Starter Kits
Six sports.
One short list each.
Each kit covers what a beginner actually needs, how to make it fit, what to skip for now, and a simple four-week plan for adding gear. Every page prints cleanly for ticking off at home.
Tennis
Racket, grip size, court shoes and the few extras worth having before your first lessons.
Open the kit
Running
The cheapest sport to start, as long as the shoes fit. Sizing, socks and weather layers.
Open the kit
Cycling
Frame size, saddle height and helmet fit, plus the small repair kit that saves a long walk home.
Open the kit
Football
Choosing boots for the surface you play on, shin pad fit, and which ball size suits which age.
Open the kit
Basketball
Indoor vs outdoor balls, ankle support in shoes, and what to bring to a first casual game.
Open the kit
Swimming
Goggle fit tests, cap types and training aids, plus what to leave out of your first pool bag.
Open the kitHow each kit works
Built the same way, so they are easy to compare
Essentials checklist
Grouped by what you wear, what you play with, and what goes in the bag.
Fit and size table
The key measurements for that sport, with quick checks you can do in a shop.
Skip for now
Items that are useful later but add cost and confusion in a first season.
First four weeks
A week-by-week order for adding gear as you learn what you need.
Questions
Beginner gear FAQ
Do I need to buy everything before my first session?
No. Before day one you only need required safety gear, suitable footwear and clothes you can move in. Borrow or rent the main piece of equipment until you know what you like.
What is the most important thing to get right as a beginner?
In most sports it is footwear. The right type of shoe for the movement, in a size that fits, prevents many of the blisters and aches that put beginners off.
Should I buy cheap gear or save for something better?
Spend on fit and safety first: shoes, helmets and anything that touches you for a long time. Clothing, bags and practice balls work well at entry level. Premium gear is designed for experienced players and is rarely needed in a first season.
Can I borrow protective gear?
Some items, like shin pads or knee pads in good condition, are fine to borrow. Helmets and mouthguards should be your own, because helmets can hide impact damage and mouthguards are personal hygiene items.
How do I know what size to buy for a child?
Use the fit tables on each starter kit page and check your league or club rules for ball and racket sizes. Avoid buying shoes or helmets several sizes too big "to grow into", because poor fit reduces comfort and protection.
Are the lists on this site printable?
Yes. Every starter kit page has a print button and a print-friendly layout, so you can tick items off on paper.