9 Best Tennis Shoes for Kids (2023 Guide)

By KidSpaceStuff •  Updated: 04/16/24 •  13 min read

Finding the best tennis shoes for kids for be a challenge!

Whether you’re looking for shoes that are suitable for everyday wear or you want athletic shoes that will last for years, finding the right tennis shoes can be difficult.

In this guide, I’ll help you find the best tennis shoes for kids, what to consider when buying kids shoes, and much more. Let’s dig in!

Best Tennis Shoes for Kids

1. ASICS Kid’s Gel-Game 9 Grade School Tennis Shoes

ASICS Kid's Gel-Game 9 Grade School Tennis Shoes

These ASICS Gel-Game 9 tennis shoes are a great pick for young athletes seeking comfort and durability on the court.

Pros

Cons

We recently tried out the ASICS Kid’s Gel-Game 9 Grade School Tennis Shoes and found them to be impressive in terms of comfort and durability. The Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) sole provides cushioning and support, while the TRUSSTIC technology offers improved stability on the court. These features make the shoes perfect for kids who play tennis multiple times a week.

The Gel-Game 9 shoes also feature Forefoot GEL technology for excellent shock absorption. This ensures that your child’s feet remain comfortable even during long matches. The overall construction feels durable and well-made, so these shoes should last for a considerable amount of time without losing their performance.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The shoe is available in limited color options, which might not appeal to all kids. Additionally, some users reported that the shoes required a break-in period before they felt completely comfortable. Lastly, there have been a few mentions of sizing issues, so we recommend referring to the provided sizing chart and customer reviews to ensure the correct fit.

Overall, the ASICS Kid’s Gel-Game 9 Grade School Tennis Shoes offer good value for young athletes who need a reliable and comfortable option on the court.


2. adidas Unisex-Child Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe

adidas Unisex-Child Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe

These adidas sneakers are perfect for active kids, offering durability, style, and comfort.

Pros

Cons

We recently tried out the adidas Unisex-Child Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe and were impressed by its quality and design. The lightweight synthetic upper provides durability for kids’ active lifestyles, and the rubber cupsole offers outstanding grip, whether they’re playing on the court or exploring off road.

What sets these sneakers apart is their eco-friendliness, as the upper is made from at least 50% recycled materials. This demonstrates adidas’ commitment to reducing plastic waste while still delivering a stylish and comfortable shoe for kids.

On the downside, the shoes might feel a bit stiff initially and may require a break-in period. The white color tends to show dirt quickly, so frequent cleaning may be necessary. Lastly, some kids may have trouble with the tightness of the laces, but this could improve with continued wear.

Overall, we believe that adidas Unisex-Child Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoe is a great option for children who need a reliable and environmentally-friendly tennis shoe. The combination of durability, style, and eco-conscious design make this shoe a smart choice for any active kid.


3. New Balance Unisex-Child Fresh Foam Arishi V4

New Balance Unisex-Child Fresh Foam Arishi V4

The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is an excellent choice for active kids who need comfort, durability, and style in their tennis shoes.

Pros

Cons

After spending some time with the New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4, we found them to be a versatile tennis shoe for kids. Their cushioned Fresh Foam midsole delivers a comfortable and lightweight ride for active young feet. The synthetic and mesh upper, combined with no-sew overlays, makes for a breathable and sleek-looking shoe.

However, we did notice that the Velcro strap can wear down with regular use, making it more difficult to secure the shoe. A longer strap might have been a better choice for kids with wider feet. Also, if your child needs a half size, you may have difficulty finding an appropriate fit.

In conclusion, the New Balance Unisex-Child Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a reliable option for kids who need comfortable yet stylish tennis shoes. Just keep an eye on the Velcro strap and be prepared to search a bit harder if half sizes are needed.


4. adidas Unisex-Child Adizero Club Tennis Shoe

adidas Unisex-Child Adizero Club Tennis Shoe

We highly recommend the adidas Unisex-Child Adizero Club Tennis Shoe for its comfort, support, and great traction.

