The head size of a tennis racket can drastically change the way you play your game. The head size determines the size of its ‘sweet spot’ as well as power and accuracy.
If you are a beginner, or if you struggle generating powerful shots, we recommend you play with a larger head size (102sq inches+). This is because the larger the head size, the larger the sweet spot. The sweet spot is the area within the frame where you want to hit the ball. As a beginner, a larger sweet spot is useful as it forgives off-centre shots allowing you to continue your rallies. It also allows you to hit with power more consistently. There are some tennis rackets that have oversized head sizes (110sq inches+), and are an ideal choice for social players who require easy power.
More advanced players, who can consistently hit the sweet spot and can achieve a great amount of power from their swing, should opt for a smaller head size (100sq inches and below). A smaller sweet spot can provide high accuracy which can be hugely beneficial in your game.
Lightweight rackets (280g and below) are more suited to beginners, young players (who want their first adult racket) and those who are not physically very strong. A lighter tennis racket can create power very easily, are much easier to manoeuvre and swing, and should allow the player to use for longer durations before tiring. Lightweight rackets are usually less accurate so players looking for more control, should opt for a heavier frame.
The heaviest racket frames (300g and above) are usually favored by professional tennis players. This type of racket offers the highest-level of stability and control.
This measurement (in mm or cm) depicts how the weight is distributed in your tennis racket. It can determine whether your racket is head-heavy, head-light or evenly balanced.
As a general rule a head-heavy racket provides more power but can be less accurate. A head-light racket provides more control but less power.
The balance point is measured from the butt of the racket and it represents the point at which the tennis racket can balance before tipping. Usually on an adult tennis racket, if the measurement is less than 345mm (or less than half of the full-length of the racket), the tennis racket is head-light. If the measurement is more than 345mm (or more than half of the full-length of the racket) then the racket is head-heavy. If the balance is around 345mm, your racket is evenly balanced.
If you’re looking for a tennis racket with the weight closer to your hand to aid manoeuvrability and control, you should choose a balance towards 320mm.
If you require increased power in your shots, where the weight is in the racket head, choose a racket with a balance of 345mm or above.
It is worth noting that most tennis rackets are head-light but knowing where the balance point is will help you determine how it will affect your game.
The beam of a tennis racket refers to the sidewalls. It is often shown as three separate measurements as the sidewalls can change widths along the frame. As an example: 24mm/25mm/24mm (head/shoulder/handle).
In general, wider beams produce more power but can be less manoeuvrable.
If you’re an advanced player or you’re physically stronger, look for a racket with a narrower beam as this can aid control and manoeuvrability.
Adult tennis rackets are always sold in different grip sizes. It is very important you choose the right grip size otherwise you may risk injury or discomfort during your game. Please see the list below to help you determine your grip size:
At Direct Sports, we stock a huge range of tennis rackets to suit all abilities and budgets. Choose from our lower-priced recreational rackets to our high-end, elite rackets that are favoured by professionals.
