CT Rally
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2023
Price in USD
119.99
Summary:
The New Balance CT Rally is a durable, supportive, and comfortable option for pickleball and tennis players seeking a stable ride on outdoor hard courts. While ventilation is only average, its secure fit and long-lasting outsole make it a strong value for frequent players.
PLAYER PROFILE:
An aggressive all court competitor will feel at home with this shoe, valuing stability, support, and durability over ultra lightweight speed. Players who rely on frequent lateral cuts and demand a secure, confidence inspiring fit will benefit the most. It is best suited for hard court play, both indoors and outdoors, while those who predominantly play on clay may want to consider other options. You will find outstanding stability, a secure fit, impressive durability, and a supportive cushioning system that becomes very comfortable after the break in. The shoe inspires confidence for aggressive movement and holds up well over time. There is initial stiffness and a moderate break in, average ventilation, and a slightly heavier feel compared to some competitors. It is not the best choice for those seeking instant out of the box comfort or maximum breathability.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
From the moment you slip into the New Balance CT Rally, you sense a shoe built for the hard court and focused on control. The initial step in feels stiff and structured, with a clear sense of support around the heel and midfoot that signals stability and lockdown you can trust for quick cuts and sharp pivots.
The fit is snug but not overly restrictive, holding the foot securely from all sides. The elongated throat design and a one piece woven upper contribute to a secure glove like fit that accommodates aggressive movement without feeling constricting. Some testers with wider feet may notice a firmer feel, especially before break in.
Out of the box comfort is good but leans toward the firm side, particularly in the midsole and upper. The Fresh Foam X cushioning is supportive but initially feels less plush than some competitors. After a short period of wear, the cushioning becomes more responsive and comfortable.
There is a moderate break in period. Most testers reported that the shoe felt stiff for the first few hours but softened and molded to the foot with continued use. Break in is not excessive, but those seeking instant comfort may notice the initial firmness.
Compared to shoes like the Asics Gel Resolution 9, the CT Rally is slightly less stable but offers superior comfort and cushioning after break in. It is more dynamic and breathable than its predecessor, the Lav v2, and feels less bulky than other shoes in its durability focused category.
SPECS
Surface
outdoor
Available Widths
multiple (standard and wide)
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
410
Heel Stack (MM)
28
Forefoot Stack (MM)
20
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
modified herringbone
Rubber Hardness
75
TORSION SHANK
TPU
Lateral Outrigger
yes
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
FitWeave mesh with NDure overlays
Breathability Design
engineered mesh with ventilation zones
Heel Rigidity Note
rigid TPU heel clip for lockdown
Fit Shape
medium-wide, secure midfoot
T Test Time (Secs)
5.2
Stop distance (M)
0.85
Subjective Stability
8
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
6
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The CT Rally features a modified herringbone outsole pattern that provides an excellent balance of grip and give. On hard courts testers found the traction reliable for quick stops, pivots, and aggressive takeoffs. The outsole feels a bit firm at first but becomes grippier after a short break in.
Stability is a standout feature with a snug upper, secure heel cup, and a lateral outrigger that keeps the foot planted during lateral cuts and direction changes. The shoe resists excessive twisting and provides confidence for aggressive movement, though it is just a touch less stable than the very best in class.
Responsiveness is enhanced by the Fresh Foam X midsole, which delivers a low to the ground feel in the forefoot and a supportive ride throughout. The shoe feels dynamic and allows for quick transitions, especially after the break in period when the cushioning becomes more lively.
Transitions are smooth and efficient, aided by the shoe’s supportive chassis and secure fit. Players noted that the shoe allows for fast adjustment steps and explosive movements without any sense of lag or instability.
