Tennis shoes vs. running shoes: Which pair is right for you?

At first glance, it might seem like tennis shoes and running shoes are one and the same – they're both athletic shoes, right? Well, not exactly. 

“Running shoes and tennis shoes are designed for different use cases, so there can be a lot of variance,” says Edwin Janes, Tennis Footwear Product Manager at On. Here are the critical differences that set these shoes apart from the soles to the uppers, the cushioning to the grip. 

The variations in the design and construction of tennis shoes and running shoes are tailored to the specific demands of each sport. Read on to learn about the size key aspects of each shoe, and how they contribute to each activity.

Design

“Tennis shoes are designed for the quick, dynamic movements on the court. So players can trust their shoes when sprinting for a ball or making a quick change of direction,” explains Janes. They typically have a flat, flexible sole with tread patterns to provide grip and stability during side-to-side movements. 

“I would say the biggest difference is that running shoes are often designed around the underfoot sensation or for a specific purpose,” Janes adds. Since running shoes are engineered for forward motion, they have more cushioning in the midsole to absorb impact and a contoured sole to encourage a smooth, rolling stride. However, track spikes and minimal-style shoes offer very different sensations and serve different purposes.

Grip

The grip patterns on tennis shoe soles are designed to provide excellent traction for sudden stops. They often feature a multidirectional tread pattern that grips the surface well from multiple angles. 

In contrast, running shoe soles typically have more linear tread patterns optimized for straight-ahead motion. While still providing good general traction, running shoes sacrifice some of the multi-directional grip found in tennis shoe designs.

Cushioning 

Tennis shoes generally have a flatter, more flexible sole with minimal cushioning compared to running shoes. This allows for better court feel, stability and responsiveness during the quick movements required in tennis. 

Running shoes place a much greater emphasis on impact protection and shock absorption. They feature thick, cushioned midsoles to reduce the impact on joints. Our CloudTec® cushioning system responds to a runner’s gait to provide superior comfort without compromising performance.

Durability 

Tennis shoes are designed to withstand the abrasive forces of sliding and stopping on courts. They typically use more durable, reinforced materials – like toe caps – to provide long-lasting performance. 

While durable, running shoes are designed to balance weight and flexibility. They are often less abrasion-resistant compared to tennis shoes.

Protection

Tennis shoes protect your feet during quick side-to-side movements. They often have a wide base and reinforced heels to improve stability, extra ankle support to prevent rolls and durable materials in the toe area to handle the wear and tear of the court.

Running shoes, on the other hand, prioritize impact protection, absorbing the repetitive pounding of the foot during long-distance runs. For instance, a marathon runner might need their shoes to shield their feet and joints from the constant stress of hitting the pavement during a road race. The shoes' midsoles and uppers are engineered to flex and adapt to the foot's movement, promoting a more natural and efficient stride.

Weight

Tennis shoes are relatively heavier than running shoes, with reinforced materials in the uppers and soles. The added support features also contribute to a heavier overall shoe weight.

Running shoes are designed to be as lightweight as possible to minimize fatigue during distance running and achieve a nimble feel.

While tennis shoes may seem straightforward, there's quite a bit of variety when it comes to the specific types designed for different court surfaces. Take a closer look at the unique features and considerations of three main types of tennis shoes.

Clay court shoes

“Sliding on clay tennis courts is part of the fun of the surface, but you want to be in control when you do it.” says Janes. “Clay shoes generally feature a recognizable herringbone pattern. This provides dependable traction and gives players better handling when sliding on the surface, as the clay can move through the grooves.” 

The outsole rubber is also slightly softer and more flexible than that of hard court tennis shoes, allowing the shoe to better conform to the uneven clay surface. Additionally, clay tennis shoes, like THE ROGER Pro 2 Clay, often have a low profile and lower tread depth than other shoes, as clay requires a lighter grip. 

Hard court shoes

Hard court tennis shoes are engineered for the demanding conditions of concrete and asphalt tennis courts by incorporating extremely durable rubber in their outsoles. The tread pattern typically consists of a more pronounced herringbone design – as seen on THE ROGER Clubhouse Pro above – that provides a multi-directional grip without being so deep that it catches on the court surface. 

