Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 tennis shoe review
Wilson are beginning to gather some serious speed from the ground up in the tennis arena and have well and truly shaken off their country club image, becoming a more dynamic modern label whilst keeping their heritage. Have we seen evidence of this trend during our review of the Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 tennis shoe?
The major US Sports brand, who is a sound big hitter with their awesome tennis racket range, has also grabbed headlines with their stylish head-to-toe collection. Marta Kostyak’s replica wedding dress outfit at Wimbledon 2024 is one example that springs to mind.
Shivam Bhan, Senior Director of Product and Merchandising says “Wilson owns tennis performance in a way no other brand can – rackets, balls, apparel, and now, footwear built from the court up. Wilson designs specifically for tennis movement”.
“We are the best kept secret, the shoe that your favourite player actually wants to be in”.
“Rush Pro will define elite movement in tennis. While it’s built its name on stability for aggressive baseliners, the future is lighter, faster, and more explosive”.
So, Tennishead duly decided to take their premium shoe for a test drive to see if the Rush Pro 4.5 hits the mark.
The Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 Shoe Review
The latest profile of this line showcases a gorgeous aerodynamic yet robust look. The most obvious upgrade (to the eye) being the upper.
How does the shoe fit and feel?
How does the shoe fit and feel?The Rush Pro 4.5 is on the slim fit side. So, those with narrow feet will find this silhouette an attractive option. I opted for a half size up to accommodate my medium/wide feet and thankfully didn’t experience any immediate or extreme tightness. However, I would say it was snug.
The addition of the heel strap is a small but useful detail that makes putting this version on a simple pleasure. Lacing has returned to the traditional eyelet system which performance wise, locks you down ready for a superb and controlled drive from corner to corner.
What about airflow? … is the Rush Pro 4.5 a hot or cool contender on court?
Ventilation has been improved on the Rush Pro 4.5 with a fine layered flexible mesh (which is especially evident on the clay version and brings added durability).
In terms of heat build up, there is more than enough airflow outlets breezing through these kicks.
I personally found that after a 4 hour stint on court minimal humidity did stick around a little – as you would expect, but at the same time ample levels of breathability were available keeping me cool on court.
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Does the Rush Pro 4.5 hold enough protection from dragging and sliding?
The gradient weave on the uppers is constructed to strengthen the shoe and bolstered by a protective bumper guard strip around the entire shoe including a raised toe cap.
On the medial side, the drag pad has been smoothed out into streamlined panels. This nicely compliments the Rush Pro 4.5 overall aesthetic and provides extra shielding when sliding into your shots.
Is the shoe supportive, comfortable and responsive?
The reconstructed midsole section is armed with ‘R-DSLT+’, as well as, lightweight ‘Energy Cell’ tech provided me with sublime cushioning and security. Honestly, the comfort rating is a real highlight here.
Ground connection (especially on the front foot) isn’t a disappointment either. Considering how stacked the shape of the shoe is and despite weighing in approx 10g heavier than the 4.0 – I was surprised at how responsive this model is on the move.
Cutting back and forth in all directions whilst on the drive in short, sharp bursts felt extremely nifty and stable. The split chassis at the base amplifies all the support you require.
Shivam adds “Rush Pro 4.5 is a tour-level shoe designed for aggressive play – stable, responsive, and locked in without feeling restrictive”.
Does the Rush Pro 4.5 hold traction well whilst on court?
When it comes to the outsole, Wilson, have done their homework and then some. The Hardcourt version has a multidirectional linear pattern. At first, I questioned this, but soon found out amazing grip and go – especially when it heats up.
The Clay specific type opts for a traditional herringbone tread with curved air channels running down the lateral and medial sides. No overshooting on the red stuff here.
Both outsoles offer excellent, aggressive wrap around traction and are built to the highest quality finish with their ‘Duralast’ rubber compound. Toe draggers, may find top part of the sole will eventually wear down first … but hey, what’s new!?
What is the conclusion from our review of the Wilson Rush Pro 4.5?
In summary, Wilson’s Rush Pro 4.5 provides a superb balance of everything you need in a top class tennis shoe. Design is sleek, contoured and bound to turn heads at the clubhouse. As for how it feels and performs, it simply has that winning podium status you wish for.
It’s a definite improvement on the previous version, with all the technical and cosmetic tweaks that have been made. Wilson have produced a totally dynamic shoe that ticks all the boxes.
Avid club players right through to competing pro players will hopefully enjoy the exquisite blend of comfort, support, security and responsiveness, as much as we did in our play test.
Has our review of the Wilson Rush Pro 4.5 inspired you to try them? The new Rush Pro 4.5 are available from Wilson.com for £120.00 in four different colors.
Reviewer profile
Gareth Richman is a tennis nut! For a day job he’s a freelance journalist for The London Standard specialising in tennis products and a PTR qualified coach who also represents his local club. He is an avid supporter of The Elena Baltacha Foundation. Follow Gareth on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok as he lives his tennis dream!
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