You may be a tennis pro or a novice who recently got into the game. This is where you start to make some decisions about how you are going to play the sport. Essentially, you could simply make do with rental equipment and get the job done. But if you truly are serious about your upcoming tennis matches, you will have to invest in a racket. When this is the case, there are plenty of choices and selections to be made. Your racket is simply not just a tool, but it can easily impact the overall performance of your match. When this is the case, veterans and beginners both will want the best racket for them. So, how can you make this choice and change up your play? Whether you go for a $50 racket or a $150 one, it depends on your budget. You can find awesome deals on Tennis Exchange for some of your much needed gear.
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to buying a tennis racket. There are some guidelines that you may have to follow to ensure that you get the right one. This means that much like buying a new phone or car, you will have to see what meets your needs. Once you start to weigh all your options and look through sizes, shapes, and grips, you realize there is a lot to look after. Here are some things you may want to consider before you actually make a purchase.
The Right Tennis Racket for You
For those who want to play a frequent game of tennis, the right racket is a must. Whether you are simply a beginner or want to play professionally does not matter, as long as you assess your skill level. There is no need to worry much about the buying process, and instead, simply look at the kinds of rackets available. Your racket will be bought while deciding the correct standard of play you have on the field. One of the main reasons why this decision matter is because choosing the appropriate racket means that you will be able to be successful in your matches. Therefore, it is definitely worth all the time and energy spent pondering over the length and brand you pick. The following are some examples of the kinds of rackets you come across:
Improver Rackets
These are essentially designed to meet the needs of beginners and initial players. If you are picking up the sport as a form of recreation or are returning to it after many years, this is the right type for you. Furthermore, what you can also look at is how easy the grip and swing is for you so that there are no issues in the field.
Intermediate Rackets
If you are no longer a beginner but still have not reached that advanced stage yet, you will be able to use this. It comes with larger head size, and thus you can use the weight of the racket moderately in your play with ease and comfort.
Advanced Rackets
For those individuals who perform in national and international tournaments, the average racket simply won’t do. You will have to invest in a heavy set according to your abilities and then proceed with that choice.
What to Look for in a Tennis Racket
1. Grip Size
Whenever looking for a new racket, you should never forget to consider the size of the grip properly. For most adults, this ranges from 4 to 4 & 5/8ths in inches. You will be able to find what you need quite easily if you measure from your palm to the middle finger. Make sure to hold the racket in your dominant hand and then practice a swing, as you would generally at a play. If you are finding too much extra room, you should not buy the racket.
2. Head Size
Racket head sizes in the modern era will come in 97 to 105 square inches. This has changed drastically over the years, where the limit was 135 inches. The average player today enjoys this change as a form of stability and versatility during their play. If you are looking for larger heads, you will note that there is more power being produced. If that is the kind of player you are, then definitely go for the pop. Otherwise, if your swing is not that hard and you play in a gentle manner, go for something smaller.
3. Racquet Length
The length of your desired racket should be no more than 28 inches. Short rackets are easier to manoeuvre, but longer ones come with better power. Depending on the kind of player you are, you will make your decision in regards to length accordingly. A longer racket, however, is almost always recommended due to the advantage it gives to every player.
4. Pricing
There are plenty of racket brands out there that sell equipment within certain price ranges. While some are steep, others can be reason enough for the average person. Before you even go to the store or online, make sure you know what the budget is. This is based on how much you play and how much wear and tear the racket will suffer. Then, look through your many options and hence decide what to do. Whether you go for a $50 racket or a $150 one, it depends on your budget.
5. Strength of the Body
This is not what the racket brings to the table. This is what you bring to the table as a player, with your size and strength during a match. Naturally, strong players will need more control over their equipment while those who are not as powerful in their pay will require that extra edge. Again, this is based on individual requirements but is often left out of the decision-making process. Therefore, choose wisely.
Conclusion
In general, when you follow the given tips, you will find that there are still many things to look for. From your own abilities as a player to the hours you put into your games and matches, you will need to consider everything. Only by making an informed choice will you be able to buy a tennis racket that suits you and will work for you long term.
