{"id":7882,"date":"2026-07-30T20:11:48","date_gmt":"2026-07-30T20:11:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=7882"},"modified":"2026-07-30T20:11:48","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T20:11:48","slug":"im-learning-to-play-tennis-heres-everything-a-beginner-needs-to-get-started","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/relocationtimess.com\/?p=7882","title":{"rendered":"I\u2019m learning to play tennis. Here\u2019s everything a beginner needs to get started"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Our featured picks<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
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\n Lightweight court shoes<\/h4>\n
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\n\nAdidas Men’s Gamecourt 2.0 Tennis Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n A fashion-forward tennis skirt<\/h4>\n
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\n\nFore-t\u00e9 Women’s Club Attire Clara Skort\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n Reliable balls for hard courts<\/h4>\n
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\n\nWilson US Open Extra Duty Balls, 3-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\n Editor\u2019s Note:\n<\/p>\n

\n I\u2019ve always been able to play tennis at, perhaps, the lowest proficient level. Yes, I could rally a bit, but once my opponent introduced a spin, I was done. And though this has gotten me through a few clumsy rounds on the court, I recently decided it was time to up my game. Literally. That meant not only getting lessons, but also investing in the right tennis gear.\n <\/p>

Read more State Department announces Trump passports will be available throughout the US<\/a><\/p>\n

\n To help me learn the basics, stay fit and put me on a path to playing more competitively, I turned to the folks at Court 16 \u2014 a tennis membership club with multiple locations in New York City \u2014 where I started with a one-on-one lesson with a pro. But before I hit the court, I realized I had to pick up a few tennis essentials, which meant I had some shopping to do.\n <\/p>\n

\n What do beginners need to start playing tennis?\n<\/h2>\n

\n \u201cTo play tennis, you need a racket, tennis balls, water bottle, sneakers and a good attitude,\u201d Peri Sheinin, a tennis broadcaster and host, said. \u201cIt can be helpful to wear shorts, skirts or leggings with pockets so you can store extra balls during practice. If you\u2019re playing outdoors, you might want to bring sunscreen along with a hat or visor.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Like most of our experts, Anthony Evrard, Court 16\u2019s cofounder and CEO, thinks that in addition to basics on the court \u2014 like the proper grip, footwork and consistency \u2014 having the right shoes and accessories can make all the difference. Ready to heed the call of the court? Here\u2019s what you need to start swinging (properly), according to the experts.\n <\/p>\n

\n Best men\u2019s tennis shoes\n<\/h2>\n

\n \u201cRegardless of whether you\u2019re playing indoors or outdoors, you should invest in a good pair of tennis shoes,\u201d Jon Levey, cofounder and director of partnerships at GoRaqt, said. \u201cA lot of newbies make the rookie mistake of learning to play in their running shoes or cross-trainers. Those are built for more straight-ahead movement and lack the lateral support and stop-and-start stability needed for the sport.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Levey said that, unlike running shoes, the outsoles of tennis shoes are designed to provide the right amount of grip and give so you can move confidently across the court.\n <\/p>\n

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\n\nAdidas Men’s Gamecourt 2.0 Tennis Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These lightweight tennis shoes are perfect for those on a budget or for beginners who aren\u2019t ready to invest in a pricier option just yet. I like them because they come padded with extra heel cushioning, which Adidas claims is especially helpful for those with wider feet. \u201cIt\u2019s crucial to wear tennis-speci\ufb01c shoes that are designed with a sole that supports your foot,\u201d Evrard said. \u201cTennis shoes are speci\ufb01cally engineered for lateral movements and the unique demands of court surfaces, providing the traction and stability you need to play safely and effectively.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$70<\/s>\n From $44 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$70<\/s>\n From $60 at Adidas\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOn Men’s The Roger Pro 3 Tennis Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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On running shoes are extremely popular thanks to their comfort features, so it makes perfect sense that the on-trend brand should make killer tennis shoes as well. Part of the Roger Collection (Federer to you) and created for hard courts, this fashion-forward design comes in three colors and is both durable and breathable. You can nab the clay court version if you\u2019re feeling fancy.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $220 at On\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $220 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nI tried playing padel. Here\u2019s the best equipment, according to experts<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best women\u2019s tennis shoes\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nAdidas Women’s Gamecourt 2.0 Tennis Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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The Adidas Gamecourt 2.0 tennis shoes are eco-friendly, with an upper made from 50% recyclable materials, and they offer tons of traction on even the hardest courts.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $70 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNew Balance Women’s Coco CG2 Tennis Shoes\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These tennis shoes get the thumbs-up from our experts because they are comfortable and will help you feel stable on the court. CNN Underscored health and fitness editor Summer Cartwright has worn these for a few court sessions and said the high-top design “kept my ankles from rolling even when I was doing tons of lateral movements.” Sheinin likes them because \u201cCoco is the only active player on the professional tennis tour to have a custom shoe. The colorway is beautiful \u2014 just like Coco’s game!\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $160 at New Balance \n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $160 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best men\u2019s tennis clothing\n<\/h2>\n

