Tennis

Yonex's Ad-Accel tennis shoes are a game-changer for players seeking speed, responsiveness, and comfort on the court. With a unique Accel-Booster carbon plate in the mid-foot, these shoes enhance changes of direction and provide exceptional stability. The Power Cushion+ midsole absorbs shock and propels you into the next step, while the Durable Skin upper offers a supportive yet flexible fit.The Ad-Accel's lightweight design (11.8 oz. for men, 11.1 oz. for women) and streamlined silhouette make it feel like an extension of your foot. The upper features strategic cutouts for breathability, while plastic reinforcements provide durability in high-wear areas. The higher heel tab adds cushioning and stability, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout your match.The outsole's split pattern with herringbone tread on the medial side and thicker tread on the lateral side provides optimal traction for both lateral movements and quick adjustments. The rounded edges promote smooth transitions, while the absence of a lateral flange allows for efficient footwork.While the Ad-Accel's length may require some players to size down for a snug fit, the lacing system with an extra runner's eyelet ensures a secure lockdown. The shoe's overall softness may compromise stability for some, but confident movers will appreciate its responsiveness. The grippy outsole can be a drawback on stickier surfaces, limiting the ability to execute hard-court slides.Overall, the Yonex Ad-Accel is an excellent choice for players seeking a lightweight, responsive, and comfortable tennis shoe. Its unique features and attention to detail make it a top contender in the performance shoe category.

Coco Gauff's meteoric rise in tennis has been accompanied by a parallel evolution in her signature footwear. A year after her triumph at the 2023 US Open, New Balance unveils the second edition of her signature shoe, the Coco CG2, set to launch on August 21st.Inspired by the classic New Balance 550s, the CG2 features a distinctive high profile and a playful swap of the basketball on the tongue label for a tennis ball. Gauff's personal style shines through in the shoe's design, with the word "Power" woven into the left shoe's label and "Grace" on the right. Her initials, "CG," are etched on the pivot point.The CG2's geometric-shaped design, stability, and flexibility pay homage to Gauff's beloved city of Paris, where she reached her first Grand Slam final in 2022. Suede overlays enhance the shoe's off-court style, while its responsive Energy Arc technology ensures on-court explosiveness."I had as much fun designing and collaborating on the CG2 as I did with the CG1," said Gauff. "My relationship with the New Balance team is incredible, and I'm excited to see what people think of the evolution of this shoe!"The New Balance Coco CG2 launches with the "Power and Grace" colorway on August 21st.

The Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 tennis shoes are designed to provide comfort, reactivity, and stability on the court. The upper features breathable mesh, a larger vamp, and graduated size for enhanced support. A new mudguard offers protection and stability, while an upgraded drag pad increases durability.The inner-sock construction with anchored tongue provides a secure and adaptive fit. The medium cut and wide toe box offer ample space and support. The lacing system allows for a customized fit to prevent foot sliding.Underfoot, the Energy Cell foam and R-DST+ provide cushioning and support. A TPU plate and lateral chassis enhance torsion control and stability. The Duralast outsole features a unique channel pattern for abrasion resistance and a balance of grip and give.The Rush Pro 4.5 is suitable for hard courts and offers dependable traction on clay. However, individuals with narrow heels may experience some heel slippage. The lacing system could benefit from a modified racer's loop for a more secure fit.Overall, the Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 is a well-rounded tennis shoe that delivers comfort, support, and stability. Its breathable upper, responsive cushioning, and durable outsole make it a reliable choice for players seeking high performance on the court.

The Roger Clubhouse Pro, On's latest tennis shoe, is designed to cater to casual players seeking comfort and versatility. It boasts a softer ride compared to its predecessor, the Roger One, thanks to the incorporation of Helion Superfoam midsole and Cloudtec cushioning. The hidden Speedboard in the midfoot and heel provides stability and energy return, while the breathable mesh upper enhances flexibility. Durability is ensured by medial overlays and a large TPU toe cap. The outsole features an open herringbone pattern for traction on various surfaces.The Roger Clubhouse Pro offers a roomy fit, particularly in the forefoot, allowing for ample toe space and a secure connection to the court. The low arch design caters to players with wider and flatter feet. The internal half-bootie provides a snug fit, especially for those with narrower feet.On-court performance is enhanced by the wider forefoot, which creates a stable base. The carbon fiber Speedboard adds support and responsiveness, although it may not be as supportive as the Roger One for highly aggressive lateral cuts. However, for recreational players, it offers adequate support.Comfort is a key feature of the Roger Clubhouse Pro. The Cloud technology and Helion midsole cushioning provide a plush and bouncy feel, effectively absorbing harsh landings. The pliable upper contributes to step-in comfort, eliminating the need for a break-in period.The outsole's modified herringbone pattern provides grip on hard courts and slides on clay. Overlays on the medial, lateral, and toe box enhance durability. The cutout in the midfoot exposes the Speedboard and reduces weight.While the Roger Clubhouse Pro is designed for recreational players seeking comfort and versatility, it may not provide sufficient support for players with narrower feet and higher arches. Performance insoles or orthotics could potentially address this issue, but it would increase the overall cost of the shoe.Overall, the Roger Clubhouse Pro is a solid choice for casual tennis players who prioritize comfort and versatility. It offers a roomy fit, plush cushioning, and a durable construction, making it suitable for both on- and off-court wear.

The Adidas Barricade, a renowned tennis shoe known for its stability and support, has undergone subtle yet significant updates in its latest iteration. The most notable change lies in the cushioning system, which now features Repetitor technology. This dual-density foam provides enhanced stability in the forefoot and plush cushioning in the heel for improved shock absorption and comfort.The upper has also received an upgrade, boasting increased mesh for greater breathability and flexibility. The tongue now features enhanced padding, further enhancing comfort. The Geofit sense pods and shark skin lining in the heel have been refined for an improved fit.The Barricade's signature asymmetrical U-throat and off-set lacing system remain, allowing for a secure and adaptive fit. The Torsion System continues to provide a sturdy backbone, preventing twisting through the midfoot during explosive movements.Toe-draggers will appreciate the reinforced TPU (Adituff) that encapsulates the toe box and medial side of the upper, offering enhanced durability and grip. The Adiwear outsole retains its split herringbone pattern, providing durability in high wear zones and forgiveness in sliding areas.While the Barricade has shed some weight in recent generations, it still falls short of being considered a spry shoe. The latest model is slightly heavier than its predecessor, which may be a consideration for players seeking a more agile option.The break-in period has been reduced thanks to the increased mesh in the upper, but the shoe still requires a few outings to fully conform to the foot. The updated cushioning provides a slightly elevated feel in the heel, while the forefoot may not feel as forgiving as in previous models.Despite these minor drawbacks, the Barricade remains a top choice for high-performance players seeking stability and support. Its durability and adaptability make it a reliable companion on the court, ensuring players can focus on their game without worrying about their footwear.