Best Tennis Gifts for Kids: Tennis Strings, Rackets, Lessons and More

by Ryan Burbary

Finding the perfect tennis gifts for kids can feel like a challenge, especially if you want something that’s both fun and practical. The right gear can make a big difference in their game, and choosing eco-friendly options helps teach kids the importance of caring for the planet while playing the sport they love.

From junior tennis rackets and high-performance, biodegradable strings to shoes, accessories and lessons, there are plenty of ways to support a young player’s growth while keeping the sport exciting. In this gift guide, we’ve rounded up the best junior tennis gear and gifts for kids, including sustainable picks so you can check off everyone on your list with confidence. 

Best Tennis Strings for Kids 

The right tennis strings can make a big difference in a child’s tennis game. Various strings can offer various levels of durability, comfort and playability. Here are some great options for young players:

  • Velociti Rainbow String – Perfect for all ages, this string is fun, colorful and durable. It’s a synthetic string that’s gentle on arms and provides good control plus great all-around playability.

  • Velociti Catalyst – The world’s first 100% biodegradable synthetic tennis string is a great choice for environmentally conscious young players. This high-performance hexagonal co-polyester string offers excellent feel, durability and spin potential, helping kids develop control and confidence on the court.

  • Velociti NEH Bio – This string combines a softer feel than a standard synthetic gut with the classic snapback performance kids love. NEH Bio gives consistent playability while being eco-friendly, making it a great choice for parents looking to support both their child’s game and the environment.

Best Tennis Rackets for Kids 

Choosing the right tennis racket for your child can make all the difference in how they learn and enjoy the game. The right size, weight and feel can help young players develop proper technique, avoid injuries and have more fun on the court.

When shopping for kids, you’ll often see pre-strung aluminum rackets in big box stores. While they’re inexpensive and lightweight, they’re not ideal for players who are serious about learning proper form or playing regularly. Aluminum rackets tend to have less control and poor balance, which can lead to arm fatigue and even bad habits over time.

Instead, we recommend investing in a junior-size version of an adult racket. These rackets are designed with high-quality materials—just like adult models—but are lighter and shorter to fit smaller hands and growing bodies. Here’s why they’re worth it: 

  • Better feel and control – Junior rackets offer superior response and stability, helping kids build proper swing mechanics.
  • Less arm stress – The higher quality materials absorb shock more effectively than aluminum frames, keeping young arms happy and healthy.
  • Longer lifespan – A well-made junior racket can last through years of lessons and competition.

Picking the right racket size is key to helping your child play comfortably and confidently. Here’s a quick guide to finding the right fit, as well as some great options our racket experts recommend:

Best Court Shoes for Kids 

When it comes to kids’ tennis shoes, proper support and durability make all the difference. While it’s tempting to grab basic athletic sneakers, tennis-specific court shoes are the way to go. They’re designed for quick lateral movement, traction and stability, keeping young players safe and comfortable on the court.

Look for lightweight shoes with solid cushioning, non-marking soles and reinforced toe areas for drag protection. A snug yet flexible fit helps prevent rolled ankles and blisters as kids learn to move confidently.

Some of our favorite kids’ court shoes come from trusted brands like K-Swiss, Head, adidas and Wilson:

  • K‑Swiss Hypercourt Express 2 Junior – A great comfort-focused pick for junior players thanks to its generous cushioning, breathability and flexible fit.
  • Head Sprint Pro 4.0 Junior – A strong durability-focused option built with abrasion-resistant protection in wear areas and a durable outsole engineered for long play.
  • adidas Barricade Junior – An excellent choice for arch support and stability, as its responsive cushioning and engineered support system provides a smooth, secure fit. Plus, it’s made with at least 20% recycled materials to help reduce waste and environmental impact.
  • Wilson Rush Pro Ace Junior – Offers excellent stability and support while accommodating wider feet for a more comfortable fit. Its durable design and proper cushioning help young players stay balanced and confident during every point.

Best Tennis Stocking Stuffers for Kids 

Looking for smaller gifts that still serve up big fun? These practical, affordable accessories make perfect stocking stuffers! They’ll keep kids excited to play while helping them improve their game and stay stylish on the court.

  • Colorful Overgrips – Add a splash of personality to their racket while improving comfort and grip. Kids can choose various colors to show off their style.
  • Vibrant Dampeners – Fun and functional, dampeners help reduce string vibration and give every shot a smoother feel.
  • Grip-Enhancing Towel – Keeps hands dry and grip secure during long practices or hot match days; a must-have for any serious junior player.
  • Tennis Ball Holder – A clip-on ball holder that attaches to the waistband so kids can keep an extra ball handy without breaking focus mid-rally.
  • Velociti Tennis Gift Card – Let kids pick their favorite gear, strings or accessories themselves; the most flexible gift for any young tennis player!

How to Find Kids Tennis Lessons Near You 

Finding the right tennis lessons can make all the difference in helping your child develop strong fundamentals and a lifelong love for the game. Here are a few ways to get started:

  • Check local clubs and recreation centers – Many tennis clubs, parks and rec departments and community centers offer youth lessons for all ages and skill levels.
  • Ask your local racket sports store – Local racket sports stores often know the best local coaches and programs and can recommend trusted teaching pros in your area.
  • Explore USTA programs and tools – The United States Tennis Association (USTA) offers youth programs and their “Find a Tennis Coach” tool make it easy to locate lessons near you.

With the right lessons and encouragement, kids can establish a love for tennis that lasts a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right tennis gifts for kids, from rackets and strings to shoes and fun stocking stuffers, can help young players grow their game, build good habits and enjoy every moment on the court. At Velociti, we’re committed to supporting players of all ages with high-performance, eco-friendly products designed to deliver great play while reducing environmental impact. This holiday season, give gifts that not only inspire kids to hit the court, but also align with a mission to make tennis fun and sustainable for generations to come.

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