Best New Men's Tennis Shoes of 2021
Get ready for the tennis season with the best new tennis shoes of this year so far!
2021 is an exciting year for tennis footwear. Some of the most iconic tennis shoe models, such as the adidas adizero Ubersonic got a makeover and were loaded with new technologies to hold up to all the demands of the modern game. Other brands, such as Nike, developed a completely new tennis shoe: the futuristic React Vapor NXT.
We are excited to introduce the newest tennis shoes of 2021 to you and to explain the main differences in the updates. This list is not in any particular order and will be updated throughout the year with more new shoes and our feedback and reviews.
Nike React Vapor NXT


Look fast, play faster with the Nike React Vapor NXT, selected as one of the best new tennis shoes in 2021 by our experts! Using years of athlete data to create this high performance shoe, Nike introduces a fresh look, and combines the perfect blend of speed elements with a stable ride and supreme traction to keep you ready for battle, match after match. Holding your feet in place like a glove is the full-length sleeve bootie, reinforced with Flyweave material to maximise the foot's natural motion, and enhance the breathability. Built to withstand the force of sliding, a data-informed outsole supplies an ideal blend of grip and give, while tough plastic covers the medial side of the toe-box for extreme drag protection.
Pros | Cons |
+ Stability | - Slight break-in period |
+ Responsive cushioning | - Slightly heavier than other Nike models |
+ Comfort | |
+ Durability |
Fit Detail:
Length: True to size; Width: Medium; Arch: Slightly low
adidas adizero Ubersonic 4


The future of speed is here! adidas listened to your feedback and has taken the best traits from the 2 and 3 to create the ultimate lightweight performance shoe, the adidas adizero Ubersonic 4! Built off the same last as the Ubersonic 2, you will find a glove-like fit and contoured feel. New to this update, the Lightstrike midsole provides plenty of rebound and is softer and more responsive than previous versions. The lightweight Primeknit upper is sure to keep you completely comfortable and supported, paired with a second layer of woven Primegreen materials for even more stability on those quick court cuts. With added durability in areas of high wear, the outsole will provide superb traction for multidirectional movements on all court surfaces. This is one of the best new tennis shoes for players seeking a cushioned, airy and responsive model.
Pros | Cons |
+ Light | - Slightly narrow midfoot |
+ Good cushioning | |
+Responsive |
Fit Detail:
Length: True; Width: Slightly narrow; Arch: Medium
Kswiss Hypercourt Express 2


Push your footwork to the limits in the Kswiss Hypercourt Express 2. Evolved to emulate the quickness of a running shoe, this model is now lighter and faster than ever while still delivering all-around comfort. The slightly tweaked upper is even more flexible and incorporates added protection in the toe to provide excellent support and durability. Delivering a plush feel while allowing you to feel connected to the court, if you were a fan of the previous version, you will experience a seamless transition to this one. The rubber outsole in a modified herringbone tread pattern provides fantastic traction and durability on any court surface.
Pros | Cons |
+ Durable | - People with narrow feet may find too roomy |
+ Cushioned | |
+ Comfortable |
Fit Detail:
Length:True; Width:Slightly wide; Arch:Slightly low
Nike Air Zoom Vapor Pro


If you are seeking a premium lightweight performance shoe, the Nike Air Zoom Vapor Pro is a great option. Replacing the Vapor X, Nike has taken the best features and added some new technology to deliver the speediest Vapor to date. A redesigned upper offers dual layers of support with a sock-like inner sleeve paired with a layer of durable mesh for added support and breathability. An asymmetrical lacing system has been strategically included to provide even more lateral support. The Vapor Pro offers responsive cushioning underfoot and a generative outsole pattern to enhance explosive changes. This may not be the most durable of Nike's lineup, however the outsole has been crafted with extra tread in high-wear zones and is perfect for players who slide into their shots.
Pros | Cons |
+ Responsive cushioning | - Lacks durability |
+ Step-in comfort | |
+ Lateral stability |
Fit Detail:
Length: True; Width: Medium; Arch: Slightly low
New Balance Lav Fresh Foam


New Balance takes possibly their biggest leap into the world of performance tennis footwear with the introduction of this model. Partly designed by Milos Raonic, the Lav features Kinetic Stitching to lock your foot down and provide stability only where necessary, in addition to a knit bootie construction that fits like a glove. You will love the excellent blend of comfort and responsiveness underfoot. The NDurance rubber outsole in a modified herringbone tread pattern offers great traction and durability on any court surface. For an added bonus, this shoe is backed by a 6-month Soly Durability Warranty.
Pros | Cons |
+ Responsive | - Knit bootie construction may take some time to get used to |
+ Stable | |
+ Flexible |
Fit Detail:
Length: True; Width:Medium; Arch: Medium
Babolat Propulse Fury AC


Babolat introduces the Babolat Propulse Fury AC, re-engineering the Propulse line to offer maximum stability, durability and comfort for the modern player. In creating this shoe, Babolat identified 9 key pressure points and used Active Flexxion technology to provide cushioning, support and responsiveness to all these key areas. The enhanced Michelin rubber compound improves the shoe's durability and traction across all surfaces, even for those that are very hard on their shoes.
Pros | Cons |
+ Durable | - On the heavier side |
+ Supportive | |
+ No break-in required |
Fit Detail:
Length: True; Width: Slightly narrow; Arch: Medium
Nike Court Vapor Lite


Featuring an innovative design and plush ride, the Vapor Lite is speedy, supportive and cushioned. The 4-point design provides a supportive strap which hugs your feet from bottom to top for extra support, while a breathable mesh keeps you cool and comfortable. The shoe features a soft foam near the arch to assist with aligning your ankle, in addition to a stiffer foam on the lateral side for extra stability during lateral movements. With a plush ride underfoot and an outsole suitable for any court surface, this shoe is hard to look past.
Pros | Cons |
+ Supportive | - Durability |
+ Speedy | |
+ Responsive |
Fit Detail:
Length: True; Width:Medium; Arch: Medium