Tennis rackets come in many sizes, colors and materials, with a variety of playing characteristics. To select the best racket for your style of play, you'll need to understand how the characteristics of the racket affect stroke production. Stiffness, weight, length, head size and other factors influence how the racket performs.
Head
The head of the racket is the large, oval-shaped end of the racket containing the strings. The head size determines the size of the racket's "sweet spot"--the area where the ball rebounds with the most power and control. Head sizes range from about 85 square inches for competitive players' rackets to about 135 square inches for recreational players.
Grommets
In order to protect the strings from breaking as they rub against the material of the racket, manufacturers place softer plastic grommets inside, outside or within the diameter of the head. Those grommets have holes that line up with holes drilled in the racket frame, through which strings are threaded. Some grommets are replaceable, while others are permanent parts of the frame.
Throat
The area where the shaft meets the head of the racket is the throat. The shaft of a racket usually tapers toward the head, getting wider as it meets and connects to the head. Most rackets feature an open throat, creating a Y-shaped intersection between the shaft and the head.
Shaft
The shaft of a racket is the long, thin part of the frame, ending at the non-head end with a grip. If the shaft is stiff, it will deform less when the ball hits the racket, sending more power back into the ball. If the shaft is more flexible, players will notice more control. Lower-level players use stiffer rackets, while more experienced players who can generate power with their muscles choose flexible rackets.
Handle
The handle is the part of the racket you hold as you play tennis. The larger the grip, the more control you get. A smaller handle gives you more flexibility to move your wrist. Handles are covered by grips made of materials such as leather or rubber, with the type of grip being dependent on the tackiness or sweat-absorbing properties you desire. Grips come with a racket when you buy it. Many players use overwrap or grip tape to keep grips dry and lasting longer.
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