5 Must-Have Discount Tennis Gear Items: Shoes, Apparel and More

If you aspire to be or are one of the 30 million people in America who play recreational tennis, then you might have already snagged one of the stellar daily racket deals we've listed from Holabird Sports. But, while a quality racket is likely to be your single most important and most expensive purchase, you'll still need to buy some additional gear before you can hit the courts. With our savvy picks below for the top five things you'll need to get started, you can properly prep for tennis and still save at least $46.

1. The Shoes
Most people already own some sort of running shoe or sneaker, but an aspiring tennis player should consider getting a pair specifically made for the sport. Unlike the forward motion of running, tennis requires abrupt side-to-side movement that puts a lot of stress on the poor ankle. Thus, tennis shoes generally provide greater support and stability. Both the Reebok Men's Pure Victory II Tennis Shoes and the Reebok Women's Passing Shot V Tennis Shoes will do your body good because, with proper support at your feet, you can help prevent other body aches and pains down the line.
Price: Men's shoes, $45.49 via this coupon + free shipping; Women's shoes in Purple
for $30.25 + free shipping

2. The Apparel
It's easy to be drawn to the sleek clothing styles endorsed and worn by the pros, but you don't need a pricey polo stamped with Roger Federer's insignia to effectively play tennis. However, something simple that you do need, but don't always find on standard workout gear, is pockets. Instead of repeatedly walking on and off court in search of a second ball after a botched serve, pull one from the pockets of the Danskin Women's Pork Chop Pocket Shorts or the Nike Men's Twill Pull-On Tennis Shorts. (Or, search the Nike Clearance Sale for other pocketed options.) It may seem like a trivial concern, but your impatient partner will thank you.
Price: Women's shorts, $14.39 via this coupon + $5.95 s&h; Men's shorts, $19.97 + $8 s&h

3. The Balls
On the surface, tennis balls don't seem inherently expensive; a single can only costs about $3 to $4 in most stores. But the second you pop that vacuum seal, tennis balls slowly degrade, and (depending on how frequently and intensely you play) they can become unusable after a few weeks. But if you can adapt to a heavier ball that bounces less, then pressureless balls are a money-saving alternative because they last longer. Snag this Unique Pressureless Ball 18-Count Bag and you'll be set until the felt wears off.
Price: $14.86 + $2.97 s&h, or free Site-to-Store

4. The Bag
The tennis racket is a deceptively large and awkwardly shaped item, so it's generally best to get a bag that's meant to contain it. Lots of traditional racket bags hold three to 12 sticks, but that isn't necessary for most recreational players. Instead, opt for a racket backpack like the Wilson Pro Staff Backpack. It features ample storage and a dedicated racket compartment. Plus, it's one of the cheapest such bags we could find.
Price: $29.95 + $5.75 s&h

5. The Extras
There are a wealth of smaller accessories you could spring for — for example, a vibration dampener or a visor — but if you're outside in direct sunlight, you can't avoid stocking up on sunscreen. If you've seen pro players neurotically dry and blow on their hands between points, however, then you probably recognize the benefit to keeping your hands grease-free. With the Coppertone Sport Continuous Spray SPF 30 Twin Pack, you'll avoid an embarrassing little mishap like this.
Price: $14.99 + $2.99 s&h

Total cost: $122 to $145
Total savings: At least $46