What Tennis Gear Do I Need?
Starting tennis doesn't require a second mortgage. You need a racket, shoes, balls, and something to carry them in. Everything else is optional — but some optionals genuinely make the experience better. Here's the honest breakdown: what to buy first, what to add later, and what to skip entirely.
Tier 1: The Essentials (Buy These First)
You literally cannot play without these. Budget: $90-180 total.
| Item | Budget | Our Pick | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennis racket | $50-150 | Buy from a tennis shop (not a department store) | Get it strung at mid-tension. Any name-brand starter racket is fine |
| Tennis shoes | $80-150 | Any court-specific shoe | Running shoes will destroy your ankles on lateral movements. Court shoes have reinforced sides |
| Tennis balls | $29.95 | Practice Balls 12-Pack | 12 balls is enough to start. You'll always lose a few, so having spares avoids frustration |
Tier 2: Highly Recommended (Buy Within the First Month)
These make a noticeable difference to comfort and enjoyment. Budget: $40-80 additional.
| Item | Price | Our Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overgrips | $11.95 | Pro Overgrip 3-Pack | Factory grips wear out fast and get slippery. A fresh overgrip transforms the feel |
| Vibration dampener | $6.95 | Silicone Dampener 2-Pack | Reduces harsh vibration on mishits. Cheaper than elbow treatment later |
| Racket bag | $39.95 | Racket Sling Bag | Protects your racket, holds balls and water. Looks like you belong on court |
| Wristbands | $7.95 | Wristband Set | Keeps sweat off your grip hand. You'll notice the difference on hot days |
Tier 3: Nice to Have (As You Get More Serious)
Once you're playing weekly and want to improve faster.
| Item | Price | Our Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solo trainer | $34.95 | Rebound Trainer | Practice anywhere without a partner. Ball on elastic returns to you every time |
| UV cap | $19.95 | Tennis Cap (UV Protection) | UPF 50+ protection. Australian sun is no joke on a tennis court |
| Overgrip bulk pack | $29.95 | 12-Pack Assorted | Once you're changing grips regularly, the 12-pack drops cost to under $2.50 each |
| Ball hopper | $59.95 | Ball Hopper 50-Ball | Picks up balls without bending. You'll wonder how you lived without it |
| Cooling towel | $14.95 | Cooling Towel | Wet it, snap it, drape it on your neck. Instant relief during summer sessions |
| Elbow support | $18.95 | Elbow Support Sleeve | Prevention is cheaper than treatment. Wear from day one if you have any elbow history |
What NOT to Buy (Yet)
- An expensive racket. A $400 racket won't make a beginner play better. Start mid-range, learn your preferences, then upgrade after 6-12 months.
- A ball machine. Ball machines cost $500-3000. A rebounder ($129.95) gives you 80% of the benefit at a fraction of the cost.
- Full matching outfit. Wear whatever comfortable sportswear you own. Nobody at a public court cares about your kit.
- A 6-racket bag. You have one racket. A sling bag ($39.95) is all you need right now.
The Starter Bundle
If we had to kit out a new player with everything they need beyond the racket and shoes, here's what we'd put in the basket:
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Practice Balls 12-Pack | $29.95 |
| Pro Overgrip 3-Pack | $11.95 |
| Silicone Dampener 2-Pack | $6.95 |
| Racket Sling Bag | $39.95 |
| Wristband Set | $7.95 |
| Total | $96.75 (free shipping!) |
That's everything a new player needs beyond the racket and shoes — for under $100, with free shipping included. For more guidance, check our beginner gear guide and grip size guide.
Playing at Night?
If you're playing evening sessions, add the Night Tennis Starter Kit ($69.95) to your basket. It includes LED balls, glow overgrips, and reflective wristbands — everything you need to play after dark. See our glow tennis guide for the full rundown.
Start playing today
Everything a new player needs. Free Australian shipping on orders over $75.
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