\n Tennis clothing should be comfortable first, but feeling stylish can be an important component for many players. And thanks to the popular tenniscore trend, you can even sport this activewear when you\u2019re not heading to the court. \u201cWe love a \u2018classic\u2019 look when it comes to tennis outfits, mixing neutral colors like white, creme and black,\u201d Kacper Owsian, tennis pro and cofounder of Sunset Tennis Club, said.\n <\/p>\n

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\n\nUnder Armour Men’s UA Icon Volley Shorts\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cOpt for breathable and \ufb02exible athletic wear that allows for a full range of motion on the court,\u201d Evrard said. These quick-drying volley shorts with a 5.5-inch inseam fit the bill. I also appreciate that they are affordable and come in a variety of vibrant colors.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$25<\/s>\n From $20 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n$45<\/s>\n From $36 at Under Armour\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nLacoste Tennis x Novak Djokovic Men’s Polo\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Lacoste never goes out of style. I approve of this modern and lightweight polo shirt because it has a collar that can transition from the court to the rest of your day. The style is a nod to Novak Djokovic’s sleek match looks, and it will surely give you the power to win 24 Grand Slam singles titles, just like he has.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $100 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOn Men’s Core Pants\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I dig these stylish On tennis pants because they are roomy enough to wear a pair of shorts underneath, and their convenient knee-to-ankle zipper means you don\u2019t have to take off your shoes to strip down. Plus, you can stuff your tennis balls in the two deep side pockets.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $120 at On\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $120 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best women\u2019s tennis clothing\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nLilly Pulitzer Luxletic Love Active Dress\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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This Lilly Pulitzer dress is one of my favorite pieces of activewear. The knit tennis dress is sporty yet fashionable; it’s made with UPF 50+ moisture-wicking fabric, but it has an elevated look thanks to the collar and fitted waist. Wear it on the court and at post-match brunch and feel confident in any setting. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$188<\/s>\n From $169 at Zappos\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Editor Favorite<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nAbercrombie & Fitch Women’s YPB Minidress\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Cartwright said that when it comes to tennis whites, you can’t get much better than this workout dress. “The scoop neckline and compressive fabric are very flattering without causing any discomfort during play,” she said. “The dress material is super breathable and doesn’t show much sweat, either.” What’s more, the dress has built-in shorts with hidden side pockets that are big enough to fit a ball inside.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $85 at Abercrombie & Fitch\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nFore-t\u00e9 Women’s Club Attire Clara Skort\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Short, sweet, easy to move in and it has pockets \u2014 there\u2019s not much else you can ask for when it comes to a tennis skirt. This one from For-t\u00e9 Club Attire is pleated all around, with a sturdy waistband and built-in shorts with a place to stow my balls. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n$80<\/s>\n $68 at Nordstrom\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nRhone Women’s Course to Court Sleeveless Polo\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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CNN Underscored updates writer Ellen McAlpine loves how sweat-wicking and comfortable this tank is. “You have free movement of your arms, and whether you tuck it in or leave it untucked, it doesn’t move too much, even with the swing of your arms,” she said. “It’s not totally fitted, so it’s great if you love a more flowy fit, but it does hug your figure for a polished look.” Go bold and opt for a bright orange or patterned gingham finish, or keep things neutral with the black and white color options.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $98 at Rhone\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best tennis rackets\n<\/h2>\n

