
Playing tennis at a high level means that most are looking for every possible advantage. One way to get rid of excess weight is to opt for lightweight tennis shoes so that your feet don't feel as tired.
Of course, they must also provide enough support for a person to feel safe in their movement, but companies always take this into account.
There are plenty of shoes to choose from, but the nine below are lightweight, performance-based solutions for all types of players.
Here's a breakdown of our 9 picks and their weight (based on 10.5 sizes).
tennis shoes | ounces | gram |
---|---|---|
Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 3 | 14.3 | 405 |
adidas adizero ubersonic 4 | 13.5 | 382 |
Asics Speed FF Solution | 12.3 | 348 |
Asics Solution Speed FF2 | 11.6 | 328 |
Cabeza Sprint Pro 3.0 SF | 12.8 | 362 |
Lottery Mirage 100 | 12.6 | 357 |
Nike Air Zoom Vapor X | 13.6 | 385 |
Nike Air Zoom Prestigio | 13.1 | 371 |
KSwiss Hypercourt Suprema | 13.1 | 371 |
table of Contents show
1. Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 3
- 14.3 ounces/405g(Feels so much lighter)
With the Adidas adizero Ubersonic 3, people know right away that they have a lightweight shoe.
Even if the numbers show that there are a lot of shoes on the market, this one is perfect for people who want to be fast on the field. Not only that, it is very easy to step on and use right out of the box and offers an excellent and adaptable fit.
There's a reason these shoes are still on the market today. Although the Ubersonic 4 is now available in multiple colorways, many players love the look of this shoe just as much (or even more).
Advantages
- Playable right out of the box
- Reduced prices at many retailers
- solid ventilation
Disadvantages
- The toe area is prone to pulling.
2. Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4
- 13.5 ounces / 382 g
There are a few design differences in the Adidas Ubersonic 4 compared to the 3. A lot of people think it's a slight upgrade, but it's more or less the same type of shoe overall. It will hold up well in many different environments, and that low-to-the-ground feeling is still something a lot of people really enjoy.
Is there a significant improvement from 3? Some people like the new cushioning system, as the Lightstrike cushioning offers great support and comfort.
Traction has also improved a bit, but some are still frustrated that they are wearing out too quickly. Since this is one of Adidas' flagship shoes, they keep releasing new color combinations to look sharp.
Advantages
- The new damping system is a hit with some
- Color combinations are released every new season.
- Traction is improved
Disadvantages
- Not many changes compared to the Ubersonic 3
- Durability is still not very good.
3. Asics Speed FF Solution
- 12.3 ounces / 348 g
Like Adidas Ubersonics, there are two options for Asics to make this list. The Asics Solution Speed FF is slightly cheaper due to the release date, but there are a few other differences as well.
This was the first to really refine the Gel Solution Speed series and included FlyteFoam cushioning for a great feel. It's a low-to-the-ground shoe that works well on all surfaces, maximizes movement, and offers plenty of stability.
One of the outstanding features of the Asics Solution Speed FF is that it offers incredible support for different feet. In some cases, light shoes are difficult for certain people to wear. That doesn't seem to be the case at all with the Asics Solution Speed FF, as narrow and wide feet have found a way to get that supportive feel without feeling uncomfortable.
Advantages
- excellent cushioning
- ground feeling
- Extra stability and support
Disadvantages
- It is increasingly difficult to find it in stores and online.
- The color options are not as pretty as the newer options.
4. Asics FF 2 Solution Speed
- 11.6 ounces / 328 g
The current shoe of choice for many professionals at the moment is the Asics Solution Speed FF 2. They built on the very popular Asics Solution Speed FF to round things out a bit and the general reception has been good.
The extra support and stability really makes a difference as it reduces the amount of punctures people could get if they wear them for too long.
From a weight perspective, there's a pretty significant change from Solution Speed FF to Solution Speed FF 2. About half an ounce has been added, but that's mostly for overall stability.
