The essentials
You need four things to play tennis: a racket, tennis shoes, balls, and clothes you can move in. Everything else is optional. Stores will try to sell you more. You don't need more.
Rackets for beginners
Beginner rackets share common traits: large heads (100-110 square inches), moderate weight (270-290g), and forgiving string beds. They're designed to make contact easier and miss-hits less punishing.
Don't buy what the pros use. Those rackets require precise technique you don't have yet. They'll make learning harder, not easier.
Spend $100-150 on a new racket. Wilson, Babolat, Head and Yonex all make good beginner options. Or borrow one for your first few sessions to see if you even like tennis before spending money.
Used rackets are fine if they're in good condition. Check for cracks and make sure the strings aren't shot. Restringing costs $30-50.
Grip size
Rackets come in different grip sizes. The right size prevents wrist strain and gives you control. To check: hold the racket, and see if you can fit your other hand's index finger between your fingers and palm. Snug fit means correct size.
Most men use size 3 or 4. Most women use size 2 or 3. But hands vary, so try before you buy.
Shoes are non-negotiable
Tennis shoes exist for a reason. They provide lateral support that running shoes don't. Play in running shoes and you risk ankle injuries.
Tennis shoes don't need to be expensive. $100 to $150 gets you quality options from Asics, Nike, Adidas, or New Balance. Make sure they're comfortable and provide good side-to-side stability. Break them in before your first match.
Non-marking soles are required at most venues. Check before you buy if you're getting unusual colours.
Balls
Buy pressurised balls (the ones that come in sealed cans). Dunlop, Wilson and Penn are all fine. $10-15 for a can of three or four.
They lose pressure over time and eventually feel "dead." Replace every few playing sessions. Don't cheap out and keep using dead balls. They mess with your timing.
Clothing
Wear whatever lets you move. Tennis-specific clothing wicks sweat better than cotton, but it's not necessary to start.
Some clubs have dress codes (collared shirts, predominantly white, etc.). Check before showing up in your gym clothes.
What you don't need yet
- Multiple rackets (one is fine)
- Expensive strings (factory strings are acceptable for beginners)
- Vibration dampeners (personal preference, not essential)
- Ball hoppers (useful for practice, not needed immediately)
- Fancy bags (any bag that holds your racket works)
Buy the basics, play for six months, then reassess what you actually need versus what marketing convinced you to want.
Maintaining your gear
Rackets don't need much maintenance. Don't leave them in hot cars (damages strings). Don't throw them (damages everything). Get them restrung once a year or when strings break.
Shoes wear out with use. Replace them when the tread is worn smooth or the support feels compromised. Usually every 6-12 months for regular players.
Store balls in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they lose pressure regardless of storage, so buy small quantities unless you play constantly.
Find courts and put your equipment to use.