How to Choose the Right Size Tennis Racquet

Every year tennis racquet manufacturers design new and improved models for all levels and styles of players. Finding the correct-sized racquet takes time but isn't difficult if you can answer a few questions regarding the type and level of player you are. You will be happy you spent a little time researching when you find the racquet that's perfect for you and play to your potential.

Things You'll Need

  • Ruler
  • Paper and pen or pencil
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Instructions

  1. Find the Right Racquet

    • 1

      Define the one of three types of player you are: advanced, intermediate and beginner. Advanced players play in competitive leagues and hit at least twice a week. Intermediate players play at least once a week and usually play in a league. Beginners are new players enrolled in drill classes and aren't ready to join a league.

    • 2

      Determine the style of game you like to play. Finesse players have great ground strokes but lack power. Power players can easily hit to the baseline without the need for a bigger racquet head. Combination players have either a powerful but compact swing or a slow swing that goes long.

    • 3

      Pick the head size and the head shape for your racquet after you narrow down your playing type. A midsize racquet gives a little bit of power and a little bit of control for any player. The traditional-size racquet is for the power player who doesn't need any help getting the ball to the baseline and is great for added control. An oversize head has the biggest sweet spot and will provide the most power for finesse-type players.

      A teardrop-style head shape has an almost full racquet sweet spot while an oval has the sweet spot on the bottom of the head. Choose your head shape based on this information, keeping in mind that newer players may want a teardrop style for a bigger sweet spot.

    • 4

      Choose your racquet length. The length of your racquet is decided by the type of player you are and your size. A standard racquet is 27.5 to 28 inches and works best for a player who needs power and control. A long racquet is between 28.5 and 29 inches and helps a player protect the court.

    • 5

      Pick the right weight for your racquet. Midweight models are the most popular and weigh from 9.8 to 10.9 ounces. Super light racquets weigh in at a mere 9 to 9.4 ounces, while heavy racquets come in at more than 11 ounces.

    • 6

      Measure for grip sizet. Extend your fingers next to each other with an open hand. Take a ruler and place the end in the middle of the palm of your hand. Use the ruler to find the length from the middle of your palm to the tip of your ring finger. The average men's length is between 4 1/2 and 4 3/4 inches, while the woman's average is between 4 1/8 and 4 3/8 inches. Write down your measurements and take all your information to your local tennis shop or sports store to find the correct racquet for your needs.