Do you carry around a tennis backpack or a SUITCASE?

[WilsonPlayer101]

I still use the Wilson 6 racquet bag I got about 15 years ago. It's big and bulky especially since I only bring 3 racquets with me. All I need is room for two though, one backup and one main racquet. I really don't need three racquets at all. I switched to Head racquets from Wilson because I love the Head Microgel Radical. I plan on buying a Head tennis backpack. Maybe the Murray since NeverGassed1212 gave it a good review. I think a backpack would be better for my purposes. Just two racquets, tennis balls and off to the courts rather than a big bulky bag.

 

[WilsonPlayer101]

If anyone has any concerns about it raining with a tennis backpack, I've always put my new strung racquets in one of these: http://www.******************.com/products.asp?cat=28

and I have never had a problem with it raining (even though it does). Only the overgrips stick out of the bag, but big deal, their job is to absorb moisture.

And second, I watched this video of Andy Murray giving a charity private lesson somewhere in England during the offseason, and it was quite frankly stupid. The guy taking the lesson was a intermediate, and Murray showed up with his full racquet bag with 6+ racquets in it. He even said in the video he was going nowhere afterwards. Can somebody say tool? Of course, he is a pro, but he is giving a lesson to someone is clearly below his level, but he feels the need to bring five extra racquets, which he does not use. I can't find the video, but I'll keep searching.

Yeah, I think I saw the same video as you mention about 2 months ago. Have not seen it since but I know the video.

 

[BC1]

I wouldn't assume everyone with a large bag is a "poser", and I don't believe every 3.0-4.0 club player with a 6 pack bag is pretending to be a better player. In most cases it's just their way of being organized, and not having to worry about were their tennis stuff is, or accidentally forgetting something they wish they had later.

I think it comes down to convenience more then anything else. If someone is organized enough to carry all they want or "expect" to need in a backpack or even in their pockets - then great - more power to them.

If others, like me, prefer to have ALL their tennis "stuff" (sweatbands, extra socks, shirt, towel, can of balls, extra racquet, water bottle etc.) in one bag, then I don't see the problem with that either. I personally don't want to worry about what I may need everytime I get ready to play.

To me, it's much easier and reassuring to know that ALL I have to do is grab my "bag" and go, or better yet, just keep in the car, and that way I'm always ready incase an opportunity to play comes up. I don't have to worry about going home after work for clothes, etc. I've tried it the minimalist way and everytime I regretted it.

 

[subz]

Um, I don't mean to be offensive, but people who carry 6 or 9 packs usually look like fools.

Apart from a teaching pro who might have to carry several frames he is restringing for others, all of the best players I have ever seen would show up with 2 rackets in hand and a bottle of water. When they hit the courts, they'd put their wallet and keys at the side of the court and just get to playing.

Nothing makes you feel like more of a loser than showing up to the courts with a body bag full of stuff and then walking off shortly afterwards when the guy with no bag or anything wipes the floor with you.

Unless you're a teaching pro, if you show up on court with a giant bag, you're carrying too much stuff.

You don't need to bring 20 overgrips to every tennis match. You can check your grips before you leave home and change them there if necessary.

You don't need 3 sets of clothes. If you're going somewhere important after tennis, the chances are, you'll want to stop by the house before you go anyways. Get changed there.

You don't need 4 pairs of shoes. Honestly, you just don't.

Rackets (2), balls, and water, that's all you need that you can't wear.

I play in a college league and the guys who are ranked in the top use 6 or 9racquet bags ! Most of them also play in the natioanl series...so your idea that a good player shows up with two racquets and water bottle is not correct. People actually need to use a bigger tennis bag.

Its a matter of preference, I use a 6 pack! In one compartment I keep my two racquets and in the other I keep a pair of shoes, water bottle, towel, extra set of cloting, 2 or 3 tubes of tennis balls, shower jel, deodrant spray, wet bag, a cap and wrist bands. In the side pocket I have mobile, wallet, athlete tape, lead tape, and bandages. I am thinking of keeping an instant icepack too.

 

[spaceman_spiff]

I carry a six pack when I play. Mostly this is because I got to work first and then go to the courts from work. So I have in my bag my 3 racquets (as I once broke two jobs in a match so I now bring 3 racquets just in case, never needed the third since admittedly), shoes, shorts/t-shirt/socks, water, balls, towel, soap etc...for the shower after and my work laptop and a few papers.

All in all I find it works fine and fits well. I tried to fit it all in a backpack and couldn't.

Spaceman I hope you don't feel this reflects on my level of play .

