What Is the Difference Between Female and Male Rackets?

There is no such thing as a female-only tennis racket or a male-only tennis racket. Manufacturers do design rackets with gender in mind, however, with different weights, grip sizes and designs. Tennis players will play with whatever racket feels the best and gives them an edge.

  1. Design Considerations

    • Tennis rackets are made for a range of skill levels, from novice to world-class players. They are designed for smaller, weaker players as well as for the physically strong and powerful player. Manufacturers take several variables into consideration when designing rackets.

    Weight Differences

    • Tennis rackets can weigh from just under nine ounces to 12 ounces when strung. Women will generally play with rackets that are lighter, where men who are naturally stronger will choose a heavier racket.

    Grip Size Differences

    • The grip sizes for tennis rackets range from 4 to 4 5/8 inches. In general, a woman's hand is smaller than a male's hand. A racket with a grip size of 4 3/8 inches or smaller is better suited for a woman's hand. Most men will play with a 4 1/2 inch or larger grip.

    String Differences

    • Strings for tennis rackets are also designed with specific players and style of play in mind. Men will break string more often than women and will choose thicker or more durable strings. Women might choose a softer, thinner, more playable string as they will not break string as often.

    Considerations

    • In theory, men will gravitate toward heavier rackets with large grips and with durable strings while women will choose lightweight rackets with smaller grips and playable strings. However, this will not always be the case. Some men like light rackets, and some women like to play with larger grips. It's a very personal choice.