The internet will try to convince you that starting tennis requires a small fortune in specialized equipment. The internet is wrong.

Here's what you actually need, what's nice to have, and what you can completely ignore for now.

The Essentials (Non-Negotiable)

1. A Racket

You need one. It doesn't need to be expensive. For beginners, look for:

  • Weight: 255-285g unstrung — light enough for comfort, heavy enough for stability
  • Head size: 102-110 square inches — a larger sweet spot forgives the inevitable off-center hits
  • Length: Standard 27 inches
  • Material: Graphite or composite frame (skip pure aluminum)

Pre-strung rackets are fine when you're starting. Grip size matters — use the "rule of thumb" test: when you hold the racket, your fingers should fit snugly around the handle. Most adults use 4¼ inches (L2).

Budget: roughly ₱1,700-₱5,600 (US$30-100) for a solid beginner racket.

2. Tennis Shoes

This is the one place where using the wrong gear actually matters. Tennis involves constant lateral movement — side-to-side shuffling, quick stops, sudden direction changes. Running shoes are designed for forward motion. Tennis shoes are designed for this chaos.

What to look for:

  • Wide, stable base for lateral support
  • Dual-density midsole for shock absorption
  • Non-marking soles (most indoor and clay courts require them)
  • Reinforced toe area (you'll drag your toes more than you think)

Budget: roughly ₱2,800-₱5,600 (US$50-100).

3. Tennis Balls

A can of pressurized balls will get you started, but here's a tip: pressureless balls are better for beginners. They last longer, maintain a consistent bounce throughout their life, and hold up during practice sessions where you're hitting hundreds of balls.

Budget: roughly ₱280-₱560 (US$5-10) for a can.

4. Breathable Clothing

In the Philippines, this isn't optional — it's survival equipment. Moisture-wicking shirts and shorts or skirts. Cotton absorbs sweat and turns heavy; synthetic fabrics keep you cooler and lighter.

Budget: roughly ₱1,100-₱2,800 (US$20-50) for a basic set.

The Smart Additions

  • Water bottle: A big one. Philippine heat and tennis don't mess around. Hydrate before, during, and after.
  • Sun protection: Hat or visor, sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses if you can play with them. Most outdoor courts in the Philippines have zero shade.
  • Overgrip: A thin wrap over your racket handle that absorbs sweat and improves grip. Essential in tropical humidity. Costs around ₱100-200.

What You Don't Need (Yet)

  • A $300 racket
  • Custom stringing
  • A tennis bag (a backpack works fine)
  • Matching head-to-toe tennis outfit
  • A dampener (the little rubber thing in the strings — purely personal preference)

Total Starter Budget

Realistically, you can get on a tennis court in the Philippines for ₱5,000-10,000 if you shop smart. That covers a racket, shoes, balls, and basic clothing. Not free, but not ruinous — and most of it lasts for months or years.

The most expensive part of tennis isn't the gear. It's the court time. The gear just gets you through the door.