important factor to consider aside from the materials is the types of feet and the kinds of shoes that go well with them. There are 3 types of feet: pronated, supinated and neutral. Feet that are pronated have arches that are low. They walk or run with the heels first ending with the toe. These have greater tendencies to fall over so the shoes that fit them are the ones that resist falling over. Cushioning is not an issue with this feet type.
Feet that are supinated are high-arched. This type tends to wear out shoes around the edges. Cushion, not protection from falling over, should be the top priority in buying tennis shoes for this type.
Neutral feet evenly wear out shoes. It would be more difficult to choose tennis shoes for this feet type because one should find shoes that provide both fall protection and cushioning. The good news? Only 10% of the entire population have this type of feet. Two words to remember for all feet types when buying their first pair of tennis shoes: ankle support. Remember, remember!