, especially if you have sweaty feet.
Pros
- Flexible and comfy
- Generously padded
- Lightweight
- Durable toebox
- Fine quality finish
- Extremely stable
- Good traction on most surfaces
- Old-school wonder
- Versatile
- Goes with most outfits
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Short-term support
- Firm midsole
- Creases easily
- Lacks airflow
Tennis has a long history of style and fashion, and it goes without saying that tennis sneakers have easily become one of the most fashionable types of sneakers on the market today. From everyday wear to family activities, tennis sneakers are a staple for every wardrobe, for every age range and for every lifestyle.
This article seeks to delve into what actually goes into making the best tennis sneakers for the everyday person. We answer your questions to help you decide what you should be looking for and why. And we find out why tennis sneakers are worn by so many people in so many situations.
So if you love tennis sneakers but don’t wear them to play tennis, sit down and get comfortable because this guide has your name all over it.
The difference between tennis shoes and tennis sneakers
Tennis shoes are engineered for one primary purpose: optimal performance on the tennis court. These shoes prioritize features like stability, cushioning, and traction to enhance a player's agility and footwork.
If you’re looking for a pair of shoes for playing tennis, try our guide to the best tennis shoes instead.
On the other hand, tennis sneakers draw inspiration from the tennis court but are primarily designed for the fashion-conscious individual, not a tennis match. So if you’re here because you appreciate tennis sneakers more so for their style and comfort, you’re in the right place. Additionally, you may find that the tennis sneakers of today are actually a remake of shoes that were worn on the court years or even decades ago, rehashed for streetwear.
From the courts to the streets
The influence of tennis sneakers is now a regular part of streetwear culture, here’s two reasons why:
- Athleisure trend: Everyday people love wearing sports wear for leisure. This trend, known as athleisure, has seen tennis sneakers become a staple in everyday wardrobes. They provide a comfortable yet stylish choice for individuals who want to stay on-trend while maintaining an active lifestyle.
- Unisex appeal: It doesn’t matter who you are, tennis sneakers have a universal appeal and often have a unisex design, making them a fashionable choice for people of all genders. Little wonder they enjoy such widespread popularity.
A sneaker with court design
Tennis sneakers and tennis courts share many similarities:
- Clean lines: A tennis court is easily identified for its easily understood clean lines design. Most tennis sneakers share the same cleanliness.
- Minimalist branding: Despite having a huge international professional tour, tennis courts show limited on-court branding, the focus is on the court itself. Likewise, with tennis sneakers, the branding is generally not the primary focus of the design.
- Simple colors: Most tennis courts are green with white stripes, although some courts can also be blue or red. Tennis sneakers often reverse these color schemes, usually with a primarily white design and red, green or blue complementary lines.
Borrowing fashion from tennis
Tennis sneakers have been popular for decades, and it is this popularity which can be attributed to several factors that make them a sought-after choice for those who prioritize fashion over sport.
Ultimate timelessness
Tennis sneakers are known for their simplicity and elegance. Their clean lines are easy to appreciate and compliment a variety of fashion styles, from classic to modern. Good tennis sneaker styles will last decades; fast fashion doesn’t.
Classic colors
Tennis sneakers are traditionally predominantly white, and while some designers will play with complimentary colors, but infrequently are bold colors the standout feature.
Maximum versatility
Tennis sneakers are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a wide range of outfits. Whether paired with jeans, shorts, or even casual dresses, they seamlessly fit into everyday fashion choices and activities.
Who wears tennis sneakers
The fashion enthusiast
Individuals who appreciate classic and minimalist fashion often wear tennis sneakers as a part of their daily attire. They can easily be dressed up or down to suit various fashion styles and situations.
The cool kid
Streetwear culture has embraced tennis sneakers as a staple, and the cool kids love it. Often paired with urban and casual streetwear outfits, they can be worn for many hours during a variety of activities.