Orig

You work in London, and your bag is mostly full of your clothes or work stuff. It's not like can drive by your house to pick up your stuff before heading to the courts, and it's not like your bag is full of unnecessary stuff like 17 frames and 3 pairs of tennis shoes.

I'm referring to people who live in smaller cities and drive everywhere yet still insist on carrying a giant bag.

^^^

No because you will apparently look like a "poser" if you do something that practical.

I think a lot of kids post on this forum and they worry way too much about trivial stuff.

A guy in London who has to rely on public transport, taxis, and foot power to get through the city is a world apart from people in smaller cities who drive everywhere. I know you think Orlando is big, but trust me, it's an entirely different world from a place like London, Paris, Moscow, NYC, etc.

Even then, if it wasn't for the laptop and work papers, Orig could probably get by with a backpack. And, given my experiences trying to get through London with luggage, I doubt he'd ever choose to lug a giant bag around the city if he could get by with a backpack.

I'm 32, I've lived in four different countries, and I've played tennis with some pretty good players from around the world. The OP wanted opinions from people, and I gave mine. I'm sorry if it offends you when I say that, outside of major world capitals, people who insist on carrying huge tennis bags when they're only playing an individual match or hitting with a friend tend to look like posers or kids in my opinion.

The next time I play a league match with the county doubles champion and the #6 over-35 singles player in the country, I'll be sure to ridicule these teammates of mine for showing up with 2 frames in hand and a bottle of water (if that).

 

[Power Player]

I have been all over the world and I don't think Orlando is big at all.

How do you "know" that? You sure like to make a lot of blind assumptions about people for being so worldly and educated.

And why would you ridicule someone for showing up with 2 frames and a bottle of water? I wouldn't, it is their choice. I guess you just went and did the assumption thing again.

 

[BC1]

This thread is amazingly trivial - Does any of this really matter? It's all up to personal preference.

However, I will continue...

A lot of what someone "needs", and what they choose to carry their stuff in depends on the climate as well. If you live in a hot and humid Florida, in the Summer you can go through multiple towels, sweat bands, head bands, bottles of water, and at least two shirts in three hour match - which requires something (relatively larege) to keep all of this stuff. And in the winter, regardless of where you live, you may need sweat pants and jacket, and you may have to remove them after you warm up - requiring a "bag" to put them in.

Granted you may be able to stuff all of this in a backpack, but why fault someone for choosing to use a larger, and in some cases, a more practical bag?

One other possibility here - maybe some tennis players don't have "multiple" options, or the money to buy different bags for all of their tennis needs - therefore they use what they have. Sometimes that bag may be too large and unneccessary or sometimes too small an innapropriate as well. Does it really matter?

Just like racquet selection. There is no right or wrong answer here.
Can't we all just get along?

 

[JT_2eighty]

funny thread

To me, it's much easier and reassuring to know that ALL I have to do is grab my "bag" and go, or better yet, just keep in the car, and that way I'm always ready incase an opportunity to play comes up. I don't have to worry about going home after work for clothes, etc. I've tried it the minimalist way and everytime I regretted it.

This is why I transitioned from the "too cool for school" "racquets in hand" approach, to the 6-pack bag. It's not because I'm bringing "6 racquets and 4 pairs of shoes", but rather all the basics in one bag instead of two smaller bags, or whatever. Too often I'd get a call while at work from someone wanting to hit that night, and too many days I'd have to pass because my place is not on the way between work and the courts, so having 1 bag with my sticks, tennis shoes, a change of clothes, can of balls, etc, it's just practical for those of us who don't have time to go home between work and tennis.

He showed up with 2 frames and a bottle of water in hand and wiped the floor with me and every other guy there. That's the day I stopped carrying a big bag.

In the same way that you criticize people with bags as being "posers", it's just as easy to say you decided to "pose" as one of these greater "2 frames in hand" players. Both generalizations are meaningless, let your game do the talking either way.

 

[spaceman_spiff]

I have been all over the world and I don't think Orlando is big at all.

How do you "know" that? You sure like to make a lot of blind assumptions about people for being so worldly and educated.

In a previous post, you mentioned that you sometimes have to go downtown before playing tennis as justification for your decision to carry a big bag, using the word "downtown" to imply a tedious journey. I've been to Orlando. Going downtown there is nothing like trying to get through NYC, London, and other major cities I've seen.

And, since the chances are you drive everywhere (like everyone else in the US except in a handful of places) and your car is most likely parked right next to your house, the alternative to carrying a huge bag isn't really the big inconvenience you make it out to be: you simply carry your frames and a couple of other things to the car and put them in the trunk. Unless you've got loads of unnecessary stuff, it's pretty easy to do without using a giant bag.

