What Works
The Roger Clubhouse Pro is intended to be the dressed-down version of the Roger One, and it certainly succeeds in giving the user a softer ride. It incorporates some of the brand’s signature cushioning from its running lines, and has a more pliable upper, which all contribute to a friendlier feel. It’s designed to be versatile enough to hit the courts for a match, or just worn casually all day.
The cut of the shoe is still on the roomy side, although a bit more down the middle than the Roger One. There’s plenty of space in the forefoot to spread the toes and feel connected to the court. It also retains are fairly low arch, so players with wider and flatter feet will most enjoy the dimensions of the shoe. The internal half-bootie which feels like a padded neoprene sleeve, helps keep the foot locked in—helpful for those with narrower feet.
In action, the wider forefoot helps create a stable base. The carbon fiber Speedboard adds to the support as well as a spring into each step. It’s perhaps not as supportive as the Roger One, but still a secure mover outside of highly aggressive lateral cuts. For more laid back players, it should be more than adequate.
Where it really earns its stripes, though, is in the comfort department. Players accustomed to On’s running shoes will find the brand’s signature Cloud technology. Combined with the Helion midsole cushioning, you get a soft and plush feel, with more bounce than the Roger One. It soaks up harsh landings without any problems. Along with the pliable upper, it offers step-in comfort with no break-in period. It’s one of those shoes you don’t mind keeping laced up after the match is over.
The outsole has a modified herringbone pattern that grips a hard court and slides on clay with equal measure. There’s a cutout that runs through the midfoot which exposes the Speedboard and takes some weight off. Overlays on the medial, lateral and toe box add to the durability for foot-draggers.
