Step up Your Game: Expert Recommended Tennis Shoes for Women Over 50

“Tennis is never out of style,” said the legendary Venus Williams. Whether you’re an avid tennis player or just getting into the sport, the right women’s tennis shoes can make or break your game. Fortunately, Woman’s World connected with Jewels Busenberg, Chief Court Sports Expert at Zappos, to discover the best tennis sneakers for women over 50. Find out what to look for when shopping for women’s tennis shoes, plus some of Busenberg’s favorite pairs!

What are the best women’s tennis shoes? 

Unsurprisingly, Asics makes one of the best pairs of tennis shoes for women over 50.

“There is so much to consider when trying to find the ‘best’ tennis shoes from the surface you’re playing on, to the traction the sneaker provides you with,” Busenberg explains. “When I think about my personal favorite, one that checks off many if not every box, it’s the Asics GEL Resolution 9 ($150 at Zappos). Not only does it come in a number of different color combinations, but the style also incorporates ASICS’ signature technology to deliver the ultimate cushioning comfort and stability on the courts. 

Is there anything beginners should avoid when it comes to tennis shoes and attire?  

Finding the right clothing and shoes can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to choosing gear for a sport like tennis. Like the racquet and balls you play with, what you wear on the court impacts how you play!

“For tennis shoes, it’s all about the traction,” Busenberg says when it comes to finding what’s right for your feet. “The best tennis shoes support the player’s foot and movement on the court, so it’s important to ensure your shoe has a good grip that keeps you sturdy.”

When it comes to clothing, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying cute and trendy tennis clothing. And while tennis attire can be fun and functional, Busenberg says tennis is an “incredibly active sport,” so “athletic clothes are the way to go.”

“Regardless of the weather, it’ll bring you to a sweat, so it’s important that your attire is moisture-wicking and breathable,” she adds. “If a piece of clothing is specifically made for the sport, it’s a safe bet, but also lean into any dry-fit options. As for fit, it’s important that you avoid anything oversized or bulky as it will impact the way that you play. Also, if you’re serving, it’s important to have pockets or an elastic like spandex, so you can hold a second ball in case you have to second-serve.”

What’s the most important thing when choosing what to wear on the tennis court? 

Deciding what to wear on the court depends on where the court is! Busenberg says to find the right outfit, identify where you’re playing. “Certain courts, especially those at clubs, tend to have a dress code that players are expected to follow,” she says. That dress code will greatly impact what you wear from head to toe.

“From there, determine the best outfit that’s both lightweight and breathable and has pockets for extra balls,” she adds. “For women, I’d recommend a polo or tank top paired with a skirt, or simply a tennis dress.”

Don’t forget about your geographical location and the weather that day. “Your outfit can be impacted by multiple factors, especially the weather, so dress appropriately for the time of year,” Busenberg says. “The worst feeling is playing when you’re too hot.” The takeaway: as long as you’re comfortable, you’re good to go!

Tennis skirts vs. dresses — how do you decide which is best for you?  

And now for the age old question, at least among women who play tennis. Tennis skirts or dresses?

“It really comes down to one’s personal preference,” Busenberg suggests. There’s no right or wrong!

Think about your personal style (or the style you want to present on the court) and how much mobility you want or need. This will help determine how accessible you want your outfit to be, Busenberg says. Most of the time, you can’t go wrong with either: “Both styles typically have built-in shorts underneath for security while playing!”

Best tennis shoes for women at Zappos

We know you love brands like New Balance, Adidas, and On. So we asked Busenberg to pick her favorite tennis sneakers for women from those brands. Shop her selection of the best tennis sneakers for women from Zappos.

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