New Balance

New Balance 696 V6

The New Balance 696 V6 is a lightweight, breathable court shoe for everyday pickleball. It suits players who want comfortable hard-court traction, flexible fit options, and moderate cushioning without a heavy shoe.

  • Available inMen's · Women's

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Overview

The synthetic-and-mesh upper keeps weight down and allows airflow. Reviewers describe the shoe as comfortable, breathable, and flexible for regular court sessions. A reinforced toe adds protection, but the upper may wear sooner if you drag your toes often.

The rubber NDurance outsole is non-marking and built for court use. Reviewers report reliable traction across hard and indoor courts, while the shoe remains versatile enough for other surfaces. The cushioning is moderate rather than plush, so it fits players who value a lighter court feel more than maximum impact protection.

On court

Reviewers describe the traction as reliable for hard and indoor courts, with enough grip for movement and quick changes of direction. The secure fit and supportive upper help keep the shoe stable during court play. Players also report that it feels light and breathable during longer sessions.

Cushioning is a clear tradeoff. Reviewers find it comfortable for casual play and club sessions, but less protective than more cushioned court shoes. Durability also appears adequate rather than premium, especially for players who slide or drag their toes frequently.

Fit and sizing

The shoe generally runs true to length, but fit reports conflict on width. One reviewer highlights multiple width options, including wide and extra-wide versions, while other buyers found the shoe narrow, including in a wide width. Check the specific width carefully, especially if you need extra room through the midfoot.

Best for

  • Players who want a lightweight, breathable shoe
  • Mostly hard-court or indoor-court play
  • Players who need standard, wide, or extra-wide width options
  • Players who want a non-marking outsole for gym floors
  • Casual sessions, practice, and regular club play

Look elsewhere if

  • Players who need maximum cushioning for sore knees
  • Players who slide or drag their toes often
  • Players needing a reliably roomy midfoot fit
  • Long, intense matches where premium durability matters most

Strengths

  • Breathable synthetic-and-mesh upper
  • Reliable court traction reported by reviewers
  • Non-marking rubber outsole
  • Lightweight feel and flexible movement
  • Multiple width options are reported

Things to consider

  • Width feedback is inconsistent, with some buyers finding it narrow
  • Cushioning is moderate rather than maximum
  • Upper durability may fall short for frequent toe draggers
  • The shoe is better suited to everyday play than demanding, intense matches

Specs

BrandNew Balance
Available inMen's · Women's
OutsoleNon-marking NDurance rubber
Cushioning (midsole)Moderate cushioning
UpperSynthetic mesh with reinforced toe
Non-marking soleYes
Reinforced toeYes

Not listed by the seller: weight (per shoe), court, heel-to-toe drop, width.

Specs come from the seller's product listing and may be incomplete or change between batches. Double-check before you buy.

Sources

  1. MC 696v6, New Balance Pickleball Shoe Review
  2. New Balance 696v6 Review (2025): Fit, Sizing & Why I ...
  3. New Balance 696v6 Tennis Shoes Reviews | Zappos.com
  4. New Balances 696v6 Sneaker Is a Must-Have - Parade
  5. New Balance MC 696v6 2E White/Navy Men's Shoes | Tennis Only

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