\n When buying your first racket, keep it simple. Instead of buying a model your favorite pro uses, Life Time tennis director Ryan Berthod advises picking a comfortable, light design with high-quality string. Regardless of what brand you buy, \u201cget a certified stringer to get it strung at the ideal tension for the racquet you choose,\u201d Berthod said.\n <\/p>\n

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Expert Recommended<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nBabolat Pure Drive Lite Tennis Racket\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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Before writing this article, I treated myself to a Babolat Boost Strike tennis racket, one of our best beginner tennis rackets for recreational play, and Berthod is also a fan of the brand. He likes the brand’s Pure Drive Lite racket for beginners. It’s made with specialty flax fibers in the core to “filter out unwanted vibrations” and “create a more comfortable feel at impact,” according to the brand. “This is a racket a player can also grow with; it’s not something you need to replace right away as you play more,” Berthod said. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $279 at Babolat\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $279 at Paragon Sports\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nWilson Clash 100 V3 Tennis Racket\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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For a more intermediate player, Berthod said he loves the Wilson Clash V3 model. “It lets you develop tons of spin and is very arm-friendly,” he said. Some of its notable features include a forgiving string bed, robust sweet spot, flexible string and the brand’s proprietary Click & Go bumper system, which is designed to be snapped on and off for easy replacement.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $289 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $299 at Wilson\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best tennis racket accessories\n<\/h2>\n
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\n\nWilson Overgrip Box\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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“Nothing is worse than playing with a slippery, worn-out overgrip, so regularly change those,” Berthod said. This Wilson pack is an Amazon bestseller with more than 1,200 five-star ratings. You’ll get an assortment of overgrips (ranging in packs of three to sets of 100) you can tape onto your racket for customized comfort and security.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $9 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nRTP Tennis Racket Vibration Dampener\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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While adding a shock absorber to your racket string isn’t a need, Berthod said the majority of players he’s worked with enjoy the way they make the racket feel at contact. “They can also add some style because there are a million designs to choose from,” he said. When placed on the racket, RTP vibration dampeners “absorb 94.7% shock and minimize vibrations to relieve wrist, elbow and shoulder pain,” according to the brand. <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $22 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n Best tennis balls\n<\/h2>\n

\n Not all tennis balls are equal, it turns out, and Evrard uses a science-backed approach at Court 16, which is approved by the USTA for young and adult beginners. \u201cBeginner-friendly tennis balls are often softer or slightly depressurized, to help with control and rally consistency,\u201d he said. But it\u2019s nice to have a mix of balls to play with as you get better.\n <\/p>

Read more Mandela Barnes drops out of Wisconsin governor\u2019s race as Francesca Hong rises in polls<\/a><\/p>\n

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\n\nGamma Sports Kids Training Balls, 12-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cWe start with low-compression balls that are slightly larger and slower than traditional ones, making it easier to control and rally at a comfortable pace,\u201d Evrard said. \u201cThis beginner-friendly method not only makes learning more fun but also helps you develop your skills more effectively.\u201d <\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $31 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nWilson US Open Extra Duty Balls, 3-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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These US Open tennis balls are the perfect pick, as they come in different options for different players. \u201cWe like playing with Wilson\u2019s US Open Extra Duty balls, as we mostly play on hard outdoor courts,” Owsian said. \u201cWilson does make their US Open line in regular duty (for clay or indoor) and a high altitude version as well.\u201d<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $6 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $7 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nPenn Championship Pink Tennis Balls, 3-Pack\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I love these pink Penn tennis balls for many reasons, though I admit the color doesn\u2019t hurt \u2014 and the fact that they are easy to spot when hit into the mass of traditional yellow. Even better though, they were designed for breast cancer awareness, with 15 cents of each can sold going to benefit breast cancer research.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $5 at Dick’s Sporting Goods\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $9 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nRelated article<\/span>\nThe best pickleball paddles and balls for beginners, according to experts<\/span>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n Other tennis accessories and gear\n<\/h2>\n

\n Sun protection, hydration and storage are other necessities you should invest in. Gear like hats, water bottles and tennis bags can make your on- and off-court experience more seamless and safe.\n <\/p>\n

