Coco CG2
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2024
Price in USD
149.99
Summary:
The New Balance Coco CG2 excels in lateral stability, cushioning, and durability, making it a top choice for aggressive pickleball and tennis players. Heel slip may affect some users, but overall comfort and support are excellent, especially after break-in.
PLAYER PROFILE:
The Coco CG2 is ideal for competitive and recreational pickleball players who want cushioning, stability, and breathability in one confident package. It suits aggressive movers and players who log long hours on the court, as well as those who appreciate a slightly roomier fit. Best on hard and indoor courts, it remains versatile enough for outdoor sessions thanks to a durable grippy outsole. Its strengths shine in plush cushioning, excellent breathability, top tier stability, and a secure mid cut design that locks you in without sacrificing comfort. Durability and comfort over long sessions are standout features that players will notice day after day. On the downside, some foot shapes may experience minor heel slippage and the price sits at a higher point. If you’re after a very low cut or ultra light shoe, there are other options to consider.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
From the moment you lace them up, the Coco CG2 signals that comfort is the priority. The plush underfoot cushioning and the feel of the updated upper materials come through right away, aided by the FUELCELL midsole. Testers describe out of the box comfort as among the softest and most fatigue reducing tennis shoes they’ve tried, with a soft inviting interior that stays supportive without feeling tight.
Fit-wise, the Coco CG2 runs true to length with a medium width, and a few testers note a slightly generous fit that can accommodate wider feet. The arch is low and the mid cut collar wraps the ankle in a secure, contained feel. A few testers did experience minor heel slippage when walking, which can be mitigated by tying a runner’s knot or adjusting the lace tension a bit more.
Initial comfort is a standout feature, with most wearers feeling plushness underfoot and a soft breathable upper from the start. Padding around the collar and tongue adds to the overall feel, making the shoe ready for long sessions right away. There is a slight break in period, but it is minimal compared with other performance shoes, and most users find the shoe playable and comfortable almost immediately with only minor improvements in fit and flexibility after a few hours of use.
Compared to other high performance tennis and pickleball shoes, the Coco CG2 stands out for its combination of plush cushioning and stability. It is lighter than some competitors like the Nike GP Turbo, while offering a more comfortable and breathable upper than the previous CG1. The mid cut design is rare in this category, providing a unique blend of containment and freedom of movement.
SPECS
Surface
outdoor
Available Widths
standard, wide
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
385
Heel Stack (MM)
32
Forefoot Stack (MM)
22
Drop (MM)
10
OutSole Pattern
shallow multi-directional herringbone
Rubber Hardness
80
TORSION SHANK
carbon fiber plate (Energy Arc)
Lateral Outrigger
yes
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
FitWeave Lite mesh with leather and suede overlays
Breathability Design
multi-piece mesh with overlays, moderate ventilation
Heel Rigidity Note
moderate stiffness, generously padded high collar
Fit Shape
medium-wide forefoot, snug midfoot, high collar
T Test Time (Secs)
2.9
Stop distance (M)
0.85
Subjective Stability
9
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
6
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
Yes
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The Coco CG2 outsole delivers reliable traction across a range of court surfaces including hard courts and indoor pickleball courts. The tread pattern and rubber compound provide solid grip for quick stops and accelerations, and testers reported confidence in aggressive lateral and forward movements. Designed for multi surface use, this outsole stays versatile for players who move between indoor and outdoor play.
Stability is a major strength of the Coco CG2 with several features working in harmony. A carbon fiber plate in the lateral heel, a raised midsole topline that cradles the foot, and a supportive upper with leather and suede overlays all contribute to a secure feel. The shoe earns a maximum rating for torsional rigidity, giving players a solid base for dynamic side to side actions. The mid cut collar adds containment, though players with narrow heels may need to tweak the lacing for optimal lockdown.
The Energy Arc carbon fiber plate and FUELCELL cushioning combine to deliver a responsive ride that helps players push off quickly and transition smoothly between movements. The energy return is notable during sprints and quick direction changes, making the shoe well suited for fast paced pickleball play.
Transitions feel smooth and efficient, aided by the plush yet stable midsole and the grippy outsole. The shoe remains agile despite the mid cut profile, and containment features help prevent excessive foot movement during rapid changes of direction.
Overall the Coco CG2 is well suited for aggressive movers who value a blend of comfort, support, and responsiveness. It accommodates a variety of foot shapes, particularly those needing a medium to slightly wide fit, and is ideal for players who compete in singles or doubles at both competitive and recreational levels.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Cushioning is a highlight, with the FUELCELL midsole providing a plush, fatigue reducing feel that absorbs impact and keeps feet comfortable during long matches. The shoe is among the most cushioned in its class, making it suitable for players who prioritize underfoot softness.
