How to choose a tennis racket: head size, weight, grip and string pattern
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- Oversize beginner tennis racket (105 to 110 sq in). Best for: New and returning players who want forgiveness. See options on Amazon
- Lightweight adult tennis racket (9 to 10 oz). Best for: Comparing an easier-to-swing adult frame. See options on Amazon
- Mid-plus performance racket (98 to 105 sq in, 16x19). Best for: Intermediate players who want control with some forgiveness. See options on Amazon
- Junior tennis racket sized by height. Best for: Children and young teens. See options on Amazon
- Tennis overgrip pack. Best for: Players between grip sizes or with a worn, slippery handle. See options on Amazon
Head size: power and forgiveness vs control
Head size is the string-bed area. HEAD uses these categories:
| Category | Square inches | Trade-off described by HEAD |
|---|---|---|
| Midsize | 85 to 97 | Smaller contact area, more precision |
| Mid-plus | 98 to 105 | Between smaller and oversize frames |
| Oversize | 106 to 135 | Larger sweet spot and off-center forgiveness, less maneuverability |
These labels are buying categories, not universal performance guarantees. Compare actual specifications rather than choosing by a collection name or the word performance.
Weight, balance and length
- Weight: Wilson's strung examples are 9 to 10 ounces for easier swinging and 11 to 12 for more stability. Check whether listings include strings before comparing.
- Balance and swingweight: HEAD distinguishes total mass from how heavy a frame feels in motion. A lighter total weight can still feel different if more mass is toward the head.
- Length: Wilson lists 27 inches as standard and 27.25 to 27.5 as extended. Compare extra reach with handling.
If available, try a demo with your normal strokes. Record the model and string setup so your comparison concerns the same configuration you would buy.
Grip size: how to measure and why it matters
Grip size is the distance around the handle. Wilson lists adult sizes from 4 inches to 4 5/8 inches. HEAD's check uses an eastern forehand grip: the other hand's index finger should fit between the fingertips and palm.
Wilson suggests the smaller option plus an overgrip when between sizes. Try the built-up grip rather than choosing by gender or a supposed average hand size. A worn replacement grip and an added overgrip are different changes; check what is included.
String pattern, stiffness and tension
- Pattern: Wilson describes 16x19 as an open pattern with spin potential and 18x20 as denser, with more directional control.
- Stiffness: HEAD explains that RA is a static measurement and does not describe every part of dynamic frame stiffness. Strings also affect the feel. Do not choose a single RA number as an elbow-pain remedy.
- Tension: use the frame and string recommendations with a stringer. Wilson offers 53 to 55 lb as a multifilament starting range and advises against full polyester above 54 lb; that is not a universal setting for every frame or player.
Junior tennis rackets: sizing kids
For a child, Babolat describes standing in tennis shoes with the arm down and holding the racket by its handle. A tip less than 5 cm from the ground is its size check; choose the smaller option between sizes. Its grip check measures from the palm crease opposite the middle finger to the fingertip, using that length of string around the handle.
Ask a coach or stringer about age-appropriate strings. Babolat advises against most of its monofilament strings under age 12, naming RPM Soft as an exception. Do not copy an adult competition setup without checking suitability. Its care guidance says to avoid heat/direct sun, ground impacts and unprotected transport.
Rackets and tennis elbow
AAOS describes overuse, stroke technique and equipment as possible factors in tennis elbow. Its equipment guidance mentions stiffer frames, looser strings and, for someone using an oversized racket, a smaller head. This differs from HEAD's comfort advice favoring softer frames. Such short recommendations do not establish one best racket for pain.
Have persistent symptoms and equipment fit assessed rather than playing through pain. AAOS advises reducing or stopping activities that provoke symptoms. Tell your clinician about previous elbow injury, nerve disease or rheumatoid arthritis. Our tennis elbow brace and counterforce brace guides explain related gear; equipment changes do not replace care.
What to look for when you buy
Oversize beginner tennis racket (105 to 110 sq in)
Best for: New and returning players who want forgiveness
Compare the beginner head-size starting point above with your grip fit and manageable swing.
Watch out: A larger head does not guarantee a better racket for your strokes or a painful elbow.
See options on AmazonLightweight adult tennis racket (9 to 10 oz)
Best for: Comparing an easier-to-swing adult frame
Compare the lighter strung range above, then check balance and your actual stroke feel.
Watch out: Strung and unstrung figures are different. Do not treat low weight as a pain-treatment claim.
See options on AmazonMid-plus performance racket (98 to 105 sq in, 16x19)
Best for: Intermediate players who want control with some forgiveness
Compare head size and the open string pattern with your preference for contact area and spin.
Watch out: Check the complete weight, balance and grip configuration rather than the performance label alone.
See options on AmazonJunior tennis racket sized by height
Best for: Children and young teens
Use the junior size and grip checks above with a coach's advice.
Watch out: Do not buy an oversized frame to grow into. Check the string type as well as frame length.
See options on AmazonTennis overgrip pack
Best for: Players between grip sizes or with a worn, slippery handle
An overgrip can build up the smaller handle option as described above.
Watch out: Try the finished grip; adding layers changes the circumference.
See options on AmazonQuestions people ask
- What tennis racket should a beginner get?
- Compare the beginner head-size suggestion above, then choose a weight and grip you can handle. A label for beginners is not a fit check.
- How do I choose a tennis racket grip size?
- Use the grip test above and try the handle with any overgrip you intend to use. Choose by hand fit rather than an average for men or women.
- What is the best tennis racket for tennis elbow?
- No model is established here as a treatment. The differing stiffness advice above is a reason to seek individual assessment and an equipment check.
- What size tennis racket does my child need?
- Use the junior fit checks above. A coach can help match frame length, grip and strings to your child's size and level.
- Is a table tennis racket the same thing?
- No. A table tennis racket (paddle) is a small wooden blade with rubber faces for ping pong. This guide covers rackets for lawn and hard-court tennis.
Sources
- How to Choose a Tennis Racket (Size, Weight & Grip Guide) (wilson.com), Wilson Sporting Goods (maker)
- How to Choose a Tennis Racquet in 10 Steps (head.com), HEAD (maker)
- How to choose your Junior/Kids tennis racquet? (babolat.com), Babolat (maker)
- Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) (orthoinfo.org), American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo)