There aren’t that many sports that test your clothing quite like tennis. You’re constantly accelerating, changing direction, serving overhead and often spending two or three hours under direct sunlight. When temperatures climb (like we’ve seen this summer), what you wear can make a difference to both comfort and performance.
Fortunately, modern tennis apparel has improved dramatically over the past few years. Lightweight fabrics, smarter ventilation and better garment construction mean today’s summer collections can help you out way more than those of even five years ago.
If you’re putting together your warm-weather tennis wardrobe, here’s what to look for.
Prioritise breathability
When it’s hot, breathability matters more than almost anything else.
Moisture-wicking fabrics move sweat away from your skin, but the best summer shirts also maximise airflow. Features like body-mapped mesh panels, laser-cut ventilation and raised cooling structures help hot air escape before your shirt becomes saturated.
If you’re shopping today, look for technologies such as:
- Adidas CLIMACOOL+ and HEAT.RDY
- Nike Dri-FIT ADV
- UNIQLO DRY-EX
- Under Armour Iso-Chill
They won’t stop you sweating, but they can help you stay cooler for longer.
(For a deeper look at these technologies, see our guide to the science behind modern tennis apparel.)
Lightweight doesn’t always mean better
Many players automatically reach for the lightest shirt they can find.
Sometimes that’s the right choice, but not always. Ultra-light fabrics dry quickly and feel fantastic during intense sessions, especially in humid conditions. However, slightly heavier technical fabrics often provide better durability, improved UV protection and are less likely to cling once soaked with sweat.
Rather than chasing the lowest weight possible, look for shirts designed specifically for match play rather than general training.
Fit is part of staying cool
It isn’t just the fabric that matters. A well-designed shirt allows air to circulate naturally as you move. Modern athletic cuts use articulated sleeves, raglan construction and stretch panels to improve freedom of movement without feeling restrictive.
The goal isn’t the loosest shirt you can find – it’s one that moves with your body instead of sticking to it.
If you spend a lot of time serving or hitting overheads, details like Adidas FreeLift construction or well-positioned shoulder seams can make a surprising difference over a long session.
Don’t forget the shorts
Good tennis shorts should be lightweight, quick drying and have pockets that comfortably hold tennis balls without bouncing excessively while running. Ripstop fabrics, breathable mesh liners and flexible waistbands are now common in collections from brands like Nike, Vuori and Lululemon.
If you play several times a week, a quality pair of shorts is often one of the best apparel investments you can make.
Sun protection matters
When playing tennis you often have long exposure to UV radiation. Many performance shirts now offer UPF protection alongside moisture management (Lacoste not at least), also, a lightweight cap is a must to keep the sun and sweat out of your eyes.
White or lighter-coloured clothing also reflects more sunlight than darker colours, helping you stay a little cooler during long outdoor sessions – which is one reason Wimbledon’s all-white tradition, dating back to the 1870s, has always had a practical logic alongside its cultural one.
Small accessories can make a difference
The little things often become the most important during hot weather. Consider packing:
- A lightweight ventilated cap
- Spare wristbands
- Thin moisture-wicking socks
- An extra shirt if you’re playing multiple matches
Changing into a dry shirt between matches is one of the simplest ways to stay comfortable if you’re playing a tournament or many sessions in one day.
Summer Collections Worth Looking At
Adidas London Collection (CLIMACOOL+)
The most technically ambitious collection currently available. Raised 3D cooling structures, targeted ventilation and lightweight construction make it an interesting choice for players regularly competing in hot conditions.
Nike London Collection
Nike continues refining its excellent Dri-FIT ADV platform with clean designs, lightweight fabrics and very good freedom of movement.
Best for players looking for a balance between performance and classic styling.
More on the new London collections from Nike and Adidas.
UNIQLO DRY-EX
One of the best value options available. The fabrics are lightweight, breathable and truly capable considering the price.
Lacoste Ultra-Dry
If style matters as much as performance, the Lacoste summer collection might be a good option. The textured piqué fabric performs well in the heat while maintaining the brand’s look.
Wilson Summer Collection
Wilson’s latest apparel continues its move towards softer, more premium-feeling fabrics with nice and clean designs that work just as well away from the court.
You’ll get comfort and clean aesthetics. Find more on the Wilson official shop.
What to Wear for a Summer Match
An ideal hot-weather outfit could look something like this:
- A lightweight technical shirt with targeted ventilation
- Breathable shorts with good ball pockets
- Thin performance socks
- A ventilated white cap
- Wristbands for long matches
- A second shirt in the bag if playing multiple matches
The tech in today’s tennis apparel is really impressive, but comfort still comes down to choosing clothing that’s appropriate for your climate and how you play. Also, remember that it’s not only the big, expensive brands that can make quality performance wear. A breathable, well-fitting outfit won’t suddenly transform your tennis, but when you’re grinding through a third set in the midday sun, you’ll notice the difference.
