The Best Tennis Shoes for the Casual Player

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Complex Original

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Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 10 – Prince QT Scream 4

Players looking for a no-frills sneaker that is comfortable straight out of the box should consider the Prince QT Scream 4. There’s nothing fancy here, but the Shock Eraser cushioning and reinforced overlays will help you reach your peak on the court. Aesthetically, the classic leather look gives the QT Scream 4 and old school feel, which is perfect for retro heads.

$84

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 9 – Nike Vapor Court

If you’re not quite ready for Federer’s Zoom Vapor line, the Nike Vapor Court is a worthy alternative. It’s got the same Dynamic Fit system and upper aesthetics, but swaps the Lunarlon cushioning for a full-length Phylon midsole. These aren’t going to be the most durable choice, but if you’re only hitting the courts every now and then, they Vapor Court will do just fine.

$60

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 8 – Diadora Speed Ace

Keep it simple in the Diadora Speed Ace. You won’t need to spend multiple sessions breaking these in, and their wallet-friendly price makes them a great choice for casual players. Diadora Double Action Plus cushioning will protect your landings, while a Duratech 5000 outsole delivers traction on all court surfaces. Unfortunately, the Speed Ace does not have an outsole guarantee.

$80

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 7 – Wilson Rush NGX

You’ll be able to feel the court in the Wilson Rush NGX thanks to its low profile DF2 cushioning. The Rush NGX also features a durable cage-like upper that wraps the forefoot and toe for stability and protection. Unlike some tennis shoes, the Rush NGX’s Duralast outsole does not come with a six month guarantee, but you’ll probably be ready for an upgrade by the time you notice any serious issues anyway.

$100

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 6 – New Balance 786

There’s no cutting edge tech or eye-catching designs in the New Balance 786, but it’s more than enough to help casual players become acquainted with the game. Right out of the box, the NB 786 provides supportive, breathable comfort, and their Ndurance rubber outsole is suitable for nearly any court surface.

$75

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 5 – Head Sprint Pro

The Sprint Pro is one of Head’s best models, and now that it’s on sale, it’s a great choice for casual players. With a six-month outsole guarantee, no break-in period, and enough tech to get the job done as your game improves, they’re one of the best buys you’ll find. Cop them now and see what we mean.

$80

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 4 – Fila Sentinel

The Fila Sentinel is a smart choice because it’s simple enough for beginners, but has enough cushioning, stability, and durability to support serious play if you decide to stick with it. They’re endorsed by Sam Querrey, who had a strong showing as the US Open, so you know the Sentinel can get the job done when called upon. The roomy fit will accommodate all foot sizes, and Super Action cushioning will keep you on your toes.

$90

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 3 – Joma Pro Roland

The Joma Pro Roland is one of the best bangs for your buck on the list. It’s got a welcoming out of the box feel with no break-in period required, and enough durable tech that you’ll be able to put in some serious work when needed. A basic EVA midsole provides reliable cushioning, and while the grippy all-court outsole of the Pro Roland comes with a six-month guarantee, so you can go hard without worrying about damaging your kicks.

$80

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 2 – adidas Bercuda 3

While they’re not quite as equipped as the Barricade line, the adidas Bercuda 3 is a smart choice for beginners and casual players alike. The full-grain leather upper is both comfortable and stylish, and it’s got Barricade-like stability claws to help support the quickest of footwork. A standard EVA midsole provides cushion, while the Adiwear outsole should give you enough tread until you’re ready to move on.

$65

Image via Tennis Warehouse
Image via Tennis Warehouse

No. 1 – Asics Gel Solution Speed

Although they’re one of the most expensive choices on this list, the Asics Gel Solution Speed is an investment that will pay off. With no break-in period needed, you’ll be able to enjoy these from the get go. The Flexion Fit upper will snugly wrap the foot, while the Solyte midsole delivers a comfortable feel without the added weight of EVA compounds. There’s no six-month guarantee with these, however the Asics High Abrasion Rubber outsole should be durable enough to last awhile.

$120

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