The right tennis balls for kids
Choosing the right tennis balls for children is important for their enjoyment and development on the court. Regular tennis balls bounce too high and too fast for young players. This makes it difficult to hit the ball properly and slows down the learning process. Special kids' tennis balls are designed to bounce more slowly, making the game easier to understand. This gives young players more time to execute their strokes and helps them master the basics faster. Playing with the right ball boosts control, confidence, and most importantly, makes the game more fun.
Stage balls: designed for young players
Stage balls are lighter and softer than regular tennis balls, and designed specifically for young players. They are filled with air in microcells, which ensures consistent softness. This makes them feel the same every time, giving players confidence during practice and matches. These balls bounce lower and move more slowly, making it easier for kids to learn the game. This system is approved by the international tennis federation and is used worldwide in youth training.
The colour system for different age groups
The stage ball concept uses a colour-coded system matched to the child's age and skill level. Red, orange, and green balls each provide a different pace and bounce. This helps young players improve step by step. By practising with different coloured balls, children naturally develop their strokes. Each colour stage forms a logical step toward playing with a standard tennis ball.
Which tennis ball colour suits your child?
The right tennis ball depends on your child's age and tennis experience. Playing with the correct ball makes practice not only easier but also more enjoyable. Children can play longer rallies without getting frustrated. A suitable ball also helps them learn proper technique and prevents injuries. As they progress through the colour system, kids develop game awareness and confidence.
Red balls for young beginners (up to 8/9 years old)
Red tennis balls are the first step for kids just starting out in tennis. They bounce about 75% lower than standard tennis balls and are ideal for children up to around 8 or 9 years old. The slower bounce gives young players more time to track the ball and get into position. This really helps them learn basic movements like forehands, backhands, and simple rallies. Playing on a smaller court with these balls makes the game more manageable and gives kids a better chance to succeed.
Orange balls for the next step (8–10/11 years old)
Orange balls are the intermediate step for children aged around 8 to 11 who have already developed some ball control. These stage balls bounce 50% lower than regular tennis balls and are slightly faster than the red ones. Kids get used to longer strokes and learn how to position themselves better on the court. The game is also played on a slightly larger court, making spatial awareness and footwork more important. Orange balls help kids gradually prepare for real match play.
Green balls as the final step (10–12 years old)
Green tennis balls are for kids aged 10 to 12 who are ready to transition to standard tennis balls. These balls bounce 25% lower and are thus faster than the red and orange types, but still easy to control. They strike a balance between challenge and playability. Children learn to handle real match situations and further refine their stroke technique. Thanks to the controlled bounce, they can confidently move toward playing full adult tennis.
Choose the perfect tennis balls for your young player
If your child plays tennis and you want them to enjoy learning at their own pace, kids' tennis balls are essential. Our selection includes red, orange, and green stage balls tailored to different ages and skill levels. This gives your young player everything they need to enjoy the game while continuing to improve.