It doesn't really feel heavier on foot because it comfortably hugs a person's foot. This is due to the Twistruss system, which adds stability and allows players to make aggressive cuts on the court.
Advantages
- It feels lighter than the advertised weight.
- easy to push
- good support
Disadvantages
- A gripless sole may not work for some
- Not a ton of color options currently
5. Cabeza Sprint Pro 3.0 SF
- 12.8 ounces / 362 g
Head goes to great lengths to make it the perfect combination of lightness and durability. It's designed for high-level players who know they'll be making a lot of aggressive moves on the field, but don't want to worry about blowing out their shoes.
Every little ounce counts, and at 12.8 ounces, this is one of the lightest options for people who are confident in every match.
Another reason this always feels light is that it does a great job with ventilation. There's some soft cloth material in the forefoot and ventilation in the upper. It is very difficult for people to feel overheated while wearing these shoes. So keep that in mind when others don't live up to expectations.
Please note that getting the correct size is a bit difficult with these shoes as the length is generally short. To compensate for this, going up a half or even a full size might be the best way to go. It really just depends on how comfortable a person wants the shoe to be, but other than that it's a pretty smooth buying process.
Advantages
- Head's lightest, most performance-oriented option
- Super Fabric material in the forefoot is very comfortable.
Disadvantages
- A little expensive
- The adjustment is a bit difficult.
6. Lottery Mirage 100
- 12.6 ounces / 357 g
Lotto is sometimes overlooked by tennis players as a brand they can trust. They may not be the most modern brand, but the Mirage 100 is a great achievement for those who want something lightweight.
It comes in at around 12.6 ounces and feels extremely light in actual play. Top unsponsored professionals have tried these shoes and have fallen so in love with them that other leading companies have adopted some attributes.
What players get is a lightweight shoe that is also extremely stable. There is no wasted material to weigh down a player, perfect for those who only care about performance. They are also usually quite cheap, as Lotto does not charge the same type of premium that other companies charge for their tennis shoes.
All of the colors available for the Lotto Mirage are pretty basic, so that's about the only disappointment someone might have when buying. Other than that, they have a wide range that should get people excited about wearing a new type of shoe.
Advantages
- very solid cushioning
- Above average traction
- It feels even lighter than the advertised weight.
Disadvantages
- limited color options
- The brand is not as well known as others.
7. Nike Air Zoom Vapor X
- 13.6 ounces / 385 g
Nike is known for being at the forefront of lightweight footwear. The Nike Air Zoom Vapor X was thethe most popular tennis shoe among professional playersfor many years and its popularity in the casual arena is hard to compare to other shoes on the market.
Many people love that they are lightweight compared to other shoes in this category, but are quite durable. One of the complaints about Nike's lightweight shoes is that they don't have the best durability, making them very expensive in the long run.
However, if we are only talking about its performance on the court, the Vapor X is my favorite tennis shoe at the moment. That being said, they usually don't last more than a year (in my experience). you can read oursfull review of the Vapor X in this post.
Advantages
- Kompfort
- modern look
- The most popular tennis shoe on the ATP Tour
Disadvantages
- Durability is not that good
- Cushioning could be a bit better
8. Overtook the Nike Air Zoom
- 13.1 ounces / 371 g
When the Nike Air Zoom Prestige first released, some thought it was too big of a drop in quality to really be worth it.
It is mostly based on the very popular Steam line, but some differences make people wonder. The same type of materials used for the Vapor line have been stripped down a bit, which is frustrating for some who loved the setup of these products.
The good news is that this is an option for people who don't find lightweight footwear too difficult. The Nike Air Zoom Prestige is pretty basic but good enough to keep more experienced players comfortable.
Advantages
- AFFORDABLE
- Classic and modern colors.
- Reminds many of the Vapor line
Disadvantages
- It lacks high-end materials.
