How to choose a Tennis Racket

With a ruler

To find a perfect grip size, measure the distance between your palm’s middle crease and the tip of your ring finger. Adult grip size ranges between 4 1/8” and 4 5/8”. Junior grip sizes are between 3” and 4”. If your size is between two grip sizes, go for the smaller size because you can always add over grip. Over grip increases the size by 1/16”.

Without a ruler

Hold on to the grip of a racket, you should be able to fit your index finger of your non-hitting hand between your ring finger and palm.

Generally rackets are 27” long and are suitable for everyone(adults). Long racket gives you greater leverage on a swing, giving more power to your shot. It is usually favored by professionals. Beginners should start with normal 27” racquet. Longer rackets create difficulty in aiming and are less maneuverable.

There are two kinds of string pattern, closed and open string pattern.

Open strings add more spin to the ball. More the topspin, harder you can hit the ball and keep it into the court. Less durable.

Dense/closed string pattern: Less space between the strings add control in directing shots. It provides more control and are durable.

Choose according to your need.

Many people are of a belief that lighter rackets are better than heavier ones. It is opposite in case of tennis. The heavier the racket, more power it has. Weight also contributes to the stability of the racket. Heavier the racket, more is the stability.

Mid Weight (280 to 310 g): They provide the combination of power and control.

Heavy weight (approx. 330 g): They help to maintain more control over player’s swing and provides more power in shots.

Stiff rackets bend less, depleting energy from the ball.

Flexible Rackets: Due to their flexibility, provides more comfort (due to less shock) and control (because of less power). It loses more energy due to more racket deflection, transferring less energy to the ball. Best suited for athletes with faster swings and players who are capable of generating their own power.

Stiff Rackets: They transfer more energy to the ball. Due to their stiffness, they vibrate less and lose less energy due to less racket deflection. Ideal for athletes with shorter and slower swings, who want their racket to generate more power for them.

Most rackets are made up of Graphite which is light and strong, serving the main purpose of a good racket.

Aluminum: Rackets made from aluminum are usually heavy, but sturdy and dependable. It is cheaper and good for beginners.

Graphite: most of the rackets are made using graphite. Graphite is strong and light at the same time. They provide control as well as power. Apt for professionals and people who wish to play regularly.

The main reason for string breakage is friction. The more the space between strings, more would be the movement, cause strings to wear out soon. Dense or closed strings pattern do not let strings to move and they last longer.