Men's apparel - worth it?
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babar
Professional
I would say that durability is definitely better in terms of the poly material for shirts. Looks is in the eye of the beholder and wearer, so no comment there. Comfort to me is pretty much a landslide in favor of the poly tennis crews. I sweat a lot so the wicking away of moisture is a real big feature.
pmacino
Semi-Pro
Personal call...
From a materials, construction, and performance standpoint compared to t-shirts? I say yes. Same for shorts.
For any activity that generates sweat, I've moved away from cotton. It stays wet too long, and becomes uncomfortable to the point that I get irritated. Does a synthetic fabric make me a better player? No. Does it keep my mind on the game by me not being irritated? Yes.
Just be aware that like any product SKU map there is good, better, and best. While the base models will provide base funtionality, the more you pay the more you get. The higher priced tops will use different fabric combinations/weights and will change the cuts of the clothing to become tennis specific....an example being how the shoulder area is sewn to prevent restriction, etc...Marketing terms for these technologies include:
Nike / Dri-Fit = Moisture Wicking performance
Adidas / ClimaCool, Clima365, and ClimaLite = Moisture Wicking Performance http://www.shopadidas.ca/helpTechPage.jsp.vr
Adidas / ForMotion = Sport specific material combination/cuts of fabric
Nike does not have a technologly name for the cuts of their clothes, they just implement them into the higher priced pieces in the sport's collection. For instance, the Nike 10" Athlete Tennis short, uses a combination of Dri-Fit and spandex to provide its shape and funtionality...etc..
On a side note, these sport specific cuts do tend to affect the sizing, just something to be aware of.
Back to your situation...I'd suggest going for middle of the road stuff that won't break the bank, and not leave you having bought the base model and being disappointed. Tennis clothing comes out on a quarterly basis, you might look for the last quarter's models at a discount too, to try it out.
This all being said, there does seem to be a fashion component to tennis that turns a lot of people off (me included), and makes them think there is more form than function, and regarding some items this is true...You just have to look at each item on a case by case basis. That's what makes a site like this so cool...There is a thread on the "fit" of Nike's Spring line in this forum that is a great example.
From a materials, construction, and performance standpoint compared to t-shirts? I say yes. Same for shorts.
For any activity that generates sweat, I've moved away from cotton. It stays wet too long, and becomes uncomfortable to the point that I get irritated. Does a synthetic fabric make me a better player? No. Does it keep my mind on the game by me not being irritated? Yes.
Just be aware that like any product SKU map there is good, better, and best. While the base models will provide base funtionality, the more you pay the more you get. The higher priced tops will use different fabric combinations/weights and will change the cuts of the clothing to become tennis specific....an example being how the shoulder area is sewn to prevent restriction, etc...Marketing terms for these technologies include:
Nike / Dri-Fit = Moisture Wicking performance
Adidas / ClimaCool, Clima365, and ClimaLite = Moisture Wicking Performance http://www.shopadidas.ca/helpTechPage.jsp.vr
Adidas / ForMotion = Sport specific material combination/cuts of fabric
Nike does not have a technologly name for the cuts of their clothes, they just implement them into the higher priced pieces in the sport's collection. For instance, the Nike 10" Athlete Tennis short, uses a combination of Dri-Fit and spandex to provide its shape and funtionality...etc..
On a side note, these sport specific cuts do tend to affect the sizing, just something to be aware of.
Back to your situation...I'd suggest going for middle of the road stuff that won't break the bank, and not leave you having bought the base model and being disappointed. Tennis clothing comes out on a quarterly basis, you might look for the last quarter's models at a discount too, to try it out.
This all being said, there does seem to be a fashion component to tennis that turns a lot of people off (me included), and makes them think there is more form than function, and regarding some items this is true...You just have to look at each item on a case by case basis. That's what makes a site like this so cool...There is a thread on the "fit" of Nike's Spring line in this forum that is a great example.
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JRstriker12
Hall of Fame
I have a few Nike Dry-Fit T-shirts (about $15 each) and a few nice Nike Dry-Fit tennis shorts (about $30 each) and tops (Between $25 - $45 each).
I have to say, I find the moister wicking ability of thiee clothes to be outstanding, especially on a really hot day. I usually buy these on sale, but they are worth the money.
I have to say, I find the moister wicking ability of thiee clothes to be outstanding, especially on a really hot day. I usually buy these on sale, but they are worth the money.
goober
Legend
Are they worth it? I say yes. I don't wear cotton anymore unless it is really cold outside. You really don't have to spend that much money to get performance clothing. I personally don't see the point of spending $50-60 on a tennis polo. I don't really care that much about looks, but some clubs do require tennis attire.
