Tennis Setup Under $200 AUD

The $200 Breakdown

Target spend: ~$195 for a complete kit that lets you turn up to a public court and play a real match. Allocation: racket ($85), shoes (carry over from regular trainers), balls ($20), bag ($55), overgrips ($12), wristbands ($8), dampener ($7), towel ($8). Total: $195.

1. Racket -- Allocate $85

Best beginner rackets in this range: Wilson Tour Slam 110 ($79), Head Ti.S6 ($89), Babolat Pure Drive Lite (sales $90-$110), Prince Warrior 100 ($85). Avoid sub-$50 rackets -- they are aluminium with poor strings and cause tennis elbow.

2. Shoes -- Use Existing Trainers

For beginners just starting, regular trainers work for the first 2-3 months. Once you commit to weekly play, allocate $80-$140 separately. Tennis-specific shoes prevent ankle rolls and last 3x longer on hard courts.

3. Balls -- Allocate $20

Buy 1 can of premium balls (3-4 balls, $9-$12) for matches. Add a 12-pack practice tube ($15-$20) for solo wall hitting and warm-ups. Don't waste money on premium for practice.

4. Bag -- Allocate $55

Racket bag 3-pack capacity ($54.95) -- fits racket, water, towel, balls, snacks. Padded compartment, accessory pockets. Do NOT use a duffle without a racket compartment -- strings damage in transit.

5. Overgrip -- Allocate $12

Pro overgrip 3-pack ($11.95). Lasts 6-12 weeks of casual play. Apply over the original grip -- never replace the base grip on a new racket.

6-8. Accessories -- Allocate $23

Wristbands 2-pack ($7.95) for sweat. Dampener 2-pack ($6.95) reduces shock to elbow. Microfiber towel ($8.95) clips to bag.

Total: $195

You now have everything to play your first match. Court hire $14-$22 separately. After 6 months of regular play, upgrade to tennis shoes ($80-$140) and a higher-tier racket if you continue.

Related

$500 Setup | Total Cost of Tennis | Beginner Gear Guide.