MC 696V6
BRINESQUAD RATING
Brand
New Balance
Release Year
2024
Price in USD
75
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 the most durable or high-performance option, its value and fit make it a strong choice for those seeking a reliable all-court shoe.
PLAYER PROFILE:
Designed for recreational and club level pickleball players, juniors, and anyone chasing a light breathable and budget friendly court shoe the 696v6 hits a sweet spot. It particularly shines for players with wide feet thanks to multiple width options and while hard and indoor courts are its sweet spot it remains versatile enough for all surfaces. The non marking outsole keeps gym floors and dedicated pickleball facilities clean and scuff free.
Its strengths include featherlight weight strong breathability a secure fit and solid value for the price. The shoe stands out for its width options and reliable traction across court surfaces. On the downside the cushioning is moderate and may not meet the needs of players seeking maximum impact protection and the upper may not be as durable as premium models for those who drag their toes a lot. The understated style may not appeal to those seeking flash.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS & BREAK-IN EXPERIENCE:
From the moment you slip them on the New Balance MC 696v6 signals a purpose built for long hours on the court rather than flashy style. The combination of a synthetic and mesh upper keeps the feel cool and comfortable from the outset, delivering a lightweight and breathable step in experience that suggests this is a shoe designed for all day court play with a practical, understated look.
Fits are flexible and user friendly the 696v6 runs true to size and is offered in multiple widths including wide 2E and extra wide 4E options to accommodate a variety of foot shapes. The adjustable lace closure lets you tailor the fit for personal preference and the toe box provides space for natural toe splay during lateral movements. Some users report that the extra wide fit may not feel as generous as expected, but overall the fit remains secure and supportive.
Out of the box the shoe feels light and supportive thanks to an EVA insole and cotton lining that contribute to step in comfort. The mesh upper enhances ventilation while padding around the tongue and collar adds to the plush feel. There is minimal in shoe movement and the overall comfort level is high for a shoe in this price range. Most testers note little to no break in period required as the materials soften quickly and maintain comfort through the first few sessions. Players can expect to lace up and forget about it after the initial wear. When placed next to the premium 996 series the 696v6 shows its value by being lighter and more affordable while delivering similar levels of support and ventilation, making it a standout option for those seeking comfort and fit features at a friendlier price point.
SPECS
Surface
mixed
Available Widths
D (standard), 2E (wide)
Arch Support
moderate
Weight (Grams)
340
Heel Stack (MM)
24
Forefoot Stack (MM)
16
Drop (MM)
8
OutSole Pattern
herringbone
Rubber Hardness
70
TORSION SHANK
TPU
Lateral Outrigger
yes
Toe Drag Guard
yes
UPPER MATERIAL
synthetic leather and mesh
Breathability Design
mesh vamp and perforations
Heel Rigidity Note
moderate, padded collar
Fit Shape
standard and wide
T Test Time (Secs)
5.2
Stop distance (M)
0.85
Subjective Stability
7
Breathability Temp Delta (C)
4.5
Comfort After 45 Minutes
8
Heel Slip Present?
No
ON-COURT PERFORMANCE:
The NDurance rubber outsole provides reliable traction on both indoor and outdoor courts. The non marking design ensures versatility, and the tread pattern grips well during quick stops and starts. Testers did not report any slippage, even during aggressive lateral movements.
Despite its lightweight construction the 696v6 delivers solid stability thanks to its supportive upper and well structured midsole. The shoe feels secure during lateral shuffles and pivots, and the film drag guard adds protection for toe drags without compromising stability.
Players note a responsive feel underfoot aided by the EVA midsole. The shoe allows for quick transitions and explosive movements, although it does not offer the same level of energy return as more cushioned premium models. The lightweight build contributes to a nimble agile court experience.
Transitions are smooth with a low to the ground profile and a flexible sole allowing for natural foot movement. The mesh upper flexes with the foot, and the overall design supports rapid changes in direction without any noticeable lag.
The 696v6 is well suited for all court players who prioritize speed, ventilation, and value. It is especially recommended for juniors, recreational players, and those who play frequently but do not require maximum cushioning or advanced stability features.