Given that you have the money to play tennis at a club, I took a gamble and assumed you are not one of the few people in all of Florida who uses public transportation. Given the odds, I thought it was a pretty safe bet (though admittedly not a certainty).

You assumed that, because I post on a tennis forum and happen to disagree with your perception of the world that I must be just a kid. It's probably not a good idea to make assumptions about someone you are criticizing for making assumptions.

And why would you ridicule someone for showing up with 2 frames and a bottle of water? I wouldn't, it is their choice. I guess you just went and did the assumption thing again.

I was being sarcastic.

If you think giant bags looks cool or are a major convenience, that's fine. Given the habits of the good players I've seen, I personally think they are overkill for anything except the highest levels of tennis (pro tour, satellites, and NCAA). And it makes me question their motives when I see people choose to carry far more stuff than they would ever really need for a recreational match.

 

[tennismonkey]

hahaaha. this is a funny thread. i think it's human nature for us to think whatever we are doing is the best way or the only way. just as it's human nature to make decisions on somebody based on something as arbitrary as what bag they are using for tennis.

having said that, i still think it's fun to play a tournament or a league match with someone you've never played before and you kinda check out what they're wearing and what bag they have and what racquet and how many they have. and then we sorta process that information with a mental image of how good the guy is or what kind of game you think they are going to play.

for example when i see an older guy (say late 40's or 50's and up) show up and he opens his bag and i see 2 rug beaters. you know those thick azz wide body thick framed 26mm beam super powered racquets. i automatically make the asssumption that they are going to be chop socky slice machines on forehands and backhands. this assumption for me is 90% right most of the time.

hahahaha.

 

[Winky]

it's human nature for us to think whatever we are doing is the best way or the only way.

Yup, we're all little tyrants at heart. It's sad, really.

 

[tennismonkey]

PS - Just bought the anniversary...

you mean this one? this bag costs more than my racquets. not racquet. racquets - as in all of them. nice bag though for the poser types. 8)

 

[Winky]

I don't think it says Babolat enough times on that bag

 

[schap02]

you mean this one? this bag costs more than my racquets. not racquet. racquets - as in all of them. nice bag though for the poser types. 8)

FALSE - You spend more on racquets then Sup spends on beverages. - - - -Yes that's the baby - the "supplier" gave me a deal I couldn't refuse, lets say a string job and a half pays for it...

I don't think it says Babolat enough times on that bag

Goin' to take the 5th here.

 

[hpaiste]

Even Classy Roger doesn't take a bag when he doesn't need it:

He just brings four sticks....

 

[tennismonkey]

I don't think it says Babolat enough times on that bag

hahahaha. i wonder who makes that bag?

reminds me of the guys who put giant stickers on the rear window of their car with a GIANT letter H or a big azz CHEVY logo. um i think you have a honda and a chevy there. i'll just take your word that it's not a knockoff honda or chevy.

 

[klementine]

It is an unwritten law of Tennis... to set-up camp on the court as if it is a 1000 series event. :smile:

Every tennis trinket, racquet, sweatband, shoes and extra laces, dampeners, twenty fresh balls, leather grip, synthetic grip, over-grip in 5 different colors, stretch band, hand exerciser, ice pack, sunglasses and sun-block.. must be readily and easily accessible.

I keep all that $#!T at home and usually roll with a back-pack... contents-
Flip-flops.. for after the match
Water bottle
Some kind of snack
Extra racquet
Dampeners
Hat and bands
Socks...
and some fresh balls

 

[bugeyed]

I carry a Babolat 9 pack 'cause I want to be ready if Tennis Channel shows up for a "Bag Check".
It's also a known fact that, the bigger the tennis bag, the better you play. There is no debating that! It's a relative thing. It doesn't mean that you are a better player than someone else, it just means that it will elevate your game by a substantial amount.
It's also a scientific fact that the synthetic grips last longer when stored in a racquet bag. The exposure to UVB from the sun accelerates the crosslinking of the grip compound that leads to deterioration.

The "Bag Check" thing is the main reason though.

Cheers,
kev

 

[movdqa]

> Even Classy Roger doesn't take a bag when he doesn't need it:

I don't think that the hoodie under the sportscoat look is going to catch on.

 

[movdqa]

> Every tennis trinket, racquet, sweatband, shoes and extra
> laces, dampeners, twenty fresh balls, leather grip, synthetic
> grip, over-grip in 5 different colors, stretch band, hand exerciser,
> ice pack, sunglasses and sun-block.. must be readily and easily
> accessible.

