A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Tennis Racquet

Choosing the right tennis racquet should not be complicated. Yet, it often is. With so many options, it can be challenging to know where to start. In this guide, we will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a racquet, how they relate to your style of play, and where to find the specifications on the racquet itself.

Here are eight factors to consider while choosing the right tennis racquet.

Racquet Head Size

The racquet head size is measured in square inches and typically ranges from 85-135 square inches. A larger head size will have a more prominent sweet spot, making it easier for beginners and intermediate players to hit the ball with more power and consistency. However, advanced players may prefer a smaller head size for more control and precision. Oversized racquets have head sizes that are larger than 105 square inches.

The racquet head size is usually displayed on the racquet frame near the throat.

Weight

The weight of a tennis racquet is usually measured in ounces. The average weight of a racquet is around 10.5 oz. A lighter racquet that weighs less than 10 oz is easier to maneuver, making it ideal for beginners and players with a slower swing speed. Heavier racquets provide more power and stability, which can benefit advanced players with faster swing speeds. However, a heavier racquet may cause fatigue or injury if used improperly. It is essential to remember that the number displayed on the racquets does not include the weight of the strings, typically around 0.5 oz.

The weight of a tennis racquet is typically displayed on the frame near the handle.

Length

The length of a tennis racquet is measured in inches and typically ranges from 27-29 inches. A longer racquet provides more reach and leverage, making it easier to hit groundstrokes with more power and spin. However, a longer racquet can also be more challenging to control, making it harder for beginners and intermediate players. Shots, such as volleys, played close to the body also can get trickier with a longer racquet.

Not all tennis racquets display their lengths. When shown, it is likely to be near the racquet’s throat.

Grip Size

The grip size of a tennis racquet is generally measured in inches and should be chosen based on the size of your palm. You can determine the grip size that works for you by measuring the distance between the tip of your ring finger and the base of your palm. Racquets typically come in grip sizes ranging from 4-5/8 to 4-1/8 inches.

The grip size of a tennis racquet is usually displayed on the end of the handle or the frame.

Frame Stiffness

The stiffness of a tennis racquet’s frame is typically displayed on the frame near the throat. Racket stiffness measures how much the racquet flexes while playing a shot and is rated using an RA scale that typically ranges from 55-75 RA. A stiffer frame will give you more power and stability, while a more flexible frame can provide more control and feel, making it ideal for players who prefer more touch shots.

While there are different takes on what the “RA” rating stands for, “Racquet Analysis” rating makes the most sense.

Balance

From a balance point of view, a tennis racquet can be head-heavy, evenly balanced, or handle-heavy. A head-heavy racquet will provide more power and stability, while an evenly balanced racquet provides a good balance of power and control. Handle-heavy racquets typically fall on the heavier end of the spectrum, providing more control and maneuverability for stronger-armed players.

An evenly balanced tennis racquet 686 mm (27”) long would have a balance number around its midpoint of 343 mm. Any balance above 343 can be considered head-heavy, and anything below would be head-light. The balance of a tennis racquet is typically displayed on the frame as a three-digit number that marks its center of gravity point.

Swing Weight

The swing weight of a tennis racquet is not typically displayed on the racquet, making it less tangible than many other specs that are easy to understand. Simply, it refers to the effort required to swing the racquet. A higher swing weight can provide more power and stability, while a lower one offers more control and maneuverability.

The swing weight of a tennis racquet is a calculated, unitless number that usually falls between 200 – 400. If you are curious about how manufacturers determine swing weight, check out this Artengo video.

String Tension

String tension is measured in pounds and refers to the amount of tension applied to the strings when strung. A higher string tension provides more control and precision, while a lower string tension provides more power and a larger sweet spot. While you should pick a string tension based on your style of play, staying in the middle of the range is a safe option for beginners and intermediate players.

The string tension of a tennis racquet is typically displayed near the throat.

So, there you have it.

When choosing the right tennis racquet, it is essential to consider the racquet head size, weight, length, grip size, frame stiffness, balance, and string tension. Each of these factors can significantly impact your game and should be chosen based on your skill level, style of play, and personal preferences. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a tennis racquet to help take your game to the next level.

Image credit: DoltTennis on Flickr