Confused about what to wear for your first time stepping on a tennis court or just simply looking to improve your tennis outfits? No more worries. This guide will go over the general tennis clothing etiquette. Most courts have a formal dress code that should be followed, however, some of those rules have been modernized over the years...anyone remember Serena Williams’ catsuit? We’re here to make you feel confident and comfortable while playing tennis. As Russian tennis player Maria Sharapova would say, "when you look good, you feel good".
Table of Contents
1.MEN’S TENNIS ATTIRE
2.WOMEN’S TENNIS ATTIRE
3.REVIEW: TIPS FOR SHOPPING TENNIS ATTIRE
Men’s Tennis Attire
Headgear
It’s important you wear something to protect your face from the sun while playing tennis. It is recommended, but not required, to wear a hat, visor, or headband, so you aren’t blinded by the sun during your match. These are also great for preventing sweat from getting into your eyes.
Shirt
Men are almost always required to wear a shirt while playing tennis. A cotton blend shirt will make you feel cooler throughout the match, whether it has sleeves or not. Some courts don’t allow sleeveless shirts though, so make sure you check the rules and regulations of the court before you head off to play. Another option is a nice polo. Some polos even have cooling technology so you can stay fresh all day!
Shorts
>When picking what you want to wear to the court, it is important that you match your shorts with your shirt. This is proper tennis etiquette and will also make you look more stylish, if done right. Stay away from long pants, running shorts, swim trunks, and gym shorts. Tennis shorts are definitely a good investment because they are made to wick away perspiration and support heavy movement during a match.
Shoes
Tennis shoes worn with socks are strictly required at all tennis courts. Tennis shoes are typically more flat with specifically designed patterns on the sole. You also need to consider which type of court you will be playing on. If you’re on a grass court, look for a shoe with good grip, a flatter outsole, and a flexible upper, so you don’t damage the court or feel restricted. If you’re playing on clay, look for a tight upper and durable sides. And for a hard court, which is most common, you’ll need a tough outsole and upper for stability
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are optional but can be an important tool to enhance tennis performance. Glasses not only provide sun protection, but also reduce eye strain. Also, it covers the skin near your eyes which prevent getting wrinkles from UV rays. A lot of people don't realize how harsh the weather conditions are on the court. For this reason, wearing glasses on the court can bring an advantage to your game, and sport sunglasses can reduce any glares and even help the ball really pop. For more on tennis sunglasses, check out our blog on Best Tennis Sunglasses of 2019!
Accessories
Accessories are another thing that are not required, but ideal. You may be interested in wearing a wristband on the arm that holds your racquet with order to prevent against the impact when making contact with the ball. You may also think about wearing an ankle brace if you are prone to ankle injuries, or simply want to take precautions.
Women’s Tennis Attire
Headgear
Similar to men, it is smart to wear a visor or headband for protection against the sun during a long day at the courts. These can prevent sweat from getting into your eyes and can even be paired with a matching pair of sunglasses!
Shirt/Tank Top
Also similar to men, if you choose to wear a shirt or tank top rather than a dress, make sure it’s cooling and allows you to move freely. Many women choose to wear a tank top because it provides more room for movement. Something else to consider is how your sports bra will match your choice of top. You’ll want to make sure your sports bra isn’t distracting or showing while you’re playing.
Dresses
Tennis dresses have become more trendy, and can be a very comfortable outfit when playing. Like the shirts, make sure your tennis dress cools you down and allows for a wide range of movement. The good thing about wearing a dress is that you only have to worry about matching accessories and shoes to one pair of clothing.
Skirts/Shorts
Many women choose to wear skirts when playing tennis, but you can also go with shorts. Tennis skirts typically come with built in shorts underneath, so you won’t have to worry about any mishaps. Skirts are great because they allow for maximum flexibility and freedom, but shorts might be the move if you're looking for something with pockets and/or more coverage.
Leggings/Compression Shorts
The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has recently modernized its dress code with the addition of a new rule. It says that women can now wear leggings and mid-thigh length compression shorts without a skirt or a dress during matches. This rule came after Serena Williams’ catsuit controversy. So if you want to try something different out on the court, try switching it up with a pair of leggings or compression shorts. Who knows, you may even find it more comfortable than what you've been playing in!
Shoes
Women tend to have higher arches in their feet than men, so look for extra support underneath the arch of your foot. Women also tend to have more freedom to wear colored shoes than men, because they can match with the color of their outfit. You also need to consider which type of court you will be playing on. If you’re on a grass court, look for a shoe with good grip, a flatter outsole, and a flexible upper, so you don’t damage the court or feel restricted. If you’re playing on clay, look for a tight upper and durable sides. And for a hard court, which is most common, you’ll need a tough outsole and upper for stability.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are optional but can be an important tool to enhance tennis performance. Glasses not only provide sun protection but also reduce eye strain. Also, it covers skin near eyes which prevent getting wrinkles from UV rays. A lot of people don't realize how harsh the weather conditions are on the court. Wearing glasses on the court can bring an advantage to your game, and sport sunglasses can reduce any glares and even help the ball really pop. For more on tennis sunglasses, check out our blog on Best Tennis Sunglasses of 2019!
Accessories
If you choose to wear a skirt or dress that doesn't come with pockets, you’ll need a ball clip to attach to the waistband. Also consider a wristband on the hand you hold your racquet with to prevent against impact when making contact with the ball. You may also think about wearing an ankle brace if you are prone to ankle injuries, or simply want to take precautions.
Review: Tips for Shopping Tennis Attire
- Shop for pieces that have cooling technology
- Match colors on your hat/visor/headband with shoes
- Choose color combinations that contrast one another (Ex. white shirt with navy shorts/skirts)
- Choose neutral colored shoes because they are easy to match with most outfits
- If you choose to wear sunglasses, pick out a skirt/dress that matches well
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