A good tennis shirt wicks sweat fast, allows a full range of arm motion, and doesn't cling to your body by the second set. Avoid pure cotton on court — it absorbs sweat and stays wet all match, adding weight and discomfort. Look for polyester or polyester-blend fabrics with moisture-wicking technology. If your club requires a collar, go with a polo.
Last updated: June 2026 · Prices checked June 2026
| Shirt | Tier | Price | Key Specs | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Decathlon Artengo Dry Tennis Polo | Budget | ~$15 | Polyester wicking · Collar polo | 8.0 |
| ASICS Club Polo Shirt | Budget | ~$28 | Moisture-wicking polyester · Athletic cut | 8.0 |
| Nike Dri-FIT Advantage Polo | Best Value | ~$45 | Nike Dri-FIT fabric · 4-way stretch | 9.0 |
| Adidas Club Tennis Polo | Best Value | ~$38 | AEROREADY wicking · Recycled materials | 8.5 |
| Lacoste Ultra-Dry Polo | Premium | ~$85 | NOVAFIL® Ultra-Dry · 4-way stretch | 9.5 |
| lululemon Metal Vent Tech Polo | Premium | ~$88 | Metal Vent Tech fabric · Built-in ventilation mesh | 9.5 |
Under $30
Proper court shirts that wick without the big brand markupDecathlon's own-brand tennis polo punches well above its price. Polyester moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry, the cut allows a full range of arm motion, and the collar satisfies most club dress codes at a fraction of the cost. Color fades slightly after 30+ washes but lasts a solid season or two of regular play.
ASICS' entry-level court polo with moisture-wicking polyester and a clean athletic cut. Slightly more tailored than Decathlon's offering and holds its shape better after repeated washing. Good 4-way stretch for overhead serves and net approaches. Accepted at most clubs without a second glance.
$35 – $55
Where wicking, stretch, and durability jump noticeably
The go-to polo for regular players who take their kit seriously. Dri-FIT pulls sweat away and dries fast between changeovers. 4-way stretch for unrestricted movement on overhead smashes. Holds color well through dozens of machine washes. Accepted at virtually every club and clean enough for post-match drinks.
Adidas' dedicated tennis polo with AEROREADY moisture management and a slightly more relaxed fit than Nike's version — good for players who prefer less compression. Built from recycled materials. Clean three-stripe branding accepted everywhere. Excellent color selection and a durable build that stands up to frequent washing.
$70 – $90
The best ventilation, longevity, and on-court style
The classic tennis polo reimagined with NOVAFIL® Ultra-Dry technology — exceptional quick-drying properties with a luxurious, substantive feel that cheaper polos can't replicate. Traditional structured collar, athletic fit, built to last 3–5 years with proper care. The choice of purists who want serious performance presented with style.
lululemon's athletic polo makes a compelling case for the court. Metal Vent Tech fabric has integrated mesh ventilation built directly into the weave — one of the most breathable performance fabrics currently available. UV-protective, 4-way stretch, and surprisingly durable. A growing favorite among serious club players who want to look as good as they play.
Tennis Shirts Buying Guide
Fabric is the whole game
Cotton kills on court — it soaks sweat, gets heavy, and chafes. Every shirt worth buying is polyester or a poly-blend with moisture-wicking treatment that pulls sweat to the surface to evaporate. The difference between a $12 and a $45 shirt is mostly fabric refinement, stretch, and odor control.
Fit affects your swing
You want athletic but not tight: room through the shoulders for a full service motion, and a hem long enough to stay tucked-ish when you stretch wide. Raglan sleeves (diagonal seams) avoid shoulder-seam rub during overheads.
Polo or crew?
Pure preference and dress code. Some traditional clubs still expect collars; everywhere else, crew-neck performance tees dominate. Buy whichever you'll actually wear — the fabric matters far more than the collar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just wear a cotton t-shirt to play tennis?
You can, but you'll regret it in summer — cotton holds sweat, gets heavy, and chafes. Even budget polyester shirts wick moisture and dry in minutes.
Why are tennis shirts so expensive?
Premium lines pay for advanced fabrics, stretch panels, and brand sponsorship — but the performance difference between a $20 and a $45 shirt is small. The budget-to-mid tier is the value sweet spot.
How many tennis shirts do I need?
One per session plus laundry buffer — most regular players settle on 3–5 dedicated court shirts. Hot-climate players sometimes bring two per session.
Do tennis clubs have dress codes?
Some traditional clubs require collared shirts and predominantly white clothing (Wimbledon-style). Public courts have no rules. Check before your first visit to a private club.