- Need some time to get in
9. KSwiss Hypercut Supreme
- 13.1 ounces / 371 g
People who have tried many different options from KSwiss have really loved what this company brings to the table in terms of lightweight shoes. The KSwiss Hypercourt Supreme is perhaps the top of the line as it is light weight making it very valuable for players who want a lot of speed.
Many other KSwiss shoe models are notorious for not being the best in terms of weight. These are the exception to the rule and have somehow become a favorite among professional gamers as well.
There's not much to do with the looks of the shoes, but they do the job for most who want a reliable option. They come in various colors so people can be a bit picky.
One complaint about KSwiss shoes in the past has been the search for the perfect fit. The good news about the Hypercourt Supreme is that it runs true to size and has a medium width and arch.
This really is a shoe designed for many different types of players and it's worth trying it out in person to see exactly what a difference it makes.
Advantages
- Solid amount of support and stability.
- The Middle of the Road fit works for different foot types.
- Numerous color options
Disadvantages
- Despite being lightweight, they still feel a bit heavy compared to the rest of the list.
- Ankle collar may be too high for some
Our best choice
In a slightly annoying pick, the Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 3s is the best lightweight tennis shoe out there when it comes to value for money.
This is because there isn't as much of an upgrade between the three and four, but all three are available at a reduced price from most retailers. A person doesn't really sacrifice much by going with the older model, as long as they enjoy the style and color options.
They are extremely lightweight, allowing players to play at an extremely high level, and have a longer lifespan than many expect from a lightweight. It's in the budgets of many gamers, and some smart people are charging before they run out.
Other sneakers we recommend:
- Shoes for wide feet
- kids tennis shoes
- tennis woman
- Clay court tennis
- Hard Court Tennis
FAQs
Are lightweight tennis shoes better? ›
Without a doubt, the main advantage of using a lightweight tennis shoe is that there's less weight holding your feet down, which means all else equal that you can move around the court faster.
What is considered a lightweight sneaker? ›Running shoes typically weigh between 6.5 and 13 ounces. To qualify as “lightweight,” the shoes should clock in at less than 8 ounces, says Nelya Lobkova, DPM, a podiatrist in New York City. Meanwhile, “heavy” shoes generally weigh more than 10.5 ounces.
How do I find the best tennis shoes for me? ›- Comfort. By nature, tennis shoes tend to be stiffer than many other types of shoes because they need to support a wide range of motion, including the lateral movements essential when hitting the court. ...
- Stability. ...
- Durability. ...
- Weight. ...
- Arch Support. ...
- Ventilation. ...
- Traction. ...
- Level of Play.
Gives you right support: If you are a person who exercises, lightweight shoes gives you maximum support for good walking/running experience. You can't understand about shoe support just by looking. A good way to tell if something is supportive is to pay attention to the arch, the sole, and to feel of the material.
What's the difference between tennis shoes and sneakers? ›What's the difference between tennis shoes and sneakers? The basic distinction is that sneakers are for casual use, such as walking. Tennis shoes are like “specialized footwear” used for this sport. These two products have clear distinctions in many categories.
Which quality of shoes is best? ›Leather is a renowned number-one high quality shoe material, since it's resistant, durable, breathable and soft.
How many pairs of tennis shoes should you have? ›SEVEN PAIRS OF SHOES, THE IDEAL NUMBER? The 7-shoes-for-7-days recommendation is now old fashioned, but it is based on irrefutable good sense, which is always in style. Shoes should rest between each wear to prolong their life.
Should sneakers be heavy or light? ›So, go for lightweight running shoes if you have sprints or a race on the calendar. Training and high-mileage running shoes for long-distance runners should be heavier, as these offer added cushioning and support, Dr Lovato says.
Which sole material is lightweight? ›EVA :: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate soles are the most lightweight and have excellent shock absorption and thermal insulation properties. They are mainly used in sports soles (with rubber track) and summer shoes.
