Tennis Racket FAQs

The facts about rackets

What makes a racket powerful?

The factors that influence the power of the frame are: larger head size, increased stiffness, greater weight, more weight toward the head, and greater length.

What gives a racket more control?

A smaller head, a stiffer frame, and tighter strings all increase control.

What is the best material for a racket?

Graphite is the best material with which to make a tennis racket, because of its high stiffness-to-weight ratio. However, the graphite used in tennis racket frames is not a true graphite but a carbon fiber that adds stiffness and strength to the plastic resin with which it is mixed to build the frame.

What is the best weight for a racket?

The ideal racket weight depends on your type of play. Rackets that weigh less than 10 ounces are generally too light to protect an adult's arm from even the lightest shocks of doubles play. More weight is better, as long as you can wield it, but the majority of players find more than 12 ounces too heavy.

What is shock?

Shock is the initial force transmitted to your hand and arm from the ball's impact with the racket.

What is the best head size?

A large head offers more power, a more open string pattern, a larger sweet spot, and more resistance to twisting for an off-center hit. A small head, on the other hand, offers more control, more maneuverability, and less maximum twisting.

What is the best balance?

Generally speaking, heavy rackets better protect a player's arm, and are head-light for greater maneuverability. Light rackets, on the other hand, are often head-heavy for a solid hit.

Where should I shop for a racket?

Online retailers often have the best prices, although you'll need to know exactly what you're looking for.