RallyTennis.com - Determining the Proper Grip Size

After hours and hours of comparing numerous frames, you've found the one for you - the one that will accentuate your strengths and hide your weaknesses (if you had any!). But selecting the wrong grip size can negate the fruits of your tireless labor. In fact, there's no quicker way to playing sub-par, frustrating tennis then by using a racquet with the wrong grip. Do you really know what grip is best for you? 

First things First - How Grip Sizes Are Measured

A racquet's grip size is the circumference of the racquet handle and its grip (and any overgrips), usually measured about 2-3 inches above the butt cap. Grips are usually measured in 1/8 inch increments, from as small as 4 inches to as large as 4 3/4 inches, depending on the model. Grip sizes are usually listed in one of the two formats in the table below. These sizes are usually displayed on either the inside or outside of the racquet shaft and some manufacturers indicate the European format on the butt cap.

Things to Consider When Selecting Your Grip Size

Before settling on a grip size, you will want to keep in mind the handle shape, type of grip on the racquet, and whether or not you will be using an overgrip. Overgrips tend to add about 1/2 to 1 whole grip size (so, 1/16 to 1/8 inches) to the overall size of the handle.

It is much easier to build-up a smaller grip than to reduce the handle circumference. As a matter of fact, some racquets manufactured today have handles that cannot be reduced in size.

Another thing to consider is the type of forehand grip you are using. Easteren or Continental forehand grips have less distance to travel when changing from forehand to backhand, and therefore a slightly larger grip can be choosen. If you are using a Semi-Western to Western forehand grip, then selecting a smaller grip may be more appropriate since the distance required to switch between strokes is greater and the smaller grip will make this easier and quicker.

Smaller Not Always Better - A Common Mistake

While these measurements serve as an accurate guide to selecting the best grip, there's nothing like actually holding the different grips in your hand to see what feels best. So borrow your neighbor's racquet or stop in the local sports store and take a couple practice swings. This way, you will know for sure that the racquet you're buying will bring out the most in your game.

In A Nutshell

Remember, it's much easier to increase your grip by adding an overgrip or heat-shrink sleeve than it is to make a grip smaller. And there's nothing wrong with buying a grip that's a little too small and making it bigger. Overgrips tend to add 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch, and heat-shrink sleeves increase overall grip by 1/8 of an inch.

Experiment to find what suits you best! There are many problems that using too big or too small of a grip can create including overcompensating, discomfort (tennis elbow), and poor play.

BEST OF LUCK AND HAPPY PLAYING!

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