Is Nike Air Max lightweight? ›Leather, textile and mesh are combined for a durable construction that's breathable and comfortable to wear all day. Originally designed for performance running, the Max Air unit delivers lightweight cushioning throughout every step. The foam midsole adds cushioning to last.
Should you size up in tennis shoes? ›
Christine Luff from verywell.com recommends going up half a shoe size because one's feet swell when they run and it is important to have plenty of room in the toebox. If one's toes are crammed in the front of the running shoe, you could develop blisters or black toenails.
How do you find the price of good shoes? ›- Use your discounts. ...
- Become a product tester. ...
- Give your email. ...
- Sign up for credit cards. ...
- Enter giveaways. ...
- Join a store's “friends and family” circle. ...
- Shop inventory clearance sales. ...
- Attend activations.
Opt for a shoe that supports your foot without being too restrictive and absorbs shock without feeling too heavy. You may find that road running shoes, trail-running shoes or hiking shoes can be worn comfortably for walking as well.
Are Skechers good for your feet? ›As a consequence, Skechers can cause ligament and muscle stresses and strains. The memory foam could take on the 'memory' of a poor gait style causing destabilising foot, ankle, knee, hip and lower back pain.
Can you wear normal sneakers for tennis? ›In a perfect world, no. If price is a problem and you can only choose one, we'd recommend wearing a running shoe for both activities. While you won't get the same lateral stability and grippy outsole that a tennis shoe provides, you'll still have cushioning to keep you comfortable on the court.
Can tennis shoes be worn as sneakers? ›Tennis shoes are technically designed to be worn during a tennis match while sneakers are just simple shoes with rubber soles and a canvas topping. Tennis shoes may be used as sneakers when used outside court, but sneakers may not be used as tennis shoes.
What are the two types of tennis shoes? ›- Hard.
- Clay.
- Grass.
1. Nike. Nike is an American multinational corporation that designs, develops, manufactures, and markets footwear, clothes, equipment, and accessories in the whole world.
What are the top 5 sneakers? ›- NIKE KOBE 6 'MAMBACITA'
- JJJJOUND NEW BALANCE 990v3 [BROWN]
- JJJJOUND ASICS GEL-KAYANO 14.
- CROCS POLLEX CLOG BY SALEHE BEMBURY.
- NIKECRAFT GENERAL PURPOSE SHOE TOM SACHS.
- NEW BALANCE X JOE FRESHGOODS 9060.
- NEW BALANCE MADE IN USA 990V3.
- AIR JORDAN 1 'LOST AND FOUND'
The top-selling athletic sneakers for 2021 (in revenue rank order) are as follows: Nike Air Force 1 Low, Nike Air Max 270, Nike Air Vapormax Plus, Nike Revolution 5, Nike Air Max 97, Adidas NMD R1, Nike Air Max 90, Nike Air Vapormax Flyknit 3, Jordan I High OG, and Jordan XIII.
What brand of shoes is the healthiest? ›
Cleveland Clinic reports that walking shoes are essential must-haves to maximize foot health. Nike, Asics, Sketchers and New Balance are examples of brands that make walking shoes that fit comfortably, which is crucial for the long-term health of your feet.
Should you wear the same tennis shoes everyday? ›When it comes to how often you should wear your favorite pair of footwear, Dan recommends trying to rotate every other day. This not only extends the life of the shoes, but it's best for your feet. “The repetitive stresses of wearing the same shoes day after day, hour after hour, can eventually make us uncomfortable.
How often should you replace tennis shoes? ›But even if you don't notice those signs, the general rule of thumb is about 45-60 hours before the midsole is worn out. So if you play once a week for an hour, you should be replacing your shoes at least once a year. For more on the latest gear and tennis technology, visit TENNIS.com.
How often should you buy new tennis shoes if you wear them everyday? ›According to podiatrists, everyday shoes need to be replaced every 8 to 12 months – or when they start showing signs of wear and tear.
