When you’re on the tennis court, you need to wear the best shoes you can afford. For those on a tight budget, the good news is that you don’t have to compromise on the quality of your new tennis shoes.
Below we’ll discuss the seven best cheap tennis shoes that have consistently proven their quality and wearability on the court.
1. ASICS Gel Game 7
The ASICS Gel Game 7 is easily one of the most popular recreational or practice tennis shoes. These shoes offer above-average support, comfort, and stability for their price range.
The combined qualities help the wearer move quickly in any direction on the court, so you can focus on your game and not think about the shoes on your feet.
ASICs manufactures Gel Game 7 tennis shoes for men, women, and kids. Choosing the right size when purchasing these shoes is essential, as some players find them to be a bit clunky.
Also, compared to the newer Gel Game 8, the breathability of the Gel Game 7 is not as effective, and the outsole has shorter durability. However, for the price, it is a reasonable consideration.
Pros
- Excellent gel cushioning and rebound
- Excellent support, shock-absorption, and stability
- Removable Ortholite sock liner boosts the rebound factor
Cons
- Some players dislike their low breathability
- Can feel clunky
2. K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2
Many players and experts praise the K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 for being well-cushioned, comfortable, and lightweight.
These shoes offer a wide-toe box best suited for players with medium to broad feet. In addition, the midfoot support prevents inward tipping, lessening the chances of sprained ankles. Moreover, the soles of these shoes have solid traction on different courts.
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 tennis shoes are designed for men, women, and big kids and come in various colors. You can check out their range on their website and benefit from free shipping if your purchase is over $100.
Pros
- Amazing cushioning and comfort
- Lightweight
- Fits securely
- Good flexion
- Outstanding stability on the court
Cons
- Not very durable
- Too wide for players with narrow feet
3. ASICS Gel Dedicate 7
The ASICS Gel Dedicate 7 offers the brand’s famous gel cushioning and technology at an affordable price. These shoes are no more than $70 and come in men’s, women’s, and men’s clay versions.
If $70 is too much for you, you can sign up for the OneASICS program on the ASICS website and get a 10% discount on your first order, plus free shipping.
The ASICS Gel-Dedicate 7 is quite attractive in design and can be used for tennis or casual wear. They are an excellent option for a beginner or recreational tennis players.
The cushioning in the toe, arch, and heel areas offers well-balanced support, adding to the comfort of these shock-absorbing shoes. In addition, the rubber soles are grippy on hard surfaces, allowing the wearer to feel surefooted.
ASICS Gel Dedicate 7 uppers are made from 100% synthetic materials, adding to their stability. In addition, the perforations in the toe areas improve ventilation.
Pros
- Gel cushioning in the forefoot area
- Excellent stability
- Affordable price
- Ankle support
- Durable design
- Rubber outsole for solid traction
Cons
- The white color shows dirt more easily
- Players with wider feet may find them too tight
4. Adidas Courtjam Bounce
Adidas Courtjam Bounce tennis shoes are priced at just under $100 and are one of the top contenders in their price range.
The comfort and design of these shoes allow tennis players to move about the court quickly and comfortably. In addition, Adidas Courtjam Bounce midsoles are well-cushioned and shock-absorbing, allowing those jump smashes to beat your opponent.
Adidas Courtjam Bounce tennis shoes are durable and provide traction on different courts as the outer soles are flexible and rugged. Additionally, the uppers of these shoes are made from perforated synthetic materials to improve stability and breathability.
Club and recreational players can improve their tennis skills with these durable, comfortable, and supportive shoes.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Well cushioned midsole
- Breathable
- Flexible and grippy outsole
- Ankle protection
Cons
- Some players find the toe box too roomy
5. NikeCourt Vapor Lite
NikeCourt Vapor Lite offers a unique cushioning system that helps players get to the ball as quickly as possible.
The lightweight design of these shoes ensures comfort and support. At the same time, the durable mesh allows ventilation to keep your feet cool. In addition, the mesh is protected from toe drag wear with a molded rubber overlay.
NikeCourt Vapor offers support through an innovative design motivated by racing car harnesses. This support includes a four-point strap and Ghillie loops on the bottom two laces to hug your foot for additional support.
The foam near the arch is soft to aid ankle alignment, while the foam supporting the outside of the foot is harder, allowing you to push off for fast movements.
Supportive straps wrap your foot from bottom to top with a 4-point design inspired by a racing-car harness. Additionally, Ghillie loops on the bottom 2 laces hug your foot for extra support. Finally, soft foam is under your arch, so it’s easier to align your ankle with your foot while volleying.
Along the outside of the foot is a more rigid foam that helps you push off during quick movements to get to the ball as fast as possible. NikeCourt Vapor Lites are good shoes for beginner tennis players working on footwork and racquet strokes.
However, these shoes are not recommended for people with high arches, old foot or ankle injuries, or for a game day.
Pros
- Designed to be grippy on clay and hard-court surfaces
- Removable inner sole
- One of the cheapest hard-court tennis shoes from Nike
- Breathable
- Padded collar
Cons
- Some players found them clunky
- Poor arch support
- Might be too tight for players with wide feet
- Break-in time takes longer
6. Adidas Gamecourt 2
Adidas Gamecourt tennis shoes are the cheaper version of the Adidas Sole Court; you can get a pair for less than $70.
In terms of value, this tennis-specific shoe is one of the best in its price range without compromising on quality and technology. This said, the durability is decent but not great. The Adidas Gamecourt has solid cushioning and stylish looks.
In keeping with Adidas’ other tennis shoe designs, the “booty” construction comes in handy for those who wish to ensure they have a fit that is best for them.
The midsole and heel are supported with Adidas Neo Cloudfoam, which is very comfortable. Likewise, the uppers are designed to fit your foot snugly.
Pros
- Comparatively cheap
- Great comfort provision in midsole due to Adidas Neo Cloudfoam
Cons
- Outsole looks and feels a bit cheaply made
- Stability is not the best on the market
7. ASICS Gel Court Challenger 12
Last but not least comes the ASICS Gel Court Challenger 12, designed for recreational tennis players.
The hidden support in the ASICS Gel Court Challenger 12 helps you, the player, to dart from left to right and back and forth with ease. The shoes come in various colors, or primarily white, for those who prefer more traditional tennis attire.
The ASICS Gel Court Challenger 12’s lightweight midsole cushions your feet and provides outstanding durability and bounce-back. The gel support technology supports the front and rear end of the foot, improving your stability during quick lateral movements.
In addition, the Ahar Plus outsole prevents wear and tear, while the Trusstic System will increase traction, lessening your chances of injury.
As with most ASICS tennis shoes, the removable sock liner helps maintain moisture management and adds to the shoe’s rebound qualities. The sock liner can be removed if a player has a medical orthotic to place in their shoe.
Pros
- Comfortable cushioning and support
- Durable tennis shoes
- Great traction
- Good fit
- Great value
- Lightweight
Cons
- Breathability isn’t great