996 v4
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2020
Price in USD
135
Summary:
The New Balance 996 v4 is a lightweight, comfortable option for pickleball players who prioritize speed and step-in comfort over maximum stability. It excels in breathability and ride but is less suited for aggressive lateral movements or frequent toe draggers.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for an all court player who values light weight speed and comfort over maximum support, this shoe hits a sweet spot for baseline players and quick movers who rely on speed. It fits players with wider feet or anyone seeking a comfortable no break in experience, making the fit approachable right out of the box. Best suited for hard court play both indoors and outdoors, though outdoor players should monitor outsole wear. The shoe offers solid traction and cushioning that make it versatile for various court surfaces. Key strengths include instant comfort, light weight, excellent court feel and above average breathability. It excels in speed and agility, making it ideal for quick movers. The main limitations are reduced stability and lateral support, as well as less durability in the toe and outsole compared to heavier models. Not recommended for players who need maximum support or who play exclusively on abrasive outdoor courts.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
From the moment you lace up the New Balance 996 V4, you get a strong sense of a soft, inviting ride. The Hypoknit upper feels plush and flexible, and the FuelCell midsole delivers immediate comfort underfoot. There is no break in period required; the shoe feels flexible and accommodating from the first wear, making it easy to transition directly onto the court.
It fits true to size and is available in standard and wide widths. Even testers with wider feet found the standard D width sufficient, though the wide options (2E for men, D for women) are praised for their genuine width and comfort. The upper contours to the foot, offering a secure yet relaxed fit that lets the foot settle in without feeling cramped. Initial comfort is a standout feature, with testers describing the shoe as one of the most comfortable options on the market. Underfoot cushioning is soft but not overly plush, providing a good balance between comfort and court feel. The flexible upper and low ride height create a natural, connected feel during movement. No break in period is required, and testers repeatedly emphasized that the 996 V4 feels ready to play in immediately with no hotspots, stiffness, or discomfort during the first sessions. Compared to previous versions and other lightweight tennis shoes, the 996 V4 is lighter and more comfortable, with an improved step in feel and flexibility. It is on par with or superior to other lightweight options like the Babolat Jet Mach II in weight and comfort, though it sacrifices some stability for its lightweight build.
SPECS
Surface
mixed
Available Widths
D, 2E (men); B, D (women)
Arch Support
low
Weight (Grams)
340
Heel Stack (MM)
24
Forefoot Stack (MM)
16
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
modified herringbone
Rubber Hardness
72
TORSION SHANK
none
Lateral Outrigger
no
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
Hypoknit mesh
Breathability Design
engineered mesh with ventilation zones
Heel Rigidity Note
moderate, flexible for comfort
Fit Shape
medium, slightly narrow toe box
T Test Time (Secs)
3.8
Stop distance (M)
0.92
Subjective Stability
6
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
2.1
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The 996 V4 features a multidirectional tread pattern that delivers a sticky, confident grip at first and then settles into balanced traction after a few hours of wear. Testers found the NDurance outsole and LightWeight Solid Rubber provided reliable grip for quick starts and stops, though some noted it was on the grippier side initially. As the outsole wears in, it becomes less sticky but remains dependable for aggressive movement.
Stability is a noted weakness. The lightweight construction and flexible upper mean the shoe does not provide as much lateral support as some more robust models. Aggressive movers or players who rely heavily on side to side stability may find the shoe lacking, especially during abrupt directional changes.
Responsiveness is high, thanks to the FuelCell midsole and the low to the ground ride. The shoe offers excellent court feel and quick feedback, allowing players to move rapidly and confidently. The lightweight design enhances the sense of speed and agility.
Movement transitions are smooth and natural, aided by the flexible upper and low profile. Testers felt quick and nimble, with the shoe moving seamlessly with the foot. However, the lack of substantial lateral support may be noticeable during aggressive slides or pivots.
