Find your perfect tennis racket: size, grip strength and more
Do you want to start playing tennis or are you looking for a new racket that suits you better? Then you've come to the right place!
Because the right tennis racket can make all the difference - for your game, your fun and your development on the court. We'll show you what you should look out for: from the right racket size and the right grip strength to other important criteria such as stringing and weight.
Which tennis racket is right for me?
The choice depends heavily on how experienced you are, your playing style and your physical abilities. If you are a beginner, you should choose a model that gives you as much control and confidence as possible. Tennis rackets for beginners with a larger racket head and lower weight are particularly suitable for this. Advanced players often opt for slightly heavier models that offer more precision and speed.
The balance of the racket also plays a role. Top-heavy models give you more momentum, while grip-heavy models offer more control. The important thing is that the racket feels good and suits your style of play.
Tennis rackets - what size?
The length of a tennis racket for adults is usually between 68.5 and 71 centimetres. Special junior rackets with shorter lengths are available for children. The head size has a direct effect on the way you play:
- Large head size: particularly forgiving, ideal for beginners
- Medium-sized head: good balance between control and tolerance
- Small head: maximum precision, suitable for experienced players
When trying out the racket, make sure that it feels comfortable in your hand and that you can handle it easily.
What grip strength for tennis rackets?
An often underestimated but decisive factor is the right grip strength. It influences the feel, control and even the strain on your wrists. The grip strength is specified in sizes L0 to L5.
Here's how to find the right strength for you:
- Carry out the so-called finger test: There should be about one finger's width between the ball of the hand and the fingertips
- Adults usually choose L2 to L4
- Children and teenagers need smaller thicknesses
- If the grip is too thin, you can easily help with an overgrip
You should regularly replace the grip tape on a tennis racket, especially if it feels slippery or moisture builds up. A fresh grip tape ensures a secure hold and a pleasant playing experience.
Differences in tennis rackets for men and women
Even though many tennis rackets are suitable for both sexes, there are certain differences that can help you make the right choice:
Tennis rackets for women:
- Often lighter and therefore easier to swing
- Usually narrower grips with grip thickness L1 or L2
- Focus on comfort and control
Tennis rackets for men:
- Tends to be heavier for more power and stability
- Grip thicknesses often between L3 and L4
- More orientated towards power in play
However, the final decision always depends on your personal preference.
Other important factors: Stringing, weight and balance
In addition to size and grip strength, it is also worth paying attention to the stringing and weight of the racket. Soft-strung rackets offer a particularly comfortable feel and are easy on the joints. Hard strings, on the other hand, provide more control and are ideal if you are already confident with your strokes.
The rule of thumb for restringing frequency is: restring as many times a year as you play per week. If you play twice a week, it makes sense to restring your racket about every six months. It's time for new strings at the latest when the racket loses a lot of tension or you no longer feel the ball control as well as you used to.
The following applies to weight:
- Light rackets (260 to 290 grams) are manoeuvrable and particularly suitable for beginners
- Heavy rackets (over 300 grams) offer stability and more power
- The balance determines how the racket feels when swinging - top-heavy rackets generate more swing power, grip-heavy rackets more control
The same applies here: testing brings clarity. You can try out different models in our shops and compare them directly.
Conclusion: Your perfect tennis racket is waiting for you
A well-chosen tennis racket is not only the most important tool on the court, it is also crucial for your feel, your technique and your risk of injury. When choosing a racket, make sure it is the right size, has the correct grip strength, is strung to suit you and has a fresh grip tape. Whether tennis rackets for men, women or beginners, find the ideal model for your game.
If you need help, just drop by our shop. Our advisors will be happy to help you find the tennis racket that suits you perfectly.