The sporty mom
Athleisure is a fashion trend that combines athletic clothing with everyday wear, popular especially with busy moms. Tennis sneakers, with their comfort and sporty style, are a popular choice for those who want to maintain an active lifestyle but still look good as they get through their busy daily schedule.
The everyday dad
People looking for comfortable and versatile footwear for everyday activities often opt for tennis sneakers. They are easy to pair with various outfits, making them an ideal choice for casual occasions.
The unisex department shopper
Due to their natural simplicity, tennis sneakers are often made in unisex designs - making them accessible and fashionable for people of all genders. Such inclusivity makes them appealing to a wide range of individuals.
The social media influencer
From TikTok to Instagram, many trendsetters and celebrities alike are frequently seen wearing tennis sneakers as part of their fashion ensemble. Social media endorsements and style choices often influence their followers to embrace this fashion trend.
The brand fans
Some of the biggest footwear brands just so happen to also be big in the world of tennis sneaker fashion too. It’s hard to say no to a new pair of sweet kicks from a brand that you can relate to.
The hard workers
Depending on the workplace dress code, tennis sneakers can often easily be worn as part of business-casual or smart-casual outfits. People who choose this option relish in the comfort of wearing a simple but effective alternative to traditional dress shoes.
5 workplaces where tennis sneakers just make sense
Hospitals and healthcare settings
Nurses often prefer black tennis sneakers due to their professional appearance and easy maintenance. They sit well alongside blue scrubs, they provide comfort during long shifts and, alongside being easy to clean, are ideal for the demands of the healthcare environment.
Retail stores
In retail settings, where employees can be on their feet for what might feel like hours on end, comfortable tennis sneakers can be an excellent choice. They provide support and can be easily coordinated with uniforms or dress codes.
Creative and design studios
In creative and design studios, employees often have more flexibility in their fashion choices. Tennis sneakers can be a quality choice for those working in graphic design, advertising, and similar fields.
Tech and IT companies
In the tech industry, where a casual dress code is common, tennis sneakers are a popular choice. They offer comfort for employees who may spend long hours at their desks or in standing desk setups, and they can be worn day in day out - avoiding the need to worry about what outfit to wear tomorrow.
Schools and universities
Many educators, especially those in primary and secondary schools or universities, love wearing tennis sneakers as they provide during a busy day and for moving around campus. However not all organizations are equal: the choice of sneakers can vary depending on the institution's dress code.
The big brands that know their stuff
Adidas
With its iconic three stripes designs, Adidas has been at the top of the tennis sneaker world for many decades. One of the most prominent designs is known as the Stan Smith, named after a tennis professional of the 1970’s, is a classic that refuses to be overthrown from its mantle.
Check out our guide to the best Adidas sneakers here.
Reebok
Over the years, Reebok has evolved to encompass a wide range of athletic and lifestyle products, including classic sneakers that have found a dedicated following among fitness enthusiasts and sneakerheads alike. The brand is celebrated for its collaborations with athletes, designers, and artists, adding unique aesthetics to its offerings.
Check out our guide to the best Reebok sneakers here.
Veja
French brand Veja, has gained a reputation for producing eco-friendly tennis sneakers using organic materials and fair labor practices. Their minimalist, clean designs emphasize simplicity and environmental responsibility. This brand has successfully blended fashion with ethics, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for sneakers that prioritize both style and environmentally-conscious sustainability.
6 celebrities who love to wear tennis sneakers
Pharrell Williams
The musician Pharrell Williams is not just known for his music, but his eclectic and vibrant outfits and trademark hats. Pharell is a brand ambassador for Adidas which he proudly wears to compliment his style, and keep him happy.
Rihanna
As a fashion and beauty icon, musician Rihanna loves to wear sneakers around the town. Though she’s been spotted wearing a wide variety of brands, she recently released a collaboration with Puma, known as the Fenty Puma collection. Expect to see more collaborations from this superstar released under her umbrella.
