My tennis game is built on a foundation of quick, explosive movements and a relentless, all-court style. For years, finding a tennis shoe that could keep pace with my demands was a challenge many offered cushioning at the expense of stability, or durability without the necessary responsiveness.

When I heard about the New Balance Women’s Coco CG2, Coco Gauff’s signature shoe, I was intrigued. The promise of a shoe built for “power and grace” seemed perfectly aligned with my own playing philosophy. From the moment I first saw its unique mid-cut design and vibrant colorways, I knew this wasn’t just another run-of-the-mill tennis shoe, Flow Hiking Shoe, or Pickleball Shoes. It was a statement.

I was eager to put the Coco CG2 through its paces, not just to see if it lived up to the hype, but to discover if it could truly elevate my performance and provide the locked-in feel I’ve always searched for. This is my journey with the Coco CG2, a shoe that promised to be as dynamic and fearless as the game it was designed to conquer.

Comparison Table

Attribute	New Balance Women’s Coco CG2	Mizuno Wave Enforce Tour 2 AC (Men’s)	SQAIRZ XRZ Men’s Pickleball Shoes
Variants / Editions	Women’s signature line; available in Standard (B), Wide (D), X-Wide (2E); multiple colorways including limited collab (e.g., Miu Miu)	Men’s court shoe for tennis/pickleball; multiple colorways (white-blue, grey, mint, white-black)	Men’s pickleball-specific model; color options include White/Black, White/Blue; designed collaboratively with pros
Sizes Available & Fit	Women’s US sizes 5–12; widths B/D/2E	Men’s US 7–13	Men’s US 7–14 (varies); runs true to size; generous toe box
Price (MSRP)	~$159.99 USD; often on-sale around $103 (36% off EUR ~€108 sale)	~$150 USD (Men’s); Women’s similar price	~$159.97 USD MSRP
Audience Score / User Rating	Audience score: 75 (“Decent!”) per RunRepeat; average 4.0/5 stars, ~91 reviews	Audience score: 91 (“Superb!”) per RunRepeat review of Wave Enforce Tour (v1, similar performance)	Rating: 4.9/5 on official site (42 reviews); site review 4.5/5 balls
Key Technologies & Features	FuelCell dual-density midsole + carbon plate “Energy Arc”; propulsive and cushioned; mid-cut design; Ndurance outsole; mesh upper with suede/mudguard overlays	Mizuno Enerzy NXT foam for high energy return; DuRubber outrigger outsole; Dyna-Heel Lock for stability; plush cushioning and outsole warranty	Sta-Put lacing system; NRG foam midsole; closed-cell Lycra upper; Smart Traction outsole with lateral outriggers and pivot point; 6-month sole warranty
Highlights	Excellent cushioning, energy return, stylish mid-cut look; standout for joint comfort and powerful footwork	Superb comfort, cushioning, and stability; very high lab metrics for heel/forefoot energy return and shock absorption	Exceptional durability, grip, and stability; very high user satisfaction for quick lateral performance and long-term use
Potential Limitations	Higher price, mid-cut may not suit everyone, moderate breathability; fewer width choices than typical NB models	Slightly heavier (~13.3 oz / 376g), moderate breathability, not ideal for wide feet	Heavier than typical tennis shoes (~13.3 oz), limited size availability in some stores

As an avid tennis player who values performance, precision, and stability above all else, I approached the New Balance Women’s Coco CG2 with a critical eye. This isn’t just a signature shoe; it’s a technical statement, a fusion of cutting-edge running shoe technology and the demanding requirements of a professional tennis shoe.

Having put it through countless hours of rigorous on-court testing across various surfaces, I can now provide a comprehensive, technical analysis of its design, performance, and durability. This review is for the serious player who wants to understand exactly what they’re getting and how this shoe performs under pressure.

The Midsole: FuelCell Foam and the Energy Arc Propulsion System

The heart of the Coco CG2’s performance is undoubtedly its midsole. It features a dual-density FuelCell foam, a material New Balance has perfected in its elite running shoes. In the Coco CG2, this is not a one-size-fits-all foam.

It’s a multi-density setup, with a softer core foam designed for plush, instantaneous cushioning and a firmer outer foam that provides essential lateral stability. The result is a cushioning system that is both exceptionally soft for comfort and firm enough to prevent a “sinking” feeling during explosive lateral movements.