Pros

Cons

While trying out the adidas Unisex-Child Adizero Club Tennis Shoe, we noticed the soft, stretchy textile upper provided both comfort and flexibility. This made it perfect for quick, agile movements on the court. We also appreciated the use of 100% textile and synthetic materials, as well as the shoe being made in the USA or imported.

The rubber sole delivers substantial traction, allowing kids to move with confidence during their tennis matches. However, we did find that the shoe tends to get dirty easily and may not look as clean as it did on the first day. Additionally, putting the shoe on may require some effort, and the toe area can show signs of wear after frequent use.

Overall, the adidas Unisex-Child Adizero Club Tennis Shoe is a fitting choice for young tennis players who require comfort, support, and impressive performance on the court.


5. K-Swiss Junior Bigshot Light 4 Tennis Shoes

K-Swiss Junior Bigshot Light 4 Tennis Shoes

A dependable tennis shoe for kids, delivering high performance and quality without breaking the bank.

Pros

Cons

Our experience with the K-Swiss Junior Bigshot Light 4 tennis shoes has been positive, and they cater perfectly to kids in need of stable and durable footwear for the court. The high-density rubber outsole provides lasting durability, giving young players the support they need as they develop their skills on the court. Additionally, these shoes are lightweight, making them ideal for fast-paced games and allowing kids to move freely without feeling weighed down.

It’s worth noting that these shoes might feel stiff initially, causing some discomfort. However, we found that after a brief break-in period, the overall comfort increased. Unfortunately, there have been reports of straps breaking, so keep an eye on that aspect of the shoe.

Despite these minor issues, the K-Swiss Junior Bigshot Light 4 tennis shoes continue to be an excellent option for children. Offering durability, support, and comfort at a reasonable price, we think they are well worth considering when purchasing tennis shoes for your young athlete.


6. Babolat Juniors’ Propulse All Court Tennis Shoes

Babolat Juniors' Propulse All Court Tennis Shoes

These Babolat Juniors’ tennis shoes are a solid investment for kids who play tennis regularly.

Pros

Cons

We had the pleasure of trying out the Babolat Juniors’ Propulse All Court tennis shoes on the court, and we were quite impressed. The first thing we noticed was the excellent grip these shoes provided on different court surfaces, allowing kids to move confidently and quickly without fear of slipping.

The durability and comfort of these tennis shoes make them a great investment for kids who play tennis regularly. The combination of cushioning and support ensures that young players will stay comfortable even after long hours of practice or matches.

In terms of style, these shoes have a sleek and modern design that is appealing to kids. However, we found that they come in limited color options, which might be a downside for those seeking something more vibrant. Additionally, the sizing of these shoes seems to run a bit small, so consider ordering half a size up if you notice your child’s regular size is snug. Lastly, the price may be higher than some alternatives, but the overall quality justifies the investment.

In conclusion, Babolat Juniors’ Propulse All Court tennis shoes are an excellent choice for kids looking for high-quality tennis shoes that provide excellent grip, durability, and comfort.


7. Nautica Kids Girls Metallic Fashion Sneaker

Nautica Kids Girls Metallic Fashion Sneaker

A great choice for style and comfort in a kids’ tennis shoe.

Pros

Cons

We recently tried the Nautica Kids Girls Metallic Fashion Sneaker and found it to be a stylish and comfortable choice for young girls. The metallic finish adds a touch of glam to their outfits, making these sneakers perfect for casual outings and physical activities.

The shoes are lightweight, providing comfort for all-day wear, and the treaded non-skid sole ensures safety and durability. We appreciate the cushioned footbed and padded insole, which add extra support for our kids during walking, jogging, and running.

However, we did notice a few minor drawbacks. The sole could be a bit thicker for enhanced support, the product image may not accurately represent the true color of the sneakers, and the shoe’s lacing description is misleading as it mentions lace-up but doesn’t have functional lacing strings for tying.

Overall, the Nautica Kids Girls Metallic Fashion Sneaker is a reliable, trendy, and comfortable option for kids’ tennis shoes. Despite the minor cons, we still recommend considering this product for your child.


