If you play pickleball and want to improve your game, you might want to think about getting a pair of New Balance pickleball shoes.
These shoes not only look good, but they also use the latest technology to help you play better.
New Balance shoes not only come in stylish designs but also incorporate the latest technology to elevate your game.
These shoes are gaining popularity due to their exceptional features, which include:
- Fresh Foam technology: providing an additional cushioning boost to enhance speed and improve agility.
- FuelCell midsole technology: delivering speed and endurance match after match.
- Supportive synthetic mesh: ensuring comfort during intense games on the court.
In the meanwhile, don’t forget to check our guide on how to choose the right Pickleball shoes.
5 Best New Balance Shoes for Pickleball Players
Here are the most reliable choices to consider:
1. New Balance Men’s 696v4 Hard Court Shoe: Overall Pick
Looking to show off your Pickleball skills on the cross courts without breaking the bank on shoes? Look no further than the 696 v4.
These shoes provide the necessary support to tackle and perfect your backhand, forehand, and groundstroke shots.
They are even lighter than the previous model, so they won’t slow you down.
The latest version of New Balance’s 696v4 tennis shoe incorporates a herringbone outsole pattern, providing exceptional grip on hard courts.
The synthetic/mesh upper includes perforations in the forefoot for enhanced breathability, all supported by a lightweight midsole.
Key Features:
Durable Hard Court Outsole:
The New Balance 696v4 is equipped with a durable hard-court outsole, specifically engineered to provide exceptional traction and grip on pickleball courts.
The herringbone pattern ensures players can confidently execute quick lateral movements and precise footwork.
Responsive Cushioned Midsole:
The shoe boasts a cushioned insole that effectively absorbs impact and provides luxurious comfort during gameplay.
This feature reduces fatigue and allows players to focus on their performance without any discomfort.
Lightweight Design:
The 696v4 is engineered with a lightweight design, reducing the strain on players’ feet and enhancing agility on the court.
The sleek construction enables nimble movements, which are crucial for the fast-paced nature of pickleball.
Breathable Upper:
The shoe features a breathable upper, made from a combination of materials that offer ventilation and keep feet cool and dry.
This feature prevents the accumulation of moisture and enhances overall comfort during extended play.
Pros:
- Offers decent support and stability
- Comfortable to use
- No long break-in time
- Extremely light
- Excellent value for money
Cons:
- Tighter than expected
- Not enough space in the toe box
2. New Balance Fuel Cell 996v4 Shoes: Best Vale
The New Balance 996v4 is not just a cosmetic update; it comes with numerous technological advancements.
The updated knit upper of the New Balance 696v4 is crafted using Hypoknit, a breathable material featuring data-driven perforations that provide targeted support during tennis-specific movements.
The tongue has also been slightly modified to include wings, which act like a half sleeve to keep your foot securely in place.
One notable upgrade involves substituting RevLite cushioning with a FuelCell midsole that spans the entire length.
FuelCell is New Balance’s exceptionally responsive and energy-replenishing material, resulting in a substantial improvement.
The shoe still maintains its durability with NDurance rubber and now includes Lightweight Solid Rubber in low-wear areas to reduce weight.
Additionally, the 996v4 has an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, compared to the previous model’s 12 mm, bringing you closer to the court than ever before.
Key Features:
Fuel Cell Technology:
The New Balance Fuel Cell 996v4 comes equipped with groundbreaking Fuel Cell technology, ensuring unmatched cushioning and responsiveness.
This innovative midsole material absorbs the impact of each step, providing a powerful energy return that propels players forward and enhances overall performance.
Herringbone Outsole:
This shoe features a herringbone outsole pattern, specifically designed to deliver exceptional traction and grip on pickleball courts.
This enables players to execute quick lateral movements, pivot with ease, and maintain stability during intense rallies, significantly reducing the risk of slipping.
Lightweight Construction:
New Balance has meticulously crafted the 996v4 with lightweight construction, enabling players to move swiftly and effortlessly across the court.
The shoe’s sleek design minimizes bulkiness, offering a comfortable and agile feel throughout extended matches.
Durable Upper:
The upper of the shoe is expertly crafted from a blend of synthetic materials and breathable mesh.
This combination not only enhances the shoe’s durability but also facilitates proper ventilation, ensuring feet remain cool and dry even during the most demanding gameplay.