The CT Rally is well suited for aggressive, all court players who value stability, support, and durability. It is especially appealing to those who play on hard courts and require a shoe that can handle frequent, intense movement.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Fresh Foam X cushioning feels firm right out of the box, but it settles quickly, becoming more comfortable and supportive with wear. It creates a protective, stable platform that absorbs impact well without ever feeling mushy. Breathability is an improvement over earlier models thanks to the woven upper and elongated throat design, though a few testers still called ventilation average. The shoe manages heat well for most sessions, but it isn’t the most breathable option available. Not a lightweight trainer, the CT Rally avoids feeling clumsy or bulky. The weight is noticeable yet well distributed, and the shoe feels agile enough for fast paced play. During extended play, comfort and support stay strong, with minimal fatigue or pressure points reported. The cushioning holds up well, and the secure fit prevents slippage or discomfort over time. Most testers did not experience significant pressure points or fatigue, though one noted slight discomfort on the lateral side before break in. After the initial wear in period, the shoe molds to the foot and provides consistent comfort.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
Durability stands out as a defining strength of the CT Rally. The outsole uses NDurance rubber and comes with a six month guarantee, underscoring its longevity. In testing the outsole resisted wear well even with frequent sessions on abrasive hard courts, delivering reliable grip without flattening. The woven upper feels robust and resists stretching or tearing, preserving the shoe’s supportive fit even during aggressive cuts and quick transitions. Testers noted the upper held up well against the demands of fast lateral movement over extended play. The Fresh Foam X midsole maintains its cushioning and support without noticeable compression or loss of bounce after long wear, keeping a responsive ride over time. On hard courts indoors or outdoors the CT Rally shines, versatile for most pickleball players, though not optimized for clay. Given the high durability, support and comfort, the CT Rally represents strong value for its price, especially for players who prize longevity and stability in a court shoe.
Marketing Claims
Fresh Foam X midsole for maximum comfort, NDurance outsole for durability, NDure upper for support, TPU heel clip for lockdown
PROS:
Excellent durability (upper and outsole), Secure fit and lockdown, Stable ride with good torsional support, Comfortable after break-in
CONS:
Average breathability, Requires break-in period, Slightly firmer cushioning than some competitors
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a stable, durable, and supportive shoe for outdoor pickleball or tennis, especially those who play frequently and value longevity.
Who Should Skip?
Players who prioritize maximum ventilation or want a plush, soft ride out of the box.
Test Notes
Brand and review sources agree on durability and support. Some reviewers note a firmer ride and break-in period compared to previous Fresh Foam models. Outsole is specifically designed for hard court use, confirming outdoor surface rating.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the New Balance CT Rally good for outdoor pickleball?
Yes, the NDurance outsole and modified herringbone tread are designed for hard court durability and traction, making it suitable for outdoor pickleball.
How does the fit compare to other New Balance court shoes?
The CT Rally offers a secure, medium-wide fit with strong midfoot lockdown and is available in multiple widths.
Does the shoe require a break-in period?
Yes, most reviewers report a short break-in period before the cushioning and fit reach optimal comfort.
Is the shoe breathable?
Breathability is average; the mesh upper provides some airflow, but ventilation is not a standout feature.
How durable is the outsole?
The NDurance rubber outsole is highly durable and comes with a six-month outsole guarantee.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The New Balance CT Rally is a top tier choice for pickleball players who seek stability, durability, and long lasting comfort. It shines especially for hard court players who value a secure supportive fit and are ready to endure a short break in period.
Compared to leading models like the Asics Gel Resolution 9 the CT Rally offers slightly less stability but makes up for it with greater comfort and cushioning after the break in. It is more dynamic and breathable than its predecessor the Lav v2 and stands out for its blend of durability, support, and modern design.
To wrap things up if you prize a sneaker that keeps you steady on court while delivering cushioned comfort after you break them in the CT Rally is a strong choice for you. It trades a bit of immediate stability for lasting comfort and breathability while remaining durable enough for regular play. If you are chasing maximum stability right out of the box you may want to compare a few other options, but for players who value long term comfort a modern feel and reliable support the CT Rally delivers. Thanks for reading and here’s to many successful matches in your next pair.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
8
Cushioning
8
Upper durability
9
Breathability
6
Stability
8
Fit
medium-wide, secure midfoot
Outsole Durability
9
Value
8
Final Score
81
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