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Rackets

Blade 26 Junior

For kids aged 10–12 stepping up to competitive play.

The 26″ length and Blade pedigree give serious juniors a proper frame they won’t outgrow in three months.

Worth knowing: It’s a step up in stiffness — kids coming off a beginner racket may need a session or two to adjust.

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Shoes

GEL-Dedicate 8 Junior

For junior players who need a reliable,

Asics’ entry-level shoe still gives proper lateral support and GEL cushioning — essentials for kids training multiple times a week.

Worth knowing: Not built for the heaviest trainers. If your child is on court 5+ days a week, consider stepping up to the GEL-Resolution.

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Padel

Paddles

VIPER Junior Padel

For junior tennis players trying padel for the first time.

Sized and weighted specifically for younger players — they’ll actually be able to control it, which makes the learning curve less frustrating.

Worth knowing: If your junior is already tall and strong for their age, the adult entry-level padel racket might be the better fit.

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For the Parent Who Plays Too

Intermediate

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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Padel

Beginner

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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Advanced

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

Pickleball

Intermediate

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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Gear

Advanced

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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Gear

Babolat

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.