Tennis Gear Storage & Maintenance Best Practices
June 4th, 2024 by Do It Tennis
The quest for the perfect serve or flawless forehand includes time on the court and how well you look after your tennis equipment between matches. Properly storing and maintaining your tennis equipment is crucial for preserving your gear’s lifespan and ensuring peak performance match after match. We’ll discuss some of the best practices for storing and maintaining your tennis gear, helping you keep everything in top condition, from your racquet to your tennis shoes.
Properly Storing Tennis Gear
Racquet Storage Tips
The key to preserving your racquet’s integrity is understanding the relationship between string tension and storage conditions. Temperature can cause strings to expand or contract, changing your tension without you even realizing it. Store your racquets in a moderate-temperature environment to prevent tension loss or frame damage caused by extreme heat or cold. Avoid leaving your racquet in the trunk of your car, especially on hot days, as doing so can significantly affect string tension and potentially warp the frame.
Preserving Tennis Balls
Tennis balls lose their bounce primarily through loss of internal pressure. Keep your pressurized (unopened) ball cans away from places with extreme temperatures whenever possible to maintain their liveliness. Consider rotating your balls and comparing their bounce heights regularly if you play frequently. Try not to open a new can every game to ensure consistent performance and efficient tracking of new and used balls.
Organizing Small Accessories
Accessories such as grips, dampeners, and wristbands need a dedicated compartment in your tennis bag to reduce the chances of you losing them. Using small zip-up bags can help keep these items organized and readily accessible.
Maintaining Tennis Gear for Longevity
Cleaning Racquets and Grips
Now that you’re familiar with proper storage procedures, you can start incorporating these best practices for tennis gear storage and maintenance into your routine. First, keep your racquet’s grip clean and dry to ensure a secure hold during every match. Wipe down your racquet’s frame with a damp cloth to remove dirt and sweat residue after each game. Changing your grip regularly, depending on how often you play, can also significantly improve your control and comfort.
Tennis Shoe Inspection and Maintenance
Tennis shoes are arguably the most critical piece of equipment after the racquet. Regularly check for signs of wear, particularly in the sole area, as wear in this area can affect traction and stability on the court. Clean your shoes with a soft brush or cloth and mild soap and air dry them thoroughly before the next use.
Regular Gear Check-ups
Don’t neglect your tennis bag and other gear aspects. Empty your tennis bag periodically, clean it according to manufacturer instructions, and check all compartments and zips for functionality. Performing this routine maintains your bag and gives you a chance to inspect all your gear regularly to ensure you have everything you need with you on the court.
Understanding and implementing these best practices can greatly impact your tennis gear’s durability and performance. Even the highest quality equipment on the market requires a certain level of care to last all season long, and proactive measures now can save you from equipment damage later.
Do It Tennis wants to make sure you have everything you need to play the game of your life. Our collection of Yonex EZONE racquets offers the best in power, control, and comfort, and we’re always here to provide advice for keeping these models in premium condition. Reach out to our team today to learn more.