Asics Solution Speed FF 3
Pros
- One of the lightest tennis shoes on the market
- Fantastic wear resistance and durability
- Exceptionally breathable for a tennis shoe
- Grounded platform with a great court feel
- Rockered heel makes transitions faster and smoother
- Solid stability for a speed-oriented shoe
- Perfect grip with enough give
Cons
- Not for wide feet
- Not very stable for baseline players
Key Features
- SPEEDTRUSS™ technology enhances flexibility and speed, giving you a competitive edge.
- The PRECISION SOLE design ensures an optimal balance of grip and flexibility for smooth movement across various surfaces.
- Flytefoam technology in the midsole contributes to the shoe's lightweight nature, allowing for swift movements on the court.
- Engineered mesh and film upper for breathability and durability.
- Algorithmically generated outsole provides excellent traction and stability.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Ankle Strap
- Outer material: Synthetic
- Inner material: Synthetic
The ASICS Solution Speed FF 3 is an ultralight tennis shoe designed for women who prioritize speed and agility on the court. It offers remarkable responsiveness during playtests, demonstrating low weight and excellent traction.
With a weight of just 10.9 oz (309g), this shoe is 15.1% lighter than average, allowing for effortless adjustments in footwork. Our bend test confirmed its flexibility, registering at 17.9% more flexible than average.
The connection to the court is enhanced by cushioning that is 10.9% firmer than average, which aids both stability and energy return in conjunction with the stiff Speedtruss shank in the midfoot. This design fosters confidence for aggressive movements.
The reliable Precision Sole enhances grip, making the Solution Speed FF 3 ideal for agile play, whether it involves rapid directional changes or sudden stops. The rubber outsole ensured secure footing throughout our tests.
However, the shoe features a streamlined fit that may not accommodate all foot types. Women with wider feet are advised to consider alternative options.
Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 6
Pros
- Lighter than average speedy
- Bouncy and responsive cushioning
- Very stable for a lightweight shoe
- Unusually flexible
- Secure midfoot lockdown
- Perfect grip on hard court
- Excellent overall durability
- 6-month outsole durability guarantee
Cons
- Not very breathable
- Toe drag guard is not very sturdy
- Laces bite when cinched tightly (or when a runner's knot)
Key Features
- MIZUNO WAVE: The MIZUNO WAVE plate disperses energy from impact across a broader area, providing a stable platform with superior cushioning.
- MIZUNO ENERZY (FOAM): A versatile foam that maintains softness and resilience, enhancing your performance capabilities.
- POWNCE: An exceptionally lightweight midsole material known for its comfort and durability, ensuring you stay agile on the court.
- D-Flex Groove: This diagonal groove in the midfoot allows for maximum speed and power during directional changes, optimizing natural body movement.
- 3D-Solid Upper: Offers a unique combination of breathability, softness, and durability to support rigorous play.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Mesh for breathability
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit
The Mizuno Wave Exceed Tour 6 is best suited for players seeking a combination of energy return and maneuverability on the tennis court. Our lab tests highlight its lightweight design, confirming its significant resistance to wear, making it one of the most durable lightweight tennis shoes available.
The upper material is designed to withstand friction from slides and toe drags, achieving a durability score of 4/5 in our Dremel test. The outsole features a DuRubber compound with a measurement of 87.6 HC, indicating above-average longevity.
During play, the shoe enabled seamless movement, allowing for agile crossover steps and quick accelerations. Weighing only 11.7 oz (332g), it is 8.8% lighter than the average tennis shoe, providing enhanced support through its Wave plate while the D-Flex Groove in the midsole facilitates natural bending for improved agility.
This model effectively balances weight with cushioning, featuring a 30.2 mm heel composed of two foam types. The primary cushioning is the responsive Enerzy NXT, which significantly enhances performance during playtests, complemented by PoWnCe cushioning for impact protection.
However, the upper's emphasis on durability results in limited ventilation, earning a score of 2/5 in our lab assessment. Players seeking breathability may want to consider alternative options.
Babolat Jet Mach 3
Pros
- Ultra lightweight for a tennis shoe
- Fantastic stability for a speed shoe
- Great grip for intense movements
- Very secure lockdown and foothold
- Breathable for summer sessions
- Feels well-connected to the court
- Highly flexible forefoot
- Comfortable in-shoe feel (ergonomic insole)
Cons
- Falls short of durability (for the price)
- Not a lot of cushioning
- Snug toebox fit (but available in wide)
Key Features
- Lightweight design for improved speed and agility on the court.