Hard court shoes also commonly include reinforced toe caps to protect against toe dragging during tennis serves and rapid stops. The midsole is usually firmer than other tennis shoes, providing a better court feel and stability.

Grass shoes 

The most distinctive feature of grass court shoes is their outsole pattern, which consists of small, densely packed rubber studs. These small nubs provide a grip on the slick grass surface without damaging the delicate court. The outsoles are typically flatter and smoother than other tennis shoes to prevent catching or tearing the grass. 

Grass court shoes also tend to be lighter and more flexible than their hard court counterparts, so players can adapt quickly to the unpredictable bounces and faster play characteristics of grass courts. 

When it comes to running shoes, there’s no such thing as one-size-fits-all. Just as there are many different types of running terrains and events, there are also many specialized shoe designs to meet your support, comfort and performance needs.

Road running shoes

Road shoes, like the Cloudmonster, are engineered for repetitive impact and consistent surface conditions of pavement and concrete. They typically feature thick, cushioned midsoles to absorb the repeated shock of striking hard surfaces. 

The outsoles have durable rubber that provides reliable traction on dry or wet pavement. Road running shoes often employ breathable mesh uppers to maintain ventilation during long runs; some include reflective elements. 

Trail running shoes

Trail running features unpredictable, rugged terrain so you need suitable protection from rocks, roots and varied weather conditions. Trail running shoes feature specifically designed outsoles with deep, multi-directional lugs that provide traction on dirt.

The uppers, like on the Cloudsurfer Trail Waterproof, are typically crafted with more durable, water-resistant materials than road shoes. Reinforced toes help prevent tears caused by trail debris.

Track and field shoes

Track spikes are highly specialized running shoes designed for maximum speed and performance on synthetic track surfaces, like the Cloudspike. These shoes are lightweight and minimalist, featuring a rigid spike plate in the forefoot with removable spikes that provide greater traction for acceleration. The upper is typically constructed of ultra-lightweight mesh or even single-layer materials to minimize weight. 

Unlike road or trail running shoes, track and field shoes have minimal heel cushioning. Instead, they focus on promoting forefoot running with a more pronounced forward-leaning position. The fit is extremely snug, almost like a second skin, to eliminate any internal movement that could compromise performance. 

“The right shoes can make all the difference when playing on different surfaces,” says Janes. “It's easy to slip on surfaces like grass and clay without the right shoes, which will make the experience less fun and could lead to injury.” If you're a tennis player, it's worth investing in a quality pair of tennis shoes that will provide the support and grip you need. And for all you runners, treating your feet to the correct pair of running shoes will prepare you for the track, road or trail. 

Can I use tennis shoes as running shoes? 

No, it's not recommended to use tennis shoes as running shoes, with the primary reason being injury prevention. Tennis shoes lack the specialized cushioning needed to protect your body from the repetitive impact of running. This insufficient shock absorption can lead to discomfort and potential injuries like shin splints or stress fractures.

Using the wrong type of athletic shoe for your activity can increase your risk of injury and reduce performance. It's best to invest in performance-specific running shoes if you plan to run regularly.

Can I wear running shoes for tennis? 

“I would not recommend using running shoes for tennis,” says Janes. Tennis involves a lot of side-to-side movement and quick stops and starts. Running shoes are designed for forward motion and lack the lateral support needed for these movements, increasing your risk of ankle sprains. It's always best to invest in the right footwear for the activity to protect your feet and ankles.

How often should I replace my tennis shoes? 

Typically, you should replace your tennis shoes every six to 12 months or sooner if you're frequently on the court. Here are some signs that it's time for a new pair:

- Visible wear and tear: Look for worn-out soles, holes or excessive cracking.

- Loss of cushioning: If the shoes feel less comfortable or supportive, it's likely the cushioning has deteriorated.

- Reduced traction: Poor traction can lead to slips and falls.

- Pain or discomfort: If you're experiencing persistent pain in your feet, ankles or knees.

Can I wear tennis shoes for walking?

Tennis shoes provide good support and stability, which are helpful when walking. However, they might not be the most comfortable or ideal choice for long walks. If you plan on walking long distances, invest in a pair of running or walking shoes. These are specifically designed to absorb shock and provide comfort for extended periods.