Tennis equipment: shirts

For a long time tennis gear was always white.

There is logic behind this - white reflects the sun and is therefore cooler than dark colours, but in the 1980s, as competition among sportswear makers heated up, they began experimenting with all the colours, shades and patterns.

Andre Agassi led the way with stone-washed jean-shorts and the crazy hues of his Nike-supplied shirts.

This didn't always go down well - particularly at Wimbledon, which is the only tournament where players must still wear clothes that are 'almost entirely white' or risk disqualification.

Now sleeveless shirts are worn by the likes of James Blake and Max Mirnyi, and the women continue to push the boundaries of tennis fashion, with more colourful, shorter and backless outfits.

Serena and Venus Williams even design their own gear. But don't be swayed by labels when it comes to choosing your gear.

For instance, tight-fitting tops may look good for some, but it may be more comfortable to wear a looser shirt which is more breathable.