Tennis Shoes VS Sneakers: What’s the Difference?

If you have ever watched professional tennis closely, you have noticed that players wear different footwear than regular sneakers. You can find various athletic shoes in the market, depending on the sport. This guide focuses on the tennis shoes VS sneakers comparison.

So are tennis shoes and sneakers the same thing? The clear answer is no, but keep reading to learn their differences! 

The History of Tennis Shoes 

The answer to the “what are tennis shoes” question is self-explanatory. That’s the footwear you put on if you plan to play tennis. The interesting thing is that these were the first sports shoes ever. Their origin goes back to the 19th century. It was the British Navy that ordered them for slippery decks.

Manufacturers perfected this footwear over time, and it became popular among tennis enthusiasts in the 1960s. Today, professionals and amateurs wear this footwear on the court. 

So, what qualifies as a tennis shoe? Its primary consideration is support. Players need optimal support and shock absorption to reduce the risk of injuries. If you do a tennis VS running shoes comparison, you might find the tennis version doesn’t have such generous padding.

The History of Sneakers 

What are sneakers? These are shoes for everyday use. They are versatile but don’t have a “special purpose.” You can wear them while running errands, walking, and even running.

The origin of sneakers goes back to 1892. Although people had worn shoes with rubber soles before that, that’s when the US Rubber company created Keds. It took decades, but mass production of casual sneakers began in 1917. They got the name because they were quieter than other shoes up to that point. You could sneak up on someone without them hearing you.

Misconceptions About Tennis Shoes And Sneakers

Misconceptions are rife in the world of footwear. Many believe that tennis shoes and sneakers are interchangeable. Others think that the higher the price, the better the shoe. We will debunk these myths and clarify the distinctive purposes of tennis shoes versus general sneakers. Marjorie R. Rogers, the author of ClassifiedMom, writes more details about the topic in her blog.

Key Differences 

What’s the difference between tennis shoes and sneakers? The basic distinction is that sneakers are for casual use, such as walking. Tennis shoes are like “specialized footwear” used for this sport. These two products have clear distinctions in many categories. Check out the table overview below and find detailed explanations below! 

Purpose 

Let’s start with the difference between tennis and running shoes that’s obvious to everyone. The purpose of a standard sneaker is to serve everyday requirements. You can hang out with friends, head to work, and even visit clubs.

On the other hand, tennis shoes specialize in performing on the court. Their focus is to provide the necessary support and comfort, making them the best choice when playing tennis. 

Material 

Tennis shoes can feature the same material as men’s comfortable shoes. That includes rubber soles and a wide variety of fabrics. The main difference is that tennis shoes aim to provide better movement support and shock absorption. They do that with a low-heel drop and extra midsole cushioning. The actual materials used might affect the price, although they aren’t the only factor influencing it. 

Durability

When you're shopping for shoes, it's important to consider how long they'll last. A good-quality pair of sneakers can be pretty durable, but when it comes down to it, tennis shoes often outlast regular sneakers. Because they're typically heavier, tennis shoes are built to withstand wear and tear. So, if you're looking for a pair of shoes that'll go the distance, you may want to consider grabbing a pair of trusty tennis shoes.

Cushioning 

Sneakers usually have more generous padding and cushioning than men’s casual tennis shoes, let alone professional options. Padding is important if you plan to spend the entire day in your sneakers. It ensures optimal comfort and breathability. 

On the other hand, you’ll only wear tennis shoes on the court for several hours. Their focus on offering optimal performance involves not using as much cushioning as in sneakers.

Lateral Support 

Another big difference between sneakers and tennis shoes showdown is lateral support. Casual footwear rarely comes with any lateral support. But in tennis, that’s crucial. Your shoes must offer optimal support when you are changing directions. Sudden movements are when this category comes into play. Apart from lateral support, tennis footwear also gives excellent traction. It minimizes the risk of slipping regardless of the surface.

Sneakers vs Running Shoes

Tennis shoes and running shoes are designed for different activities? It's important to wear the right type of sneakers to make the most out of your sports routine. So, be sure to choose wisely to get the proper benefits!

What Are Tennis Shoes?

Tennis shoes are specially made for playing on different types of courts. Tennis shoes also tend to be a bit heavier, have more support for side-to-side movements, and have a sturdier outsole for grip. While they may not have as much cushioning as running shoes, they make up for it with extra stability. So if you're hitting the court, be sure to lace up your tennis shoes for the best game possible!

What Are Running Shoes?

Running shoes are customized to work better on different types of tracks. They're also super lightweight and have lots of cushioning to protect your feet. Although running shoes provide less side support and stability compared to tennis shoes, and also running shoes are much more flexible.

Conclusion

Sneakers are an essential piece and a wardrobe staple for all generations. They are great all-around shoes that are comfortable and stylish for everyday wear or even athletic activities. You can pick from thousands of brands and models, making it easy to find a suitable unit. On the other hand, tennis shoes are specifically designed to help tennis players on the court. They absorb shock and provide support for the feet and legs to enhance the player's performance. 

So, what's the difference between tennis shoes and sneakers? Sneakers and tennis shoes differ in many ways, including purpose, material, support, durability, cushioning, and availability. There’s no clear winner in the tennis shoes VS sneakers showdown. If you are a passionate tennis player and enjoy this activity often, get specialized shoes. They’ll offer the necessary stability and minimize the risk of injuries like ankle sprains, meniscus knees, etc. That doesn’t mean you can’t get sneakers, too. Furthermore, the odds are you’ll need at least a pair in your wardrobe. 

Next time you're in the market for a new pair of shoes, keep in mind their purpose and your needs. But ultimately, choose the shoes that make you feel the most comfortable and confident.

Happy shoe shopping!

Mariam Simmons

Mariam Simmons is a fashion enthusiast and Content Manager at Alpine Swiss. She loves traveling to the world’s top stylish destinations and gets inspired to create helpful fashion and lifestyle guides. With over a decade of writing experience, her main goal in creating content is to ensure readers learn something useful and provide value instead of noise.