Just starting out in tennis? Don't waste money on gear you don't need yet. Here's what you actually need as a beginner.
Essential Gear
- Racket — Don't buy the most expensive one. A $50–$100 racket is perfect for beginners.
- Shoes — Tennis shoes are worth it. They give you the support you need for side-to-side movement.
- Balls — You'll go through a lot of balls when you start. Buy in bulk or keep them pressurized to save money.
Nice to Have
- A racket bag
- Sweatbands
- A water bottle
- Extra grip tape
What You Don't Need
- Expensive apparel — wear whatever you're comfortable moving in
- A membership at a fancy club — public courts work fine
- 10 different rackets — one is enough
Pro Tip for Beginners The biggest expense for new players is balls. When you're learning, you'll lose a lot of balls and wear them out fast. Instead of buying new cans every week, use a ball pressuriser to keep the balls you have.