Pros:
- Enhanced Performance
- Superior Traction
- Comfort and Agility
Cons:
- Limited Color Options
3. New Balance Men’s 623 V3: Affordable Shoes for Pickleball
New Balance, a trusted name in the athletic shoe industry, presents the Men’s 623 V3 Casual Comfort Cross Trainer – a versatile and reliable shoe designed to enhance your pickleball experience.
This is a timeless choice for men, providing both stability and durability.
The shoe includes a reinforced toe and a long-lasting drag tip, designed to endure vigorous movements on the court.
The latest version incorporates QUIX technology, enabling users to effortlessly execute turns and lateral cuts.
Additionally, it utilizes perforations on the leather material to maintain a fresh environment for the foot, whereas the previous model incorporates mesh in certain areas of the forefoot.
Key Features:
Durable Construction:
The New Balance Men’s 623 V3 is built with premium materials, ensuring longevity and resilience on the pickleball court.
The shoe is designed to withstand intense gameplay and provide lasting support for your feet.
ABZORB Cushioning:
With ABZORB cushioning technology, the 623 V3 offers exceptional shock absorption, reducing the impact on your feet during fast movements and quick stops.
This cushioning helps prevent discomfort and potential injuries, allowing you to focus on your game.
Versatile Cross Trainer:
These shoes are ideal for playing pickleball and can be used as cross trainers, making them suitable for various indoor and outdoor sports and workouts.
This means you cannot only wear them on the pickleball court but also at the gym or during your daily activities.
Non-Marking Outsole:
The 623 V3 features a non-marking outsole, which is essential for indoor sports like pickleball.
It ensures that the shoe won’t leave scuff marks or damage the court’s surface, giving you the confidence to play without worrying about leaving any traces behind.
Pros:
- Supportive midsole
- Stylish
- Good color selection
- Relieves foot issues
- Reasonably priced
- Fits perfectly
Cons:
- Upper and sole durability issues
4. New Balance Men’s FuelCell 996 V5 Hard Court Shoe: Premium Pick
New Balance has once again pushed the boundaries of performance footwear with the Men’s FuelCell 996 V5 Hard Court Tennis Shoe.
This advanced shoe is made to improve your agility, comfort, and stability while playing pickleball. It is designed to elevate your pickleball experience to a whole new level.
The weight of your shoes can greatly affect your performance on the court.
Even a small amount of weight can unknowingly slow down your feet. The FuelCell 996v5 is created to feel extremely light on your foot, allowing you to move faster and with more agility than ever before.
Additionally, the FuelCell foam in this shoe enhances your performance on the court by providing an extra burst of energy with each step you take.
The herringbone outsole pattern ensures excellent traction control on any type of court.
Key Features:
FuelCell Technology:
The FuelCell 996 V5 utilizes New Balance’s advanced FuelCell technology, which enhances responsiveness and energy return.
With each step, players will experience a powerful burst of propulsion, enabling them to swiftly move and dominate the pickleball court.
Durable Hard Court Outsole:
Specifically engineered for hard court surfaces, this shoe’s outsole provides exceptional durability and traction.
Its herringbone pattern ensures optimal grip, allowing players to quickly change direction and maintain stability during intense matches.
Lightweight and Breathable:
The 996 V5 is designed with lightweight construction, reducing the strain on players’ feet and legs.
Moreover, the shoe features a breathable upper that keeps feet cool and dry, enhancing overall comfort during long pickleball sessions.
Supportive Fit:
The shoe’s secure and supportive fit gives players the confidence to push their limits.
The molded heel counter and cushioned collar ensure a snug yet comfortable fit, providing stability and reducing the risk of injuries.
Pros:
- Nice design
- Lightweight
- Very comfortable
- Good traction
Cons:
- Durability needs improvement
- More color options needed
5. New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X Lav V2 Hard Court Shoe: For Pro Pickleball Players
The Fresh Foam X Lav v2 tennis shoes are the ultimate choice for pickleball players who value versatility.
These shoes are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, which makes them highly versatile.
They are not only long-lasting, but also lightweight, comfortable, and provide great support, making them the ideal choice for all your footwear needs.
The FreshFoamx technology ensures that you experience plush comfort precisely where and when you need it.
The uppers of these shoes are crafted from synthetic and mesh materials, allowing for breathability while you play.
Additionally, the Ndurance outsole guarantees exceptional durability, while the toe drag strip further enhances this feature.
When selecting your shoe size, you have the option to choose between a standard or wide shoe width, ensuring a more personalized fit.
