Women's Tennis Outfit & Shoe Guide for Beginners: Look Good & Feel Confident on the Court
When I started playing tennis as an adult, I had no idea what to wear. I wasn’t sure if I needed a tennis skirt, performance sneakers, or if my gym leggings would do. But once I got the hang of it (and found some great gear), everything felt so much easier — and way more fun.
In this post, I’ll share beginner-friendly tips on what to wear for your first few tennis sessions: from breathable tops to the best shoes for grip and comfort. Whether you’re heading to a casual lesson or joining your local club, these recommendations will help you feel confident and ready to play.
You don’t need to spend a fortune or look like a pro to enjoy tennis — just a few smart, comfortable essentials to get started. And the best part? All of the products I mention here are beginner-approved and available online.
Let’s get into it — and maybe even help you fall in love with the game!
💡 Tip: If you’re also looking for beginner-friendly tennis gear, check out my hand-picked recommendations here.
What Makes a Great Beginner Tennis Shoe?
💡 Beginner tip: Tennis shoes are not the same as running shoes. Tennis involves lots of lateral movement, so you need a shoe built for that kind of motion — with side support, durability, and a grippy outsole.
🎾 The One Tennis Shoe I Wish I Had as a Beginner
If you’re shopping for your first pair of real tennis shoes, comfort, support, and durability should be at the top of your list — especially if you’re starting fresh as an adult.
One model I confidently recommend is the Asics Gel-Resolution 9.
This shoe strikes the perfect balance between stability and comfort, which is exactly what you need as a beginner learning the footwork and fast side-to-side movements tennis demands.
Another reason this shoe is so beginner-friendly is its excellent support and durability. It offers a locked-in feel without being too stiff or heavy, which helps prevent ankle rolls and makes you feel more grounded, even when you're still finding your rhythm on the court. The outsole is specifically designed for hard court surfaces (the most common for beginner players), giving you great grip.
🎾 Lightweight & Stylish Tennis Shoe for Beginners
If you’re looking for a tennis shoe that combines lightweight comfort, modern design, and beginner-friendly support, the WILSON Intrigue Tour is definitely worth considering.
Wilson might be best known for their rackets, but they’ve also created performance footwear that’s ideal for players who are just getting started. This particular model is great for beginners because it feels light and flexible right out of the box — no long break-in period required, which is a huge plus if you’re eager to start playing.
The non-marking outsole and stable grip make it well-suited for court movement, especially for hard courts. The shoe’s cushioned insole and breathable upper help keep your feet supported and cool, even during longer rallies or drills. And if you’re someone who wants to feel confident not just in your game but also in your outfit, the sleek design and sporty silhouette give it a stylish edge.
👟 Let’s be honest — when your shoes feel good, you’re more likely to stay consistent and enjoy the learning process. I made the mistake of playing my first few lessons in old running shoes, and let’s just say... I didn’t do my knees any favors. Upgrading to a real pair of tennis shoes was a total game changer!
What to Wear on the Tennis Court as a Beginner?
When you're just starting tennis, you don’t need to run out and buy an entirely new wardrobe.
In fact, when it comes to tops, any comfortable sports tank or moisture-wicking workout top will do just fine for your first lessons. If you already have activewear from yoga, gym, or running, you’re likely good to go.
But there’s one area where I do recommend getting something tennis-specific — and that’s your bottoms.
Whether you choose a tennis skirt (skort) or tennis shorts, it’s worth picking a pair that includes built-in pockets or ball shorts. Why? Because during rallies or practice, you’ll need a place to tuck an extra ball — and having it easily accessible makes the game flow so much smoother. It also helps you feel more prepared and confident on court.
💡 Beginner tip: In tennis, being able to store a second ball isn’t just convenient — it’s essential for keeping up the pace and rhythm during play.
🎾 Best Tennis Skirts & Shorts That Combine Comfort and Function:
If you love the idea of throwing on one piece and heading straight to the court, a tennis dress can be a stylish and functional choice — even for beginners! Many modern tennis dresses come with built-in shorts or are designed to pair with compression shorts underneath. They offer great freedom of movement, and let’s be honest — they make you feel like a tennis player the moment you put one on.
🎾 Prefer a One Piece? Try These Tennis Dresses for Beginners:
- Tennis Dress with Built-in Bra & Shorts Pockets
- Tennis Dress with Open Back Detail
- Tennis Dress with Long Sleeves
- Tennis Dress with Polo Collar & Zip
Whether you’re after something sporty or more feminine, there’s a tennis dress to match your vibe.
💡 Remember: If you’re also looking for beginner-friendly tennis gear, check out my hand-picked recommendations here.
Feel Good, Play Better — Now You’re Court-Ready!
Starting tennis as an adult can feel a little intimidating — I’ve been there. But the right outfit really does help you show up with more confidence, comfort, and focus. Whether you choose a classic tennis dress, a pair of ball-pocket shorts, or a comfy tank from your gym drawer, what matters most is that you feel great and free to move.
You don’t need pro-level gear to enjoy the game — just a pair of supportive tennis shoes, breathable clothing, and a little bit of that "I’ve got this" attitude. And trust me, once you start playing regularly, you’ll find your own favorite styles and pieces that make you feel unstoppable on the court.
I hope this guide helped you feel more prepared and inspired to start your tennis journey. Now go out there, serve up some fun, and most of all — enjoy the game!