Get the best tennis tips and offers!
Nike Tennis Shoe Models Explained (2025)
In this article, you’ll find explanations of different Nike tennis shoe models and their key features.
This article contains affiliate links (these links are marked with *symbol)
Vapor Models
The Nike Vapor is Nike’s most popular tennis shoe, designed with speed and responsiveness in mind. It has a lightweight build and a low-to-the-court profile, which gives it a quick and connected feel on court. Despite the lighter design, the Vapor still provides a decent level of comfort and support.
However, because of its focus on agility and reduced weight, it offers slightly less durability compared to Nike’s more robust models, like the GP line.
Vapor 12
Price: $180.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Vapor 12 is the standard model in the Vapor line. It features a low, lightweight profile that enhances agility and gives the shoe a quick, responsive feel. Despite its lighter build, it remains well-cushioned and provides a solid level of comfort and stability.
One notable design detail is the flat sole shape, which differs from the Vapor Pro 12 hypersmash that has elevated sections at the heel and toe. This flatter sole helps distribute impact more evenly, contributing to better overall comfort.
In terms of durability, the Vapor 12 falls slightly short when compared to the more rugged GP Challenge model. It weighs about 14.6 ounces (410 grams), placing it in the medium-weight category.
The Nike Vapor 12 is best suited for intermediate to advanced players who want a responsive and lightweight tennis shoe.
Vapor 12 Hypermash
Price: $190.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Vapor 12 Hypersmash is the premium version of the Vapor 12 line. Compared to the standard model, it features higher-quality materials and more refined construction. The toe and heel areas are reinforced with rubber, and the lacing section has a more structured design for added durability and support.
Despite the added reinforcements, the Hypersmash weighs slightly less at 13.8 ounces (390 grams), making it 0.8 ounces (22.7 grams) lighter than the standard Vapor 12.
The Vapor 12 Hypersmash is a strong option for fast-moving, demanding players who want a top-tier, slightly lighter version of the Vapor 12.
Vapor Pro 3
Price: $135.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Vapor Pro 3 is the more cushioned and comfort-focused model in the Vapor line. It features a noticeably thicker sole, which gives the shoe a bouncier and more dampened feel, helping to absorb impact more effectively during play.
The outer construction of the Pro 3 also differs slightly from the Vapor 12. Instead of a rubberized finish, the upper is made primarily from fabric, giving it a softer and more flexible feel.
The Vapor Pro 3 is a good choice for all types of players who value comfort and shock absorption over the ultra-low profile and responsiveness of other Vapor models.
Vapor Pro 3 Premium (PRM)
Price: $145.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Vapor Pro 3 Premium is the highest-end version in the Vapor Pro 3 series. The main differences from the standard model are aesthetic, featuring unique colorways, patterns, and small design details such as added lace accessories. In terms of performance, the technologies and features remain the same.
The Vapor Pro 3 Premium is a good fit for players who want the same comfort and cushioning as the regular model, but with a more distinctive look and premium finish.
Zoom Vapor Cage 4
Price: $160.00
Key Features: Best stability and durability
Ideal for:
The Nike Zoom Vapor Cage 4 is Nike’s tennis shoe designed primarily for support and durability. Compared to the GP Challenge model, it offers even greater stability and toughness, though with slightly less comfort.
Weighing 15.6 ounces (440 grams), the Vapor Cage 4 is in the heavier shoe category. This extra weight helps deliver top-level support and durability, making it especially suitable for players who slide frequently on the court.
The Zoom Vapor Cage 4 is best suited for advanced, demanding players looking for a highly durable shoe that can handle intense movements and hard-court sliding.
Vapor Lite
Price: $85.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Vapor Lite is the most affordable model in the Vapor line. It’s based on the standard Vapor but offers slightly less stability, support, and durability.
The Vapor Lite is best suited for casual and beginner players looking for a budget-friendly Vapor shoe that still delivers good value for the price.
GP Zoom Models
The Nike GP Zoom models focus more on support and stability. Compared to the Vapor line, they have more padding, a thicker sole, and weigh more. These features provide better support and slightly improved comfort, but the added weight makes them a bit slower and less responsive on court.
GP Challenge 1
Price: $160.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike GP Challenge 1 is the standard model in the GP Challenge series, focused on support and stability. Compared to the Vapor and Court Lite lines, it has a thicker sole and a bulkier design.
In terms of quality, the GP Challenge 1 ranks just below the GP Challenge Premium, using higher-quality materials that provide good comfort and durability.
Weighing 15.6 ounces (440 grams), it is about one ounce heavier than the Vapor 12 and falls into the heavier shoe category. It’s slightly lighter than Asics’ heaviest model, the Gel-Resolution X, which weighs 16.1 ounces (456 grams).
The GP Challenge 1 is best suited for all types of players seeking a durable, above-average quality shoe with good comfort.
GP Challenge 1 Premium (PRM)
Price: $180.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike GP Challenge 1 Premium is the highest-quality model in the GP Challenge series. The main differences from the GP Challenge 1 are aesthetic, including unique color options and design details. The technologies and features remain the same.
The GP Challenge 1 Premium is a good choice for players who want the best quality GP Challenge shoe with distinctive colorways and extra details like lace accessories.
GP Challenge Pro
Price: $125.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike GP Challenge Pro is a slightly more affordable version of the standard GP Challenge 1. It offers the same features but with somewhat lower quality and durability.
The GP Challenge Pro is best suited for intermediate to advanced players seeking a more budget-friendly option within the GP Challenge line.
GP Challenge Pro Premium (PRM)
Price: $135.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike GP Challenge Pro Premium is the highest-quality model in the Challenge Pro line. The main differences from the GP Challenge Pro are aesthetic, featuring unique color options and design details. The technologies and features remain unchanged.
The GP Challenge Pro Premium is a good choice for players who want the best quality Challenge Pro shoe with distinctive colorways and extra details like lace accessories.
Court Lite 4
Price: $85.00
Key Features: Good stability and good quality
Ideal for:
The Nike Court Lite is Nike’s more affordable line, designed for beginner and casual players. It shares many features with the Vapor models but offers slightly less support, comfort, and durability.
Where Should I Buy Nike’s Tennis Shoes?
You can find Nike’s tennis shoes from popular tennis stores such as:
Read More:
Asics Tennis Shoe Models Explained
