Tennis rackets are highly personalized pieces of equipment. To the untrained eye, they may look the same. However, subtle differences among rackets makes a big difference to the player, including those that come from a racket that needs to be replaced. Knowing when to replace your racket will keep your tennis game consistent and on point.
Damage
Rackets frames are meant to provide strength in a very specific way, related to how the ball contacts the racket's strings. In this way, rackets are very strong. However, any force that is inflicted on the racket from the side or top can easily damage the racket. Be aware of any cracks or chips on the frame. Even tiny cracks of the frame will significantly weaken the racket. If your racket has any frame damage, replace it immediately.
Fatigue
Over time, a racket's frame is prone to weaken. Each contact with the ball causes the racket to bend and warp, springing back to help propel the ball forward with it's strings. The result is a racket that is not damaged to the naked eye, but does not have the strength to maintain adequate string tension. To test this, use a string tensionmeter to measure the string tension immediately after a stringing job. If the string's have lost tension without use, your racket is fatigued and you need to replace it.
New Technology
Roughly every five years, new racket technology is improved enough to warrant replacing your old racket, regardless of fatigue or damage. New technology can refer to improved weighting systems, frame materials, frame shape and frame style. Depending on your skill level, these changes in technology can create large gains in your play. If you are unsure about the benefits of new technologies, demo a few rackets from your local tennis store or from online retailers such as TennisWarehouse.com.
Considerations
Other reasons beyond new technology, fatigue and damage may require you to purchase a new racket. If the racket model you currently use is out of production, consider making a switch a new style so you aren't stuck without a familiar racket when your current one breaks. If you have made significant changes to your playing style, or significantly improved your playing ability, consider how a new racket might enhance your new and improved tennis game.
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