You can save money by- getting stuff on sale, hitting up outlets, going to places like Ross, Marshalls, Nordstrom last call/ Nordstrom rack. TW's extra 25% sales that they email to you are pretty good and they come around I think twice a year. You can get some great deals if you look: Nike/adidas polos and crews for $10-15, ect.
You can save money by- getting stuff on sale, hitting up outlets, going to places like Ross, Marshalls, Nordstrom last call/ Nordstrom rack. TW's extra 25% sales that they email to you are pretty good and they come around I think twice a year. You can get some great deals if you look: Nike/adidas polos and crews for $10-15, ect.
I sweat bullets on hot days, and I've done fine with $10 Reebok polyester shorts and tops from the local discount club..the C9 Champion stuff from Target..if you've gone with cotton this long, you're fine switching to the cheaper new material stuff. I always put a cotton top on after I've completely saturated the poly top and I'm leaving the court.
circusmouse
Rookie
I played with cotton for a long time because I thought the polyester clothes were overpriced, but I think that was a mistake. I sweat a lot and polyesters feel and look so much better when you're sweating heavily. I don't think it's worth paying for the fancy Nike stuff, but you can get reasonably priced apparel if you look around. I just get the $20-25 items from TW. I've found that Reebok makes great stuff for reasonable prices. I'm sure you can find cheaper stuff if you're willing to bargain shop.
mikeler
Moderator
I'm also a big time sweater and I second these suggestions. The Target shirts you can sometimes get on sale for $7.99. Even when they are not on sale, you can pick them up for $10. I also like the Reeboks that they have at BJs Wholesale for about the same price. Stay away from the Wal-Mart and K-Mart brand shirts, they are not very good. I also have some Under Armour shirts which are a little better quality, but not worth the extra $20 IMHO.
I agree that the tennis specific stuff is a waste of money in terms of quality.
I usually wear poly shorts from various makers and usually wear standard Nike Dri Fit t-shirts. They are plain but they are good quality and pretty cheap.
http://**************/index.jsp?sit...p,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-110807/pgid-170827
I usually wear poly shorts from various makers and usually wear standard Nike Dri Fit t-shirts. They are plain but they are good quality and pretty cheap.
http://**************/index.jsp?sit...p,pdp,ctr-inline/cid-1/pid-110807/pgid-170827
Al Czervik
Hall of Fame
The Champion gear at Target is as good as any Nike or Adidas stuff. Designer brand or not, I need dry fit shirts so I am not marinating in my own filth and getting backne.
I think you sometimes want tennis specific shorts because they have good pockets.
But any common Hanes undies or socks are the way to go, I say.
I think you sometimes want tennis specific shorts because they have good pockets.
But any common Hanes undies or socks are the way to go, I say.
rasajadad
Hall of Fame
Ever since I got "real" tennis clothes, (the wick away moisture kind of shirts,) I can't play in a cotton t-shirt any more. I like not having a two pound clammy full of sweat shirt against my skin. I also don't have to do that "Sampras sleeve adjust thing before I serve any more either.
Same place I go for my shirts and shorts. They're so cheap, it seems like I pick up a new one every time I go.
roc17355
Rookie
Yes...............
I would say yes as well. It doesn't have to be "tennis" specific but the performance apparel does make a difference especially if you sweat alot and play where it is hot. Target has decent stuff for pretty cheap. Cotton T's just get to heavy and cumbersumb (sp) when drenched in sweat. Also I feel that compression shorts make all the difference in the world, couldn't play with out them underneath.
I would say yes as well. It doesn't have to be "tennis" specific but the performance apparel does make a difference especially if you sweat alot and play where it is hot. Target has decent stuff for pretty cheap. Cotton T's just get to heavy and cumbersumb (sp) when drenched in sweat. Also I feel that compression shorts make all the difference in the world, couldn't play with out them underneath.
skiracer55
Hall of Fame
What they said...
...two other things, also:
- Well made stuff, like Adidas, which I use exclusively, wears like iron. When a T shirt is no longer suitable for anything except cleaning your car windows, well made poly stuff is still going strong.
- As somebody said, find out what you like, then try to get the best price. Sometimes I pay full price for Adidas, but not often. Adidas is always coming out with a new collection, and TW always has sales on the next to last collection. I've found some incredible deals on Adidas at Dick's Sporting Goods, for example. And, ask around. One of my hitting partners is the local Adidas rep, and about once a year, usually right after the US Open, he has a sale, usually about 20 cents on the dollar, of all the stuff the sponsored athletes didn't want...