Bud's new ad: Real Men of Tennis; based on Mr. Rolling Cooler Cooler Roller. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rObUmdRMPoI

 

[stoo]

Everyone at my club has a larger 6-9 racquet bag. I have yet to have a guy show up with 2 sticks and a water bottle and wipe the court with me, but I guess there is a first for everything.

I have a Dunlop 6 pack and it is perfect. I have 3 racquets since I string my own and like the extra racquet. I also like to bike to the courts. The 6 pack holds all my sticks, plus all extra gear and a large thermos and I can ride there with it on my back. Sometimes I go to work downtown and then go and play tennis right after. The bag holds all my clothes also for tennis.

When I go home, all my tennis gear is in my bag. It's not all over place. I like organization and cleanliness. I also like to have extra overgrips too since it kind of gets hot here. Call me crazy.

This is exactly the same as my situation. In fact, I have the exact same 4D 6pack bag. 3 racquets, a warmup jacket and hats, water and gatorade, few tins of balls, my shoes, and a place for my wallet and keys. Most times I ride to the courts and this bag is great on my shoulders.

At first when I got this bag, (a gift from my daughters for father's day) I was kinda weary of the image thing and what others might think. Then I realised I couln't give a rat's *** what other thought about it, just as I don't care if you show up to the courts with your racquets in a 10 pack tour bag or a brown paper bag.

We have a bunch of players at our club that carry around 6 and 10 pack bags filled with racquets they barey use. They don't need a quarter of the stuff they carry around with them, but if it makes em happy to do so, who the hell am I to think any less of them?

 

[BC1]

This is exactly the same as my situation. In fact, I have the exact same 4D 6pack bag. 3 racquets, a warmup jacket and hats, water and gatorade, few tins of balls, my shoes, and a place for my wallet and keys. Most times I ride to the courts and this bag is great on my shoulders.

At first when I got this bag, (a gift from my daughters for father's day) I was kinda weary of the image thing and what others might think. Then I realised I couln't give a rat's *** what other thought about it, just as I don't care if you show up to the courts with your racquets in a 10 pack tour bag or a brown paper bag.

We have a bunch of players at our club that carry around 6 and 10 pack bags filled with racquets they barey use. They don't need a quarter of the stuff they carry around with them, but if it makes em happy to do so, who the hell am I to think any less of them?

There you go ^^^^ Enough Said. Who can argue with that!
Next Topic?

 

[zak425]

To Spaceman

I ride my bike to the courts and really like carrying my Bag and have no problems. I can carry my 3 yonex's plus two older sticks just in case someone wants to try them out. 2 gatorades, water, court shoes, towel, balls, overgrips, sun block, extra clothes. I dont agree with the whole if you own a bag you suck, did you notice with your observation you would be in the "wanna-be" category? Carrying 3 sticks and gear...

I think you should stop worrying about what everyone else is doing and worry about yourself. You seem to be really concerned about such a miniscule option us rec tennis have, what does it matter to you? People play tennis to improve and have fun. Not to walk in their club and instantly get judged by you and your friends.

 

[JT_2eighty]

Even Classy Roger doesn't take a bag when he doesn't need it:

He just brings four sticks....

Hold on a sec, is that Mirka? When was this pic taken? This is the best I've ever seen her look before...

Ok, back to the battle of the bags...

 

[Ambivalent]

I have a tennis suitcase...but it has backpack straps so whatever. I carry around 4 rackets regularly, extra shoes and water so a backpack would be inssuficient.

 

[hpaiste]

Hold on a sec, is that Mirka? When was this pic taken? This is the best I've ever seen her look before...

Ok, back to the battle of the bags...

I will admit, she looks pretty hot in this picture... And I believe 2007/2008...

 

[tennis005]

A backpack is ok, but only when its cool.
Cough cough Prestige Limited Edition backpack cough cough

 

[asekaran]

I have a tennis-warehouse 3 racket bag that sometimes I bring to the courts. Holds everything I need and was only 3 bucks.

Sometimes though I'll put my racquet in my school computer backpack. I can fit my laptop, racquet, can of balls, a textbook, notepad, whatever.

Then again, I have one of those pro kennex drawstring bags which is my favorite. Just throw everything in there and tie it tight and off to the courts.

 

[Winky]

I don't think that the hoodie under the sportscoat look is going to catch on.

My thoughts exactly. Roger has enough taste to know that's a really lame look.