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\n\nLululemon Removable Sweatband All-Sport Visor\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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I happen to like the idea of a visor because while it shades me from the sun when I play outside, it also keeps the top of my head cool. This one from Lululemon has the added benefit of a detachable sweatband, which makes staying dry and comfortable even simpler.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $38 at Lululemon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nNike Dri-FIT ADV Club Cap\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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The Nike swoosh is always a good way to go, and this breathable cap looks good and feels even better on your head. The latest iteration has a shorter bill as well, so you won\u2019t get distracted mid-swing.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $32 at Nike\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nHead Pro X Sport Large Duffle Bag\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201cPlayers often match their rackets with corresponding tennis bags,\u201d Sheinin said, and recommends tennis bags with shoulder straps. If you\u2019re planning on biking to the court, she suggests looking for a tennis backpack, which is a convenient option.<\/p>

This larger-sized bag can hold up to 12 rackets and has a separate compartment for your shoes. Plus, it can be used off the court as well. \u201cFor new players, it might be cost-effective to find a tennis bag that doubles as a travel bag,\u201d Sheinin said.<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $109 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $109 at Walmart\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nWilson Tour 6-Pack Bag\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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While a backpack can carry a single racket and a few accessories perfectly well, Berthod recommends investing in this 6-pack bag once you start playing more regularly. “It’s a great balance to be able to fit a few racquets with your towels, drinks and any other accessories needed,” he said. “I love the looks of the Wilson Tour 6-pack bag \u2014 it’s classic.”<\/p><\/div>\n

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\n\n $119 at Wilson\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $119 at Paragon Sports\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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Best Tested<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nYeti 26-Ounce Rambler Water Bottle\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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\u201dStaying hydrated is crucial, especially during practice sessions, and it\u2019s important to drink before you even feel thirsty,\u201d Evrard said. \u201cProper hydration helps maintain your energy levels, supports peak performance and prevents dehydration, which can affect your focus and stamina on the court. Make hydration a priority to keep your body and mind in top condition.\u201d<\/p>

This Yeti water bottle won the top spot when our team tested for the best water bottles on the market. The durability, chug cap and versatility \u2014 it’s available in 14 colors and five sizes \u2014 beat out competitors by a mile. Our testers even dropped this thing onto concrete from from 4 feet high, and the bottle barely scratched. <\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$44<\/s>\n $40 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $40 at REI\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n\nOwala FreeSip Water Bottle With Straw\n<\/span>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
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More interested in a straw-based water bottle to quench your thirst on the court? The Owala FreeSip was another tested favorite. Our team loved drinking from the top because it has a straw lid and <\/em>a mouthpiece lid. The brand has become a bit of a viral sensation, too, thanks to all the fun colors you can choose from.<\/p><\/div>\n

\nRead our review<\/p>\n

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\n\n$33<\/s>\n $28 at Amazon\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n $28 at Target\n <\/span>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n How to choose the best tennis accessories\n<\/h2>\n

\n When it comes to finding the best tennis accessories as a beginner, it\u2019s important to prioritize your comfort, unique needs and budget. Instead of immediately shopping for the gear your favorite tennis star uses, consider basics like a racket, balls and a water bottle, Berthod said. From there, you can reevaluate your needs and invest in more equipment as your tennis game improves and evolves.\n <\/p>\n

\n While many tennis accessories come with budget-friendly price tags, it\u2019s likely you\u2019ll have to spend a bit more on a racket and sport-specific shoes to ensure they last. Keep in mind that although pricing will vary on these staples, the top-tier items might not be suitable for beginners.\n <\/p>\n

\n \u201cNext to your racket and strings, shoes are the most important decision you can make for tennis gear,\u201d Berthod said. \u201cA good shoe can help prevent injuries, which keep you on the court. The most expensive shoe or the nicest looking one may not be the best for you \u2014 find one that feels comfortable, fits well and provides support.\u201d\n <\/p>\n

\n Lastly, if you plan to play tennis at a specific club or location, you\u2019ll want to check out the organization\u2019s dress code and rulebook. Many country clubs encourage wearing tennis whites on the courts to honor the sport\u2019s traditions (this garb originated in the 1500s in France). Meanwhile, many courts only allow tennis shoes inside the fences to ensure safety. Once you know these qualifications, you can shop to your heart\u2019s desire.\n <\/p>\n

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