How to Choose a Tennis Racquet
String Pattern:
There are two types of string patterns: the open string pattern and the closed string pattern. What’s the difference between the two you ask? Let’s see here. For a racquet with an open string pattern, there are less intersecting cross strings. For example, the 16×18 would be a racquet with an open string pattern. On the other hand, a closed string pattern is a racquet with more intersecting cross strings, such as an 18×20 pattern.
Now, what effect does it have whether a racquet has an open string pattern or a closed string pattern?
Well, to answer that question, a racquet with an open string pattern gives a player more power and spin when hitting the ball, since an open string pattern is more elastic by nature. You can picture this as the wider spacing between strings and the fewer intersections causes a ball to rebound with greater force. Many people also prefer an open string pattern because it provides a better feel for the ball, on top of additional power and spin.
However, there is a downside to this type of string pattern. An open string racquet is less durable and the strings are more prone to snapping since there are fewer cross strings. But when it comes to players who need all the power they can get, a racquet with an open string pattern is definitely a must, especially for youth.
Then we have the closed string pattern. With more cross strings available, this creates a durable racquet face that is less likely to snap. However, with this added durability comes the cost of extra power and spin. An 18×20 racquet won’t deflect the ball as much as an open string racquet, but the added durability can be a lifesaver for players who already hit hard, and is a popular choice for players who prefer control.
Head Size:
When you decide on how to choose a tennis racquet, you should always pick the head size carefully. The head size refers to the size of the racquet face (frame and strings) and directly influences how much power you can produce. That’s because a larger head size offers a larger hitting area and sweet spot, making it easier to hit balls around the center of the racquet.
A typical racquet’s head size ranges anywhere from 85 to 135 square inches. This range is split into three categories: oversize, mid-plus, and mid size. Larger head sizes are often preferred by beginners since it offers more power, although those who are more experienced opt for smaller head sizes for additional control.
Oversize racquets are considered to be anywhere above 105 square inches. Mid-plus are racquets ranging from 95-105 square inches, while mid size racquets are under 95 inches.
Weight / Balance Point:
You’ll most likely see how weight affects a racquet when it’s in your hands. As you may already know, a racquet provides both power and control, and how heavy your racquet is will affect both of these elements proportional to the weight. Heavy racquets are more powerful, provide more stability, and delivers less shock. Lighter racquets can be swung faster and provides added maneuverability.
There are three main categories used for determining weight: heavy (head-light), medium (balanced), and lightweight (head-heavy). The idea here is that most racquets have a heavy head to produce powerful shots, but it’s the weight of the handle that will determine a racquet’s weight category. A racquet with a heavy head but a light handle is considered head-heavy since the head is heavier than the handle.
You can determine whether a racquet is head-heavy, head-light, or balanced by measuring its balance point. The balance point is determined by where on a racquet’s length is it perfectly balanced. This can be done by adjusting a racquet on a straight rod until it doesn’t lean toward either side. A balance point that is more than half way up the racquet is considered head-heavy, less than half way is head-light, and somewhere around the middle is balanced. Balance point is calculated with points, with each point equal to 1/8 of an inch. So, a racquet that is 8 points head-heavy has a balance point of 1 inch above the middle of the racquet, while 8 points head-light has a balance point of 1 inch below the middle.
So, what is considered a light, medium, or heavy racquet? Well, this chart can get you acquainted with the various categories:
Type?WeightPros:Cons:Light (Head-heavy)Less than 10 oz. / 283.5 grams
- More maneuverability
- Swings faster
- Requires less energy
- Better for beginners
- Less control
- More shock to the wrist, elbow, and shoulder
Medium (Balanced)10 to 11.5 oz. / 283.5 to 326 grams
- Evenly balanced
- Better for intermediate players
- Not designed for players who prefer either power or control
Heavy (Head-light)>11.5 oz / 326 grams
- More power
- More control
- Less shock
- Better for advanced players
- Less maneuverability
- Requires more energy