 

[user92626]

I've thought of getting a backpack and packing only 2, 3 rackets, but a backpack wouldn't cover and protect the rackets completely. Plus there's too much junks in my nike 6 pack bag so I don't know if I can get rid of it

 

[audioaffliction]

You work in London, and your bag is mostly full of your clothes or work stuff. It's not like can drive by your house to pick up your stuff before heading to the courts, and it's not like your bag is full of unnecessary stuff like 17 frames and 3 pairs of tennis shoes.

I'm referring to people who live in smaller cities and drive everywhere yet still insist on carrying a giant bag.



A guy in London who has to rely on public transport, taxis, and foot power to get through the city is a world apart from people in smaller cities who drive everywhere. I know you think Orlando is big, but trust me, it's an entirely different world from a place like London, Paris, Moscow, NYC, etc.

Even then, if it wasn't for the laptop and work papers, Orig could probably get by with a backpack. And, given my experiences trying to get through London with luggage, I doubt he'd ever choose to lug a giant bag around the city if he could get by with a backpack.

I'm 32, I've lived in four different countries, and I've played tennis with some pretty good players from around the world. The OP wanted opinions from people, and I gave mine. I'm sorry if it offends you when I say that, outside of major world capitals, people who insist on carrying huge tennis bags when they're only playing an individual match or hitting with a friend tend to look like posers or kids in my opinion.

The next time I play a league match with the county doubles champion and the #6 over-35 singles player in the country, I'll be sure to ridicule these teammates of mine for showing up with 2 frames in hand and a bottle of water (if that).

I've been following this thread with great interest. I find the observations you've made very compelling. So much so that I've abandoned my big racquet bag, a Wilson EcoTour Super Six, in favor of just showing up with two frames and a water bottle. Oh, and keys. And phone. And wallet. Actually, I don't usually have the water because my club has water coolers on court. But I sometimes have to have my asthma inhaler with me, just in case.

By my count, this means I carry about 6 items on court with me. Sometimes I use a waist pouch to put these things in, but club security will sometimes stop me because I look like a tourist. Other times, I just try to wear shorts with very big pockets.

But I digress.

My results on court have been mixed, which has left me a bit confused. I mean, my results were also mixed back in the days when I carried the racquet bag. I fully expected that after ditching all this gear, my game MUST go up. After all, I'm freeing myself from the trappings of equipment that has weighed me down.

It was not easy divesting myself of the grips, extra shirts, can of balls, etc. And the cost to me personally has been high: I sweat a lot and my grips can get very slippery. I've broken 2 frames while serving because I no longer have extra overgrips that I carry with me in the bag I no longer use. It's also gotten harder to get people to hit with me at the club, because I'm now known as the "that guy who never brings a can of balls." Even worse, I've convinced other people to adopt this "no bag" philosophy of yours and I've actually been on court with an opponent who also did not bring a can. We had to go around the courts trying to find used balls to hit with. I think that match might have ended in a draw.

Anyway, I am still committed to the elite club of you "no bag" players. But I really want my results to improve. Do you think moving from the 6 items I bring on court to say, 5 items will help? My other thought is that while I've lived in Asia, Europe and now America, I do not currently reside in a world capital. I mean, I've lived in London and New York, and San Francisco is a nice city, but it's no Paris or Moscow. Do you think moving to another world capital will give me access to the great insights that you've exposed us to?

 

[sureshs]

Even Classy Roger doesn't take a bag when he doesn't need it:

He just brings four sticks....

Probably Luthi slave is lugging the rest

 

[Winky]

Plus there's too much junks in my nike 6 pack bag so I don't know if I can get rid of it

Which Nike bag do you have? I have one I love because it's all black with just a Swoosh®.. no gaudy brand name written all over the thing.

Here: http://www.buzzillions.com/dz_1646389_nike_tennis_6_8_racquet_bag_black_white_reviews

 

[Power Player]

Audioaffliction that was great.

 

[Blade0324]

I'm too damn lazy to read all the posts here but from what I've seen scanning through it seems that a lot of people are in favor of the less you can carry the better.
I am totally opposite of this. I carry 4-5 sticks with me to the courts strung up with 2 of each at 2 different tensions to get through the match. It's not about breaking strings but is about having 2 at a given tension that works best for my opponent and conditions as they lose tension. I usually will play a first set with one stick and then switch to a fresh one for the second set. I carry a Head monster combi bag with a bunch of crap in it. I would rather have piece of mind that if I need something I have it than to worry about what someone thinks about what I have with me.
When I see a guy show up to the courts with just a couple racquets and some water or something I think they look like a hobo that can't afford the right gear for what they need. I expect them to have a cardboard sign with them saying will work for tennis balls.

