Selecting A Good Tennis Racket

When you select your new tennis racket, choose between custom or standard models. The first tennis rackets were made of wood. Today, you can select rackets made of various materials including graphite, Kevlar and carbon fiber composites. Lightweight rackets are easier to swing, but all top professional players add weight to their rackets .

Types

Decide which tennis racket suits your style as a player. Select a power racket for beginner and intermediate players. A power racket features a larger head to help weaker players with a short stroke. Choose a tweener racket for intermediate to advanced players. Lighter and longer than a power racket, you can choose a larger or smaller head. The length provides you with more control and power for ground strokes. Manufacturers design control racket for advanced players. A control racket is heavier than the other types, usually has a smaller head and gives you less power, but more control.

Demo Racket

Select a tennis racket and ask to borrow it as a demo before you buy it. Using a ball machine or practicing with a partner play with the racket on three separate occasions before deciding if it's right for you.

Discover Correct String Tension

Tighter strings give you more control and looser ones offer more power. Looser strings play well in muggy, humid weather while tighter strings perform better on dry, hot days. The ideal tension for your tennis racket depends on personal preference. Demo with the same racket at various string tensions, starting with the manufacturer's recommendation, to decide which feels best to you. Change the tension higher or lower in 3-lb. increments depending on if you want more control or added power.

Grip Size

Players previously used the biggest manageable grip size. However, personal preference dictates the grip size players choose today. A smaller grip gives the tennis racket a "whippy" feeling while swinging and allows you to manipulate the racket easily. A larger grip helps you resist arm torsion on off-center hits and gives your wrist greater stability for volleys and other shots.