Youngsters starting out in tennis need smaller, lighter rackets with smaller grips than those on adult models. The United States Tennis Association says that for children 8 and under, the racket should be between 19 and 23 inches. For 10 and under, the racket should be 23 or 25 inches. For those a bit older, there are so-called junior rackets that are 26 inches long. Like adult rackets, children's rackets today are made of lightweight material, such as titanium, aluminum or a composite material, with nylon or other synthetic strings.
What to Look for
At major sporting goods stores, tennis specialty shops and big retailers, such as Target or Wal-Mart, look for leading brands like Babolat, Dunlop, Head, Prince, Volkl and Wilson. The following size guide is suggested by one online retailer, Tennis Express: Up to age 4, or 3'6" tall and short, a 19-inch model is probably the best choice. For 4 to 6 years old or up to 4 feet all, a 21-inch model is recommended. For ages 6 to 8 or under 4'6", a 23-inch model is suggested. For ages 9 to 12 or up to 5 feet tall, a 23- or 25-inch model is best. Youngsters a little older or taller can use rackets marketed as "junior," which are typically 26 inches long, or 1.5 inches shorter than the length of most adult rackets. Prices range from $25 for the smallest rackets to $100 for top-of-the-line junior models for advanced young players
Common Pitfalls
Since children quickly outgrow the small tennis rackets, it hardly makes sense to buy the most expensive model. It is possible to find used children's rackets advertised in your local penny-saver flyer, online or in postings on a bulletin board at private and public courts and clubs. At the same time, tennis instructors urge that parents have their children use the scaled-down models designed especially for youngsters rather than adult models because there is less risk of injuring young arms and shoulders.
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