Whether you want to buy a new tennis racket or replace a new one, selecting a specific racket seems so daunting as there are so many brands that you can choose from. To make the process a little bit easier, we will provide you with all the details on how to choose a tennis racket so that you can know more about different tennis rackets’ characteristics and performances.
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Important Factors Of Tennis Rackets
Tennis rackets are one of the most critical pieces of equipment that affect your performance, no matter if you are a beginner or an advanced player. As they have crucial effects on each set you play, it is essential to look for a suitable racket.
There are certain aspects to consider when you find a brand new racket. Here we are going to give you some useful tips and information!
Head Size
Tennis rackets’ head sizes impact your swing based on your skill level and personal preference, so choosing the correct racket with the right head size is necessary.
There are 4 major sizes:
- Midsize: 85-96 square inches
- Mid plus: 96-106 square inches
- Oversize: 107-115 square inches
- Super oversize: 116 square inches or larger
The head size of a racket relates to the power the racket can provide. Bigger tennis’ head will give more power while a smaller one will give more control. Also, larger head sizes support wider sweet spots and hitting areas that are less likely for you to have off-center hits.
Nowadays, tennis rackets are offered in many sizes, from 93-135 square inches, and provide different effects on performance. Most people choose mid-plus head size because it is a stable combination between consistency and control, while advanced players tend to choose midsize to perform more complicated techniques.
However, we have to mention that larger head sizes will weigh heavier, so you should pay attention to practicing your wrist’s strength to swing without hurting yourself.
We highly recommend these products with a large head for people who are new to this game. Not only will it help them to minimize their mistakes, but also they can take some time to familiarize themselves and improve their skills through time before switching to a smaller one like other professional players.
Weight And Balance
These two factors influence a lot on the feeling when you hold the racket and swing it on the tennis court.
- Weight
Generally, a racket’s weight has an effect on both power and control during your performance. Heavier rackets give more power due to larger mass while hitting the ball, and lighter ones provide better control in swinging movement and flicking techniques.
You can do spin shots faster using lighter rackets as you can swing quickly and generate in different angles. Opposite to heavier ones do best in smashing and long fast strokes with great stability.
One piece of information we have to mention is that you can add weight to the racket, but it is impossible to make it lighter.
- Balance
There are three types of balance: head heavy, headlight, and balanced. Traditionally, rackets are headlights, so they are maneuverable even if the racket is at a high weight. However, it is best to use a balanced racket. Thus, it has a solid blend of stability and flexibility.
Grip Size
You need to have a proper grip that will help improve your control while swinging the tennis racket. There are sizes from 0-5, and it influences differently on women and men. To find the right size, you should hold the racket forehand and estimate about a pencil’s width between your palm and your finger.
String Pattern
We usually describe string patterns as closed or open. Recreational players often underestimate this factor. However, it also affects a lot of players’ overall performance.
A close string pattern has less rebound energy, and other players feel more in control while using the rackets. It allows tennis players to swing quickly and do spin shots easier. Besides, this type of string pattern gives more durability and lasts longer, so you don’t have to keep replacing it with new strings.
An open string pattern, on the other hand, offers better ball rebound, and players can access depth and pace smoothly, but abrasion caused during string movement will lead to faster breakage.
Factors Of Players
Beginner Player
Here a few characteristics that beginners should consider when choosing a racket:
- Lightweight rackets
- Use an oversize head size
- Concentrate on power
If you are an amateur, your arms’ muscles are usually worn out after a few games, so you should select a racket that makes contact with the ball steadily so it can support your performance.
Intermediate Player
At this stage, it is better to reduce your racket’s head size and add some weight to it. Due to developed arm muscles, you can learn new techniques and generate more pace on your own. Keep in mind these key elements:
- Mid plus head size
- Medium weight
- Less power and more control
Advanced Player
We highly recommend midsize rackets for professionals for better control, precision, and confidence while performing on the court. Here are some factors on how to choose a tennis racket for advanced players:
- Midsize head size
- Medium or heavyweight
- More control and feel
FAQs
- Does a good tennis racket make a difference?
- Yes, indeed, as we mentioned above, differences in quality can affect both power and control, so you need to choose a well-qualified tennis racket to avoid regret afterward.
- How do you pick a tennis racket for beginners?
- As we said, beginners should focus on training their arm muscles, so choosing a lightweight and bigger head size racket will offer more power.
- What is the best tennis racquet for intermediate?
- Intermediate players can use mid-plus head size and add weights to their rackets. Some amazing brands such as Wilson Clash 100 or Babolat Pure Aero might be the option for you.
- What is the best brand of tennis racquet?
- We would say Wilson is the best among the brands, but you can also look at Babolat, Head, or Prince.
- Do I need two tennis rackets?
- Generally speaking, even though it is not necessary, bringing multiple tennis rackets is beneficial as incidents like string breaking could happen during the match.
- When should I change my tennis racket?
- In our opinion, you should replace a new one if you are playing for a club regularly after at least 2 years.
- How heavy is Roger Federer’s racket?
- He is using a 12.5 ounces tennis racket, which is most suitable for professionals.
- What racquet does Nadal use?
- Although he promotes Babolat Pure Aero, he uses Babolat AeroPro Drive Original.
Conclusion
Good quality and suitable tennis rackets always make players happy. Don’t hesitate to buy one and join a club to learn more about tennis. After reading this article on choosing a tennis racket, we hope you can make the right decision and confidently express your abilities further.
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