What truly elevates this shoe from a standard cushioned model is the integration of Energy Arc technology. This system, which is visibly exposed through windows on the lateral heel and outsole, consists of a full-length, cambered carbon fiber plate embedded within the FuelCell foam. The plate itself is curved, or “arched.”

During a stride or a split step, the downward force of the foot causes this carbon fiber plate to flex into a strategic void, or channel, in the midsole. As the foot begins to push off, the plate rapidly returns to its original arched shape. This release of stored energy acts like a spring, creating a highly propulsive and snappy sensation.

On the court, this technology is genuinely transformative. During quick bursts to the net or a powerful takeoff for a serve, the energy return is palpable. It doesn’t just absorb impact; it actively assists in your forward propulsion, giving a feeling of being a step faster.

The combination of the soft internal FuelCell and the snappy carbon plate makes for an on-court experience that is both cushioned for impact protection and explosive for aggressive play. The heel-to-toe drop of approximately 6.2 mm is also lower than many traditional tennis shoes, which I found contributed to a more stable and “connected” feel to the court.

The Mid-Cut Silhouette: A New Approach to Support

One of the most visually and functionally distinct features of the Coco CG2 is its mid-cut silhouette. This design choice sets it apart from the low-cut standard of most modern tennis shoes, drawing clear inspiration from classic basketball footwear.

The purpose of this design is to provide enhanced ankle support and a “locked-in” feeling without compromising mobility. From a technical standpoint, the higher cut of the collar, combined with the diamond knit mesh overlays at the collar and heel, effectively cradles the ankle, Wave Enforce.

When the shoe is laced correctly, this provides a noticeable sense of security during quick changes of direction, lunges, and side-to-side shuffling. I initially had concerns that the mid-cut would feel restrictive or bulky, but the design is surprisingly agile.

The collar isn’t rigid; it has a degree of flexibility that allows for natural foot movement while still providing a reassuring level of containment. For players who have a history of ankle rolls or simply prefer a greater sense of stability, this feature is a significant benefit. The secure fit helps reduce any unnecessary movement inside the shoe, which in turn reduces the risk of blisters or foot fatigue over a long match.

Outsole Durability and Traction: Built for Hard Courts

The outsole is the shoe’s contact point with the court, and its performance is critical. The Coco CG2 features a full-length Ndurance rubber outsole. Ndurance is New Balance’s proprietary high-abrasion rubber compound, known for its exceptional durability.

This is a crucial detail for players who primarily play on hard courts, which are notoriously tough on outsoles. The tread pattern itself is composed of hexagonal pods and a slightly sharper, more angular design along the sides and back, as opposed to the more common rounded patterns.

This geometric design provides excellent multi-directional traction, allowing for confident, controlled stops and starts. I found the grip to be phenomenal on both hard courts and synthetic grass, providing a perfect balance of “grip and give” that allows for both aggressive movement and safe sliding.

After several weeks of use, the outsole showed minimal signs of wear, particularly in the high-wear areas of the forefoot and heel. This is a testament to the Ndurance rubber’s durability. The inclusion of a 6-month outsole durability guarantee by New Balance further confirms the brand’s confidence in this material.

The shoe also features an NDure toe cap with a raised triangular pattern, which offers reinforced protection for players who drag their toes. This detail adds a crucial layer of longevity for a high-performance shoe.

Upper Construction, Fit, and Comfort

The upper of the Coco CG2 is a thoughtful blend of materials designed for breathability, comfort, and structural support. It uses a lightweight, breathable mesh as its base layer. This is a noticeable improvement over previous models, which some players found to be too hot.

The mesh allows for consistent airflow, keeping the foot cool during long, intense matches. To provide support and durability, the shoe incorporates leather and suede mudguards around the base, along with diamond knit mesh overlays at the collar, heel, and tongue.

These materials work together to create a secure, locked-down fit. The lacing system, combined with a gusseted tongue, ensures that the midfoot is held firmly in place, minimizing any foot slippage.

In terms of fit, I found the Coco CG2 to be true to size in length. However, the toe box and overall width feel a bit more narrow than some other New Balance models. For players with wider feet, the availability of a D-width (wide) option is essential.

The break-in period was minimal; the shoe felt comfortable and supportive from the very first wear, although a few sessions were necessary to fully appreciate the dynamic feel of the midsole. The cushioned inner sole and collar padding also contribute to a high level of step-in comfort.

