The New Balance Fresh Foam X CT-Rally v2 is the latest evolution in the Rally/Lav family. While New Balance doesn’t call it “fourth generation,” this shoe is effectively the successor to the Fresh Foam Lav, Lav v2 and the first CT-Rally. With the v2, New Balance continues to refine what the line is known for: comfort, durability and stability for hard-court grinders. These were released recently among the Coco Gauff collections around the 2025 US Open.
Cushioning – Fresh Foam X
The defining feature of the CT-Rally v2 is the Fresh Foam X midsole. This is New Balance’s most cushioned Fresh Foam to date, designed for maximum shock absorption and plush comfort. On court, that gives you a more forgiving landing, particularly in the heel, while still keeping the foot secure for aggressive lateral moves.
Players who log long practice sessions or matches will especially appreciate the extra padding underfoot.
See more details and buy them from Tennis Warehouse.
Upper – NDure Protection With Flex
The upper features NDure technology, which reinforces high-wear zones without making the shoe overly stiff. New Balance has designed “strategic breaks” into the construction, giving the shoe a more flexible and breathable feel compared to older models.
This makes the CT-Rally v2 a sturdier option than most speed shoes, while still keeping some airflow and pliability.
Stability
Several elements work together here:
- TPU shank – provides torsional stability (prevents unwanted twisting) while reducing weight.
- Molded external heel counter – keeps the heel locked in and prevents slipping during explosive moves.
- Engineered tongue – improves midfoot lockdown and helps the shoe feel secure straight out of the box.
The result is a shoe that feels solid when changing direction or planting hard on the baseline.
Outsole – NDurance Durability
Like its predecessor, the CT-Rally v2 uses NDurance rubber in the outsole, specifically engineered for high-abrasion hard courts. The tread is non-marking and comes with a reputation for strong durability. For serious hard-court players, this is a key selling point – these shoes are built to take a beating.
Fit, Weight & Options
- Weight: Men’s ~388 g (13.7 oz); Women’s ~319 g (11.2 oz). Not a featherweight, but that bulk contributes to its stability and durability.
- Widths: Available in multiple widths — Men’s D (standard) and 2E (wide); Women’s B (standard) and D (wide). New Balance remains one of the few brands still catering to different foot shapes.
On-Court Feel
The Fresh Foam X cushioning is plush in the heel, a bit firmer in the forefoot, giving a balanced ride. Break-in is noticeably shorter than with the original Lav, though some players still report initial stiffness in the upper. Once settled, the shoe offers a secure, glove-like fit with strong lockdown.
Players with wider forefeet may still prefer the wide version, as the standard fit runs on the snug side.
Player Profile – Who Is It For?
The CT-Rally v2 is best for:
- Baseline grinders who rely on stability and durability for long hard-court rallies.
- Players who value comfort and cushioning over featherweight speed.
- Hard-court warriors who need outsole durability for daily play.
Less ideal for:
- Players who want an ultra-light, minimalist feel.
- Those who dislike any break-in period at all.
Where to buy? Get the latest models from Tennis Warehouse.
It’s not the fastest shoe out there, but if you’re a hard-court player who values comfort, stability, and long-lasting protection, the CT-Rally v2 deserves a spot on your shortlist. Have you tried the new NB models? Is it one of the top tennis shoes for this year? Let us know in the comments below.
Check also, best tennis shoes from New Balance.
