Parents’ Guide to Youth Tennis Equipment: What Your Middle or High School Tennis Player Really Needs
By Tracy Rolling
What Your Middle or High School Tennis Player Really Needs
If your child made the middle school or high school tennis team — congratulations, and welcome to the wonderful world of tennis! You'll quickly discover that this sport comes with its own language. But don't worry: terms like overgrips, dampeners, string tension, and sweet spot won't be unfamiliar for long.
In this guide to youth tennis equipment, we'll walk you through everything you need to know — from choosing between a pre-strung racquet and a performance racquet, to understanding why proper tennis shoes are different from running or cross-training shoes. We'll also explain common racquet features and other essential gear so you can make informed decisions with confidence while respecting your budget.
With a little guidance, you'll be ready to outfit your player for a successful season on the court — so you can relax on the sidelines, cheer on your rising tennis star, and enjoy every serve, rally, and match along the way.
Pre-Strung Yonex and HEAD Racquets
One of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing your child's first quality tennis racquet. While there are dozens of brands available, Yonex and HEAD are consistent stand-outs for their excellent performance, comfort, and technology — especially for young, developing players.
Below are some Pre-Strung Options, meaning the racquet comes ready to play, right out of the box. These racquets are perfect for tennis players just getting started on a school team.
Performance (Unstrung) Racquets
Generally speaking, unstrung tennis racquets are referred to as performance racquets. Unlike pre-strung racquets, these can be customized with different types of string at a specific tension.
Performance racquets are a long-term investment that may cost a little more upfront, but will grow with your player — allowing them to use the same racquet for several seasons. Here are three popular options to consider.
Tennis Shoes vs. Other Athletic Shoes
Tennis is a game of constant change — players are moving side-to-side, stopping quickly, pivoting, and exploding in multiple directions. Quality tennis shoes provide:
- Better lateral support to protect against ankle rolls
- Improved traction on specific court surfaces
- Increased durability — they often outlast athletic shoes built for other activities
- Reduced injury risk so your player can practice longer and stay more comfortable all season
Overgrips and Dampeners
Don't let words like overgrip or dampener intimidate you. These small accessories can be some of the least expensive — and most useful — upgrades for your young tennis player.
What Is an Overgrip?
An overgrip is a thin wrap that goes over the racquet handle to improve comfort, absorb sweat, and slightly increase grip size. The right grip size helps your player swing more comfortably and play with confidence.
Grip sizing tip: Most junior players use a 4" or 4⅛" grip; many high school players need 4¼" or larger. You can always build up a grip with an overgrip — but you can't make it smaller.
What Is a Dampener?
A dampener is a small rubber piece placed between the bottom strings of the racquet. It reduces string vibration and gives the racquet a more comfortable feel and muted sound when hitting the ball.
Plus, they come in fun colors and designs — an easy way for players to personalize their gear!
Help Your Player Enjoy the Game
Starting a new school tennis team doesn't have to feel overwhelming for the players or the parents. When you choose the right equipment, it will make learning the sport that much more enjoyable and help your student focus on what really matters: improving their game, making friends, and having fun on the court.
Whether your child is playing their first school match, aspiring to make the varsity team, or dreaming of playing college tennis (or even professionally), investing in the right gear from the beginning helps set them up for success — one serve at a time.
GEAR UP. GAME ON.
Find budget-friendly tennis racquets, tennis shoes, and tennis bags to hold all of their awesome gear at Midwest Racquet Sports!