Justin Bieber
Pop sensation Justin Bieber is often seen rocking a pair of sneakers as part of his stylish urban outfits. Though not always tennis sneakers, they are often combined with baggy pants and a beanie and Bieber carries himself in a way that makes his ‘Beliebers’ (fanbase) take notice, because they know what he means.
Gigi Hadid
When supermodel Gigi Hadid is photographed, it’s normally on the catwalk. But when she’s out and about in the public she’s been snapped wearing tennis sneakers to complete her chic and casual looks. If ever you needed proof as to whether tennis sneakers can be worn as part of a high-fashion wardrobe, Hadid is your inspiration. Reebok appears to be her go-to brand.
Jerry Seinfeld
In the popular '90s sitcom "Seinfeld," the main character - Jerry Seinfeld - was almost always wearing white tennis sneakers. Often combined with a pair of denim jeans, these sneakers were a signature element of Jerry's casual yet iconic wardrobe throughout the series. Seinfeld was known for his relaxed and relatable style, which mirrored the actor's real-life preference for comfort over extravagance.
Kate Middleton
Even members of the British royal family, like the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, have been snapped by the paparazzi wearing tennis sneakers. She pairs them with her casual and sporty outfits during less formal public engagements, and oozes style and class in the process.
How to wear tennis sneakers (for women)
We know that celebrities can rock tennis sneakers, but how can you? Here’s some tips:
Summer dress
Tennis sneakers can be a great match with casual summer dresses, especially when you're aiming for a relaxed yet stylish look. Opt for a simple, solid-colored dress and complete the outfit with classic white tennis sneakers. This pairing strikes a balance between comfort and chic style.
Athleisure
Create an athleisure outfit by combining your tennis sneakers with leggings or joggers and a comfortable, loose-fitting top. Accessorize with a crossbody bag or a cap for an active yet fashionable appearance that's perfect for a day out or a workout session.
Classic denim
Denim and tennis sneakers are a classic combination. Whether you choose skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, or denim shorts, you can't go wrong with a pair of tennis sneakers. Roll up the cuffs of your jeans for a relaxed, streetwear-inspired look.
Skirts
For a more playful style, pair tennis sneakers with a flowing maxi skirt or a skater skirt. The contrast between the sneakers and the skirt makes for a youthful appearance.
Black and white
Try an all-black outfit with white tennis sneakers to create that classic monochromatic look. Easy to wear for many occasions, it’s a simple way to show you know how to dress to impress, without looking like you try too hard.
How to wear tennis sneakers (for men)
Guys love to wear tennis sneakers too, but sometimes they need a bit of a push along to get the style combination just right. Here’s some tips:
Denim casual
Pair your tennis sneakers with jeans for a classic, laid-back look. Whether you choose slim-fit or relaxed jeans, the combination works well. You can go for a simple white or neutral-colored sneaker to create a versatile and stylish outfit.
Sporty
Combine your tennis sneakers with some knee-length gym shorts or athleisure pants for a sporty yet comfortable outfit. This style is perfect for running errands, going to the gym, or just hanging out with friends. Top it off with a basic tee or a sweatshirt for a relaxed but athletic, sporty vibe.
Chinos
Chinos with tennis sneakers is a classic choice. Available in a wide range of colors, chinos are a safe bet for so many situations. And although you can choose between different color combinations, a classic white sneaker keeps it simple and elegant.
Shorts
Tennis sneakers go well with shorts during the warmer months. Whether you're wearing cargo shorts, tailored shorts, or athletic shorts, adding a pair of sneakers can create a stylish and comfortable summer look. Just ensure that your sneakers complement the color of your shorts for a cohesive appearance.
Smart-casual
Tennis sneakers can even be incorporated into smart-casual outfits. Pair them with well-fitted dress trousers and a blazer for a modern and fashion-forward appearance. This mix of formal and athletic wear creates a unique and trendy style that's perfect for semi-casual occasions.
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