Tennis Express

As a college athlete, a new year at school means a new season, new matches, and new goals. With plenty of challenges and changes ahead, you need gear that reflects your D1 mindset. Confidence, discipline, and readiness aren’t just qualities; they are requirements. Finding the right equipment to match your energy both on and off the court is key. Pre-Season Starts Before Syllabus Week When you are a D1 athlete, you don’t wait for classes to start training. You hit the court before the rest of campus even wakes up. Prepping early for those taxing practices means adjusting your sleep schedule, stretching, eating, and hydrating well before the first drill. Establish your routine now so everything else falls into place later. Once your routine is as strong as your serve, it’s time to focus on gearing up, starting with your body. Ladder drills, cone work, and footwork exercises help build quick agility and speedy court coverage. In the gym, focus on functional lifting that ta...

Whether you're squeezing in a match before work, rallying at the club, or hitting the gym after class, your tennis bag should support your routine, not slow it down. No matter your court, having the right bag makes all the difference. This guide helps you find the tennis racket bag that's sized for your lifestyle and built to deliver, every match, every time. For the Gym: Slim, Sleek, Locker-Friendly Gym lockers aren't known for being spacious or easy to deal with. When space is tight, reach for a compact tennis racket bag or backpack with minimalist storage: think breathable compartments, a water bottle pocket, and room for a quick change. It should fit easily, function seamlessly, and be ready when you are. Product Rec: Wilson Clash V3 3-Pack Tennis Racquet Bag Compact yet organized, with a padded racquet sleeve and accessory pockets. For the Trunk: Mid-Size Bags That Ride Shotgun For players on the move, versatility is key. If you’re driving to multiple...

You’ve been playing tennis for a while. It’s one of your passions. As a more advanced player, you want equipment that meets your needs and helps you excel on the court. Look beyond staples like shoes and racquets. You’ve likely already found shoes and racquets you prefer anyway. Instead, it’s time to take a closer look at higher-level tennis gear, like advanced tennis bags and ball machines. It could be just what you need to improve your skills as a player and help you hone your game. A Bag for All Your Racquets More advanced players can be picky about their tennis racquet bags. There are many to choose from, including casual shoulder bags and lightweight backpacks. While these options definitely serve their purpose in the right circumstances, you might be looking for a bag to carry all your racquets and gear. Finding an option you love may be easier than you think. You can discover a tennis backpack that checks all your boxes. Search for bags that securely fit multiple ...

What if you could be ready to go to the tennis court at a moment’s notice? Maybe you got a text from a friend heading to the tennis club or a nearby court, and they’ve invited you along. Or perhaps you’ve just watched a pro match online and you’re suddenly in the mood for a match of your own. Of course, now you have to get ready to head out. But what if you didn’t have to get ready? It’s time to put together your tennis court go bag! It’s as easy as keeping a tennis racket bag packed with tennis apparel and gear ready to hand. Here are a few things you can do so you’re always ready to head to the court. Invest in the Perfectly Sized Tennis Bag The perfectly sized tennis bag easily fits all your essential gear. This can include your tennis racquet (or two or more), tennis apparel, court shoes, a can or two of tennis balls, and any other gear you like to have when you play. There are all kinds of tennis racket bags to choose from, from backpacks to multi-racquet bags, maki...

Are you looking to practice volleying to improve your tennis? From learning proper positioning to developing better reflexes and practicing better shot placement, volley exercises can be invaluable to help you become a better tennis player. Lace up your On Roger shoes , grab your racquet, head to the court with a friend, and get ready to improve your skills at the net with these drills. Serve and Volley The serve-and-volley technique is an excellent drill to practice in groups. Take turns serving, then immediately moving forward to the net to hit a volley. Players on the other side of the court will hit returns, keeping the drill going while keeping you on your toes. Lob Volley Drill The opposite of the first drill, start the lob volley drill at the net. Whether you’re wearing Adidas men’s court shoes or Nike womens tennis sneakers , be sure to tie them for stability since you’ll be moving a lot. A player on the other side of the net hits a lob to you. Then, you move back ...

