The shoes

Time to get started: Footwear ideas for beginners

What you wear on your feet is certainly worth a thought – it’s vital you feel comfortable on the court, and nobody wants sore or painful feet. For beginners, any tennis court can be played on with a non-marking comfortable trainer. If you do want some new kit, it’s worthwhile keeping an eye out for specific tennis trainers, which can vary in price depending on brand and design.

When looking, you want to remember the Three S’s: Support, Strength and Style.

As you bound around the court, supportive, well-fitted footwear can help prevent foot and ankle injuries, and a flat sole with good tread can stop you from slipping as well as help to look after the court.

Strong and durable shoes can withstand the demands of the sport and are ideal if you are looking to continue playing into the future.

Time for detail: Footwear ideas for improving players

If you are looking to improve in the sport, it would be worth finding tennis trainers that support movement across the court in all directions. Make sure you pick trainers that are comfortable when changing direction and assist you with sprinting and jumping motions.

However, a sturdier type of shoe with excellent heel support are also great for all types of players. Adidas and Babolat would be the type of brands to search for due to their innovation in creating the perfect shoes for different players.

Time for technicality: Matching your footwear to the surface

Hard, grass or clay? There are types of tennis trainer made for certain surfaces and as you advance through the sport, this is definitely something you should consider as you look to maximise your potential.

For grass courts, you’ll need a good grip to prevent you from slipping if the grass is dewy or worn down. Wimbledon’s best players have to wear trainers with entirely flat outsoles to ensure they do not damage the court, however, pimples are a great addition to the outsole if allowed during competition. These trainers will not need to be as durable in comparison to others due to the soft grass also helping to absorb impact.

For clay courts, outsoles should be non-marking and have a tight tread to help grip on the dusty surface, but be well-designed so as not to damage the court. A secure fit and good ankle support are also desirable as baseline play is predominant on this surface, with durable sides to withstand any sliding.

Handy tip 

Remember, to play casually, you don’t need to spend big on footwear or need anything specialised. The Three S’s will help you see if a shoe works for tennis, but you ultimately need something comfortable.