How to Choose a Junior Wilson Tennis Racket

How to Choose a Junior Wilson Tennis Racket
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Young children and preteens use junior tennis rackets. Junior rackets are shorter, measuring less than 29 inches. They are also lighter, weighing less than 11 oz. These junior rackets are designed for the young tennis player who may find standard adult tennis rackets too large and heavy. It is essential for the junior tennis player to play with a tennis racket that fits her hand. Wilson carries a number of junior tennis racket lines that young tennis players can choose from.

Step 1

Go to a sports store that carries a range of junior Wilson rackets. Choosing the right junior tennis racket requires the prospective player to feel the racket on his hand, in person. The Wilson website has a locator that will help you find Wilson tennis equipment dealers in your area. Retailers such as Target, and fitness clubs such as East Bank Club, sell Wilson tennis rackets.

Step 2

Determine the handle width that suits you best. According to Lincoln Ward, the director of the Austin Tennis Center, those who are younger than 6 years old should choose a racket 19 to 21 inches, such as the Wilson Sponge Bob 19 inch Junior. For 6- to 8-year-olds, a 23-inch racket is suitable, and the Wilson Federer 23 inch is a good racket for this age group. For kids ages 8 to 10, a racket that's 25 inches is best, and the Wilson BLX Pro is a good choice for this size. Kids older than 10 years old should pick a racket that is 26 to 27 inches in length, such as the Wilson Kobra 26-inch Junior racket.

Step 3

Find a racket-head size that fits the junior player's playing needs. For recreational players, an oversize head reduces the margin for error, while performance players might want a racket that has a smaller head that requires more coordination. The Wilson 25- to 26-inch rackets, such as the Wilson BLX Pro and Wilson Federer, allow for extra power and improved accuracy.

Step 4

Choose a junior racket that is made of lightweight material. The largest Wilson junior tennis racket weighs 8.8 oz., and even lighter ones are available from among smaller junior tennis rackets. Rackets made of titanium and aluminum alloy are suitable for junior tennis players, especially those who are still learning. Heavier rackets might provide more power in competitive playing, but junior players should develop their techniques first with a lightweight racket before going into heavier ones.

Step 5

Put the racket in your hand to determine whether the grip is suitable. Hold the tennis racket as if you were about to play. Place your index finger on top of the racket handle between the spot where their fingers and palm meet. If your index finger fits snug in that spot, you have found the right fit. If a lot of space remains around your index finger, the grip is too large. If no space is around your index finger, the grip is too small.

References

Article reviewed by Kirk Ericson Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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