Walking into a sports shop for the first time can be overwhelming. Racquets in dozens of shapes, shoes with technical names, shirts promising to wick moisture and bags in every size. If you are about to take your first tennis session with the Washington Area Tennis Association, relax. You need far less than the shop would have you believe. This guide explains exactly what to bring, what to buy later and what you can safely ignore, so that you arrive at your trial session comfortable, confident and ready to enjoy yourself.
The short list for your trial session
For a one-time trial session at a WATA court, you need only a handful of things. Bring a racquet if you have one, a pair of comfortable shoes with good grip, clothes you can move in, a bottle of water and a small towel. That is it. Organizers will not expect matching outfits or professional equipment, and no one will judge what you are wearing. They will simply be glad that you came.
If you do not own a racquet, tell the team when you book. They can often point you toward loan options so that equipment is never a barrier to trying the game. Many beginners find it much better to borrow or rent for the first few sessions, discover what they enjoy and then buy a racquet that suits them.
Before you buy anything: Try the trial session first. You will meet experienced players who can tell you exactly what suits your game and budget.
Court shoes: the one item worth getting right
If there is one piece of equipment worth investing in, it is shoes. Tennis involves quick sideways movements, sudden stops and sharp changes of direction, and ordinary running shoes are designed mainly for forward motion. Court shoes are built with firmer sides, more supportive structure and soles that grip the court while allowing a controlled slide. They help protect your ankles and knees and make movement feel steadier.
When choosing, prioritize fit and comfort. Try shoes on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly larger, and wear the socks you plan to play in. You should have a little room for your toes, a snug heel and no pinching. Walk and jog a few steps, and shift side to side. The shoe should feel secure without being tight.
Check the sole as well. Different courts call for different tread patterns, and hard courts, which are common in the region, tend to wear soles down. If you play regularly, replace your shoes when the tread is smooth or when they start to feel flat and unsupportive. For your trial session, clean, comfortable athletic shoes with flat soles are acceptable if you do not yet own court shoes, but avoid heavy trail shoes or shoes with deep studs, which can grip too much.
Choosing a racquet without overthinking
Racquets come in a bewildering range of sizes, weights and string patterns. For a beginner, a few basic principles are enough.
- Head size: A larger head, often described as oversize or midplus, offers a bigger sweet spot, which is forgiving when you are learning.
- Weight: A lighter racquet is easier to swing and kinder to your arm. Very light racquets can feel unstable, so pick something comfortable.
- Grip size: The handle should fit your hand comfortably. If it is too small, you may grip too tightly. If it is too large, it may be awkward to control.
- Price: A mid-range racquet is perfectly adequate for a beginner. Expensive racquets are designed for particular styles of play that you have not yet developed.
When possible, try a few racquets before buying. Ask teammates if you may hit with theirs for a few shots, or look for demo programs at local shops. A racquet that feels natural in your hand is better than one that looks impressive on paper. And remember that strings matter. Fresh strings feel livelier and more comfortable, and they are far less expensive than a new racquet.
What to wear
Tennis clothing has one main job: letting you move comfortably. Choose breathable, flexible fabrics that allow you to stretch, lunge and rotate without restriction. Cotton is fine, but synthetic blends that wick moisture can feel lighter and drier during longer sessions.
In warm weather, wear a light shirt, shorts or a skirt and a cap or visor to shield your eyes. Use sun protection on exposed skin, and consider sunglasses designed for sport. In cooler weather, dress in layers that you can remove as you warm up, such as a long-sleeve top over a short-sleeve one, and keep a light jacket for between games. Do not forget socks. Cushioned athletic socks reduce friction and the chance of blisters.
Many courts have no strict dress code, but a few clubs prefer certain styles. If you are unsure, check with the organizers when you book. Most of the time, neat athletic wear is all that is needed.
Balls, bags and extras
For your trial session, balls will usually be provided. If you start practicing on your own, buy a can of pressurized tennis balls and replace them when they lose bounce and fuzz. Using fresh balls for matches and older balls for casual hitting is a good habit.
A tennis bag is optional but convenient. A simple backpack works well for your first few sessions. When you are ready for something more specialized, look for a bag with a separate compartment for shoes and a pocket for your phone and keys. Other useful extras include:
- A water bottle with a secure lid.
- A towel for sweat.
- Sun protection and a hat.
- A spare shirt or socks for after play.
- Overgrips, which are thin wraps that keep your handle comfortable and dry.
- A small first-aid kit with plasters for blisters.
Water, food and fuel
Hydration deserves a section of its own. You lose fluid through sweat in every season, and even mild dehydration can make you feel tired and dizzy. Drink water in the hours before your session, carry a bottle to the court and sip between games. In hot weather, increase the amount you drink and consider an electrolyte drink for longer matches.
Food matters too. Eat a light, balanced meal an hour or two before play, with some carbohydrate for energy and a little protein. Avoid heavy, greasy food right before you step on court. After play, a snack and some fluid help your body recover. Many teams make this a social moment, with fruit and drinks shared on the sidelines.
What not to buy yet
New players are sometimes tempted by expensive extras, so here is a list of items you can safely skip at the start.
- Multiple racquets. One is enough for your first season.
- Fancy performance clothing. Comfortable athletic wear does the job.
- Specialist gadgets, such as swing trackers and ball machines. They can wait.
- Professional-grade shoes. Good, comfortable court shoes are plenty.
- A big tennis bag. A backpack works well.
The best investment is time on court. The more you play, the more clearly you will understand what you need, and your equipment choices will be better informed.
Looking after your gear
A little care makes your equipment last. Keep your racquet out of hot cars, which can affect the strings and frame. Wipe it down after play and store it in a bag or case. Check the strings occasionally, and replace them if they look frayed or feel dead. Air out your shoes, and replace them when they wear down. Wash your clothes regularly and rotate your socks.
Well-cared-for gear makes tennis more pleasant, and it saves money in the long run. It also reduces the risk of injury, because worn shoes and unstable racquets can cause strains.
Safety and comfort checks
Before you step on court, run through a few quick checks. Are your laces tied securely? Is your racquet grip comfortable and dry? Do you have water within reach? Is the court surface dry and clear of hazards? If you have any health concerns, have you spoken to your doctor?
These small checks take less than a minute, and they set you up for a relaxed, enjoyable session. If anything feels wrong during play, stop and rest. Nobody will mind, and your health always comes first.
Equipment for team tennis
WATA leagues follow a team format, which brings a few extra considerations. Bring a spare racquet if you have one, in case of broken strings. Keep a spare shirt, because matches can be energetic. Carry your phone, so you can receive messages from your captain about court assignments or schedule changes. Some teams use matching colors for photographs, but this is never required.
Above all, bring a positive attitude. Your equipment will carry you through a few matches, but your enthusiasm will carry you through a whole season.
Ready for the court
Tennis is a wonderfully simple game at heart. A racquet, a ball, a net and a willingness to try are all you need. Everything else is a convenience. If you arrive with comfortable shoes, flexible clothing, some water and an open mind, you will have everything you need for a great first session.
The Washington Area Tennis Association has welcomed newcomers since 1991, and the community knows that every great player started with borrowed equipment and a few wobbly shots. So pack your bag, check the address and come and play.
Key takeaways
- For a trial, bring a racquet if you have one, comfortable shoes, flexible clothing, water and a towel.
- Court shoes are the most valuable piece of gear, so choose fit and comfort first.
- Choose a forgiving, mid-range racquet and try before you buy.
- Stay hydrated and eat lightly before play.
- Skip expensive extras until you know what you need.
Packed and ready? Book a one-time trial session, or ask equipment questions through the Contact Us page.