MC 696V6
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2024
Price in USD
70
Summary:
The New Balance MC 696V6 is a solid, affordable pickleball shoe with good comfort, support, and ventilation for recreational and club players. While not a premium performer, its value and wide fit options make it a reliable choice for most players.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for recreational and intermediate pickleball players juniors and anyone after a lightweight breathable and affordable court shoe the 696v6 hits the mark for comfort and ventilation over heavy cushioning or premium features. It is a solid choice for players who value comfort and ventilation more than maximum cushioning or luxury materials. Best on hard court surfaces its durable construction and non marking outsole also give it versatility for indoor and outdoor play. Its strengths include lightweight comfort excellent breathability reliable support and strong value for the price. The shoe accommodates a range of foot widths and tends to provide a secure fit for most players. On the downside the cushioning is not as plush as higher end models and some players with very wide feet may experience fit issues. The more basic style may not appeal to those seeking a premium look and some may want more advanced stability for intensive competitive play.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
From the moment you unbox the MC 696v6 you get a sense that this shoe is built for speed and airiness. The upper blends synthetic material with mesh to deliver a comfortable cool feel as you step in, and the EVA insole with a cotton lining adds a soft initial sensation underfoot. The customizable lace closure makes it easy to secure a snug, personalized fit right away.
Fit tends to run true to size and New Balance offers extra wide widths for players with broader feet. The adjustable lace system helps lock the foot in place and the toe box provides adequate room for most foot shapes. Some users have noted that the extra wide version may not be as roomy as expected.
Testers report immediate comfort thanks to the lightweight construction and strong ventilation. The mesh upper and padded tongue contribute to all day comfort, making extended sessions feel easy without hotspots or pressure points.
There is little to no break in required, with most wearers finding the shoe comfortable and supportive straight out of the box as the mesh upper adapts quickly to the shape of the foot.
When compared to the New Balance 996 series, the MC 696v6 is lighter and more breathable, though it may not offer the same premium feel or advanced cushioning. It stands as a more affordable, straightforward option that still delivers reliable comfort and support for pickleball and tennis players.
SPECS
Surface
mixed
Available Widths
D (standard), 2E (wide)
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
340
Heel Stack (MM)
28
Forefoot Stack (MM)
18
Drop (MM)
10
OutSole Pattern
multi-directional herringbone
Rubber Hardness
65
TORSION SHANK
none
Lateral Outrigger
no
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
synthetic leather with mesh inserts
Breathability Design
ventilated mesh toe box and side panels
Heel Rigidity Note
moderate rigidity, padded collar
Fit Shape
medium-wide, roomy toe box
T Test Time (Secs)
2.1
Stop distance (M)
0.85
Subjective Stability
7
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
3.5
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The NDurance rubber outsole anchors the shoe with solid traction on both indoor and outdoor courts, with a non marking design that grips well during lateral movements and quick stops. The outsole pattern is built to handle a variety of surfaces, making it versatile for pickleball play. Even with a lightweight construction, the 696v6 maintains good stability during side to side movements, and the synthetic overlays plus a film drag guard reinforce high wear zones to keep the foot secure during aggressive play. Players report a responsive feel, with the EVA midsole delivering a balanced ride that supports quick transitions and changes of direction. While it isn’t as cushioned as some higher end models, the responsiveness is ample for most recreational and intermediate players. The shoe’s low profile and flexible upper enable smooth movement transitions, allowing for quick and efficient court coverage, and the lightweight design enhances agility during fast paced rallies. The 696v6 is best suited for players who prioritize breathability, comfort, and value, making it ideal for recreational and intermediate pickleball players, as well as juniors or anyone seeking a dependable no frills court shoe.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Cushioning sits at a moderate level with an EVA insole that delivers basic shock absorption for most court activities. It isn t plush, but it still cushions landings enough for players who do not require maximum impact protection. Ventilation is a standout feature, with the mesh upper enabling excellent airflow and keeping feet cool during long matches. Players consistently note how well this shoe manages heat and moisture.
The shoe feels very light on the foot, weighing in at about 13.2 to 13.3 ounces, which places it among the lighter options in its class and translates to added comfort without sacrificing support. Even after extended play the 696v6 stays comfortable with no notable fatigue or overheating, thanks to the breathable construction and a supportive fit that helps maintain comfort over multiple sets or long pickleball sessions. There are no major reports of pressure points or excessive fatigue, though some users with very wide feet may find the fit less accommodating in the extra wide version. Overall the shoe distributes pressure evenly and minimizes hotspots.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The NDurance rubber outsole is built to tackle high wear areas, and testers report wear is in line with what you would expect at this price point. It holds up well for regular recreational play, although heavy toe draggers may eventually notice wear in the toe area.
The synthetic and mesh upper, reinforced with a film drag guard, resists abrasion and keeps its shape over time. While not as robust as premium models, it offers solid durability for the cost.
The EVA midsole keeps its cushioning over several months of play, with minimal compression. Some wear may occur with heavy use, but that’s typical for shoes in this category.
The non marking outsole and overall construction make the 696v6 suitable for both indoor and outdoor courts. Traction and durability are reliable on a variety of surfaces, though outdoor play may accelerate outsole wear versus indoor use.
With a retail price typically under eighty dollars, the 696v6 delivers strong value for comfort, support, and durability. It’s a budget friendly option that does not sacrifice essential performance features.
Marketing Claims
Superior support for pickleball, Durable rubber outsole for court traction, Cushioned insole for comfort, Available in wide widths
PROS:
Affordable price, Good breathability, Wide width available, Comfortable fit, Decent traction
CONS:
No torsion shank, Support not elite, Outsole durability average
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a comfortable, budget-friendly pickleball shoe with reliable support and ventilation, especially those needing wide sizes.
Who Should Skip?
Competitive players needing maximum lateral stability or advanced torsion support should consider higher-end models.
Test Notes
Specs are based on MC 696V6 and prior 696V5 reviews; outsole and fit confirmed by multiple sources. No torsion shank present. Price varies by retailer but averages $70. No major durability issues reported at this price point.
Recommendations
FAQs
Does the MC 696V6 run true to size?
Yes, most users report it runs true to size.
Is the shoe suitable for wide feet?
Yes, it is available in wide (2E) widths.
Can the MC 696V6 be used for both indoor and outdoor courts?
Yes, the outsole is designed for mixed surfaces.
How is the breathability?
Ventilated mesh panels provide good airflow for comfort.
Is there a torsion shank for added stability?
No, this model does not include a torsion shank.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The New Balance MC 696v6 stands out for pickleball players who want a shoe that is light, breathable, and affordable, delivering steady comfort and reliable support. It shines especially for recreational and intermediate players who value value and ventilation. While it does not pack as many features as the 996 series, the 696v6 still offers a lighter and more breathable option at a lower price. It is a practical choice for players who do not require the advanced cushioning or premium build of higher end models, making it a solid pick for everyday pickleball play.
Outtro Thanks for sticking with the review and considering the MC 696v6 for your court time.
Conclusion In the end this shoe provides dependable comfort and ventilation at a friendly price, making it a smart everyday option for recreational and intermediate players who want value without sacrificing basic on court performance.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
7
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
7
Breathability
8
Stability
7
Fit
medium-wide, roomy toe box
Outsole Durability
7
Value
9
Final Score
75.5
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