Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an affiliate, we may earn a commission if you purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you.

Editor’s Note (2025 Update)

I recently purchased the New Balance 696v6, but had to return them immediately because the fit did not work for me. This post reflects my experience and includes updated guidance to help you understand sizing, fit, and whether these shoes may work for you before you buy.This New Balance 996 review has been updated to reflect current tennis shoe options and how the 996 compares to newer models like the New Balance 696v6. While I haven’t logged extended on-court match play in the 996v6, this post focuses on updated specs, fit positioning, and real-world buying considerations to help recreational and competitive players choose the right shoe today.

The New Balance 696v6 is a popular tennis shoe known for durability and court performance. When I bought my pair, I realized quickly that the fit didn’t suit my feet, so I returned them. That experience made me focus on fit and sizing — two critical factors for anyone considering the 696v6.

In this updated review, I’ll cover what you need to know about sizing, fit, materials, and who these shoes are best for — so you can make a confident purchase without surprises.

The New Balance 996 has long been positioned as a performance-focused tennis shoe built for speed, responsiveness, and quick transitions on hard courts. With the current 996v6, New Balance continues that direction, offering a lighter, more agile option for players who move aggressively and play several times per week.

This review breaks down the 996v6’s fit, cushioning, durability, and ideal use case, and explains how it compares to more stability-oriented models like the New Balance 696v6.

New Balance 696v6 Quick Specs

• Category: Entry-level / recreational tennis shoe

• Cushioning: ABZORB® midsole

• Outsole: NDurance rubber (non-marking)

• Upper: Synthetic and mesh construction

• Court type: Hard court

• Fit profile: Runs slightly narrow for some foot shapes

  Fit & Sizing — Buyer Caution
  Based on my hands-on experience (and immediate return), the New Balance 696v6 runs narrow for some foot types. My normal size felt tight, especially in the midfoot and toe box, which is why I had to return them.

  Key takeaways for sizing:

  • Standard width may be tight for medium-to-wide feet.

  • If you have narrow feet, your normal size might work.

  • Consider trying on in-store or ordering two sizes if buying online.

  • Heel and arch support are generally fine, but sizing is the biggest risk factor.

  Bottom line: These shoes are excellent if they fit correctly, but sizing is critical — don’t skip trying them on if possible.

  Who the 696v6 Is Best For

  Best for:

  • Players with narrow-to-standard width feet (Best Tennis Shoes by Player Type)

  • Court athletes looking for lightweight, durable tennis shoes

  • Fans of a classic New Balance performance silhouette

  Not ideal for:

  • Medium-to-wide feet without sizing adjustments

  • Anyone seeking a very cushioned, soft-feeling shoe

  • Buyers unwilling to try sizing carefully

A Note on Older New Balance 696 Models

I’ve worn older versions of the New Balance 696 in the past and logged full seasons of play in them. Those earlier models were lightweight, well-ventilated, and offered solid support for recreational-level tennis. Durability was consistent with what I’ve experienced from New Balance, and the ABZORB midsole provided reliable comfort over time.

That said, the current New Balance 696v6 is a different shoe in terms of materials, fit, and construction. While my past experience with the 696 line gives helpful context, this review focuses on the v6 specifically, including fit impressions and how it compares to newer alternatives like the 996.

My Experience With the New Balance 696v6

I tried and unboxed the New Balance 696v6 but ended up returning it shortly after due to fit issues. The shoe felt more restrictive than expected in the forefoot for my foot shape, which was immediately noticeable during try-on. While I didn’t log on-court time in the v6, this experience reinforced how important sizing and width are when choosing a tennis shoe in this category.