Hot Shots equipment for kids
Swisse Hot Shots Tennis uses scaled courts, lighter racquets and softer balls so children learn through play. The gear changes with the stage, so a 4-year-old and a 10-year-old are not asked to use the same court, racquet or ball.
Lower-compression balls bounce less. Racquets and court sizes are suited to a child's age and stage. That is the idea behind all four stages.
Equipment by stage
Blue (ages 3–5+)
Age-appropriate gear in a large, flat space. The focus is running, jumping, throwing, catching and striking through play, not a full court or a standard ball.
Red (ages 5–8+)
Softer, larger red balls. Racquets of 19–23 inches. Scaled courts and nets. Kids develop skills such as rallying through games.
Orange (ages 8–10+)
A 50 per cent compression orange ball on scaled courts. Kids develop skills through game-based play, including tactics in singles and doubles, teamwork and respect.
Green (ages 10+)
A 75 per cent compression green ball. Racquets of 25–27 inches. Full or modified courts. This stage suits kids who play for fun and kids who want more challenge and competition.
Does my child need their own racquet?
Not necessarily. Many programs provide racquets to borrow when kids are starting out. Your coach or club will let you know what is needed. Having a racquet of their own can help kids practise at home and build confidence, once they are playing regularly.
What parents can ask the club
Which stage matches my child's age and ability?
Are racquets available to borrow?
Which ball will they use — red, orange or green?
Is the court scaled, modified or full size?
Frequently asked questions
Why are the balls softer?
Hot Shots uses lower-compression balls that bounce less, so children can learn through play with a ball that suits their stage. Red balls are softer and larger. Orange is 50 per cent compression. Green is 75 per cent compression.
What size racquet should they use?
Red uses 19–23 inch racquets. Green uses 25–27 inch racquets. Blue uses age-appropriate gear. The coach or club can confirm what your child needs.
Can they start without buying anything?
Often, yes. Many programs lend racquets at the start. Check with the coach or club before you buy.