The Different Grip Sizes!

Tennis racket grip sizes are a crucial part as they directly influence the player's comfort and performance.

We've created a small guide on grip sizes, so you can always stay informed.

Importance of Grip Size

• Comfort and Control: A grip of the right size allows you to hold the racket comfortably and apply the necessary control in your shots.
• Injury Prevention: A grip that is too small can force the player to tighten the racket too much, causing muscle tension and increasing the risk of injuries, such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow).
• Playing Style: Players who prefer topspin can choose smaller grips to facilitate wrist rotation, while players looking for more stability can opt for larger grips.

Common Grip Sizes

 

 

Grip sizes are generally measured in inches or millimeters and may vary slightly between manufacturers, this is the standard numbering:

• Grip 0: 4 inches (100 mm)
• Grip 1: 4 1/8 inches (105 mm)
• Grip 2: 4 1/4 inches (110 mm)
• Grip 3: 4 3/8 inches (115 mm)
• Grip 4: 4 1/2 inches (120 mm)
• Grip 5: 4 5/8 inches (125 mm)

How to Measure Ideal Grip Size

 

1. Ruler Method:

 

 

• Open your non-dominant hand and extend your fingers.
• Measure the distance between the tip of your ring finger and the center line of your palm. This will give a rough indication of the size of the grip.

2. Finger Space Method:

 

 

• Hold the racket with your dominant hand.
• If there is about a finger's width of space between your fingertips and the base of your palm when you hold the racket, the size is adequate.

Size Choice Based on Player Profile

• Adults: Most adults use grip size 2 or 3. Women generally prefer between 1 and 2, while men tend to use 3 to 5.
• Children: Generally use smaller grips, usually 3 1/2 inch grip or 0 grip.

Adjusting Grip Size

• Overgrips: These are wrapped over the existing grip to increase the size slightly and improve grip. They are easy to change and offer a personalized feel.
• Grip Replacement: Replacing the original grip with a new one can adjust the size and comfort.
• Changing Plates: The HEAD brand has a plate system in the grip of the rackets, which allows the size of the grip to be changed without changing the weight or balance. At Racket City we offer this service.

Tips for Choosing

• Personal Test: If possible, try on different sizes before purchasing.
• Professional Consulting: A professional at Racket City can help you choose the correct grip size, especially if you are a beginner or experience discomfort when playing.

Choosing the right grip size is vital to maximizing performance and ensuring comfort during gameplay. Consider your personal preferences and the physical feedback you receive when holding your racket to determine the ideal size for you.