...two other things, also:
- Well made stuff, like Adidas, which I use exclusively, wears like iron. When a T shirt is no longer suitable for anything except cleaning your car windows, well made poly stuff is still going strong.
- As somebody said, find out what you like, then try to get the best price. Sometimes I pay full price for Adidas, but not often. Adidas is always coming out with a new collection, and TW always has sales on the next to last collection. I've found some incredible deals on Adidas at Dick's Sporting Goods, for example. And, ask around. One of my hitting partners is the local Adidas rep, and about once a year, usually right after the US Open, he has a sale, usually about 20 cents on the dollar, of all the stuff the sponsored athletes didn't want...
certifiedjatt
Banned
the only time i have ever bought tennis gear is when i like their designs and can wear htem casually. to spend 70 dollars on a tee to play tennis is ultra stupid.
there are some nike tees (pro core) that are actually pretty neat. they cost about 20 bux and are really good.
there are some nike tees (pro core) that are actually pretty neat. they cost about 20 bux and are really good.
SempreSami
Hall of Fame
Don't limit yourself to tennis clothing, plenty of sportswear out there that's light and functional.
Storm_Kyori
Hall of Fame
Exactly, sportswear has some of the features needed to play, but if you can get something on sale then give it a try and see for yourself if it makes a difference. I used to wear regular shorts with running shoes, I moved up to tennis shoes and then the tennis shorts were just cooler looking and better to pay in, some ppl take you more seriously at times when you have tennis gear for some reason. I remember some guys on the HS team wouldn't hit with me because I only had the covercase for my racket and when I got a tennis bag, all of a sudden it's like I was accepted.
pmacino
Semi-Pro
Have you tried compression shorts or the socks with Lycra? You won't go back to cotton
IMO, cotton "blows out" very quickly and causing rubbing while playing.Wet underwear and white shorts....not going there :shock:.
martini1
Hall of Fame
I got the Nadal AO outfit. It looks great, but the shirt is closer to the cotton side of things (it says Nylon on the tag but it feels like cotton). It doesn't dry out and is not as breathable like poly shirts. The shorts are great though.
I am sticking with Lycra and Poly shirts on my next purchase.
I am sticking with Lycra and Poly shirts on my next purchase.
Ronaldo
Bionic Poster
The Adidas antimicrobial tees were all under $15, more like $10 but look damp/wet when sweating. Tried those compression, wicking briefs. Sweat flowed down my leg so quickly, stopped playing.
Ambivalent
Hall of Fame
I play in t-shirts a lot of the time, but i find that the sleeves hinder my swing, especially on the backhand where the left arm goes across the body much more.
Ronaldo
Bionic Poster
Poly shirts stretch well.
I don't necessarily choose "tennis specific" clothes. I get anything that will stay light and keep me cool. All the clothes I wear for tennis are polyester (Clima-whatever, Dry-Fit, etc). I have a couple of New Balance LightningDry crews for runners (SUPER light, and never sticks no matter how sweaty I get), and Adidas Formotion shorts that are my favorites right now.
For shoes, the only rule I have to follow in my tennis club is that the sole will not rip up the clay courts. So no running shoes or cross-trainers are allowed. Its hard to get tennis shoes in my size (14EE) in my country, so I've ended up using And1 low-cut basketball shoes for the past 3 years.
For shoes, the only rule I have to follow in my tennis club is that the sole will not rip up the clay courts. So no running shoes or cross-trainers are allowed. Its hard to get tennis shoes in my size (14EE) in my country, so I've ended up using And1 low-cut basketball shoes for the past 3 years.
Al Czervik
Hall of Fame
Have you tried compression shorts or the socks with Lycra? You won't go back to cotton
Wet underwear and white shorts....not going there :shock:.
Ronaldo has it right.
Something about wicking underwear doesn't work. You get this soup factory running down your leg. Plus, I am always butt picking like Nadal with the Under Armour underwear I've tried.
JRstriker12
Hall of Fame
That's strange dude.
Sure you were buying the real stuff? I've worn UA compression shorts for both soccer and tennis and never got a build up of sweat running down my leg. Sure, I'm going to sweat, but the sweat doesn't weight down the shorts.
Wearing compression shorts/wicking underwear sure beats the soggy cotton stuff.
define "cheap." I'm able to find tennis clothing for the price that you'd buy a regular t-shirt. It's just where you decide to shop. Just today I got a nike dri-fit shirt and shorts for $17 each at Marshall. I'm sure you can find similar deals at Sears or any 2nd class retailer. They wont be the "newest" model but who care? not like I'm wearing it for a fashion statement.