 

[cueboyzn]

LOL at this thread. Seriously. Whoever thinks they have the right to diss another person because of their tennis bag or how they choose to carry their tennis equipment/ accessories needs to have a rethink at their attitude and/or world view.

I carry all my gear which includes 2 K-Factor Tour 90's, a K-Factor Team 95 and K Blade 98, as well as my clothes, shoes, tennis balls, wristbands, towel and whatever else I have, in the Federer Limited Edition K-Factor super six:

At the end of the day that is what I use and that's what holds all my gear comfortably, so that when I decide to play tennis I just load that in my trunk of the car and I don't have to think about where I put this or that, because it's all in one bag. Sometimes I take one or two rackets, my towel, and drink bottle out of the bag onto the court with me and leave the bag i the car, other times I will take the whole bag on court and to be honest the 2nd option is a lot more convenient.

I guess I'm just one of those people that just honestly couldn't care what other people think one way or the other. I mean seriously, some people here want you to believe that carrying less things or arriving on court with two rackets and a water bottle will make you into a better player. Newsflash:- it's hard work on the practice court that makes you a better player, not how much or how little equipment you arrive to the court with. If you think you might miss some serves, forehands or backhands because you are worrying what the next person is thinking of you because of your tennis bag, then perhaps you should listen to the advice of the know-it all's in this thread. Otherwise do whatever you like and carry your stuff in whatever you want.

 

[hrstrat57]

I've been following this thread with great interest. I find the observations you've made very compelling. So much so that I've abandoned my big racquet bag, a Wilson EcoTour Super Six, in favor of just showing up with two frames and a water bottle. Oh, and keys. And phone. And wallet. Actually, I don't usually have the water because my club has water coolers on court. But I sometimes have to have my asthma inhaler with me, just in case.

By my count, this means I carry about 6 items on court with me. Sometimes I use a waist pouch to put these things in, but club security will sometimes stop me because I look like a tourist. Other times, I just try to wear shorts with very big pockets.

But I digress.

My results on court have been mixed, which has left me a bit confused. I mean, my results were also mixed back in the days when I carried the racquet bag. I fully expected that after ditching all this gear, my game MUST go up. After all, I'm freeing myself from the trappings of equipment that has weighed me down.

It was not easy divesting myself of the grips, extra shirts, can of balls, etc. And the cost to me personally has been high: I sweat a lot and my grips can get very slippery. I've broken 2 frames while serving because I no longer have extra overgrips that I carry with me in the bag I no longer use. It's also gotten harder to get people to hit with me at the club, because I'm now known as the "that guy who never brings a can of balls." Even worse, I've convinced other people to adopt this "no bag" philosophy of yours and I've actually been on court with an opponent who also did not bring a can. We had to go around the courts trying to find used balls to hit with. I think that match might have ended in a draw.

Anyway, I am still committed to the elite club of you "no bag" players. But I really want my results to improve. Do you think moving from the 6 items I bring on court to say, 5 items will help? My other thought is that while I've lived in Asia, Europe and now America, I do not currently reside in a world capital. I mean, I've lived in London and New York, and San Francisco is a nice city, but it's no Paris or Moscow. Do you think moving to another world capital will give me access to the great insights that you've exposed us to?

....this could be the best internet post I have ever read......:shock:

 

[Rabbit]

....this could be the best internet post I have ever read......:shock:

seconded....

I think the real quandry is....yes, the best guys do just bring a towel and one racquet. I agree. But usually, if you get to hit with one of the best guys, you really don't mind supplying the balls, etc.

So, if you start carrying one racquet and a towel pretending to be one of the best guys, are you in fact worse than a guy who brings all his stuff with him? I mean after all, if you pretend to be a really good player by dropping all pretense as in a bag, then aren't you really worse than a guy who lugs around a bag?

Also, finding myself in the seniors competition, it's really a guess as to when you'll need that pesky hamstring or calf sleeve or other support device. I was just about talked into dropping my bag when I read the above post. Great effort!

 

[movdqa]

One of the guys that I play with walks into the club with nothing except maybe a towel.

He rents a locker and keeps his racquets, balls and other stuff in the locker. He's also the coach of the high-school team so I think that he has a fair number of racquets in the locker as he sometimes has to provide them to his players.

 

[user92626]

Which Nike bag do you have? I have one I love because it's all black with just a Swoosh®.. no gaudy brand name written all over the thing.

Here: http://www.buzzillions.com/dz_1646389_nike_tennis_6_8_racquet_bag_black_white_reviews

I have the same bag, except Ice Blue. Its convenience is great!

