What to pack for outdoor winter tennis.
Make sure the court’s playable, dress in layers you can peel off, and keep something dry for afterwards.
Before leaving
- Check the forecast and any message from the club about court conditions or cancellations.
- Make sure daylight or floodlights will last the whole booking.
- Pack a removable warm layer and a dry top for afterwards.
- Bring spare socks, a towel, water, spare balls and a spare grip.
- Wear tennis shoes with some tread left on them.
At the court
Walk the court before you warm up. Don’t play on a slippery, icy or waterlogged surface, and tell the club if it isn’t safe.
Warm up gradually. Keep balls and grips dry, and stop if the surface or the light becomes unsafe.
After playing
Keep wet clothes away from dry kit, and let shoes and rackets dry out before you pack them away. Note what you used, so next time you bring what you need and nothing else.
Further reading
Text updated 29 September 2026.