Aesthetics and Final Verdict

While technical performance is the priority, the aesthetics of the Coco CG2 are an undeniable part of its appeal. The design, with its mid-cut silhouette and bold colorways, is a direct reflection of Coco Gauff’s fearless style.

The subtle details, like the “Power” and “Grace” text on the inside of the tongue and the tennis ball logo, make it feel truly unique and personal. The visible carbon fiber plate is a “tech-forward” design choice that proudly shows off the shoe’s internal engineering.

Overall, the New Balance Coco CG2 is a highly impressive performance tennis shoe. It successfully merges the explosive energy return of a carbon-plated running shoe with the stability and durability required for tennis. It excels in cushioning, providing excellent impact protection, and its mid-cut design offers a level of ankle support that is both noticeable and non-restrictive.

The Ndurance outsole provides top-tier durability and traction for all court surfaces. This shoe is ideally suited for aggressive, all-court players who demand a blend of speed, stability, and comfort. It’s a premium model for the serious player who wants to feel connected to their movements and confident in every step.

For those who prioritize a cushioned, propulsive feel and a secure, supportive fit, the Coco CG2 is not just a shoe to consider it’s a shoe that should be at the very top of your list.

Based on the detailed technical review, here are the pros and cons of the New Balance Women’s Coco CG2 Tennis Shoe in a short, bulleted list.

Pros:

• Explosive Performance
• Superior Stability
• High Durability
• Comfort and Cushioning
• Breathable Design

Cons:

• Heavier Feel
• Narrow Fit
• Non-Traditional Look

Why should choose New Balance Women’s Coco Cg2 Tennis Shoe

Based on the review in the Canvas, you should choose the New Balance Coco CG2 tennis shoe for its unique combination of explosive performance, superior stability, and exceptional durability.

The shoe’s midsole, featuring a multi-density FuelCell foam and an integrated Energy Arc carbon fiber plate, provides both plush cushioning and a snappy, propulsive feel that actively assists in forward movement.

Its distinctive mid-cut silhouette offers enhanced ankle support without sacrificing mobility, giving you a secure, locked-in feeling during quick, aggressive changes of direction.

Furthermore, the full-length Ndurance rubber outsole is built to last, providing phenomenal multi-directional traction and durability on hard courts, backed by a 6-month guarantee. Overall, it’s an ideal choice for the serious, all-court player who demands a premium blend of speed, comfort, and confidence in every step.

FAQs

How does the shoe’s midsole technology enhance on-court performance?

The shoe’s midsole uses a multi-density FuelCell foam for both plush cushioning and firm stability. This is combined with Energy Arc technology, a full-length, cambered carbon fiber plate that flexes and then snaps back to create a powerful, spring-like propulsion, helping you feel a step faster during quick movements and takeoffs.

Does the mid-cut design restrict movement, or does it improve stability?

While visually inspired by basketball shoes, the mid-cut silhouette is designed to provide enhanced ankle support and a secure, “locked-in” feeling without compromising your mobility. The collar is flexible enough to allow for natural foot movement while still providing a noticeable sense of containment during aggressive side-to-side movements and lunges.

How durable is the outsole, especially for hard-court players?

The shoe features a full-length Ndurance rubber outsole, which is a high-abrasion compound known for its exceptional durability. The geometric tread pattern provides excellent multi-directional traction, and the material is specifically built to withstand the tough demands of hard courts. This durability is backed by a 6-month outsole durability guarantee from New Balance.

How does the Coco CG2 fit, and is it a good option for players with wide feet?

The Coco CG2 is generally true to size in length but has a narrower feel in the toe box and overall width. For players with wider feet, it’s essential to note that New Balance offers a D-width (wide) option for this model, which is necessary for a comfortable fit. The shoe requires a minimal break-in period to fully appreciate its dynamic feel.

Final Thought

Ultimately, the Coco CG2 stands out as a top-tier performance Running Shoe that successfully integrates cutting-edge technology from multiple athletic disciplines. The dynamic combination of the propulsive Energy Arc carbon plate and the responsive FuelCell foam creates a unique on-court experience that is both explosive and comfortable.

Its mid-cut design provides a sense of confidence and stability often missing in modern tennis shoes, while the Ndurance outsole guarantees the kind of durability serious players demand. This shoe is a comprehensive package, ideal for the all-court player who refuses to compromise on speed, support, or longevity.