26

The Junior Tennis Gear

Parents Trust

Tested by a tennis dad with a competing junior.
Real verdicts, no fluff.

Wilson Blade 26 Junior Wilson Blade 26 Junior — this month’s pick

Latest Guides

For the Parent Who Plays Too

TennisIntermediate
1
Speed MP 2026

Speed MP 2026

For the recreational dad or mum who wants to play properly, not just hit around. The 2026 update is Head’s most popular all-court frame for a reason — forgiving enough for a busy adult, capable enough that you’ll never outgrow it.

Worth knowing: At 100in² it’s not a precision frame. If you already play competitively, the Speed Pro (97in²) is the better call.
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PadelBeginner
2
Radical Team Light Padel

Radical Team Light Padel

For tennis parents curious about padel — especially if your club just opened a court. The round shape is the most forgiving for tennis players switching over. You’ll be rallying in your first session rather than fighting the paddle.

Worth knowing: It won’t grow with you if you get seriously into padel. Think of it as a 12-month starter frame.
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TennisAdvanced
3
GEL-Resolution X Men HC

GEL-Resolution X Men HC

For the serious club player who is on court 3–4 times a week. The 6-month outsole guarantee is the real differentiator here — Asics replaces them if they wear out. Regular players that justifies the price.

Worth knowing: They run slightly narrow. Wide-footed players should try them on first or size up half a size.
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Smart additions & stocking fillers

PickleballIntermediate
1
SLK Halo Max XL

SLK Halo Max XL

For anyone in the family wanting to try pickleball — the sport growing fastest right now. The wide-body elongated shape gives you the most surface area of any Selkirk model — ideal when you’re still developing consistency.

Worth knowing: The extra length takes some getting used to at the net. Compact players may prefer the standard-length version.
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GearAdvanced
2
RPM Blast 17

RPM Blast 17

For any competitive junior or parent who wants the string Rafa Nadal has used his whole career. The best-selling poly string in the world. If your junior is breaking strings and wants more spin, this is the one to try first.

Worth knowing: It’s a stiff co-poly — not for arm-sensitive players or beginners. Pair it with a softer string in the crosses if your junior is young.
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GearBabolat
3
Pure Drive Backpack

Pure Drive Backpack

For juniors who need one bag that goes from school to the court without looking out of place at either. Holds 2 rackets, has a dedicated shoe pocket and enough room for kit, a laptop, and water. The bag most club kids are carrying right now.

Worth knowing: The racket compartment fits 2 frames snugly — not 3. If your junior travels to tournaments, consider the 6-pack version instead.
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Gear picks for tennis parents

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