- Durable materials that withstand heavy wear and tear.
- Enhanced grip to help prevent slips during play.
- Breathable mesh upper for added ventilation and comfort.
- Cushioned sole for shock absorption and comfort during long matches.
Specifications
- Product rating: 4.2/5 based on 73 reviews.
- Available sizes: Varied, check specific size chart for accuracy.
- Weight: Lightweight design enhances performance.
- Color options: Various colors available to suit personal style.
The Babolat Jet Mach 3 is best suited for players seeking a lightweight tennis shoe with notable stability and agility. During our playtests, it provided confidence for quick acceleration and direction changes. Its solid traction and secure fit make it a leading option in the category of stability lightweight tennis shoes.
The JM3 features a modest stack height of 28.3/18.2 mm, which enhances ground awareness and offers a firm feel for improved surefootedness. The midsole consists primarily of a firm 29.6 HA foam, while the heel incorporates a softer 26.5 HA foam to facilitate gentler landings. Additionally, a stiff TPU shank provides substantial support for sudden lateral movements.
Our manual assessment indicated a torsional rigidity score of 4/5, demonstrating the shoe's resistance to twisting forces. The grippy outsole not only boosts control but also allows for smooth slides when necessary. Furthermore, the JM3 combines weightlessness and flexibility, making split-second accelerations effortless.
Weighing just 11.0 oz (312g), this shoe is among the lightest tested, measuring 14.3% below average in weight. Its versatility contributes to an effortless playing experience, complemented by flex grooves that require 37.5% less force to bend, reinforcing its status as the most flexible tennis shoe we've experienced.
However, the focus on agility comes at the cost of impact protection. After extended sessions, we noted increased fatigue in our legs. Players who prioritize cushioning may want to explore alternative options.
K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme
Pros
- Nimble and lighter than average
- Grounded feel underfoot
- Outstanding durability
- Very wide platform
- Soft bootie molds to the ankle
- Excellent balance of grip and give
- Flexible yet propulsive
Cons
- Not very breathable
- Not for narrow feet (upper stretches)
- Not so supportive
Key Features
- AOSTA 7.0 RUBBER COMPOUND: High-density outsole provides unsurpassed durability from heel-to-toe.
- DURAWRAP Flex: A durable, yet light material that provides protection and flex so there is no break-in period.
- DRAGGUARD 7.0: Located in the high wear areas of the toe and heel offering elevated outsole durability.
- SURGE 7.0: Lightweight premium cushioning system providing maximum energy return.
- 180 PSC PLANTAR: A 180 degree thermal plastic Plantar Support Chassis that enhances mid-foot stability.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Synthetic
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme is a lightweight tennis shoe designed for players seeking a high level of in-shoe comfort. It features generous padding and a close fit, making it suitable for those who prioritize cushioning during play.
Weighing in at 12.31 oz (349g), the K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme is lighter than the average tennis shoe by 2.2%, contributing to a feeling of agility on the court. The shoe's ample padding provides a soft embrace around the foot, with the tongue measuring 10.4 mm in thickness, which is 26.8% thicker than average.
The collar of the K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme contours comfortably around the ankle, enhancing the overall movement experience. Our lab tests indicated a heel counter firmness rating of 2/5, demonstrating its flexibility under pressure and pinching.
One drawback of the K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme is its limited ventilation. Observations indicate that the closely woven fabric between the overlays lacks sufficient perforations, which may lead to discomfort during extended use. Players who prioritize breathability might consider alternative options to mitigate sweating.
Adidas Defiant Speed 2
Pros
- Grounded platform with good court feel
- Stable base for a speed shoe
- Generously padded insole
- Fairly flexible forefoot
- Impressive durability for the money
- Great balance of grip and give
Cons
- Not everyone can achieve a secure lockdown (especially skinny feet)
- Higher drop may cause toe jamming
Key Features
- Lightweight Design: Crafted for speed with a breathable mesh upper.
- Adiwear Outsole: Specifically designed for hard court surfaces, providing excellent grip and traction.
- Bounce Midsole: Offers cushioning and flexibility for dynamic movement.
- Supportive Heel: TPU heel construction enhances fit and comfort during play.
- Sustainable Materials: Made in part with at least 20% recycled content, supporting eco-friendly practices.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Defiant Speed 2 is designed for players seeking agility and comfort in their tennis shoes. It excels in its lightweight construction and incorporates the responsive Lightstrike midsole, offering significant cushioning during play. Additionally, it provides notable durability throughout its use.
