Get Set for Summer! Essential Tennis Gear for Your Young Players

                                                                                                      Photo by Rezli on Unsplash

Summer is just around the corner! With school being out, now is the perfect time to enroll your kid in a summer tennis camp. Tennis camp is an awesome opportunity for your kid to stay active, have fun, make new friends, and (most importantly) develop into a better tennis champion!

Being prepared with the right gear is essential to your child’s tennis development and their experience on the court. From playing with the right-sized racquet to staying cool in the summer heat, you’ll want your kid to be ready for anything and everything.

In this article, we’ll be highlighting all the essentials your little one will need to play tennis this summer. Whether they’ll go to a tennis camp or just take lessons at the local country club, being prepared makes everything easier and better.

Kids’ Summer Tennis Checklist

1. Junior Racquets
2. Junior Shoes
3. Kids' Apparel
4. Tennis Balls
5. Bags & Backpacks
6. Kids' Accessories

The Right Racket for the Right Size

Kids’ racquets come in all shapes and sizes, which makes choosing the right one challenging if you don’t know what you’re looking for. When it comes to choosing a racquet for your child, the most important thing to consider is racquet length. The younger your child is, the shorter their racket needs to be. Likewise, the older they are, the longer the racket needs to be.

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Brands such as Wilson, Babolat, and Head make the best tennis racquets for kids. If your child is over the age of 12 or taller than 5’2”, consider getting them a full-sized racquet. 

Shoes Built for Movement (and Comfort!)

When sending off your child to play tennis this summer, make sure to get them court-specific tennis shoes. This is important because tennis shoes are designed to perform and last longer on the rough surface of the tennis court. They offer better traction and comfort, which will be essential during those hot afternoons on the court.

Nike, Adidas, and Asics are our favorite choices for young players. These brands are known for their wide range of options for you to choose from, so that you can get them their favorite color!

Photo by Mobina Ranjbar on Unsplash

Pro tip: Make sure your kid’s shoes are broken in before you send them off to tennis camp.

Apparel to Beat the Heat

Most tennis camps happen outside in the heat. While this is great practice for stamina, it can be quite tiresome for many kids, especially if their clothes aren't suited for the sun. The kids' apparel you’ll want your kids to wear offer sun protection, sweat-wicking fabric to keep them cool, and material that promotes freedom of movement and breathability. Nike and adidas are pros at crafting clothes built for the summer sun.

Hats, visors, and sunglasses are also great ways to keep them from overheating while playing tennis this summer.

Tennis Balls for Every Skill Level

For kids learning how to play tennis, it can be difficult to learn with regular tennis balls. Most tennis ball brands make ‘low compression’ tennis balls, which are easier for kids to see and hit. These balls don’t bounce as high or fast, making them easier for kids to practice hitting the sweet spot on their racquets. Typically, you’ll find tennis balls categorized as follows:

• Red Ball (Ages 4-8)
  

• Often played on a 36-foot court using a pop-up net (2 ft 9 in).
  

• Red balls are larger, low-compression, and available in felt or foam (foam is ideal for indoor courts).
  

• Orange Ball (Ages 8-10)
  

• Often played on a 60-foot court.
  

• Orange balls are the same size as standard balls but lower in compression.
  

• Green Ball (Ages 10+)
  

• Played on a standard 78-foot court.
  

• Green dot balls bounce lower (75% compression of standard balls).
  

• Players may use full-size racquets.
  

• Good for advanced beginners or 12-and-under players needing confidence.

Bags & Backpacks: Pack It All In

Kids have stuff – a lot of stuff. Tennis stuff, snack stuff, “just-in-case” stuff. That’s why a well-sized tennis bag or backpack is a game-changer. Look for one with dedicated racquet compartments, space for water bottles, a towel, and—yes—those all-important post-match snacks (we’re talking goldfish crackers and fruit snacks, folks). Junior-specific bags now come in bright colors, bold prints, and even character-themed designs that will have your kid sprinting to the court like it’s recess. And, pro tip: a bag that’s “theirs” (not an old gym bag from Dad) makes them feel like a real player. Style points count, too. Who doesn’t love a bag that screams, “Future Grand Slam Champ!”?

Extras that Make a Difference

Sometimes it’s the little things that turn a rough tennis day into an epic one. Sweatbands keep drips off little noses. Overgrips make those tiny hands feel like they have a pro-level grip on the racquet. Cooling towels? Pure magic on steamy afternoons. And, of course, water bottles are non-negotiable (hydration station, anyone?). Don’t forget sunscreen unless you want your kid sporting that “lobster look.” One winning hack? Create a “tennis essentials” pouch—fill it with all the above and let your kid be the boss of it. It teaches responsibility and saves you from becoming the family tennis equipment mule. You’re welcome.

Gear Up, Show Up, Have Fun – Tennis Express

At the end of the day, summer tennis isn’t just about perfecting that topspin forehand, it’s about kids having fun, staying active, and building confidence. And let’s be honest, the right gear makes a big difference. When they have the right racquet, the right balls, and the coolest bag on the court, they’ll feel ready to take on the world… or at least their next match. So, parents, help your kids gear up, show up, and have a blast on the court this summer. Bonus? You might even score yourself an invite to the post-camp ice cream meet. Now that’s a win.