Comparison of Tennis Rackets

When comparing one tennis racket to another, there are several variables to consider. Head shape, construction materials, flexibility, racket length, head size and weight distribution are just a few ways that rackets differ from one another. Each variable has a purpose and is designed with a specific player and style of play in mind.

  1. Head Shape

    • Tennis rackets can be compared by their racket head shape. Most Wilson tennis rackets have an oval shape; however, there have been Wilson rackets in the past with more of a fan-shaped head as in the WILSON Hyper Hammer Sledge 2.0 racket. The head shape of Head, Prince, Dunlop and Babolat tennis rackets are also oval in shape. Yonex rackets are oval, but with a slightly flattened tip.

    Construction Materials

    • Tennis racket manufacturers use different materials in the construction of their rackets. Rackets can be made with titanium, kevlar, graphite, high-modulus graphite, fiberglass and other high-tech materials. The difference in materials corresponds to the flexibility of the racket.

    Flexibility

    • One of the most important features when comparing tennis rackets is flexibility. The flexibility of a racket relates to how powerful a racket is. In general, a firm or stiff racket is a powerful racket in that it will generate more power in your stroke. A flexible racket helps to control your shots and is better suited for a stronger player.

    Racket Length

    • Rackets have varying lengths. The rules of tennis dictate that a tennis racket can be no longer than 29 inches, with the majority being 27 inches. Longer rackets were designed to give a player more reach on ground strokes and more leverage when hitting serves or overheads.

    Head Size

    • Tennis rackets come in several different head sizes ranging from 85 square inches to 135 square inches of hitting surface. When comparing head sizes, in general, a larger head size has a larger "sweet spot." This is the area where at contact with the ball, there is no jarring or twisting of the racket and the contact feels solid. Larger sweet spots mean more success on off-center shots.

    Weight Distribution

    • Rackets are weighted differently. When the weight is at the head end, the racket is said to be head heavy and more appealing to a baseline style of play. Rackets with the weight evenly distributed are more suited to an all-court player. A racket with the weight in the handle is head light and tends to be more maneuverable.