Effects of Tennis Shoe Construction on Athletic Performance

Tennis shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment a tennis player can have. Good tennis shoes not only prevent injuries, but they help a player adapt to surfaces, keep his feet cool and cushion shock, helping a player to start and stop quickly and efficiently.

  1. Outsoles

    • The outsoles are often constructed to work on specified surfaces such as clay, grass or a variety of hard surfaces. While some shoes are advertised as being all-surface, specialized soles will help performance.

    Arch Support

    • Tennis players are on their toes constantly and require solid arch support that fits their foot type. Without this support, a player is likely to cramp frequently, inhibiting performance.

    Ankle Support

    • Tennis shoes don't rise above the ankle like basketball shoes but do provide extra ankle support compared with running or walking shoes. This is because tennis players must move front to back and side to side in almost every point, and need this protection.

    Inlay

    • Inlays help the shoe form to the foot. Inlays are constructed to help airflow out of the shoe to keep feet cool.

    Midsole

    • Midsoles help absorb shock of the start and stop to the foot. It also helps make foot propulsion more efficient.