Who should buy the New Balance 696 v3

For the third time, New Balance re-modified the MC 696v3 with enhanced cushioning and comfort elements to offer optimum performance on the hard court. It is a solid option if you:

  • Need a shoe that promotes stability and enhanced maneuverability.
  • Prefer lightweight cushioning in the midsole for impact protection.

New Balance 696 v3 Logo

Updates: NB 696 v2 vs. NB 696 v3

The most noticeable difference between the New Balance 696 versions 2 and 3 is the upper design. Both iterations are made of synthetic leather and mesh. But the third generation has anatomically supportive material wrapped around the forefoot and midfoot with perforations on the vamp. The remaining sections on the upper are covered in mesh for enhanced breathability and flexibility. 

New Balance 696 v3 Updates

NDurance rubber

The NDurance rubber compound is strategically laid out in the sections that wear quickly to generate optimum outsole strength and durability. 

New Balance 696 v3 NDurance rubber

Excellent traction of the 696 v3

Its non-marking bottom is constructed with a revamped herringbone tread that’s meant to deliver excellent contact on concrete. Such a wavy pattern keeps the foot supportive even during fast pivots and speedy lateral stances. 

New Balance 696 v3 Excellent traction

Durable rubber stretches from the base of the shoe to the tip of the toe. This is meant to put more life into the shoe since foot-dragging is inevitable when pushing for shots.

New Bbalance's lightweight cushioning

For lightweight cushioning, the New Balance 696 ver 3 is outfitted with the innovative REVlite midsole. It offers similar shock-absorbing capabilities and responsiveness as the standard New Balance foams. However, the REVlite weighs 30 percent lighter. 

New Balance 696 v3 Midsole

Heel drop

It distinctively features a raised heel with a roughly 12mm variance between the heel and toe. The extra thickness under the heel offers bounce during serves and lateral motion.

New Balance 696 v3 Heel drop

Synthetic leather

Synthetic leather dominates the forefoot and midfoot cage while mesh hugs the rear side of the outer shell. The vamp has vent holes that allow air to permeate the shoe. 

New Balance 696 v3 Synthetic leather

The collar and tongue are designed to adequately provide comfort and support through the use of soft padding.

Inner fabric

This footgear is arranged with a fabric lining that puts another level of comfort. 

New Balance 696 v3 Inner fabric

Facts / Specs

Weight: Men 12.2oz / Women 10.1oz
Update: New Balance 696 v4
Shoe Type: Hard Court
Features: Lightweight, Breathable
Construction: Cushioned
BRAND Brand: New Balance
SKUs: C696AL3 / C696WB3 / C696WP3 / C696WT3 / CH696H3 / CH696M3 / CH696R3 / CH696U3

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Author
Brenton Barker
Brenton Barker

Brenton is an Australian with 20 years of experience coaching WTA and ATP professional tennis players, whom have won a total of 10 international professional Tournaments. Brenton holds a Degree in Sports Coaching and was the former Head Tennis Coach at the Japanese Government Sports Science Institute. Brenton was also a former Manager & Head Coach of Australia’s Governing Sporting Body, Tennis Australia, and has been a Dunlop International Advisory Board Member since 2010. Additionally, Brenton was the Head of Player development for World No 7 and two-time Grand Slam Champion Johan Kriek.