How to Find the Perfect Tennis Shoe for Your Child
Your child is starting to play tennis — exciting times ahead! But now comes the big question: Which tennis shoe is right for my child?
In summary you can say that there are four key things to consider when picking out kids’ tennis shoes:
- The outsole
- The right size
- The closure system
- And of course – the style
1. The Outsole
Ideally, your child’s tennis shoes should be designed for the specific court surface they play on. Why? Because clay, carpet, and hard courts all play differently and require distinct sole patterns to ensure the best grip and durability.
Clay courts:
If your child mostly plays on clay, we recommend clay court shoes. They feature a full herringbone tread that helps keep clay off the sole for better traction. The upper is usually more tightly woven to prevent clay from getting inside the shoe.
Hard courts:
If your child plays mainly on hard courts, an all-court shoe is the way to go. Hard courts are tough on shoes, so all-court models are built with durable materials and reinforced uppers for extra support. They also offer great cushioning and a modified herringbone tread for reliable grip. While not ideal for clay or grass, they can work as an all-around option.
Indoor courts:
For the indoor season, the right sole depends on the type of indoor surface.
- For carpet courts without granules, choose smooth-soled carpet shoes.
- If the court has granules, all-court or clay court shoes are a better match.
And if your child also plays padel, you’ll find padel-specific shoes on our website. These are designed for the sport’s unique movements — quick turns, sudden stops, and fast lateral steps — providing top-notch traction and stability on padel courts.
2. The Right Size
Alongside skill and the right racket, well-fitting shoes are key to a great tennis season. Here’s how to find your child’s perfect size:
You’ll need:
A sheet of paper larger than your child’s foot, a ruler or tape measure, and a pen.
- Place the paper on a hard, flat surface and have your child stand on it with their heel against a wall. They should wear the same socks they’ll use for tennis or padel.
- Trace the outline of their foot, keeping the pen straight.
- Measure the length from heel to toe and add 1 cm. That’s the ideal foot length for selecting their shoe size.
- Repeat for the other foot. If the sizes differ, use the longer measurement.
Because sizing can vary between brands, it’s best to use the centimeter (cm) measurements shown on our website to find the most accurate fit.
3. The Closure
Children start playing tennis at all ages — some as young as three, others in their teens. That’s why we offer both lace-up shoes (great for older kids who need extra stability and support) and Velcro-strap shoes for younger players who like to put on their shoes all by themselves.
4. The Style
And let’s be honest — style matters too!
Your child will love stepping onto the court in shoes that not only perform but also look great. We carry a wide selection of kids’ tennis shoes from the leading brands, available in all kinds of colors and designs.
In Summary
To find the perfect tennis shoes for your child, keep these four things in mind: outsole, fit, closure, and style.
Explore our full range at tenniswarehouse-europe.com — where you’ll find not just shoes, but everything your child needs for a fun, stylish, and successful tennis season.