Tennis accessories are cheap to buy and easy to ignore — but the right ones genuinely improve your game. Vibration dampeners reduce the "ping" feeling on off-center hits and protect your arm over long sessions. Wristbands keep sweat off your grip hand so your grip stays secure mid-match. Headbands stop sweat dripping into your eyes during intense points. None of these are essential, but every serious player uses at least one.
Last updated: June 2026 · Prices checked June 2026
| Item | Tier | Price | Key Specs | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Pro Feel Vibration Dampener (2-pack) | Budget | ~$5 | Fits most rackets · Vibration dampening | 8.5 |
| Babolat Custom Damp (6-pack) | Budget | ~$8 | Worm-style design · Multi-string contact | 8.8 |
| Nike Dri-FIT Wristbands (2-pack) | Best Value | ~$14 | Dri-FIT fabric · 3-inch width | 8.8 |
| Adidas AeroReady Headband | Best Value | ~$18 | AeroReady fabric · 5cm wide | 9.0 |
| Nike Elite Doublewide Wristbands (2-pack) | Premium | ~$25 | Terry Dri-FIT fabric · 2 wristbands + 1 headband | 9.2 |
| Babolat Logo Wristband (2-pack) | Premium | ~$22 | Loop-terry material · Heavy-duty absorption | 9.0 |
Under $10 — Dampeners
Reduce vibration and protect your arm for next to nothing
Simple, reliable, and one of the most used dampeners on tour. The Pro Feel sits between the bottom two main strings and absorbs the sharp vibration on impact. Subtle enough that it doesn't affect string movement. Comes in two — keep one on the court bag as a spare. If you're prone to tennis elbow, this should be your first purchase.
Babolat's signature worm-style dampener — it wraps around multiple strings for a more consistent dampening effect than button-style options. Very popular among Babolat players. The worm shape also makes it harder to accidentally flick off during play. Six in a pack means you'll never run out. Available in multiple colors.
$12 – $22 — Wristbands
Keep sweat off your grip hand and play cleaner
Nike's Dri-FIT wristbands are the standard for a reason. Thick enough to absorb real sweat, thin enough not to restrict wrist movement on your swing. The fabric stays soft even after dozens of washes and doesn't stretch out like cheaper cotton bands. Comes in pairs — wear one or both, depending on how much you sweat.
Adidas AeroReady headbands are among the best for keeping sweat out of your eyes without overheating. Wider than most competitors (5cm), it traps more sweat before it reaches your forehead. The elastic is firm but doesn't leave a pressure mark after long sessions. Popular on the ATP and WTA circuits with Adidas-sponsored players.
$22 – $35 — Sets & Branded Bands
Complete accessory bundles and tour-brand bands
The complete solution — two wristbands and one headband in a matching set. Nike's Elite line uses a higher-density terry fabric that absorbs more sweat per square inch than standard Dri-FIT. The headband sits high enough to not interfere with your hat but low enough to catch forehead sweat. Everything matches, everything performs. Great value when bought as a set.
Babolat's wristbands are made from a thicker loop-terry material that holds significantly more moisture than thin poly bands. Worn by Nadal throughout his career — you'll see them in almost every Grand Slam highlight. Firm but not tight, durable, and they maintain elasticity far longer than cheaper alternatives. A genuine upgrade if you're serious about your kit.
Tennis Accessories Buying Guide
Buy the boring stuff first
The unglamorous accessories pay off fastest: vibration dampeners cost a few dollars and take the buzz out of off-center hits, wristbands keep sweat off your grip, and a quality water bottle beats cramping at 5–5 in the third set.
Dampeners: feel, not injury protection
A dampener changes the sound and feel of contact — it does not meaningfully reduce shock to your arm (that's the job of string choice and technique). Buy one if you like a muted thud over a ping. Pros are split about 50/50, so it's purely preference.
Court gear that earns its bag space
Ball clips hold a spare ball at your waist for serving practice. Lead tape lets you experiment with racket weight and balance for a few dollars. And an extra overgrip plus a small towel should live in every bag permanently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do vibration dampeners actually work?
They change the sound and feel — the ping becomes a thud — but studies show they don't reduce the shock that reaches your arm. Use one if you prefer the feel; skip it if you like feedback.
What accessories does a beginner actually need?
A water bottle, an extra overgrip, and a towel. Add a dampener if you prefer the muted feel. Everything else can wait until you know you'll keep playing.
What is lead tape for?
Adding small amounts of weight to specific spots on the frame to change balance and stability — at 3 and 9 o'clock for stability, at 12 for power. It's a cheap way to customize a racket like the pros do.
Why do players put a ball clip on their waist?
It holds a second ball during serves so you don't stuff it in a pocket or hold it against the racket. Cheap, light, and surprisingly convenient once you've used one.