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Read MoreTennis Shoes vs. Sneakers
Mar 9, 2023
How often have you used the term “tennis shoes” when you really mean “sneakers?” We use these words so interchangeably, but what’s the real difference between the two? For instance, what makes the adidas Rod Laver a tennis shoe and the adidas Originals Stan Smith a sneaker? Follow along as we dissect this question, look at a bit of history and find out the real answer behind the tennis shoes vs. sneakers debacle.
What’s in a Name?
So if sneakers aren’t tennis shoes, you may be wondering, “What are tennis shoes exactly?” Technically, a tennis shoe can be a sneaker, but a sneaker can’t be a tennis shoe. Confused yet? You see, tennis shoes are specifically designed to be worn during a tennis match, but there are no such sneakers for tennis.
Instead, sneakers are your daily go-to, your ride-or-die footwear. They’re what you pair with a men’s graphic tee and distressed jeans or a women’s crop top sweatshirt and leggings. And oddly, according to a map from Reader’s Digest, a very small portion of the United States uses this term correctly. While northern states near the New England region and southernmost Floridians call them “sneakers,” the majority of the nation incorrectly refers to them as “tennis shoes.”
The Similarities, the Differences
Because of their need to change directions quickly, tennis players need a shoe that offers lateral support and shock absorption. Additionally, the toe of tennis shoes often receives a fair amount of abrasion, which is why these particular kicks include extra layers of rubber as well as special non-scuffing soles. Sneakers, however, do not possess the athleticism needed for tennis. They don’t offer lateral support, and while they do offer shock-absorbing attributes for, say, walking your dog or traversing the grocery store, they don’t possess the protective aspects of shoes acutely designed for tennis. In the same respect, sneakers also aren’t distinctly designed for running or soccer.
Brief History of Tennis Shoes vs. Sneakers
One reason we might refer to sneakers as tennis shoes is because tennis shoes were the first sports shoe ever created. So when were tennis shoes invented? In the 19th century, the British Navy ordered them so sailors could more easily walk on a ship’s slippery decks. After that, manufacturers perfected the kick, which became popular among tennis enthusiasts in the 1960s.
Other than making your fit look fabulous, fashion sneakers don’t possess much athletic ability. They’re simply the footwear you don for everyday wear. They date back to 1892 when the U.S. Rubber Company created Keds. Although people wore rubber-soled shoes before that time, these innovative kicks were quieter than their predecessors, leading consumers to call them “sneakers” because you could sneak up on someone while wearing them.
Whether you’re looking for sneakers or tennis shoes, you can always stop in at Hibbett | City Gear or shop our selection online. We can hook you up with the right kicks for tennis, basketball, fitness class and potentially most important, fashion. You can also check out our blog for helpful articles on choosing the right shoes for tennis and the ultimate guide to building a superb sneaker collection.
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