Tsonga nDance
Rookie
35$ and up for a recent line of clothing and 15$ and up for last season's? Hell the only difference is that one breathes better. I personally have no problem with asthmatic people so would you discriminate clothing as well. But in all seriousness I don't think it's worth it, but if you got the scrilla, more power to you man.
zacinnc78
Professional
the poly clothes have more control and more durability ,but they seem to go dead quicker
the natural cotton plays good and soft all the way till it tears but dont last quite as long
i would recommend a hybrid of poly shorts for better control and natural shirt for better softness and playability
the natural cotton plays good and soft all the way till it tears but dont last quite as long
i would recommend a hybrid of poly shorts for better control and natural shirt for better softness and playability
pmacino
Semi-Pro
+1
I haven't tried the Adidas stuff yet, but I have zero issues with Under Armor and Nike Pro compression shorts.
I was a professional/sponsored cyclist for years and never had issues with sweat on the legs and we wore spandex/lycra...same thing...I guarantee that more sweat will pool and release on/from the waistline in cycling than any other sport, as does the chance of chaffing from the moisture.
As far as I'm concerned the only real natural alternative to a synthetic is wool. Wool is far more breathable and wicks moisture much better than cotton. Prior to polys most athletic wear was wool, not cotton.
drewski711
New User
Wool undies
I've found that I can't play in cotton anymore. I've been using patagonia wicking undies that work great. I also just picked up a pair of icebreaker wool that I think will work fantastic. The new wool stuff is incredible- easy to take care of, soft and doesn't get the stink that so much of the man made stuff does. I actually wish they'd made wool tennis tops now.
I've found that I can't play in cotton anymore. I've been using patagonia wicking undies that work great. I also just picked up a pair of icebreaker wool that I think will work fantastic. The new wool stuff is incredible- easy to take care of, soft and doesn't get the stink that so much of the man made stuff does. I actually wish they'd made wool tennis tops now.
WildVolley
Legend
If you want to try poly, buy the inexpensive stuff at Target or visit a discount clothing store and find last season's big name brands for under $15.
I sweat a lot, so I love poly. It wicks quickly and is lightweight even when saturated. I only wear cotton for casual hitting and leisure wear.
I sweat a lot, so I love poly. It wicks quickly and is lightweight even when saturated. I only wear cotton for casual hitting and leisure wear.
Ronaldo
Bionic Poster
Suspect the intensity of singles caused literally a stream of sweat flowing down my leg. Even running shorts never caused such an effect. Incredible
drakulie
Talk Tennis Guru
I have to say, I will rarely, if ever wear t-shirts to play in after trying out the dri-fit stuff.
Compared to t-shirt, it is lighter, really does work at getting the sweat off you, and lasts much longer than t-shirts. Additionally, you could find these shirts at sports store (clearance/sale), and pay the same price as a t-shirt.
jmverdugo
Hall of Fame
I have to agree with almost everyone in here. It is worthy, they last longer, they do not get "that much" stinky, but do not buy specifically tennis clothes, specially season clothes, because those things are way to overpriced. Outlets are the perfect place to buy cheap polyester clothes. If you are paying more thatn $20 on a poly t shirt you are paying for advertising and sponsorships.
I do love to wear cotton tshirts after playing tennis.
I do love to wear cotton tshirts after playing tennis.
gocard
Semi-Pro
I've never bought the latest versions of tennis clothes, but I typically buy previous seasons' styles or running apparel which seems to be better priced. I also don't go for the complete matching tennis outfits- just athletic tops and shorts that I can use for any other sport that I play so that I can get multipurpose use out of them I used to wear cotton t-shirts but no more. In the winter I can't wear the cotton shirts either b/c it gets wet, and then cold because the moisture stays on the fabric.
I used to wear cotton t-shirts but no more. In the winter I can't wear the cotton shirts either b/c it gets wet, and then cold because the moisture stays on the fabric.
Thud and blunder
Semi-Pro
JRstriker12
Hall of Fame
IMHO - $20 isan't too bad for a dry-fit hat. Most non-dry-fit baseball hats cost about that.
TW- also has some "performance" hats for about $10-$15
Ronaldo
Bionic Poster
That doesn't sound right; have you tried Kegel exercises?
Not urine flow, just excessive sweat.
VillaVilla
New User
Hey guys what do you think about the Power Crew Nike tops?
Also, out of all the current and previous generation Nike Tennis t-shirts and Polos, which would you recommend?
Cheers
Also, out of all the current and previous generation Nike Tennis t-shirts and Polos, which would you recommend?
Cheers
VillaVilla
New User
Hey guys would you recommend wearing Running Crews to play tennis in?
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