PickyGuide.Com
 GUIDE TO TENNIS RACKETS RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

Guide to Tennis Rackets

Tennis Racket : What is it?

tennisracket1

A tennis racket is composed of a rounded frame attached to a handle, and a network of nylon or catgut strings stretched over the head. In some models, the joint between the handle and the frame is reinforced by a tapered section called the neck. The lower end of the handle is usually ribbed or covered with rubber to add grip. The average tennis racket is about 28 inches long and weighs 10 to 14 ounces.

Early tennis rackets were made of wood, but metal rackets were introduced after wooden ones proved difficult to string and resize. Metal rackets featured broader heads and wider hitting areas, called sweet spots. There were also variations on the string design, and a trend of spaghetti-sized strings was briefly introduced. They were quickly banned, however, because they had too much hitting power and were not ideal for regular play.


view recommended products

Types Of Tennis Rackets

tennisracket2 tennisracket3

view recommended products

Kinds of Tennis Rackets include the following:

Large head rackets

These tennis rackets have large heads measuring 100 to 140 square inches. They have larger sweet spots, allowing for more powerful shots. They also allow top spin and slice shots, making them ideal for clay and deco turf courts, baseline play, and doubles games. They may be difficult for players with wide swings, as they can drive the ball outside of the court.

Wide-bodied rackets

Wide-bodied rackets are either wide at the top or bottom, with the widest part measuring about 18 to 30 centimeters. They deliver fast and powerful shots, often reaching speeds of 140 miles per hour. They are great for serving, long rallies, and groundstrokes.  They are also ideal for players with slow swings or low hand speeds. They often fail with top spins and slices, although this can be improved with practice.

Head heavy rackets

These rackets are heavier at the head or top half than at the handle. They allow more powerful strokes, but can be difficult to maneuver. They are commonly used in clay courts and baseline play. They are also used by beginners to practice ball control and improve hitting power.

Long body rackets

Long body rackets are one to two inches longer than standard 27-inch rackets. They are usually made of lightweight composite materials, such as graphite, because wood or metal would make them too heavy. They are ideal for smaller players who have trouble hitting high balls. They also put less strain on the arms, reducing the risk of muscle injury.

Lightweight rackets

Lightweight rackets generally weigh less than 10 pounds. They are usually made of graphite, carbon fiber, Kevlar, or other synthetic materials. They are easier to swing, but require more force to hit the ball.

view recommended products

Choosing Tennis Rackets (Buying Tips)

Head size: Choose a tennis racket with the right head size for your skills. Larger heads are more powerful and have bigger sweet spots, but can be difficult to maneuver. Generally large heads are best for beginners and those with poor swing, while more advanced players can do with a narrower head.

Grip: Make sure the racket’s handle fits properly into your hand. Rackets come in grip sizes 1 to 5, according to the handle diameter. Grip 1 to 2 is best for children and junior players, 2 to 3 for women, and 3 to 4 for men. Grip 5 is usually too big for the average hand.

Weight: Choose light to medium weight rackets for more hitting power. Light heads deliver more force than heavy ones. Choose heavy rackets if you prefer control and accuracy over power, such as when playing at the baseline.

Sponsored Products And Services

Directory

Are you a manufacturer or supplier? Be listed here! EMAIL US

Are You Picky, Too? Contribute To This Guide!

Do you have something to add to this guide? If your suggestion passes our editorial standards, we will add it in and acknowledge you as a contributor.

view recommended products

Sources

eNotes.com
WhatRacquet.com
TennisNuts.com


Page copy protected against web site content infringement by Copyscape

 
QUICK JUMP:
What Is It?
Types Of Tennis Rackets
Choosing Tennis Rackets (Buying Tips)
Related Products And Services
Directory
Are You Picky, Too? Contribute To This Guide!
Sources
RELATED GUIDES:

Stringing Machines
Tennis Bags
Tennis Balls
Tennis Ball Machines
Tennis Nets
Tennis Shoes
Tennis Shorts
Tennis Strings
Tennis Sunglasses
Tennis Uniforms


Search for more Pickyguides: