Who should buy the New Balance 896 v3

Avid club players who want to level up their game might consider the New Balance 896 v3 their best pick due to the following factors:

  • Ultra-light assembly for speedy steps
  • Mesh upper and inner walls that promote breathability
  • Minimal cushioning for improved court connection

Who should not buy the New Balance 896 v3

With all of its pleasing overall performance, some of the users would like to have more support. Also, this shoe may not be for those who are seeking plush cushioning and tank-like stability. You may instead check out the ASICS Court Speed FF. It gains a lot of positive feedback because of its great lateral support and an amazing glove-like fit.

Updates to the v3

Lighter weight

New Balance further trimmed down the weight of its 896 profile with the drop of the mesh-covered third version. The earlier iterations weighed heavier with the integration of rubber on the upper. The 896v3 surfaced with a sleeker form, infused with less load-bearing synthetics that are wrapped on the wear-prone areas of the forefoot. Because of its minimalistic design, this modified version weighs a fraction lighter than its already lightweight predecessor.

Improved ventilation

Apart from its mesh covering that promotes enhanced breathability, the interior is lined with moisture-wicking fabric to keep the environment inside cool and dry. 

Highly-tested NDurance rubber outsole

New Balance assembled the outsole with its highly-tested NDurance rubber that’s made of abrasion-resistant properties. Such a component is utilized to delay any signs of grinding down of the tread as repeated friction on the court surface can smooth out the outsole. 

Excellent grip capability

Its tread design uses the typical herringbone pattern. Such a full-length, wave-like design is meant to grant traction on the hardcourt. With its non-marking rubber layout, this shoe is created not to leave any scuff traces on the court.

New Balance 896 v3's lightweight, long-lasting, and responsive cushioning

The spring back property of this trainer is composed of REVlite. This underfoot cradle system is extremely lightweight, long-lasting, and responsive. Considered as one of the best foam units by New Balance, REVlite weighs 30% less than the brand’s standard cushioning units. It’s designed not to thin out quickly with the use of sturdy materials.

Heel-to-toe drop

The difference between the heel and forefoot heights is approximately 10mm. Although technically the measurement isn’t considered low in general standards, such heel offset offers a low-to-the-ground feel for better stride control. 

Prevents any irritation or discomfort to the foot 

The non-bulky appearance of this athletic footwear is due to the use of the Fantom Fit technology. Such a skeletally engineered cover is designed to trim down the weight of the shoe by fusing light fabric and synthetics. Its no-sew feature is intended to prevent any irritation or discomfort to the foot. 

Grants underfoot support and protection

The thin synthetic configuration is meant to grant support to its structure and protection around the forefoot. 

Two-way air circulation capability

The form-fitting mesh membrane allows air to permeate into the shoe. Inside, the shoe features the NB Ice technology, a fast-drying liner with a two-way air circulation capability.

Nice to know

  • New Balance 896 series is known among NB tennis fans and traditional club players as a go-to option for the modern and edgy style.
  • Another lightweight, hardcourt-ready tennis shoe with a similar form as the 896v3 and lower heel drop is the New Balance 796 v2

Facts / Specs

Weight: Men 12oz / Women 9.3oz
Shoe Type: Hard Court
Features: Lightweight
Construction: Cushioned
Material: Mesh
BRAND Brand: New Balance
SKUs: CH896L3 / CH896M3 / CH896P3 / CH896R3

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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.