6/10/2010
Let me begin by saying the 782 was the perfect tennis shoe for me (I wear a 10.5 2E) --not sure why it was discontinued. It was very comfortable with no break-in. I play tennis competitively and end up buying many pairs during the course of a year as I wear thru them. In trying to find a replacement for the discontinued 782, I tried the 900. It was too narrow in the toe box and felt tight overall. Also, it had poor lateral stability (especially inward) relative to what I am used to. So now I tried the 1004. It runs a bit big, but the 10 2E fits great. I bought the black version. I still prefer the 782 as it felt lighter and not as bulky in design. I guess the only other major change I would make to the 1004 is cosmetic. I would add some brighter colors to the white version of the shoe—maybe some yellow or orange (I really like the palate on the 782). I bought the black version because of aesthetics, but fear that it may be hotter on my feet (Texas summers) than the white version, but right now the white version looks kind of dull. Otherwise it is a very good tennis shoe and I am happy with it overall.
Joe VBFL 2/3/2010
New Balance has a real problem with tennis shoe selections. Most of us with wide feet also need a wide toe box (SL-2). I have been a customer for decades but find as I age I have to have a wide toe box shoe. I have very wide feet (4E) that when my foot compresses spreads my toes and sides of my feet. I need not only a wide shoe but a wide toe box. NB doesn't offer a wide toe box in Tennis. Result is pain on the sides of my feet because my feet and toes cannot expand when weight is applied.
NB is one of the few who offer wide shoes but not a Sl-2 type one. I want to remain loyal but my feet come first.If NB would listen (they said no plans to make a SL-2 tennis shoe) I would certainly buy my next tennis shoe from them.