 

[subz]

I've been following this thread with great interest. I find the observations you've made very compelling. So much so that I've abandoned my big racquet bag, a Wilson EcoTour Super Six, in favor of just showing up with two frames and a water bottle. Oh, and keys. And phone. And wallet. Actually, I don't usually have the water because my club has water coolers on court. But I sometimes have to have my asthma inhaler with me, just in case.

By my count, this means I carry about 6 items on court with me. Sometimes I use a waist pouch to put these things in, but club security will sometimes stop me because I look like a tourist. Other times, I just try to wear shorts with very big pockets.

But I digress.

My results on court have been mixed, which has left me a bit confused. I mean, my results were also mixed back in the days when I carried the racquet bag. I fully expected that after ditching all this gear, my game MUST go up. After all, I'm freeing myself from the trappings of equipment that has weighed me down.

It was not easy divesting myself of the grips, extra shirts, can of balls, etc. And the cost to me personally has been high: I sweat a lot and my grips can get very slippery. I've broken 2 frames while serving because I no longer have extra overgrips that I carry with me in the bag I no longer use. It's also gotten harder to get people to hit with me at the club, because I'm now known as the "that guy who never brings a can of balls." Even worse, I've convinced other people to adopt this "no bag" philosophy of yours and I've actually been on court with an opponent who also did not bring a can. We had to go around the courts trying to find used balls to hit with. I think that match might have ended in a draw.

Anyway, I am still committed to the elite club of you "no bag" players. But I really want my results to improve. Do you think moving from the 6 items I bring on court to say, 5 items will help? My other thought is that while I've lived in Asia, Europe and now America, I do not currently reside in a world capital. I mean, I've lived in London and New York, and San Francisco is a nice city, but it's no Paris or Moscow. Do you think moving to another world capital will give me access to the great insights that you've exposed us to?

great post !

 

[cueboyzn]

I've been following this thread with great interest. I find the observations you've made very compelling. So much so that I've abandoned my big racquet bag, a Wilson EcoTour Super Six, in favor of just showing up with two frames and a water bottle. Oh, and keys. And phone. And wallet. Actually, I don't usually have the water because my club has water coolers on court. But I sometimes have to have my asthma inhaler with me, just in case.

By my count, this means I carry about 6 items on court with me. Sometimes I use a waist pouch to put these things in, but club security will sometimes stop me because I look like a tourist. Other times, I just try to wear shorts with very big pockets.

But I digress.

My results on court have been mixed, which has left me a bit confused. I mean, my results were also mixed back in the days when I carried the racquet bag. I fully expected that after ditching all this gear, my game MUST go up. After all, I'm freeing myself from the trappings of equipment that has weighed me down.

It was not easy divesting myself of the grips, extra shirts, can of balls, etc. And the cost to me personally has been high: I sweat a lot and my grips can get very slippery. I've broken 2 frames while serving because I no longer have extra overgrips that I carry with me in the bag I no longer use. It's also gotten harder to get people to hit with me at the club, because I'm now known as the "that guy who never brings a can of balls." Even worse, I've convinced other people to adopt this "no bag" philosophy of yours and I've actually been on court with an opponent who also did not bring a can. We had to go around the courts trying to find used balls to hit with. I think that match might have ended in a draw.

Anyway, I am still committed to the elite club of you "no bag" players. But I really want my results to improve. Do you think moving from the 6 items I bring on court to say, 5 items will help? My other thought is that while I've lived in Asia, Europe and now America, I do not currently reside in a world capital. I mean, I've lived in London and New York, and San Francisco is a nice city, but it's no Paris or Moscow. Do you think moving to another world capital will give me access to the great insights that you've exposed us to?

Simply Awesome :twisted:

 

[ProgressoR]

Um, I don't mean to be offensive, but people who carry 6 or 9 packs usually look like fools.

Apart from a teaching pro who might have to carry several frames he is restringing for others, all of the best players I have ever seen would show up with 2 rackets in hand and a bottle of water. When they hit the courts, they'd put their wallet and keys at the side of the court and just get to playing.

Nothing makes you feel like more of a loser than showing up to the courts with a body bag full of stuff and then walking off shortly afterwards when the guy with no bag or anything wipes the floor with you.

Unless you're a teaching pro, if you show up on court with a giant bag, you're carrying too much stuff.

You don't need to bring 20 overgrips to every tennis match. You can check your grips before you leave home and change them there if necessary.

You don't need 3 sets of clothes. If you're going somewhere important after tennis, the chances are, you'll want to stop by the house before you go anyways. Get changed there.

You don't need 4 pairs of shoes. Honestly, you just don't.

Rackets (2), balls, and water, that's all you need that you can't wear.