Despite the reinforced upper, breathability is excellent. Large mesh pores between TPU overlays allow for effective airflow, keeping feet cool even during extended play. The CG2 scores above average in lab breathability tests, outperforming many similarly supportive shoes.
Although the shoe has a robust build and a mid cut collar, it is only marginally heavier than the average tennis shoe, and testers generally perceive it as light on the foot. The balance of cushioning and support prevents the shoe from feeling bulky or cumbersome during play.
Feedback from long sessions is overwhelmingly positive, with players reporting minimal fatigue and no significant hot spots or discomfort. The cushioning and breathability combine to keep feet feeling fresh, even after hours on the court.
No major pressure points are reported, and the plush upper materials help prevent irritation. Some minor heel slippage may occur for narrow heels, but this can be addressed with lacing adjustments. Overall the shoe is designed to minimize fatigue and maximize comfort.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The NDurance rubber outsole is backed by a six month durability guarantee, signaling strong confidence in its longevity. In real world wear, the outsole held up well to both indoor and outdoor pickleball play, showing only minimal wear after several weeks of use. The upper blends breathable mesh with protective TPU and leather suede overlays to deliver structure and shield against toe drag and lateral abrasion, making it a durable option for frequent play. The FUELCELL midsole preserves cushioning and responsiveness over time, with no significant compression or loss of support after extended use, and the carbon fiber plate helps maintain the shoe’s shape and energy return. The outsole is designed for multi surface use, delivering steady grip and durability on indoor and outdoor courts regardless of surface thanks to its tread pattern and rubber compound. Given its premium features, comfort and six month durability guarantee, the Coco CG2 offers strong value for players seeking a high performance pickleball shoe. While priced at the upper end, its blend of comfort, support and longevity justifies the investment for serious players.
Marketing Claims
Energy Arc carbon plate for propulsion, FuelCell foam for comfort and energy return, Endurance rubber outsole for durability, High cut ankle for stability, Six-month outsole durability warranty
PROS:
Exceptional lateral stability and torsion resistance, Highly cushioned and fatigue-reducing ride, Durable outsole with six-month warranty, Available in wide widths, Robust toe drag protection
CONS:
Heel slip possible for some users, Traction is less sticky out of the box, Fit is less forgiving for very wide feet unless wide version chosen, Moderate breathability due to overlays
Who Is It For?
Players seeking maximum stability, energy return, and durability for outdoor pickleball or tennis, especially those who value a high-cut, supportive design.
Who Should Skip?
Players who need maximum out-of-box traction, have very wide feet and can’t access the wide version, or prioritize ultra-lightweight shoes.
Test Notes
Weight and stack measurements are based on RunRepeat and foot doctor reviews; some sources report slightly lighter weights, but 385g is the most consistent for US men’s 10. Traction is less sticky than average until broken in (lab friction coefficient 0.63 vs. average 0.78). Heel slip noted by multiple testers unless laced tightly. Outsole durability is excellent, supported by a six-month warranty. Fit is snug in standard width, wide version recommended for broader feet.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the Coco CG2 suitable for outdoor pickleball?
Yes, the Endurance rubber outsole and robust construction make it ideal for outdoor courts.
Does the shoe come in wide sizes?
Yes, both standard and wide widths are available.
How does the stability compare to other shoes?
It is among the most stable shoes tested, with a carbon plate and high collar providing excellent lateral and torsional support.
Is there a break-in period?
Traction and fit improve after a short break-in, as the outsole becomes stickier and the upper molds to the foot.
What is the outsole warranty?
The Coco CG2 features a six-month outsole durability warranty.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The Coco CG2 from New Balance steps onto the court as a top tier pick for players chasing comfort, support, and durability. Its plush cushioning feels welcoming without lacking responsiveness, the breathable upper keeps the foot cool through long sessions, and the stable platform inspires confident cuts and quick movements on a variety of surfaces. This makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of players, especially those who value extended comfort during long play.
Compared with other performance pickleball and tennis shoes, the Coco CG2 stands out for its mid cut design, breathability, and plush ride. It delivers a more comfortable and supportive experience than many rivals, and its durability and versatility help justify its premium price.
Outtro For players who log extended rallies and switch between indoor and outdoor courts this shoe earns serious consideration.
Conclusion In short the Coco CG2 brings comfort support and durability together in a package that justifies its premium price if you want a shoe that can keep up with long sessions and a variety of surfaces this is a compelling choice. Thanks for reading and happy playing.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
7
Cushioning
9
Upper durability
9
Breathability
7
Stability
10
Fit
medium-wide forefoot, snug midfoot, high collar
Outsole Durability
9
Value
8
Final Score
85.5
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