The Essential Gear You Need to Start Playing Tennis (Women’s Edition)

That first step onto the tennis court is thrilling, but the right equipment can significantly impact your comfort level and how confident you feel as you begin your tennis journey. Whether you're playing for fun, fitness, or with competitive goals in mind, having the right equipment will help you move better, play longer, and enjoy the game more. 

From finding supportive apparel to choosing the perfect racket, here’s everything you need to get started on the right foot:

The Importance of a Supportive Sports Bra with Sewn In Pads

A good sports bra for tennis is an often overlooked yet absolutely essential piece of gear, especially when engaging in this kind of high-impact sport. Tennis, in particular, requires a lot of upper body movement – serving, reaching, swinging, and sprinting – and without the right support, discomfort can quickly become a distraction. 

A high-impact sports bra that provides maximum support like our AIR CONTROL DELTAPAD sports bra with sewn in pads is your go-to choice when it comes to activities with constant movement, like tennis. It’s the ideal sports bra, featuring our patented triangular Delta Pad design that offers maximum support. The AIR CONTROL DELTAPAD is also made out of ultra light mesh fabric for optimal air circulation, keeping you cool and comfortable. 

Choosing the Right Tennis Racket

Your racket is your best friend on the court, so it’s essential to pick a good one. As a beginner, you don’t need to stress about getting the most high-tech, professional-grade racket, but you do want something that feels comfortable in your hands and helps you play your best. 

The weight of the racket is a big factor. A lighter racket (around 9–10.5 ounces) is easier to maneuver, making it a great option for beginners. A slightly larger head size (over 100 square inches) will also give you a bigger sweet spot, meaning more forgiveness if you don’t hit the ball perfectly every time. As you improve, you can experiment with different grip sizes and string tensions to find what works best for your playing style.

The Right Shoes for Court Performance

Tennis isn’t just about swinging a racket. It involves a lot of quick footwork, sudden stops, and changes in direction. Wearing the right shoes can prevent injuries and keep you moving comfortably throughout your matches. Keep in mind that regular running shoes won’t cut it – they simply don’t provide the necessary lateral support for side-to-side movements that you’ll find yourself doing when playing. 

When shopping for tennis shoes, look for a pair that offers a sturdy outsole for traction, especially if you’ll be playing on hard courts. Cushioning is also essential since tennis involves plenty of jumping and sprinting. If you plan to play regularly, investing in a good pair of court shoes will make a noticeable difference in how you feel after a long session.

Comfortable and Functional Tennis Apparel

Your attire on the tennis court plays a role in how you perform, not just how you look. Outfits that have been specifically designed for tennis are meant to keep you cool, allow full range of motion, and enhance comfort. 

Tennis skirts with built-in shorts (often called skorts) are a popular choice because they provide both style and practicality. If skirts aren’t your thing, athletic shorts or leggings work just as well. For tops, moisture-wicking tanks or fitted T-shirts are ideal to help keep sweat under control. Choose lightweight, stretchy, and breathable fabrics to stay comfortable during intense rallies.

Essential Accessories: Grips, Bags, and More

Once you have the basics covered, there are a few accessories that can enhance your experience on the court.

For example, a sturdy tennis bag will help you keep your things organized. Most have compartments for rackets, balls, and even an insulated section for water bottles. 

Overgrips are another small but important accessory. They wrap around your racket handle to improve grip and absorb sweat, giving you better control during play. If you find your hands slipping or the handle feeling too rough, an overgrip is a quick fix.

Finally, don’t forget the basics such as a quality water bottle (it’s always important to stay hydrated) and a visor or hat to shield your eyes from the sun. Speaking of exposure to the sun, you might also want to invest in a broad spectrum sunscreen product to further protect your skin when playing during the day. 

Now that you have all the essential gear, the only thing left to do is get out there and start playing. Tennis is a fantastic sport that keeps you active, challenges you mentally, and is just plain fun. With the right equipment, you’ll feel more confident and ready to focus on improving your skills instead of worrying about discomfort or lack of support.

Here at Anita Active, we know how important performance is, whether it’s a simple morning jog or high-intensity activities like tennis. If you are on the hunt for a comfortable sports bra for tennis or similar activities, you’re in the right place! Browse our selection to find the perfect sports bra for your needs.