8. ASICS Kid’s Gel-Resolution 9 Tennis Shoe

ASICS Kid's Gel-Resolution 9 Tennis Shoe

We highly recommend the ASICS Kid’s Gel-Resolution 9 Tennis Shoe for its comfort, stability, and durability.

Pros

Cons

The ASICS Gel-Resolution 9 Grade School Tennis Shoe is specially designed for young tennis players wanting advanced stability on the court. We were impressed by the kid’s specific last, which creates a more precise fit while accommodating growing feet. The Forefoot GEL technology also absorbs impact and ensures good comfort during footstrike.

Another feature we appreciated was the outsole’s wider flex grooves, making the shoe feel more natural during quick transitions or shifts in direction. However, we noticed that the shoe can feel a bit inflexible and hot initially – it may not be as breathable as some prefer. Also, the price is on the higher side, but the quality and performance justify the investment.

Overall, the ASICS Kid’s Gel-Resolution 9 Tennis Shoe delivers excellent support and comfort for young tennis enthusiasts. With its precise fit and impact absorption, it’s a top contender in the market for kids’ tennis shoes.


9. New Balance Kids 996 V5 Tennis Shoe

ASICS Kid's Gel-Resolution 9 Tennis Shoe

The New Balance Kids 996 V5 Tennis Shoes are a great choice for kids who need comfort, style, and durability on the court.

Pros

Cons

These shoes provide excellent performance for little tennis players thanks to their non-marking rubber outsole with a herringbone pattern, perfect for different court surfaces. We were impressed by the lightweight and breathable design, combining the synthetic upper and mesh materials for a comfortable fit.

NDurance technology aids in making the shoe more durable in high-wear areas. The contrast N logos on the sides add a nice touch of style, while the adjustable lace closure ensures a customized fit.

However, we noticed some users reported the shoe showing signs of wear and tear sooner than expected. The color options are limited, and you might want to consider ordering a size up, as they could run smaller than expected.

Overall, we recommend the New Balance Kids 996 V5 Tennis Shoe for young tennis players who need a comfortable and durable shoe to support their game.


What to Consider When Buying Kids Tennis Shoes

Materials & Construction

The heart of any good tennis shoe lies in its materials and construction.

Opt for tennis shoes with a breathable upper fabric, typically mesh, to keep those little feet cool during intense play sessions. A durable rubber sole is a must to ensure traction and longevity, especially given the running and quick pivots tennis involves.

For kids with special needs like flat feet or wider feet, focus on the internal construction. Shoes with a wide toe box or added mid-foot stability can be more accommodating to varied foot shapes.

Color & Appearance

Kids love flair, let’s admit it! Many tennis shoes for kids come with exciting designs or even features like light-up shoes.

While some might argue these are just gimmicks, if it gets your child more excited about playing tennis or attending gym class, why not? Slip-on shoes or those with Velcro straps can also be appealing, especially for younger kids who might struggle with tying laces.

Are you wondering how to clean your kids tennis shoes properly? Check out the video below!

Durability

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that kids can be tough on shoes.

For an active child or a very active child playing tennis regularly, durability is key. Look for reinforced toe caps and a solid rubber outsole. It’s an investment, but it ensures the shoes last longer, protecting young feet all the while.

Price

We all want the best for our children, but we also need to be budget-conscious.

The best tennis shoes for kids offer a balance between quality and price.

While high-quality tennis shoes might come with a heftier price tag, they often provide better support and last longer. However, if your child is still growing rapidly or only plays occasionally, there’s no harm in looking for more affordable options that still prioritize comfort and safety. Kids sneakers come in a wide range of prices, so look for shoes that fit your budget!

FAQS

Final Thoughts

Overall, the best kids shoes for tennis are the ASICS Kid’s Gel-Game 9 Grade School Tennis Shoes. These are comfortable and durable shoes that will last for years.

When buying children’s shoes, be sure to look for a pair that’s comfortable on your kids feet and are made of durable materials to ensure they last for years.

Have other questions about your kids feet? Check out these guides!