New Balance Men's FuelCell 996 V5 Hard Court Tennis Shoe Review
The New Balance Men's FuelCell 996 V5 Hard Court Tennis Shoe is engineered to enhance your game both on and off the court. Featuring a superior Fuel Cell midsole, this shoe provides an additional 2mm of padded foam that ensures comfort during intense matches. The innovative NDurance rubber outsole offers exceptional traction and durability, particularly in high-wear areas, making these shoes a reliable choice for dedicated players.
With its sporty silhouette, the FuelCell 996v5 combines performance with style, ensuring you look good while you play your best. The shoe's construction includes synthetic and mesh materials, which contribute to breathability and flexibility, allowing you to maneuver seamlessly during games.
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Features
- FuelCell foam delivers a propulsive feel, driving you forward with each step.
- NDurance rubber outsole technology enhances durability in crucial wear areas.
- Synthetic and mesh construction for optimal breathability and lightweight comfort.
- Higher midsole topline adds lateral stability for improved support.
- PU support on the tip for enhanced durability where needed.
Pros
- Exceptional cushioning and energy return from the FuelCell midsole.
- Durable outsole designed for long-lasting performance on hard courts.
- Comfortable fit ideal for extended play.
- Stylish design suitable for on-court and casual wear.
Cons
- Some users may find them a bit narrow depending on foot shape.
- Limited color options available compared to other brands.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | New Balance FuelCell 996 V5 | Nike Air Zoom Vapor X | Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cushioning | FuelCell Midsole | Zoom Air Unit | EVA Midsole |
| Outsole Material | NDurance Rubber | Durable Rubber | Continental Rubber |
| Upper Material | Synthetic/Mesh | Mesh Synthetic | Mesh |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Very Lightweight |
| Stability Features | High Midsole Topline | Dynamic Fit | Wing System |
Detailed Review
Your experience with the New Balance Men's FuelCell 996 V5 begins the moment you slip your foot into the shoe. The combination of lightweight materials and ample cushioning makes for a comfortable fit right out of the box. One of the standout features is the FuelCell foam, which not only cushions your feet but also propels you forward, giving you the energy boost you need during fast-paced matches.
Moreover, the NDurance rubber outsole significantly contributes to the shoe's durability. If you often play on hard courts, you'll appreciate how well this shoe holds up against wear and tear. The traction is commendable; it allows you to pivot and change directions swiftly without worrying about slipping.
In terms of stability, the elevated midsole provides added support, especially when making lateral movements. However, if you have wider feet, you might find them a bit snug, so it's wise to try them on before purchasing.
Finally, the aesthetic appeal of these shoes cannot be overlooked. The white, navy, and Hi-Lite color combination looks modern and can easily transition from the court to casual settings. Overall, the New Balance FuelCell 996 V5 is a compelling option for players seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and style.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 9/10 | Excellent cushioning and fit for all-day wear. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Remarkable wear resistance thanks to NDurance outsole. |
| Traction | 9/10 | Outstanding grip on hard surfaces for better performance. |
| Style | 8/10 | Modern design suitable for both sports and casual outings. |
| Value | 7/10 | A solid investment for serious tennis players. |
User Reviews
New Balance continues to produce a consistent quality product. Too bad their 996v5 has lost some nice colors.
This is a really comfortable tennis shoe. New Balance has a a bit more width throughout the shoe, but still has the ability to lace up tight if you want that. I’d recommend this shoe for anyone that want comfortable tennis shoes, and is tired of brands that keep getting more narrow.
Runs 1/2 size larger
These tennis court shoes are fantastic. It’s also nice that they come in a variety of sizes, including wides. The only complaint is that they have some sweat stains already (after just a few months) from playing in the Texas heat.
Comfortable and great fit for playing pickleball.
Have purchased NB for 20 years. These were the most expensive NB I ever purchased. Not worth the money. Period
Like everything about it! 100% tennis shoes for giving 100% on the court!
My teenage son plays a lot of tennis and has worn the last 3 versions of this 996 model. For the latest v5, New Balance came out with a retro-looking "Classic" version which has the same outsole and features of the regular 996 v5 but to complete the old-school look, they use a canvas-material covering vs the more durable semi-nylon looking covering. It reminds me of Converse canvas high-tops but the problem is the material is thin/not strong and gets dirty more quickly. It's like rubbing a white cloth towel on the ground, but instead it's the entire top and sides of your shoes. See the pic to show what 1.5mos does to the canvas covering as my son uses the sides of the shoe to pickup balls pressed against his racquet. Also notice the significant tears in the canvas material as highlighted by the red arrows. One of the arrows points to a section where the side trim peeled away since it's stitched to the canvas, but that's a weak spot and it separated quickly. While the long tears are unsightly, inside there's still a stronger material likely used for the inner lining for other 996's that keep his feet still inside the shoe for now, but sad New Balance would try a different material (canvas) which is heavily inferior in durability, just for looks and not actually function. No wonder so many places are clearing this model out at cheaper prices if you can still find. Just a word of warning that they do look cool and retro, but if you actually play competitive tennis, get ready for some ugly looking battle-scarred shoes early on.