What You Need In Your Tennis Bag
on October 14, 2025

What You Need In Your Tennis Bag

Your Complete Beginner’s Guide to Tennis Gear

Starting a new sport can be exciting and a little intimidating. The good news? Having the right gear from day one can dramatically improve your comfort, confidence, and enjoyment on the court. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, from racquets and balls to shoes, apparel, and accessories, so your first rally feels as smooth as a pro’s warm-up.

🎾 Tennis Racquets

For Adults:

There’s no universal “best” racquet. The right one depends on your swing, strength, and skill level. Most racquets are designed to emphasize power, control, or a blend of both. Understanding the key specs helps you pick a racquet that matches your game:

  • Head Size: Larger heads offer more power and forgiveness; smaller heads deliver more control and precision.
  • Weight & Balance: Lighter racquets are easier to maneuver and reduce arm fatigue, while heavier ones provide more stability and plow-through. Head-light = quicker handling; head-heavy = extra punch.
  • Flexibility: Stiffer racquets provide power but less comfort. More flexible frames absorb impact and protect joints.
  • String Pattern: Open patterns (e.g., 16x19) create more spin and liveliness; dense ones (e.g., 18x20) enhance control and string durability.

Don’t overlook grip size. It’s one of the most common beginner mistakes. A grip that’s too big or too small can cause fatigue and affect accuracy.

Recommended Racquets:

For Juniors:

Junior racquets are scaled down to match height, coordination, and strength. Using an adult racquet too early can affect swing mechanics and comfort. Junior sizes (19”, 21”, 23”, 25”) correspond to different age and height ranges, helping kids develop proper form and confidence early on.

🎾 Tennis Balls

For Adults:

Ball type should always match your court surface and level of play:

  • Hard Courts: Use Extra Duty balls with thicker felt to resist wear.
  • Clay / Soft Courts: Use Regular Duty balls with lighter felt that performs better on softer surfaces.

For Juniors:

Scaled “progressive” balls slow the game down, allowing younger players to focus on control and technique instead of just keeping up:

  • Foam / Red Balls: Large and soft, ideal for beginners aged 4–7.
  • Orange Balls: Mid-speed, suited for players around 8–10.
  • Green Dot Balls: 75% compression, bridging between junior and full-speed balls.

Shop Junior Favorites:

👟 Tennis Shoes

For Adults:

Tennis requires explosive side-to-side movement, sudden stops, and quick changes of direction. Running shoes are not built for these actions. A good tennis shoe should feature:

  • Strong lateral stability and support
  • Durable outsole for your specific court type
  • Reinforced toe area for sliding and lunging
  • Responsive cushioning and impact protection

Choose shoes based on your foot type, playing style, and court surface. Proper footwear not only improves performance but also protects your knees, ankles, and hips from repetitive stress.

For Juniors:

Kids should always wear dedicated tennis shoes, not runners or casual sneakers, to support healthy movement patterns and prevent ankle twists. Tennis shoes offer grip and side support designed specifically for court movement.

👕 Apparel

Modern tennis apparel does more than look good. It enhances performance. Today’s technical fabrics are lightweight, moisture-wicking, and stretch with your movement. Whether it’s a match dress, skirt, or performance tee, your gear should keep you cool and confident under pressure.

Look for features like UV protection, mesh ventilation zones, and four-way stretch for maximum comfort and freedom of motion.

🎒 Accessories That Make a Difference

While not essential, the right accessories help you stay organized, protected, and ready to play your best:

  • Tennis Bag: Store racquets, shoes, and essentials in one place.
  • Hat, Visor, or Sunglasses: Protect against sun glare and heat.
  • Water Bottle / Electrolyte Mix: Hydration is key for focus and endurance.
  • Overgrips & Replacement Grips: Improve control and reduce slippage.
  • Shock Dampeners: Reduce string vibration and sound.
  • Extra Strings or Tapes: Always keep spares handy for longer sessions.

✅ Ready to Gear Up?

At Racquet Vault, we believe confidence starts with the right gear. Whether you’re stepping onto the court for the first time or returning after years away, we’ve curated a range of racquets, shoes, apparel, and accessories to fit every player’s journey.

Visit RacquetVault.ca to browse our latest collections or drop by in-store for expert advice and personalized fittings.

Follow @RacquetVault on Instagram for gear drops, training tips, and exclusive offers.

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