COMFORT & BREATHABILITY IN EXTENDED PLAY:
Comfort and breathability stand out in extended play. The cushioning is moderate, with the EVA insole delivering a solid balance of comfort and court feel. It isn’t overly plush, but there is enough padding for most recreational and club level play, though some players may wish for a touch more cushioning for longer sessions or high impact play. Ventilation is a standout feature, with the mesh upper and extra mesh in the toe cap keeping feet cool even during intense matches. Testers reported excellent breathability in both summer and winter conditions with no overheating.
At approximately 13.2 to 13.3 ounces, the shoe feels light on the foot, contributing to a sense of agility and quickness. The lightweight design does not sacrifice support, and most players appreciate the balance between weight and durability. During long sessions, the shoe maintains its comfort and support. The breathability helps prevent fatigue from overheating, and the fit remains secure without developing pressure points. Players with sensitive feet may want to add an aftermarket insole for additional arch support. No significant pressure points or areas of fatigue were reported. The shoe’s construction distributes pressure evenly, and the mesh upper adapts well to foot shape, minimizing discomfort during extended play.
DURABILITY & VALUE OVER TIME:
The NDurance rubber outsole targets the high wear zones and holds up well over time. Testers observed typical wear patterns with no premature breakdown, and the outsole proved versatile enough for both hard and soft courts, making it adaptable to a variety of playing environments. The synthetic and mesh upper is reinforced with a film drag guard to resist abrasion from toe drags and frequent movement. While it is not as robust as full leather or premium synthetics, it still offers solid durability for the price point.
The EVA midsole maintains its cushioning properties over time with minimal compression after several weeks of play. Some wear may appear in the midsole area for players who overpronate, but overall the shoe retains its support. The non marking outsole and durable construction make the 696v6 suitable for indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, with traction and durability consistent across surfaces and the shoe adapting well to different court types. At a retail price typically under $80, the 696v6 offers excellent value, delivering features found in higher priced models such as support, breathability, and durability, making it a strong choice for budget conscious players.
Marketing Claims
Durable rubber outsole for hard courts, Cushioned insole for comfort, Supportive fit with padded collar, Available in wide widths
PROS:
Affordable price, Available in wide widths, Good ventilation, Comfortable fit
CONS:
Average outsole durability, Not as stable as premium models, Limited advanced cushioning
Who Is It For?
Players seeking a budget-friendly, comfortable pickleball shoe for mixed indoor and outdoor use, especially those needing wide sizes.
Who Should Skip?
Competitive players demanding maximum durability, advanced cushioning, or elite-level stability.
Test Notes
Specs are based on the MC 696V6, which is an incremental update over the 696V5. Some sources conflate tennis and pickleball versions; values are set conservatively. Outsole and upper durability are average for the price point.
Recommendations
FAQs
Is the New Balance MC 696V6 true to size?
Yes, most users report it fits true to size, with both standard and wide options available.
Can the MC 696V6 be used on both indoor and outdoor courts?
Yes, the herringbone outsole and rubber compound are suitable for both indoor and outdoor pickleball surfaces.
How is the breathability of the MC 696V6?
The mesh vamp and perforations provide good ventilation, making it comfortable for extended play.
Is this shoe good for players with wide feet?
Yes, it is available in wide (2E) widths and has a roomy toe box.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
Coming soon
FINAL THOUGHTS:
The New Balance MC 696v6 earns high marks for pickleball players who value comfort, breathability, and affordability. It stands out as a reliable all around court performer with excellent ventilation and a fit that stays comfortable through long sessions. While it forgoes the advanced cushioning and premium materials found in the 996 series, the 696v6 still delivers solid support and strong ventilation at a more approachable price. Players looking for a dependable no frills court shoe will find the 696v6 a strong contender.
Outro and conclusion Thanks for reading this review and following along. If you are shopping for a budget friendly option that does not compromise on fit or ventilation consider the MC 696v6. In conclusion this shoe blends comfort breathability and value to deliver dependable performance on the court. See you on the court and happy playing.
Brinesquad Rating
Traction
7
Cushioning
7
Upper durability
6
Breathability
7
Stability
7
Fit
standard and wide
Outsole Durability
6
Value
9
Final Score
72
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