During testing, we found that the Lightstrike midsole delivers strong ground feedback without harsh impact, despite having a below-average stack height of 28.8/17.0 mm. The ride remains forgiving thanks to the balanced composition of the 27.1 HA foam.
With a weight of 12.2 oz (347g), which is 3.6% lighter than average, the Defiant Speed 2 enhances footwork with its pliable design. It also demonstrates minimal resistance, being 17.9% more flexible than typical shoes in our flex tests.
In terms of durability, the Defiant Speed 2 shows impressive performance against our Dremel tests. The Adituff toeguard and toebox received a high rating of 4/5, while the heel padding scored a very resistant 5/5, and the outsole showed only a minor dent of 0.5 mm compared to the average of 0.8 mm. These figures confirm the shoe's longevity.
However, the lockdown could be further improved. The collar design felt somewhat spacious for medium-width feet, and those with narrower feet may experience toe jamming during movement.
K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2
Pros
- Light and nimble on the feet
- Mind-blowing durability for the price
- Well-balanced soft cushioning
- Wide and stable platform for a speed shoe
- Excellent grip and give
- Amazing in-shoe comfort
- Ideal for wide feet
Cons
- Lacks breathability
- Not for narrow feet
Key Features
- AOSTA 7.0 OUTSOLE: High-density rubber compound outsole provides unsurpassed durability from heel-to-toe.
- DURAWRAP FLEX UPPER: A durable yet lightweight material that offers protection and flexibility without the need for a break-in period.
- K EVA: A special formula EVA that maximizes cushioning and enhances the durability of the midsole.
- ORTHOLITE SOCK LINER: Helps keep feet cool while minimizing perspiration effects.
- DRAGGUARD: Located in high wear areas of the toe and heel, offering increased abrasion resistance.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Synthetic
- Inner material: Ortholite
The K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 is a strong contender in the budget category for hard-court tennis shoes, ideally suited for players seeking economical options. Priced at $110, it is approximately 13% more affordable than the average tennis shoe, providing significant value.
We experienced notable ease of movement in all directions, supported by an effective tread design that minimized incidents of tripping and slipping during play. This reliability was evident even when performing quick maneuvers on the court.
After extensive use on hard courts, the outsole showed no signs of thinning or deterioration, confirming its durability. Additionally, it features a non-marking design, enhancing its suitability for indoor environments. However, players with narrow feet may find the fit too spacious and might consider sizing down or selecting a snugger variant.
ASICS Solution Swift FF 2
Pros
- One of the lightest tennis shoes
- Fantastic value for money
- Great cushioning-per-gram ratio
- Very agile and maneuverable
- Outsole grips and slides easily
- Impressible midfoot and heel support
- Excellent durability for the price
- True to size and width
Cons
- Very low energy return
- Lacks breathability
Key Features
- Flytefoam cushioning: This lightweight foam enhances comfort by providing superior cushioning during gameplay.
- Traction-focused sole: The sole is designed with a vertical line pattern inspired by the Solution Speed FF model, improving grip and traction on various surfaces.
- Midfoot support: The TRUSSTIC resin midfoot component supports quick lateral movements and rapid strikes, boosting your confidence on the court.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Shaft height: Ankle Strap
- Outer material: Leather and synthetic materials
- Inner material: Tissue
The ASICS Solution Swift FF 2 is a lightweight tennis shoe best suited for players seeking maximum speed and stability in a minimal package. Priced at $110, it represents an excellent value compared to the average retail price of $136 for tennis shoes.
This shoe offers an effortless feel that enhances maneuverability, weighing only 10.7 oz (302g). It is measured to be 16.6% lighter than the average shoe, allowing for sustained performance during long hours of play.
Support is a key feature of this model, with the TRUSSTIC technology providing enhanced lateral movement control and ankle support. The stiff heel counter scores 5/5 for stability, along with a high twisting resistance rated at 5/5, ensuring that your feet remain well-planted during aggressive cuts and quick direction changes.
Despite its firm stability, the shoe maintains good bendability, with our flex test indicating it is 7.3% more pliable than average. This contributes to its nimble performance on the court while chasing the ball effectively.
However, the upper lacks sufficient airflow, leading to discomfort from overheating during hot days. For those prioritizing breathability, considering an alternative option may be advisable.