Tennis shoes and running shoes are nearly interchangeable, right? Try wearing running shoes on the court instead of Nike tennis shoes , and you’ll suddenly discover a huge difference between the two types of shoes. From traction to needing to be heavier for stability, here are a few significant differences between tennis shoes and running shoes. Tread Pattern The tread pattern is the first, easiest way to see a difference between the two. Herringbone pattern is very common on tennis shoes as it provides the traction needed for quick lateral movements. You can see this on a pair of Nike Vapor 12 shoes , for example, which is meant for a clay court. The sole is usually flat to keep the feet stable and prevent ankle rolling. Running shoes have soles and treads meant for shock absorption and cushioning, with a curved sole and a pattern to grip road or trail. Weight for Stability Running shoes tend to be lightweight, making it easier to move your feet. However, that comes at...

In tennis, dressing sharp can translate to playing your best on the court. That’s because today’s men’s tennis apparel is packed with innovation. With the best tennis apparel, you can stay comfortable and confident to put your skills on display. Here are a few essentials every player needs to succeed. Choose Technical Fabrics for Peak Performance Modern tennis apparel is built with performance in mind. Look for pieces made from technical fabrics that wick moisture, increase breathability, and allow a full range of motion. Lightweight, breathable materials and proprietary technology are designed to keep you dry and cool even during long matches in the heat. Every piece of apparel should provide convenience to your game day routine, including pockets and more freedom to focus. Classic Meets Contemporary: Polo Shirts, Tees, and Tanks When it comes to shirts, your tennis style may come down to whether there’s a dress code where you’re playing. A crisp tennis polo shirt is a...

Do you need a new pair of tennis shoes? Are you looking for your first pair of tennis shoes to use on the court? One of the great things about the ever-growing popularity of tennis is that there are a lot of court shoes to choose from. You can find tennis shoes from respected brands, shoes made for hard and clay courts, and styles that appeal to your tastes. But what about specifics like comfort and reliability? Here are a few tips to consider before you make your next (or first!) tennis shoe purchase. Read Shoe Comparison Guides Tennis shoe comparison guides can be great starting points. These guides are excellent for tennis newbies and advanced players alike. Many tennis retailers even offer in-depth comparison guides that examine different brands and shoe types. One way to know the guide is worth your time is to shop at tennis retailers that employ people who genuinely care about and play tennis. Many of these shops will be upfront about this, and it will reflect in ...

Picture it: You’re enjoying some time on the tennis court when you realize your Babolat Pure Aero isn’t putting the ball where you want it to go. After the match or training session, you realize the cause might be loose strings. It could be time to replace the strings or the racquet itself. How do you know when it’s time to upgrade to new tennis gear? Here are a few signs to look for. Racquet Wear and Tear Racquets can endure natural wear and tear as you play. Whether it’s a worn grip or a cracked frame, as the main piece of tennis equipment you use on the court, racquets eventually have to be replaced. You might not generate the same power, or it could feel harder to control where the ball goes. Look for physical signs of wear and tear after your next session. Loose Strings Your Babolat Pure Drive racquet might get the job done, but you could improve your on-court experience by changing the strings. If they are shifting or feel loose, or the strings are starting to ...

Everyone who plays tennis wants a good-looking pair of shoes, and young players are no exception. But beyond aesthetics, picking a pair that performs well and allows children to play confidently is just as important. Whether they’re just learning the game or need a shoe for tournaments, the right shoe makes a big difference. Here’s what to look for when selecting childrens tennis shoes . Proper Fit for the Win Fit should always be your first consideration. Tennis involves quick lateral movements, so a snug (but not tight) fit is essential to help reduce the risk of injury. Look for shoes that hold the heel securely in place and allow enough wiggle room for the toes. Avoid sizing up too much, thinking they’ll “grow into” a pair. If they play frequently, they’ll wear out their tennis shoes anyway. Look at top brands for youths, including Nike, Asics, and Adidas court shoes . Shoes That Serve Up Cushioning and Support Quick movements and powerful plays call for supportive ...

