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While some brands put fashion before functionality when it comes to tennis core, L360 went on the hunt for the ones that prioritise athletic practicality.
Let’s face it, tennis core is cute. Off-court style has been making waves over the past two years, particularly as celebrities continue to flock to Wimbledon and films like Challengers have brought tennis-style into the mainstream. But for those that play tennis regularly, it’s important that brands prioritise function and movement just as they do style and fit.
As part of our #madetomove campaign, here are the best clothing brands for women who take their tennis seriously.
These clothing brands are by far the best for women’s tennis. (Picture: Unsplash)
Alo
A perfect example of a brand that prioritises both style and function, Alo has been at the forefront of women’s athleisurewear for some time now. Across the Court Sports edit, its seamless ribbed bra tanks, from £58, stand out as being an ideal option for those who prefer a snug and compressed fit when training, and the removeable cups allow adjustment to comfort.
We’d suggest pairing with the Grand Slam Tennis Skirt, £98, which features a lightweight, woven outer skirt, a high waistband and built-in shorts with a pocket for comfort and practicality.
Shop the Alo Court Sports range.
With ambassadors including Serena Williams and Qinwen Zheng, Nike knows what it’s doing when it comes to women’s tennis.
Recently worn by Qinwen herself in the semi-finals of the HSBC Championships, this NikeCourt Slam Tank Top, £64.99, features breathable jacquard fabric with plenty of stretch, while the sweat-wicking material helps to keep you feeling dry and comfortable.
The racerback design has also been made to cover traditional sports bras, so you won’t need to worry about straps oddly sticking out.
Qinwen paired the top with the NikeCourt Slam Dri-FIT Tennis Skirt, £74.99, which features in-built shorts in addition to pleats on the side, which help to prevent the skirt from flying up, making it easier for you to keep your focus on the game.
Shop the Nike Women’s Tennis range.
As a brand with its own technical seams to boost comfort for full-tilt play, Exeat is great for women who take their tennis seriously. The Liaisons Tennis Bodysuit, £360, is ideal for those who prefer an all-in-one fit, with in-built shorts and sculptor seams that run down the length of the bodice, waist and stomach for extra support.
The skirt also features hand-stitched pin-tucks in mesh that wafts over the lower half, providing coverage without the bulk of a full skirt.
Shop the Exeat dress.
Most coaches and professionals would tell you that a pair of good shoes is essential to any tennis player wanting to deliver an ace performance, but finding some that are well-adjusted to the particulars of a woman’s stance can be difficult.
A key difference between men’s and women’s tennis shoes is the level of sole support. Women tend to put weight on their heels less than men and tend to tilt their feet inwards more (otherwise known as pronation) and therefore need stronger midsole support to make up for it.
The Adidas Women’s Barricade series, from £52, has been recommended by experts time and time again for the snug fit and strong support. They’re also available for clay courts, if that’s your preference.
Shop the Adidas Barricade series.
Varley’s Club collection defines itself as an ‘elevated take on court-to-club dressing’, which in essence means that each piece has been designed for on and off court comfort and wearability.
Across the edit, its Jerry Performance Tank, £70, stands out as a great option for training during cooler weather, as the soft rib jersey makes for a comfortable feel. The range also includes skorts, court dresses and high-rise shorts.
Shop the Varley Tank.Feature image: Unsplash
