Tennis apparel has changed drastically over the years. White was once required for proper tennis apparel, but tennis clothes are now more colorful and made of lighter materials. Except at some country clubs, the concept of "proper" clothing is fading away, with many of today's popular manufacturers utilizing colors and performance fabrics. Today professional players have a major influence on how tennis clothes are designed. The apparel is manufactured to enhance performance, withstand weather conditions and maximize players' freedom of movement.
History
In the late 1800s, tennis apparel was very easy to shop for. Clothing stores carried tennis clothing in one color, white. Women wore long dresses and men wore long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Over time, pants became shorts and dresses became short skirts. Men tucked in their shirts. Women wore hats. But clothing had to change to allow the players to keep up with the increasing speed of the game.
Today
Today men wear long shorts and tighter fitting shirts and women wear tank tops and skirts allowing arms and legs to maneuver better. Apparel has gone from a heavy cotton fabric to lightweight, breathable performance-based fabrics. These fabrics keep players cool and enhance performance.
Buying Tennis Apparel
Not every sporting goods store carries tennis clothes, although many do stock brands of tennis clothes such as Adidas, Nike, Fila and Reebok. Players who have their favorite brands and know how to surf the Internet will find good deals online. Players who want to touch and feel the garments before they purchase can visit their local tennis shop, sporting goods store or tennis club.
Cold Weather Clothing
Playing in cold weather requires a few layers of clothing. Wear an undershirt, a T-shirt and a warm-up jacket or sweatshirt. In colder weather conditions it will take longer to get warmed up, so keep your body warm with extra layers until you've warmed up your muscles.
Shoes for Tennis
The proper shoes for playing tennis are tennis shoes. Do not wear running shoes. They are designed for moving forward, but the quick starts and stops and constant lateral movements of tennis demand a shoe specially constructed for the sport. Tennis shoes are heavier and provide more support than running shoes, and the relatively flat soles prevent damage to the court. At many courts, players are not permitted to wear running shoes. Leather tennis shoes will give you the most support, but canvas shoes or leather shoes with mesh inserts will keep your feet cooler in hot weather.
Member Comments