5 Must-have Tennis Gear for Beginners

Going pro as a tennis player often comes with several hurdles to surmount, from staying fit to a change in diet, consistent practices to choosing the right gears. If you’re seriously considering playing tennis at the pro level, then you’ll need to get yourself some gear. Knowing that you’re adequately prepared makes you feel confident as you step on the court to face your opponent.  

Here’s our list of five things we believe every aspiring pro tennis player and beginner player must-have.

1. RACQUET

This is pretty obvious, and that’s why it’s number one on this list. As a beginner, you don’t need more than two racquets, and as a matter of fact, you only need one at a time. The second racquet is only to make sure you’re covered if anything goes wrong with the first.  

You may or may not know this, but there are different types of tennis racquets designed to cater to the needs of players at different levels. Tennis racquets are categorized based on head size, weight, length, and stiffness. We examine some of the below:

• Power Tennis Racquet

These types of racquets are recommended for beginners because of their big head size. They provide more surface area for striking the ball. Also, their extended length and stiff frames allow beginner players to generate more power with lesser effort. Moreover, they are generally lighter than other racquets. 

• Control Tennis Racquet

More experienced players usually use control tennis racquets. This type of racquet generates less power. However, it offers a player more control on ball placement in exchange. It has the smallest head, a standard length, flexible frames, and weighs more. 

• Tweener/Intermediate Tennis Racquet

This intermediate type of racquet strikes a balance between power and control racquets, just as the name goes. It provides more power than a control racquet and more control than a power racquet. While these types of racquets are better for those who’ve acquired some skill in playing tennis, beginners can use them too. 

2. TENNIS BALLS 

 

There can be no tennis match or even practice without balls. Having at least three to four balls is ideal. There are pressurized balls, non-pressurized balls, regular-duty balls, and even beginner balls. It is important to keep the type of court on which you’ll be playing in mind when choosing a tennis ball. Regular duty balls are the best when playing on a clay court. 

Another thing to consider when choosing a ball is durability. Pressurized balls offer better gameplay. However, you need to be careful because they wear out quickly. Therefore, unless you don’t mind replacing your balls every few months, non-pressurized balls are a better option than pressurized balls. 

3. RACQUET BAG

Transporting your gear to and from the court without a racquet bag will prove to be an arduous task indeed. Tennis Racquets, balls, accessories, and even extra clothes are all things that a racquet bag holds.

Investing in a good racquet bag like the Cancha racquet bag is something you’ll eventually appreciate in the long run. It is durable and has water-repellent zips to ensure that your gear stays dry always. 

It also features a unique modular design with MOLLE attachment points, giving you the freedom to customize your bag all you want. Best part? It comes in four different colours that allow you to express your individuality and personality. 

4. TENNIS SHOES

Tennis is a sport that involves a lot of movement and abrupt stops. Tennis shoes are designed to prevent injuries by providing support to the player. Different tennis shoes are designed for different courts, so the type of shoe you need depends on the type of court you’ll be playing on. The three main types of courts are clay courts, hard courts, and grass courts. 

• Clay Court Tennis Shoes

Clay courts are made of crushed stone or brick, and they are easier on the body when compared to the other types of courts, which is why older people and beginners prefer it. The surface slows down the speed of a ball, giving it a high, slow bounce. 

Shoes designed for clay courts usually feature outsole herringbone (zigzag) designs for great grip. The design also helps prevent the buildup of clay in the outsole. The upper part of clay-court shoes is knit tightly to improve stability and prevent the clay from getting into your shoes, which causes discomfort during play.

• Hard Court Tennis Shoes

Hard courts are the commonest types of courts, and they’re made for concrete or asphalt. Most tournaments around the world are played on hard courts. Due to the harder surface, hard courts are more demanding on the body, but they produce the highest bounce.

Shoes designed for this surface have more durable outsoles, as the concrete causes a lot of wear. Unlike clay court shoes, some hard court shoes come with an outsole guarantee from the manufacturer. Hard Court shoes can also be used on other surfaces, although there is a possibility of causing damage when used on the clay surface. 

• Grass Court Tennis Shoes

Grass and clay courts share a similarity in that they go easy on the joints and body. However, that’s where the similarity ends. Balls bounce faster and lower on a grass court, the opposite of what is obtainable on a clay court. 

Grass court shoes have small bumps on the outsoles covering the entire surface, giving the player a firm grip on the grass. This type of shoe is exclusive to grass courts and cannot be used on other surfaces.   

5. TENNIS ACCESSORIES 

Beginners don’t need many accessories. These items aren’t used in playing the sport, but you want to have them when you hit the court.

• Water Bottle

A sizable water bottle filled with water is vital to make sure you stay hydrated. You can also take energy drinks or bars with you if you want.

• Towel

Since you’re going to sweat during a game, a towel will come in handy. When buying a towel, you should look out to ensure you’re buying one designed for court use. These towels are lightweight and are made of highly absorbent material. 

• Visor

If you’re going to play outside on a sunny day, a visor will help prevent the sun from getting into your eyes. The band of the visor can also perform the job of a sweatband, absorbing sweat and keeping it away from your eyes. 

Now that we have highlighted the five gears to kick-start your pro tennis career getting these items at a reputable store can offer you the best value for money. If you are planning on purchasing a tennis item as a gift, check out our guide to 35 awesome tennis gifts for every player. 

Are you looking to buy tennis accessories online? Visit Cancha today to enjoy exclusive offers on your tennis gear.