Key Features:
Fresh Foam X Technology: The Fresh Foam X Lav V2 incorporates New Balance’s innovative Fresh Foam X technology, which provides plush cushioning and unmatched responsiveness.
This advanced midsole technology guarantees exceptional shock absorption, allowing players to move swiftly and comfortably during intense matches.
Undoubtedly, these New Balance tennis shoes effortlessly serve as the best pickleball shoes as well.
Durable Hard Court Outsole:
Specifically engineered for hard court surfaces, the shoe’s outsole features a robust rubber compound with a herringbone pattern.
This design ensures outstanding traction and stability, empowering players to execute quick lateral movements and precise footwork on the pickleball court.
Lightweight and Breathable Design:
With its lightweight construction and breathable upper, the Fresh Foam X Lav V2 ensures that players’ feet stay cool and dry, even during extended gameplay.
The shoe’s sleek design reduces bulkiness, providing a nimble and agile feel on the court.
Secure and Supportive Fit:
New Balance has integrated a lace-up closure system that guarantees a secure and personalized fit.
Additionally, the shoe’s padded collar and molded heel counter offer added support, minimizing the risk of discomfort or injury.
Pros:
- Plenty of responsive cushioning
- Off-the-charts stability
- 6-month durability warranty
- Excellent grip (hard and clay)
- Spacious toebox
- Feels light on the foot
- Visually appealing
- Good for plantar fasciitis
Cons:
- Not durable for the price
- Lacks breathability
- Too high up the ankles
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How are New Balance pickleball shoes different from other court shoes?
New Balance pickleball shoes are specifically crafted for the sport of pickleball, featuring specialized outsoles, cushioning, and support to enhance performance on the court.
Q: Can I use indoor pickleball shoes for outdoor play?
It is not recommended to use indoor pickleball shoes for outdoor play, or vice versa.
Indoor shoes are designed for smooth, flat surfaces, while outdoor shoes are built to withstand rough terrain and offer better traction on uneven outdoor surfaces.
Q: Are wide sizes available for New Balance pickleball shoes?
New Balance provides a variety of pickleball shoes in wide sizes to cater to players with broader feet.
It is recommended to consult the sizing chart before making a purchase to ensure an ideal fit.
Q: Are New Balance pickleball shoes exclusively available for men?
No, New Balance offers pickleball shoes for both men and women, featuring specific design elements to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes.
Q: What sets indoor and outdoor pickleball shoes apart?
Indoor pickleball shoes are equipped with a non-marking sole to avoid leaving marks on gym floors, whereas outdoor pickleball shoes feature a tougher and more robust outsole for enhanced traction and grip on uneven outdoor surfaces.
Q: What features should I consider when looking for a good pickleball shoe?
A high-quality pickleball shoe should have adequate cushioning to absorb shocks, stability to support lateral movements, breathability to prevent moisture buildup, and a grippy outsole for traction on the court.
New Balance pickleball shoes offer all of these features and more.
Q: What is the best way to clean and maintain my New Balance pickleball shoes?
It is crucial to clean your pickleball shoes regularly in order to maintain their performance and extend their durability.
Use a gentle brush or cloth to eliminate dirt and debris, and refrain from using strong chemicals or machine washing.
Conclusion:
By investing in a pair of New Balance pickleball shoes, you can improve your performance while playing on the court.
These shoes are specially created to offer comfort, support, and good traction.
The advanced characteristics of New Balance pickleball shoes, such as cushioning, stability, and breathability, make them highly preferred by both professional and amateur players.
Whether you want to gain a competitive advantage or simply enjoy a more comfortable shoe for casual play, New Balance has the ideal solution for you.
It’s me Joe, a devoted pickleball enthusiast, and an avid player, I’m passionate about sharing the joy and excitement of the game through my Pickle Ball Routine. With years of experience on the court, I have honed my skills, explored various strategies, and developed a deep understanding of the nuances of pickleball.
I believe in the power of community and the incredible connections that can be forged through pickleball. I have had the privilege of engaging with players of all levels, from beginners seeking guidance to seasoned athletes looking to enhance their gameplay. My friendly and approachable demeanor makes me a valuable resource for players of all backgrounds.
Through Pickle Ball Routine, I aim to inspire and educate fellow pickleball enthusiasts. By sharing personal experiences, tips, techniques, and stories from the game, I strive to create a platform that fosters growth, camaraderie, and an unyielding passion for pickleball.