Choosing the right tennis shoes is just as important as picking the right racquet. Good shoes provide stability, comfort, and protection — all crucial for growing feet. The best shoe also depends on the surface they’ll be playing on: hard, clay, or grass.
General Considerations for Junior Tennis Shoes
Fit and Comfort: Look for a snug, supportive fit that leaves a thumb’s width at the toe.
Support and Cushioning: Helps protect young joints during fast stops and changes in direction.
Durability: Juniors wear down shoes quickly — especially on hard courts.
Weight: Lightweight shoes help with speed and movement.
Traction: Essential for safety and control on each type of surface.
Hard Court Shoes
Key Features:
Durable outsole (often with modified herringbone pattern)
Extra cushioning for impact protection
Reinforced toe area (toe drag is common on hard courts)
Pros:
Long-lasting even with frequent play
Excellent protection for knees and ankles
Cons:
Heavier than grass/clay court shoes
May feel stiff at first
Top Picks:
Nike Court Zoom Vapor Jr.
Adidas Adizero Club K
Asics Gel-Game Junior
Clay Court Shoes
Key Features:
Full herringbone tread for better grip on slippery clay
Lighter upper with breathable mesh
Stable lateral support for side-to-side movement
Pros:
Prevents sliding and slipping on clay
Allows for controlled slides
Cons:
Not great for hard courts (less durability)
Top Picks:
Babolat Jet Mach 3 Junior Clay
Head Sprint Clay Junior
Wilson Rush Pro Clay Junior
Grass Court Shoes
Key Features:
Nubby or dimpled outsole for grip on slick grass
Lightweight, flexible build
Less tread depth to protect the delicate surface
Pros:
Great traction on soft grass
Lightweight for quick movement
Cons:
Not versatile — only for grass
Harder to find in junior sizes
Top Picks:
Nike Court Lite Grass (Junior)
Adidas Ubersonic Grass Junior
New Balance 996 Grass Junior
Multi-Court Shoes
If your junior player rotates between surfaces or plays mostly on multi-use courts, an all-court shoe is a great option.
Good for recreational play and practice
Balanced traction and cushioning
Budget-friendly and easy to find
Quick Size & Fit Tips
Check for growth room (but not too much!)
Use sports-specific socks during sizing
Watch for heel slippage or tight arches
Final Tips
Replace shoes every 6–9 months (or sooner if they’re worn down)
Let your child try a few brands — fit varies
Never use running shoes for tennis — they lack lateral support