Is it better to size up or down in sneakers? ›Buying a sneaker that is slightly larger than your foot allows for better circulation which minimizes swelling. If one foot is slightly larger than the other go for the bigger size and always consider the kind of socks you plan to wear with your shoes.
Why lightweight shoes are better? ›The benefits to wearing lighter shoes include less braking (and therefore less impact), less muscle strain, and less energy output because you're lifting the weight of the shoe off the ground instead of using excessive muscular force to push off the ground.
Is it OK to wear running shoes for walking? ›Can running shoes be used as walking shoes? The short answer: yes. Running shoes and walking shoes have similar qualities that make them ideal for being active. While running shoes are designed to be durable for the rigorous demands of running, they are excellent as walking shoes, too.
Which shoe material is best for daily use? ›- Cotton- comfortable, lightweight, and easy to clean.
- Polyester- flexible, dries out quickly, and is resistant to shrinking.
- Wool- helps keep feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Nylon- durable, insulated, and cheap.
- Rayon- soft, comfortable, easy to color.
A rubber sole is more comfortable compared to plastic. It is pliable and provides a better grip than plastic and leather soles when exposed to wet and oily surfaces.
What sole is the most comfortable? ›Leather Soles
The upsides of leather outsoles are many: they're breathable, flexible, they break in easily, they sound great when you're click clacking on linoleum, and the big one is that they're soft, so they mold to your foot over time — in that regard, many consider them very comfortable.
What are the lightest Air Max shoes? ›
Nike Air Max 1 Ultra Flyknit - The lightest Air-Max ever.
Is Nike Air Force One light weight? ›The lightest Air Force 1 ever, the Nike Air Force One Ultra Flyknit Low weighs 50% less than the original, but still retains its clean, classic look. Ultra-breathable Nike Flyknit works with the cored-out Ultra midsole to reduce the shoe's overall weight.
What's the difference between Airforce and Air Max? ›Air Force 1 is a low-top sneaker, while Air Max is a line of sneakers. Air Force 1 has a classic, iconic design and is often worn as a casual shoe, while the Air Max line is known for its cushioning and comfort, and is often worn for athletic activities.
How much room should you have at the end of your tennis shoe? ›Check the space at the end of the shoe.
Stand up and make sure there is 3/8" or 1/2" (about the width of your finger) between your longest toe (usually the second toe) and the end of the shoe. Always stand and walk around in the shoes to see if they are comfortable, fit well, and don't chafe or rub anywhere.
As we all know, if you wear a shoe that is too tight it will hurt your feet and lead to foot ailments, such as blisters, bunions and calluses. But wearing a shoe that is too big will cause us to walk in an unnatural and dysfunctional way. This can lead to serious foot problems.
What happens if you wear tennis shoes that are too big? ›Other painful effects of wearing shoes that are too big include: Corns and calluses: caused by excessive pressure on the toes. Metatarsalgia: caused by too much pressure on the balls of your feet. Disrupted natural stride: resulting in Achilles tendonitis, arch pain, and pain in the calf muscles.
Where is the cheapest place online to buy shoes? ›- Amazon. Amazon is the first place many people go to find the lowest price on everything, and shoes are no exception. ...
- thredUP. Shopping secondhand is better for your wallet and the environment. ...
- Tradesy. ...
- Zappos. ...
- 6pm. ...
- Zulily. ...
- Onlineshoes.com. ...
- Foot Locker.
- Fit. ...
- Shape of the Shoe. ...
- Feel of the Shoe. ...
- How Your Body Feels During and After Activity. ...
- Company Return Policy. ...
- Life of the Shoe.
If you walk about three to four hours a week every day, you should replace your shoes every six months. If you are heavier and walk more often than that, you should get a new pair every three months. Keep in mind this would apply if you're wearing the same shoes day in and day out.
How do I know my perfect shoe size? ›Press gently on the top of the shoe to make sure you have about a half-inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. This provides enough room for your foot to press forward as you walk. Wiggle your toes to make sure there's enough room. Walk around in the shoes to determine how they feel.
