Ep. 4 : Balls and Apparel
In the last three episodes, we've focused on gear that drives performance, but that's not all you need. Comfort is what keeps you on the court, and without it, even the best equipment won't get you very far. Think of it this way: performance gets you started, but comfort is what keeps you going through the third set.
Avoid cotton clothing, which becomes heavy and uncomfortable when wet with sweat. Instead, opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you dry and cool. Equally important are tennis-specific socks: unlike standard athletic socks, these feature extra cushioning in the heel and toe to prevent blisters during those long lateral slides. Tennis Giant carries a multitude of different brands, e.g., Yonex, Lacoste, Nike, Boss, and Asics.
To close out this episode, let's circle back to performance. You're almost ready to step on the court, but there's one thing still missing: balls. And no, I don't mean that in the sense that you need courage, even though you actually might. I mean you need to practise with the right ones. Even the best racquet won't help if the ball is moving too fast. Beginners should start with Green Dot (Stage 1) or Orange Dot (Stage 2) tennis balls. These low-compression balls bounce lower and slower, giving you more time to react and helping you build consistent rallies. You can choose from brands such as Dunlop, Wilson, or Babolat.
You now know that you should opt for a lighter and bigger racquet, but heavier shoes, the different string types and how tight they should be strung, and that the material of your clothes matter as much as the type of ball you practice with. That said, specs on a page can only tell you so much. My final piece of advice: visit a local shop. There is no substitute for getting hands-on with your gear before you buy, and that extra step could make all the difference once you're out on the court.
Browse the Tennis Giant website or visit us in store for personalised advice.
You're now ready to play!
