To begin a tennis match, you need several crucial items: a ball, a net, and a suitable pair of shoes. But the equipment that significantly impacts your performance the most is a tennis racquet. Whether you are a novice or a professional tennis player, having the right racquet can help you win the match. That’s why you should consider a few key details, which we've outlined below, before purchasing a tennis racquet.
What are the Features of a Tennis Racquet You Should Consider?
Head Size
The right head size can majorly impact the swing of your racquet. Oversized heads offer more power and have a larger sweet spot that allows you to attack the ball well. On the other hand, smaller heads offer more control. If you are sure that you have a powerful wrist and can attack the ball cleanly, then the smaller head size can help you swing your racquet easily. Roger Federer, the famous tennis player, had shifted from a smaller head to a bigger one because he needed more power from his backhand.
Weight
The weight of your racquet plays a vital role in your swing and performance as it can affect both control and power. A heavier racquet generates more power because there is more mass behind the ball, while a lighter racquet is easier to maneuver and control. If you play doubles, you may need a lighter racquet to spend more time at the net. However, if you are into singles, you would have to smash the ball through the court, which can be best achieved with a heavier racquet.
Length
The length of adult racquets ranges from 27-29 inches. Longer racquets offer more reach on groundstrokes and more power on serves. However, the additional length makes it difficult to control the racquet. The shorter racquets, on the other hand, are easier to handle for junior players.
Since a junior racquet is shorter than a typical one, the age of the player is a significant consideration because these come in various sizes. Tennis racquets that are 19-23 inches long tend to be ideal for players aged 8 and under, while racquets between 23-25 inches in length are suitable for 9-10 years old. Adults, seniors, and professional players use racquets of 26 inches or more.
Balance
Balance is a tricky aspect as it often boils down to personal choice. So, we recommend trying various racquets to figure out whether more weight in the head works the best for you or more weight in the body. Head-heavy racquets are generally lighter and offer more power on groundstrokes, while head-light racquets are heavier but easy to control.
There are also medium-weight racquets available in the market that provide a balance between power and control. When the weight is shared evenly, the racquet will provide a blend of stability and maneuverability.
Frame Stiffness
Frame stiffness is a measurement of how much a racquet bends when it touches the ball during a match. Different types of racquets have different frame stiffness scores, such as:
- Flexible Racquet- 63 or less
- Medium Stiffness - 63-67
- Stiff Frame - 68 and more
A stiffer racquet tends to bend less, transferring the maximum amount of power to the ball. A flexible racquet, on the other hand, bends more, leading to a loss of energy, although it offers more spring and less strain.
What Type of Tennis Racquet is Best For You?
Power Racquets
Power racquets are also called game improvement racquets because they allow you to hit hard with less effort. They are an excellent option for newbies who don’t have the proper form, technique, or skill to generate power. As a beginner, the power racquet will enable you to have shorter compact strokes, which get better over time.
Moreover, this type of racquet is also a great choice for men and women who have reached their golden years and don’t have the strength to smash powerfully. Some of the characteristics of power or game improvement racquets are:
- Oversized Head: 107-135 in²
- Stiffer Frame: 66 or above
- Extended Length: 27-29 inches
- Lightweight: 8-9.5 ounces
Control Racquets
Control racquets are preferred by the players who need less power but more control to place or hit the ball perfectly. Thus, they are suitable for experienced players who already have fast, full swings. While these racquets cater to seasoned tennis players, their advanced features can also be advantageous for intermediate players striving to polish their skills. Some of the characteristics of control racquets include:
- Small Head: 85-98 in²
- Low to Mid-Range Stiffness: 50 to 70
- Standard Length: 27 inches
- Heavyweight: 11.6-12.6 ounces
Tweener Racquets
Tweener racquets are designed to bridge the gap between the power and control racquets. They are excellent all-around performers that offer a blend of power and control to intermediate players. These racquets are also suitable for newcomers who started training with low-priced tennis gear and are planning to upgrade. Some of the characteristics of tweener racquets are:
- Mid-Sized Head: 97 – 104 in²
- Mid-range Stiffness: 61-70
- Standard Length: 27 inches
- Mid-Range Weight: 9.5-11 ounces
Modern Player's Racquets
Almost a decade ago, most professional players used to play with control racquets. However, in recent years, their interest has shifted to modern player’s racquets because they are lighter and faster than control racquets. These racquets allow top professionals to hit the ball aggressively with more power for maximum spin. Some of the characteristics of modern player’s racquets are:
- Mid-Sized Head: 98-100 in²
- Mid-range Stiffness: 61-70
- Standard Length: 27 inches
- Weight: 11-12 ounces
Final Words
With a plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging for you to choose the best tennis racquet. Bearing these factors in mind and understanding the types of racquets can help you narrow your search and invest in gear that improves your performance.
Tennis Racquet FAQ
Q: Which racquet is suitable for beginners?
A: Lighter racquets are ideal for beginners because they are easier to swing. Thus, newcomers will be able to play longer.
Q: How long can a tennis racquet last?
A: Tennis racquets can last for two years of regular play. Though the frame might not show any signs of physical damage, the racquet will weaken over time and start affecting your performance.
Q: Do heavier racquets perform better than lighter ones?
A: The performance of a racquet depends upon whether you need more power or control. Heavier racquets offer more power and stability and transmit less shock to the wrist and arm. On the other hand, lighter racquets are more maneuverable and provide more control, allowing you to swing faster. All in all, performance is dependent on the player, not just the weight of the racquet.