I hear ya...I have a small rucksack (not a tennis backpack) that does me, 2 bottles of water, a small towel, couple cans of balls and small pocket for allwet phone keys etc.

Saying that I also have a 6 racket big bag, that i use about once every few months if i am doing something else before or after tennis and need to take full kit with me (clothes and trainers etc), but i do feel it is not necessary unless you are spending all day at a tournment where you could be playing 2,3 matches.

For a hit, or a single match, you dont need that much.

 

[spaceman_spiff]

Sorry, I got bored with this thread and tuned out for a while.

Just a quick reply: I think you all are reading way too much into my posts. All I meant to say was that people who choose to bring way too much stuff to the courts look a bit silly in my opinion, and the best players I've seen tend to just stick to the basics, rather than carrying a bunch of stuff they don't usually need.

Obviously, just bringing the basics doesn't make you a good player; after all, most beginners just carry one racket and a couple of balls.

I'm sorry if my comments offended or confused any of you. I didn't realize you were so sensitive about your bags.

 

[Kirko]

TW Six Pack >>

I bought one when they came out very very cheap and Rabbit wrote a terrific review on the 9-pack way back so I bought one in 2004. still going strong loks worn all the zippers work and no tears even packed with stuff and took it as luggage on a trip to Israel like a big duffel that went in the cargo compartment. like 12.00.

 

[Power Player]

"I'm sorry if my comments offended or confused any of you. I didn't realize you were so sensitive about your bags."

You are 32 years old and stopped using a bag after being crushed by someone who did not have one. I think the only sensitive person here is you.

 

[spaceman_spiff]

"I'm sorry if my comments offended or confused any of you. I didn't realize you were so sensitive about your bags."

You are 32 years old and stopped using a bag after being crushed by someone who did not have one. I think the only sensitive person here is you.

I was 17 when the top 18-year-old in the state crushed me. That's when I opened my eyes and realized it was silly of me to carry around a big bag full of unnecessary stuff in some vain attempt to look like a good player, so I stopped.

I'm 32 now and currently use a backpack to carry basic gear for the walk to the courts. Some people on this thread have said they think backpacks look juvenile. Their opinions don't bother me one bit, which is why you haven't seen me waste any of my time in some hypocritical argument accusing them of making assumptions and being judgemental. They have their opinion, and that's perfectly fine with me.

On the other hand, I expressed my opinion about big bags, and all sorts of accusitive and highly defensive responses followed. Obviously, my comments struck a nerve, so I apologize.

 

[BC1]

I was 17 when the top 18-year-old in the state crushed me. That's when I opened my eyes and realized it was silly of me to carry around a big bag full of unnecessary stuff in some vain attempt to look like a good player, so I stopped.

I'm 32 now and currently use a backpack to carry basic gear for the walk to the courts. Some people on this thread have said they think backpacks look juvenile. Their opinions don't bother me one bit, which is why you haven't seen me waste any of my time in some hypocritical argument accusing them of making assumptions and being judgemental. They have their opinion, and that's perfectly fine with me.

On the other hand, I expressed my opinion about big bags, and all sorts of accusitive and highly defensive responses followed. Obviously, my comments struck a nerve, so I apologize.

We all know deep down, there's no "right" or "wrong" here, and I sure hope none of us are sensative enough to be "hurt" by what other state here. However, all of this talk about bags just magnifies how so many tennis players care far too much about their image, or the image of others, and judge too much.

It's like when some people criticize others for usuing a Babolat racquet - They say they are Nadal "posers" wannabees, etc. Because of all the Baboloat "hate" I stayed away from Babolat, and didn't want to like the PD, becasue I didn't want to be one of the perceived "followers". Then finally I said the hell with it, I like this racquet and don't give a damn what others think - same with the choice of bags.

Yes, there are the few that may choose their equipment based on what "they" think is cool or trendy, or makes them look good, but I honestly believe the vast majority of us (those who are passionate enough about tennis to be regulars on this site), end up using what we prefer, works for us, and makes us enjoy the game the most. At first we may care what others think, but that goes away when you actually start winning, or loosing, on the courts - then you realize your playing ability is all that truly matters.

 

[kevoT]

depends; If I have time to go back home before my training, i'd bring my "suitcase" but if I have to go direct from school, i would just pack it with my school stuff.

 

[bugeyed]

I am surprised that, with all this talk about big bags are for posers & backpacks are for dorks, no-one has mentioned stenciling logos on the strings. I know that a stencil makes the stringbed respond better & adds topspin & power, but I still don't do it, 'cause I like the feel of my racquets without one.
Cheers,
kev