Should shoes be tight or loose? ›
Shoes that are on the tighter side are likely to rub, and since this friction can cause blisters, it's best to have a bit of wiggle room. The ball of your foot should fit comfortably in the widest part of the shoe, and at the heel make sure that you have some room for slight heel slippage.
Are heavy or light shoes better? ›If you're in need of a new running shoe, aim for a lighter model for longterm results. Lightweight trainers mean less impact, less fatigue and faster recovery. Wearing lightweight shoes and running with soft footsteps can be very beneficial for a runner of any ability or experience level.
Are lighter or heavier shoes better? ›Generally, lightweight shoes are meant for better speed but do not provide maximum comfort, whereas heavy ones provide maximum comfort but do not mean for races. If your goal is better speed in races, have a fast pace, consider lightweight shoes. It's simple science that lighter running shoes will help you run faster.
Do lighter running shoes make difference? ›The runners ran roughly 1 percent slower for each 100 grams of lead added to the shoes in the 3,000-meter race. One interesting implication, said the researchers, is that elite marathon runners wearing shoes 100 grams lighter than normal could potentially run about 57 seconds faster.
Do expensive shoes make a difference? ›A well-made pair of shoes is a piece of high craftsmanship. And the main difference? You will have greater support and padding, and your feet will feel “hugged” instead of “constricted”. Higher-priced shoes are built on the foundations of high construction quality and balanced arch support.
Do shoes get bigger the more you wear them? ›Shoes will typically stretch all on their own as you wear them. Leather shoes, whether it be men's dress shoes or women's heels, will fit over time. But if they are too tight and uncomfortable to wear in, try some of these easy hacks to stretch your shoes up to half a size or so to accommodate your feet.
Should your shoes be lighter or darker than dress? ›Choose shoes that are one shade darker than your outfit.
To avoid the cringe factor that often comes from mixing two similar but slightly different colors, opt for a pair of shoes a hair darker than your outfit—a fire-engine red dress with pair of cherry-red heels, for example.
When purchasing the perfect shoe, fit is always the most important. If your shoe is too tight, you may have blisters, numbness and general discomfort; to avoid this, many experts recommend buying a running shoe half a size larger.
Should shoes fit bigger or smaller? ›Reject any heels that fit tight anywhere - especially around the toes. If high heels have pointy toes buy a larger size than normal to have room for the forefoot and toes to spread out from side to side. NEVER EVER EXPECT TO GET HEELS TO FIT BY 'BREAKING THEM IN' OR STRETCHING THEM. (The one exception to never ...
Is it good to wear shoes bigger than your feet? ›Other painful effects of wearing shoes that are too big include: Corns and calluses: caused by excessive pressure on the toes. Metatarsalgia: caused by too much pressure on the balls of your feet. Disrupted natural stride: resulting in Achilles tendonitis, arch pain, and pain in the calf muscles.
Does your weight affect your shoe size? ›
Do feet get smaller when you lose weight? In most cases, yes. While it may not be noticeable for everyone, weight loss does tend to result in smaller feet, says Lauren Wurster, DPM, a spokesperson for the American Podiatric Medical Association and a foot and ankle surgery specialist at Foot & Ankle Clinics of Arizona.
What is the benefit of light running shoes? ›The obvious benefit to wearing lightweight running shoes is the reduction of energy needed to run, meaning a lower rate of fatigue and faster overall runtime.
What makes a shoe light weight? ›Lightweight shoes are generally made by cutting down the cushioning and the majority of the protection it provides to the feet. Whereas heavyweights are heavy because they are highly equipped with cushioning.
How much do Hoka shoes weigh? ›Even with its built-in stability, though, the shoe keeps things light. In fact, the updates to the Arahi 6 made the shoe even lighter with the women's version only weighing 7.6 oz, and the men's weighing 9.3 oz.