Subjective tests based on information gathered using `discomfort questionnaires’ have been used widely in
ergonomics. In this study, we used a similar method to examine the discomfort associated with the footwear worn in tennis matches. A sample of 146 tennis players from a population of approximately 4000 completed the questionnaire. We performed a descriptive analysis of the study variables. The associations between discomfort
and pain and between discomfort and design errors were evaluated using cross-tabulation and chi-squared tests. We found that 9% of players considered their footwear to be uncomfortable, 23% considered it to be acceptable and 68% regarded it as comfortable. Six design errors were identi®ed and ®ve body areas were reported as experiencing discomfort due to the footwear. Factor analysis identi®ed four factors related to discomfort and six design errors. Subsequent correlation analysis identi®ed several relationships among these factors. There was a strong correlation (r = 0.187, P = 0.022) between plantar discomfort and incorrect arch support.