Adidas
Men
The Cybersonic Clay is worth a look if you want a snug shoe with more going on around the heel than a simple mesh upper. ENERGYRODS and dual-density Lightstrike are its main features. We would put fit first here, especially if Adidas shoes tend to feel tight across your forefoot.
Players who like close foot hold and want the Clay outsole.
You need generous toe room or dislike a close-fitting heel collar.
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A snug fit can help hold the foot, but pressure around the toes or heel is a reason to try something else.
Start with the outsole version: this is the Clay Cybersonic. The name alone is not enough when comparing prices with a tennis listing that uses another sole.
Independent reviews of the original men's hard-court model describe a close fit, with some initial stiffness or collar irritation. That is a reason to check the fit of the Clay version carefully, especially around the heel.
The Cybersonic makes sense when you like that close hold. If you have to loosen it so much that your heel starts moving, another fit is the better purchase, even at a higher price.
A Clay herringbone outsole in Adiwear rubber, dual-density Lightstrike cushioning, an ENERGYRODS heel structure and Adituff protection.
Try it with your playing socks. Check toe clearance, pressure along the outside of the forefoot and contact at the back of the heel when you bend your ankle. Do not rely on the upper stretching enough to fix a cramped fit.
Men · Hard court
A low-profile hard-court shoe with Lightstrike cushioning and Speedframe heel support. Shortlist it if you prefer a firm, direct feel underfoot. Compare more cushioned options if softness matters most, and check that this outsole suits your court.
Men · Clay
The men's Clay Barricade combines a full herringbone outsole with a reinforced midfoot and protection along the inner side. A stability option to compare if you want secure foot hold. Check the tongue and lacing before committing to the fit.
Browse our buying guides to see how this model compares to the best padel shoes for your game.
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It would not be our first choice without a try-on. Reviews of the original men's model describe a snug fit. If you usually need extra forefoot room, compare a wider-fitting shoe before ordering.
No. Article IG9518 is the original Cybersonic Clay. A retailer's SS25 label does not make it the second generation. Compare the model name and article reference when checking offers.
They form part of the heel structure, which Adidas designed to help with changes of direction. They are a reason to try the shoe for heel support, not a guarantee that you will move faster.
Editorial review 2026-09-11 · Retailer price and stock updated 2026-10-08 · How we assess gear
