How to Customize a Racquet's Grip Length

The size of the grip on a racquet should match the size of your hands. If you try to use a grip that's too small for your hand, you may end up with a sore hand at the end of your game from having to hold on to the racquet too tightly. If you purchase a racquet that's too small for your grip size, you can increase the grip size yourself to help alleviate the situation.

Things You'll Need

  • Racquet
  • Needle-nosed pliers or flat screwdriver
  • Heat-shrink grip sleeve
  • Razor knife
  • Heat gun or hair dryer
  • Staple gun
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pull the staples from the butt cap and grip to free them from the racquet. Carefully peel the grip off so that you can reuse it.

    • 2

      Remove any sticky residue from the racquet for easier application of the new grip.

    • 3

      Slide the heat-shrink grip sleeve over the handle of your racquet, leaving at least 3/8 of an inch over the end of the racquet.

    • 4

      Apply heat to the racquet handle with the heat gun or hair dryer. Start at the bottom of the racquet and move the heat source slowly upwards. Turn the racquet as you go for even shrinking. Avoid leaving bubbles in the sleeve. If bubbles appear, stop and gently push them toward the edge to remove them.

    • 5

      Trim the excess sleeve off the end of the racquet with the razor knife. You can leave up to 1/8 inch on the racquet.

    • 6

      Rewrap the original grip over the grip sleeve. Secure the grip and the butt cap to the racquet with a staple gun.