Tennis shoes have become a catchall name for athletic shoes. However, if you are actually going to play tennis then it is very important that you have a good pair of shoes actually meant for tennis.

Here are some tips for finding the perfect pair of tennis shoes:

1. Measure your feet every time you buy new shoes. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t grown in years, your feet might have.

2. Try on both the left and right shoe. One of your feet may have changed sizes and you might have to go up a size to be comfortable.

3. Shop for tennis shoes after playing a sport or at the end of the day. Your feet will swell after exercising (and at the end of the day) so to make sure that you will be comfortable.

4. Try on your tennis shoes wearing the same type of socks that you will wear when you play.

5. Choose a pair of shoes with an outsole warranty. Most warranties last six months.

6. Make sure your shoe offers the right amount of support for your feet.

Questions to ask when choosing a new pair of tennis shoes:

1. How much do you want to spend?

2. What type of surface will you be playing on?

3. Is the shoe light enough?

4. Is the shoe durable?

5. Does the shoe come with an outsole warranty?

6. Does the sole provide enough traction?

7. Is the shoe made out of quality material?

8. Does the shoe have enough cushioning?

9. Is the shoe comfortable?

Sample Tennis Shoe and things to look for when choosing your pair

For my sample, I’ve chosen one of my very favorite pairs, the Babolat Propulse 3. You can see the things that I specifically like about this shoe. When you go to find your own pair of tennis shoes, see if they have some of the things my shoe has.

• Used by a professional. The Babolat Propulse 3 tennis shoes are worn by Andy Roddick. Roddick works with Babolat’s shoe engineers to design the perfect tennis shoe.

• They look good. These shoes come in a fun, bright color. I love the red/orange because they are more exciting than most tennis shoes.

• Weight. These shoes are light weight; shoes that are too heavy may slow you down.

• Extremely Durable. The outsoles were designed in collaboration with Michelin and have a six month warranty.

• Superior traction. Check the bottom of your shoes, there is nothing worse than slipping and sliding all of the court.

• Cushioning. Babolat Propulse’s have something called the Kompressor, this is a new heel cushioning system which is extremely comfortable and resists deformation and breakdown.

• Breathability. My Babolat’s have Cell Shield technology, a mesh liner covered by cellular synthetic material.

• Support. These tennis shoes comes with two adjustable straps—one across the heel and one across the instep —for greater support.

• Will they help your game? Babolat’s Exact Pro system offers extra propulsion for quicker footwork.