Choosing a new tennis racket can be a very difficult decision. There are plenty of options available, different brands, different technologies and a range of different price points to consider. Have a look at the tips below to help you make a more informed decision and choose the racket that is right for you:
What is your playing style?
The type of game you play will have a big impact on the type of racket that is most suitable for you. If you are a baseline player you will benefit from a different choice of racket compared to a serve and volley style of play. For example, the Wilson Pro Staff 97 is a fantastic racket for those players looking to play a precise game with control. If you are a player who is looking to generate more power then the Wilson Ultra would be a better option as the technology within the racket enables the player to generate power more easily.
What weight of racket do I need?
The weight of racket that you should be using will depend on a number of factors such as age, ability and also how strong you are. A typical weight for an adult would be around 300g. If you are a junior who is transitioning into adult play or for players who are a little older, rackets that weigh between 265g and 280g would be more appropriate. Heavy rackets will allow more power, particularly when playing groundstrokes, but you will start to notice the weight of the racket during smashes and serving. If you choose a racket that is too heavy you could start to encounter injuries, particularly in the arm and shoulder.
What grip size would be suitable?
The grip size can be misleading as there are only 5 sizes for adult rackets. When gripping the racket in your dominant hand, if your fingers can touch the palm of your hand then the grip is too small. You should have a small gap between the end of your fingers and the palm to show that the grip size of the racket is suitable for you.
Which head size is appropriate?
The bigger the head size, the larger the sweet spot, which means it is easier to hit the ball. A larger sweet spot will usually translate into more power, however, you won’t get as much control on the ball. Most adult players should be playing with a racket head size between 98 and 100 square inches. The head size is often referred to within the name of the racket, for example, Wilson Clash 100 V2. The 100 refers to the head size of 100 square inches.
If you are looking for a racket that will give you easy power then you could look at a racket with a head size of above 100 square inches, although, you may find that you don’t have as much control on the ball.
Try before you buy!
Buying a tennis racket is much like the purchase of a car. There are plenty of good ones out there, but which one is right for you? The best way of determining this is by taking it for a test drive. After all the research you have done, you can have a go with the racket and not like the way it feels, not like the balance of weight, or realise that you might need some different technology to complement your game. Racket specialists Withers Sports offer a demo service, which allows you to try the racket before you buy. This is invaluable as it allows you to ensure that the racket is suited to you. They can also offer friendly advice and stock a huge range of tennis rackets suitable for all ages and abilities.
