What Causes A Cracked Tennis Racket?

Tennis racket abuse -- smashing it on the court in anger -- is not the only reason a racket can crack or break. A racket also is at risk for cracks if it is strung over the recommended tension. An inexperienced stringer who does not follow the correct string pattern or is not familiar with the operation of the stringing machine also might cause the frame to crack during or after the stringing process.

Wrong String Pattern

There are many tennis racket models on the market, each with a specific string pattern. Most rackets can be strung using a one-piece string method, but others require a two-piece method. The difference is that with the one-piece technique, only one long piece of string is used to string the main, or long strings, and the cross strings. The two-piece technique uses two sections of string, one for the mains and another for the crosses. Some patterns require that the cross strings start at the head of the racket, not the throat. Patterns might skip specific holes around the racket's frame and the location for tying knots is specific. If stringers are not familiar with the racket model and use the wrong pattern, rackets can crack during or after the stringing process.

High String Tension

Through the design and testing of tennis rackets, manufacturers experiment with the range in string tension that a model can endure. Typically, the tension for rackets is within a 10 lb. range. This is the range that the manufacturer feels the racket performs at its best without compromising the structure of the frame. If you have your racket strung above this range, the racket can break and the manufacturer's warranty might be voided.

Improper Mounting

Stringing machines have a variety of mounting systems, including two-, four- and six-point systems. This refers to where and how many supporting clamps the machine has to hold the racket during stringing. It is important for the racket to be mounted correctly with the right amount of clamping pressure. Once mounted, if you were to grab the handle and try to move the racket, there should be no movement. A racket breathes, or deforms slightly, during the stringing process, and if it is not allowed to do this due to the clamps being too close and tight, the racket might break during or after stringing.

Wear and Tear

Most tennis rackets are designed with a protective guard at the tip of the racket, but some tennis players manage to wear through this protection. These players tend to consistently scuff their racket against the court's surface during play and this can eventually wear through, into the racket's frame. Over time, and with the loss of material, the racket becomes weak in these areas. This can cause it to crack and eventually break.