The 996 V4 is best suited for players who prioritize speed, comfort, and court feel over maximum stability. It is ideal for all court players, counterpunchers, and those who value lightweight footwear. Players who need extra support or have a history of ankle issues may want to look elsewhere.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
The cushioning feels soft and comfortable without tipping into plush beyond what is needed, giving you a gentle yet responsive underfoot feel from the FuelCell midsole that absorbs impact without ever turning mushy. This balance between comfort and court connection is something testers particularly appreciated, letting you feel the surface while still enjoying a cushioned ride. Ventilation is above average thanks to the Hypoknit upper, which allows for good airflow and keeps the interior feeling fresh. Testers did not report overheating or excess moisture buildup during play, making the shoe suitable for long sessions in warm conditions. The 996 V4 stands out as one of the lightest shoes in its category, and testers consistently praised its barely there feel. The reduced weight translates into a sense of speed and ease on the court, helping you move with less effort. Comfort remains high even during extended sessions, with minimal fatigue and no pressure points developing, as the flexible upper and soft cushioning work together to maintain comfort through long matches or practice. No significant pressure points or fatigue were reported, and the design plus materials distribute pressure evenly while the flexible upper prevents hotspots or discomfort, even for players with wider feet.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
Durability and value in the 996 V4 strike a balance that favors comfort and speed over ultimate toughness. Outsole durability is adequate but not exceptional. The NDurance outsole and LWSR provide reasonable wear resistance, but the lightweight build means the outsole may wear faster than more robust models, especially for players who are hard on their shoes. The Hypoknit upper is comfortable and flexible, but it sacrifices some durability for its lightweight feel. Toe durability is particularly noted as a weak point, with testers observing faster wear in this area. Midsole compression is minimal during the test period, with the FuelCell retaining its cushioning and responsiveness. Long term compression resistance is not fully established but appears satisfactory for the shoe s intended use. The 996 V4 performs well on both indoor and outdoor hard courts. However, the outsole may wear more quickly on abrasive outdoor surfaces, so players who primarily play outdoors should monitor wear patterns. Given its comfort, lightweight feel, and performance, the 996 V4 offers good value for players seeking speed and comfort. However, those needing maximum durability or stability may find better value in more robust models.
Marketing Claims
FuelCell midsole for plush, responsive cushioning, Hypoknit upper for lightweight support, No break-in required, Six-month outsole durability guarantee
PROS:
Extremely lightweight, No break-in required, Excellent breathability, Available in multiple widths
CONS:
Lacks lateral and torsional stability, Low toe durability, Cushioning may feel too soft for some
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a fast, comfortable shoe for recreational or moderate-intensity pickleball, especially those with medium or wide feet.
Who Should Skip?
Aggressive movers, players needing maximum support, or those who frequently drag their toes.
Test Notes
Brand and review sources agree on comfort and ventilation but note below-average stability and toe durability. Weight and stack values are estimated from typical measurements for this model and may vary slightly by size.
Recommendations
FAQs
Does the New Balance 996 v4 require break-in?
No, it is comfortable out of the box according to multiple reviews.
Is the 996 v4 suitable for wide feet?
Yes, it is available in multiple widths and accommodates wider feet well.
How durable is the outsole?
It comes with a six-month durability guarantee, but toe durability is below average for frequent draggers.
Is the arch support high?
No, the arch support is considered low.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The New Balance 996 V4 is highly recommended for pickleball players seeking a lightweight, comfortable, and responsive shoe with excellent court feel. It is best for those who do not require maximum stability or durability and who value speed and comfort above all.
Compared to other lightweight tennis and pickleball shoes, the 996 V4 stands out for its immediate comfort, wide fit options, and low weight. However, it trails behind more stability focused models in lateral support and long term durability, making it a better choice for players prioritizing agility and comfort.
Bottom line this shoe is a strong pick for players who want a lightweight comfortable and responsive court shoe. It shines for those who value speed and comfort above all and does not demand maximum stability or durability. In comparison with other lightweight options it stands out for immediate comfort wide fit choices and low weight but it does not match the stability focused models in lateral support or long term durability so it is best for players prioritizing agility and comfort over sheer steadiness. If that sounds like you the 996 V4 is a compelling choice for pickleball on fast courts. In closing thanks for checking out this review and may your next match be swift and comfortable.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
8
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
6
Breathability
9
Stability
6
Fit
medium, slightly narrow toe box
Outsole Durability
7
Value
6
Final Score
71.5
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