Appropriate tennis attire is required for all competitors. As coach, discuss the types of tennis clothing that is acceptable and not acceptable for training and competition. Discuss the importance of wearing properly fitted clothing, along with the advantages and disadvantages of certain types of clothing worn during training and competitions. For example, long pants or jeans and blue jean shorts are not proper tennis attire for any event. Inappropriate clothing can hinder a player's performance and be a safety hazard. Shirts and shorts should be loose fitting to allow for free movement. Take athletes to high school or college training or competitions and point out the attire being worn. You should set the example by wearing appropriate attire to training and competitions. Do not reward athletes who do not come properly dressed to train and/or compete.
Shirts
Shorts
T-shirts are the most comfortable and practical tops for practice and training. Traditionally, tennis competitions are played in collared shirts that are tucked into shorts.
During practice, athletes should wear loose fitting gym shorts or conventional tennis shorts. During competition, a traditional tennis short or skirt is preferable. Wearing proper tennis attire for competition can build an athlete's excitement for the competition.
Shoes
Warm-ups
Shoes should be traditional tennis shoes with proper ankle, arch and heel support. Running shoes are inappropriate for tennis because they do not support the ankle. Be cautious of black-soled shoes as they mark the courts. Socks should be of an absorbent cloth to prevent blisters. If an athlete is prone to blisters, two pairs of socks can be worn.
Cotton materials are good for tennis players. They should be worn before and after practice and competitions. Athletes should not wear sweat suits during play unless it is an extremely cold day.
Tennis Female Attire
Other items that might help a player's performance:
Hats or sunglasses keep sun and wind out of the eyes.
Sweatbands and headbands keep moisture off the racket hand and out of the eyes.
Sunscreen can keep athletes from being overexposed to the sun.