Summer is prime tennis season. The French Open recently wrapped up at Roland-Garros, and now everyone’s turning their attention to the Wimbledon Championships in London. But summer isn’t just prime tennis season for the pros. It might also be your prime tennis season, going out on the court, giving it your all. If you’re playing on an outdoor court, the heat (and humidity) can be a genuine concern. However, there are steps you can take to maximize your tennis game even as temperatures rise. It can be as simple as upgrading your apparel. The latest Nike mens apparel , for instance, can offer a number of benefits for summer on the tennis court. Moisture-Wicking Apparel Rules Many tennis apparel brands understand the importance of staying cool on the court. You can find Nike men’s and women’s apparel that emphasizes the cool factor in more ways than one. Of course, the most important factor is moisture-wicking. Many apparel brands have their own form of moisture-wicking tec...

You may not be a tennis pro (yet), but that doesn’t mean you can’t look the part. Creating a confidence-building ensemble to wear while you improve your skills can make all the difference. What better place to start than by looking to the greats who have mastered the game for some style inspiration? Here are a few tips to dress like a pro on the tennis court, inspired by some of the most legendary players in women’s tennis.  Serve It Like Serena: Fierce and Fun When Serena played, people watched. Yes, her forehand was something of a marvel, but so was her style. She had a captivating on-court presence and always wore a bold tennis skirt with confidence. She was especially partial to bright colors. Pinks and purples were her signature. There’s always room to play with colors in tennis, so lean into the ones that help you feel powerful. That way, you can bring confidence to the court just like she did. Styling Tip: Reach for a pleated tennis skirt and pair it with a ...

If you want to be more active this summer, tennis is a fun sport for improving your footwork, elevating your heart rate, and connecting with a community of tennis enthusiasts. However, if you’ve never picked up a racquet, it’s natural to feel nervous about approaching a tennis court for the first time. What do I need to bring to the court? Which racquet is best suited for my level? Which tennis clothes should I wear while playing? If you’re stepping onto the court for the first time, here are four essentials to help you feel confident while playing. 1. Hit Powerful Strokes with the Right Tennis Racquet Getting comfortable with foundational tennis skills such as footwork, basic strokes, tracking the ball, and moving around the court are aspects you’ll focus on as you begin playing. However, becoming adept at handling a tennis racquet is crucial. Before stepping onto the court, you’ll need a beginner-friendly tennis racquet. Choose a racquet with a larger head size, a lightwe...

It’s that time of year once again! It’s Wimbledon season. With the French Open all wrapped up, everyone’s turning their attention to the Wimbledon Championships in London, England. After the excitement of this year’s Roland-Garros, there’s plenty of hype leading into Wimbledon. The tournament runs from June 30 to July 13. You may be excited to catch it on TV, streaming, or online. Like so many other tennis fans, you can’t wait for the action at one of the most iconic Grand Slams. But until the tournament starts, how do you channel your excitement? Should you shop for a new tennis backpack ? Get some new court shoes? Here are a few ways to celebrate your love of tennis ahead of Wimbledon. Head to Your Local Tennis Court What better way to celebrate tennis tournament season than playing the game yourself? It’s time to head to the court. Tennis is a great Saturday morning activity, especially during the summer. Grab your gear and head to your favorite park, gym, or tennis cl...

Just because your local park is your favorite casual tennis court, don’t let that stop you from looking great while you play. There is plenty of stylish tennis apparel designed with the sport in mind, giving you the freedom to move while keeping sweat at bay. You’ll not only look good but also play better in these specialty clothes. Finding the Right Apparel From skirts to shorts, t-shirts to dresses, great tennis apparel is easy to find. Manufacturers from Adidas to Nike make fashionable tennis apparel. They want you to look good and play well on the court. Look for stretchy apparel that moves with you. You need maximum freedom of movement if you’re going to chase down a ball and look good doing it. Don’t Forget Your Shoes Your shoes need to support you while looking good, too. Plenty of bright, vibrant choices can help you stand out while still looking stylish. Roger Federer shoes by On are both high-performance tennis shoes with plenty of technology packed into t...