Choosing the right tennis gear for your child is more than just a purchase—it's an investment in their safety, confidence, and enjoyment on the court. Whether your child is just starting out or already loves swinging their racquet, the right equipment ensures they’re set up for success. From childrens tennis racket sizes to the best shoes for support, here’s what you need to know before buying a tennis racket and more in 2025.

1. Tennis Shoes: Foundation for Footwork and Safety

Tennis requires quick starts, stops, and lateral movement, so proper footwear is critical. Regular sneakers or running shoes don’t offer the lateral support needed, which can lead to injury. Instead, invest in tennis-specific shoes designed for performance and safety.

What to Look For:

• Non-marking soles for hard and indoor courts

• Cushioned midsoles for shock absorption

• A snug but breathable fit

• Durable outsole for added grip and traction
  
  

2. Choosing the Right Tennis Racquet for Your Child

Selecting a racquet that suits your child’s age, size, and skill level is crucial. One-size-fits-all doesn’t apply when it comes to junior gear.

Key Considerations:

• Childrens tennis racket sizes typically range from 19" to 26"

• For beginners, a good starter tennis racquet should be lightweight and easy to maneuver
  

• Check the tennis grip sizes—the grip should fit comfortably in their hand
  

• Match racquet weight and balance with their strength and playing frequency
  

➡️ Tip: Use a tennis racquet size chart to match your child's age and height with the appropriate racquet length.

Tennis Racquet Size Chart by Age & Height

3. Tennis Racquet Stringing & Maintenance

Often overlooked, the stringing of a tennis racquet plays a huge role in how the game feels to your child.

Why It Matters:

• Loose strings offer more power and a larger sweet spot
  

• Tighter strings provide better control but can feel harsher on impact
  

• Regular re-stringing is recommended for kids who play weekly
  

Use a reliable tennis racquet stringing machine or consult a tennis racquet stringer at your local racquet and tennis club for the best results.

4. Tennis Apparel: Move Freely and Stay Cool

Kids need clothes that stretch, breathe, and wick sweat. Tennis-specific apparel is designed with these needs in mind.

Essentials:

• Moisture-wicking tops and shorts/skirts
  

• Breathable socks with arch support

• Hats or visors to protect from the sun

• Optional: sweatbands for grip and sweat control
  

Well-fitted, flexible gear ensures your child can focus on the match—not on their clothes.

5. Important Accessories That Make a Big Difference

It’s not just about the racquet—small details matter too.

Must-Have Additions:

• Tennis racquet grip tape for a secure, slip-free hold
  

• Properly cushioned socks to prevent blisters
  

• Replacement grips when the old one wears down
  

• Extra balls, a backpack, and even cheap tennis racquets as backups for beginners
  

Tennis Grip Size Chart (by Hand Measurement)

Measure from the tip of your ring finger to the bottom lateral crease of your palm (in inches):

💡 Tip: If you’re between sizes, go with the smaller grip and add an overgrip to fine-tune the fit.

Bonus: Choosing Racquets for Intermediate and Advanced Juniors

If your child has progressed past the basics:

• Look into the best tennis rackets for intermediate players for a balance of power and control
  

• Tennis racquets for advanced players offer improved spin and responsiveness, with tighter string patterns and smaller head sizes
  

• For teenage players, consider transitioning to adult-sized tennis racquets (27")—just be sure to check the size of tennis racquet for adults and match grip size accordingly.
  

Final Thoughts: Equip Your Child for Success

From choosing the right tennis racquet size to ensuring their strings are maintained and shoes fit properly, every piece of gear contributes to your child’s performance and enjoyment. With the right setup, your young athlete can build skills faster, avoid injury, and fall in love with the game.

If you’re currently buying a tennis racket, consult size charts, ask for professional fitting advice, and don’t forget—what works for one child might not work for another. Equip wisely!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What size tennis racquet should a child use?

Children typically need racquets between 19 to 26 inches, depending on their age and height. Use a tennis racquet size chart to match your child’s measurements with the correct racquet size for comfort and performance.

2. What is the best tennis racquet for beginners?

A good beginner tennis racket should be lightweight, have a large head size for a bigger sweet spot, and a comfortable grip. Look for good starter tennis racquets made specifically for kids or juniors.

3. How do I choose the right tennis racquet grip size for my child?

To choose the correct tennis grip size, your child should be able to comfortably hold the racquet with about a finger’s width between the palm and fingers. Using the right grip size helps avoid blisters and improves control.

4. What’s the difference between a tennis stringer and a stringing machine?

A tennis racquet stringing machine is the equipment used to restring racquets, while a tennis racquet stringer is the professional who uses it. Both ensure optimal string tension for better power and control.

5. How often should a child’s tennis racquet be restrung?

If your child plays once or twice a week, consider tennis racquet stringing every 3–4 months. For frequent players, restring every 1–2 months to maintain power, control, and string responsiveness.

6. Are cheap tennis racquets good for kids?

Yes, cheap tennis racquets can be a good option for beginners or casual play. Just make sure they match your child’s age, skill level, and grip size to avoid discomfort or injury.

7. What’s the best tennis racquet for intermediate junior players?

The best tennis rackets for intermediate players balance power and control. These racquets usually feature mid-size heads, moderate string tension, and are slightly heavier than beginner models.

8. What type of racquet do advanced junior players use?

Tennis racquets for advanced players often have smaller head sizes, tighter string patterns, and higher swing weights for better precision, control, and spin.

9. What is the proper size of a tennis racquet for adults?

The standard size of tennis racquet for adults is 27 inches. However, adult beginners may benefit from slightly lighter models or different tennis grip sizes based on hand measurements.

10. What should I know before buying a tennis racket for my child?

When buying a tennis racket, consider the child’s age, height, playing frequency, and grip size. Also, check for appropriate childrens tennis racket sizes and whether the racquet is suited for beginner, intermediate, or advanced use.

This blog was written by Ivan Krcelic, Director of Tennis-Prime.