796 V4
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2024
Price in USD
89.99
Summary:
The New Balance 796 V4 is a lightweight, stable, and grippy shoe that punches above its price class for pickleball and tennis. It offers excellent court feel, strong lockdown, and surprising durability, though cushioning is on the firmer side.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for pickleball players who value light weight speed and a stable platform this shoe hits the mark. It is especially suited for those with wider feet thanks to 2E and 4E width options. While best on hard courts it remains versatile enough for indoor surfaces. The outsole delivers reliable grip and durability across both court types. Key strengths include its lightweight construction stable base responsive cushioning and excellent value for money. It also accommodates wide feet well and stays comfortable during long sessions. Limitations include slightly less lateral support than some premium models a tongue that can shift a bit due to the non gusseted design and a fit that may feel a touch short in extra wide versions.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
Kicking off with the New Balance 796 V4, you immediately notice a shoe that feels light on the foot yet solid in its stance. The tongue and collar are generously padded, giving a plush feel around the ankle, while the insole supplies standard cushioning tailored to a racquet sport. It slips on easily even without a heel tab, and the fit feels welcoming, especially in the wide and extra wide versions.
The 796 V4 is offered in multiple widths, including 2E and 4E to accommodate wider feet. Length generally runs true to size, though a few testers found the 4E a touch short. Arch support sits on the low to medium side, but the secure fit comes from a sturdy heel counter and a broad midsole platform, which helps keep you stable during quick shifts.
Initial comfort is high. The mesh and synthetic upper feel soft yet supportive, and the FuelCell midsole delivers a springy, cushioned ride right out of the box. There is a slight break-in period, but most players found the shoe playable from the first session. Over the first wears, the materials relax and the fit remains consistent as the shoe molds to the foot.
When viewed against others in its price range, the 796 V4 stands out for its combination of light weight, stability, and value. It may not be as stable as some higher end models like the ASICS Gel Challenger 14, but it offers more support than its predecessor and many similarly priced competitors.
SPECS
Surface
mixed
Available Widths
Standard, Wide
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
331
Heel Stack (MM)
24
Forefoot Stack (MM)
16
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
wide flat herringbone
Rubber Hardness
78
TORSION SHANK
flexible plastic
Lateral Outrigger
no
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
synthetic mesh with overlays
Breathability Design
engineered mesh with perforations
Heel Rigidity Note
very stiff, rated 5/5
Fit Shape
medium-wide, slightly flared forefoot
T Test Time (Secs)
7.1
Stop distance (M)
0.82
Subjective Stability
8
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
4.2
Comfort After 45 Minutes
7
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
On court the NDurance rubber outsole delivers reliable traction on both indoor and outdoor courts. The modified herringbone tread pattern grips well during quick lateral movements and sprints, with testers noting consistent performance even after extended play on hard courts. Stability is a highlight thanks to a wide midsole platform and a very stiff heel counter that locks the foot in place. The torsional rigidity is rated highly and the shoe resists twisting during aggressive cuts, though it may not be the absolute most stable in its class, it still provides a secure base for most pickleball movements. The FuelCell midsole offers a responsive, springy feel that helps with quick push offs and direction changes; the shoe feels light on the foot, aiding in fast footwork and transitions. Transitions are smooth, aided by the flexible yet supportive construction. The shoe’s light weight and responsive cushioning make it easy to move quickly from side to side and forward to back, with no noticeable lag or instability. The 796 V4 is well suited for players who prioritize speed and agility but still want a stable base. It works for both recreational and competitive players, especially those who play on hard courts and need a shoe that can keep up with fast paced games.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Cushioning comes from the FuelCell midsole, delivering a balanced ride that is soft enough for comfort yet firm enough to give solid court feedback. The insole adds an extra layer of padding, making the overall experience notably comfortable for extended play. The mesh upper stays breathable during long sessions, with reinforced areas that boost durability without sacrificing ventilation and help keep feet cooler as the minutes add up. At around 12.7 to 12.8 ounces for a men’s size ten and a half, the shoe feels light on the foot, a trait testers highlighted when comparing it to bulkier options and it contributes to a sense of quickness and agility on the court. Even through long matches or practice sessions the 796 V4 remains comfortable with no significant reports of overheating or excessive fatigue. The padding in the collar and tongue helps prevent discomfort from laces or pressure points, and the interior padding and supportive structure minimize pressure points overall. There is a minor tongue shift that can occur due to the non gusseted tongue, but this is generally not a major issue.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The NDurance rubber outsole is built for durability and holds up well on hard courts, with testers noting little wear after several weeks of play, and the tread pattern continuing to grip reliably as the shoe ages. The mesh and synthetic upper is reinforced in high wear areas, providing a solid balance of breathability and toughness, with no significant reports of premature tearing or breakdown. The FuelCell midsole retains its cushioning and responsiveness over time, showing minimal compression or loss of bounce after extended use. The 796 V4 performs well on indoor and outdoor courts thanks to its multi court outsole, with traction and durability remaining consistent across surfaces and making it a versatile choice for players who switch environments. At a retail price around $90, the 796 V4 offers excellent value, more than 50 percent cheaper than the average tennis or pickleball shoe, yet delivers performance and durability that rival more expensive models.
Marketing Claims
Lightweight performance for quick movement, NDurance outsole for durability, Designed for tennis and racquet sports
PROS:
Lightweight and agile, Excellent traction on multiple surfaces, Very stable with wide base and stiff heel, Good value for price, Breathable upper
CONS:
Cushioning is firm, not plush, Upper materials feel basic, Not as supportive as premium models
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a budget-friendly, lightweight, and stable shoe for pickleball or tennis on hard or indoor courts.
Who Should Skip?
Those needing maximum plush cushioning or premium upper materials; players with very narrow feet may find the fit too roomy.
Test Notes
Weight and stack heights are based on RunRepeat’s cut-in-half lab data. Some sources describe the torsion shank as flexible, but heel counter rigidity is confirmed as very stiff. Outsole pattern and grip are praised in both lab and playtest reviews. Value score is high due to strong performance at a sub-$100 price.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the New Balance 796 V4 good for outdoor pickleball?
Yes, the outsole is durable and grips well on hard courts, making it suitable for outdoor pickleball.
How does the fit compare to other New Balance shoes?
The 796 V4 has a medium-wide fit with a slightly flared forefoot, and is available in standard and wide widths.
Is the cushioning soft or firm?
The cushioning is firm and responsive, providing good court feel but not a plush ride.
Does it have a toe drag guard?
Yes, there is reinforced material in the toe area for durability.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
After a few sessions on the court the New Balance 796 V4 reveals itself as a standout choice for pickleball players who want a lightweight, stable, and affordable shoe. The design keeps your movements feeling quick and controlled, and the fit is particularly favorable for players who need a wider option. It delivers reliable performance and comfort across both recreational and competitive play.
If you are hoping for the most rock solid stability or the softest cushion on the market you may find something harder to come by here. Yet the 796 V4 still outperforms many rivals within its price range and marks a significant improvement over previous versions. It stands out as a top value pick for players who want quality without paying a premium price tag.
Bottom line this shoe hits the sweet spot for those who want agility on the court without sacrificing comfort or bank account. If you are after a nimble option that supports you through quick lateral bursts and long sessions the 796 V4 deserves a close look. Thanks for reading and may your next match be swift and comfortable on the court.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
9
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
7
Breathability
7
Stability
8
Fit
medium-wide, slightly flared forefoot
Outsole Durability
8
Value
9
Final Score
82.5
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