What to Wear When Playing Tennis
Thursday, August 17, 2017
If you’re new to the game, the world of tennis apparel can seem overwhelming. There are so many choices - brands, styles, price points, the list goes on. While it all comes down to personal preference, there are a few basic guidelines for choosing women’s athletic apparel that will not only look good, but also allow you to perform your best on the court.
Whether you choose a sleeveless tank or a short sleeve top will come down to what you’re most comfortable wearing. The majority of players prefer tank tops, but it is not a hard and fast rule. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing tennis tops is that you need to be able to move freely in them! Anything that is going to impede your motion when you’re swinging is not going to work well. You also want to be sure you choose a Polyester/Spandex fabric that has moisture wicking technology and UPF sun protection so you are cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun while you’re playing outdoors.
The majority of women tennis players choose to wear skorts while playing; built-in shorties allow you maintain a full range of motion while still enjoying a feminine silhouette. Look for shorties that have ball pockets to eliminate the need to store balls underneath! Women’s tennis skorts have come a long way in the past few years, and you’ll have an array of styles with flirty details, like pleats and ruffles, to choose from. If a skort doesn’t appeal to you, many styles of athletic shorts will also work for tennis.
Our favorite way to look put together on the tennis court is a stylish dress! Tennis dresses make getting ready for your next practice or match a no-brainer - just throw it on and go! Don’t forget to grab a pair of shorties with ball pockets, like the Antonia, to make sure you’re covered and comfortable.
For the cooler months, a tennis jacket or set of warm-ups will be crucial to keeping your muscles warm - which is important to preventing injury and ensuring you can continue to play the game for years to come. Jackets with a brushed lining will go a long way in keeping the chill away.
Tennis Shoes
Arguably the most important choice you’ll make when you start to play tennis, apart from your racquet, is what shoes to wear. Make sure to get a pair of shoes specifically made for playing tennis, rather than running, walking, or cross-training. Your shoes should also fit perfectly to eliminate rubbing and blisters when you are changing directions or moving explosively on the court.
Choosing to learn the game of tennis is both exciting and overwhelming! Between hitting the court for practice and studying the rules, you’ll have to make sure you’re perfectly outfitted to play your best. Most of all, make sure that the tennis apparel you choose is comfortable, allows you to move well, and is made from high-quality fabrics that block the sun’s harmful rays and wick moisture away from your skin - and it’s even better if your apparel can be machine washed and dried to ensure longevity. Following these guidelines will set you up for success and allow you to fall in love with the game for years to come.