What Size Tennis Racket Do I Need?
Ever wondered what tennis racket size you need? The tennis racket is the most crucial aspect for a tennis player and a piece of equipment you should invest in wisely. When it comes to factors that influence tennis performance, few are as important as getting the optimal tennis racket. If you are looking to buy a new tennis racket, you will want to be sure that you purchase one which is the optimal size for you.
Getting the right tennis racket size can greatly impact your performance.
We will cover racket sizes for both adults and kids. For adults, racket size refers to the head size and the racket length. See How To Choose Your First Racket for information regarding grip sizes. For kids, racket size can be determined either by height or age.
Parts of a tennis racket
To choose the optimal tennis racket head size for an adult tennis player, it is important to first assess your experience level as a player, whether you are just starting to learn tennis as a beginner or an intermediate player who can rally fairly consistently.
Adult Beginners
If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with a larger head-size racket, i.e., 100 square inches (sq in) or more. With an oversized (more than 100 sq in) racket frame, you will be able to make contact with the ball more consistently as there is more margin for error. Plus, larger head sizes can help you to generate more power compared to smaller head sizes since the extra surface area will produce a greater trampoline-like effect when the ball comes into contact with the racket strings.
Oversized rackets tend to be lighter, which reduces the strain on your arms as your muscles adapt to the movements of the game. You will find it easier to swing a lighter racket, so this aids in your learning process.
The standard racket length for adult players is 27 inches, although longer ones are also available. Longer rackets will provide you with greater reach but at the same time, the longer frames make it difficult to strike balls that come close or straight to your body. As a beginner, it is recommended that you stick to the standard racket length.
Adult Intermediate
If you already have some experience playing the game and can hit the ball quite consistently, you should look to downsize from an oversized racket to a mid-size racket (95–98 sq in). Such rackets provide more control than power for intermediate players. Power and spin can be generated by applying the proper techniques. You will find that smaller head sizes offer more manoeuvrability, especially when you volley at the net.
Kids
When it comes to kids, the range of sizes available is much more varied. Racket size for kids can be determined either by their age or height. Ideally, the racket should not be touching the ground when they hold it vertically downwards whilst keeping their arms extended.
Below is a table for your easy reference:
Racket sizes for kids are based on their height or age.
Choosing the right tennis racket size can make a huge difference in your overall performance and comfort on the court. As an adult, you should assess your experience level as a player to determine whether or not you need a racket with a larger head size. Kids' rackets are determined by either height or age. Ultimately, no matter what size of racket you choose it is important that you feel comfortable while playing so that you can focus on your technique.