How to Choose a Tennis Racquet

Tennis racquets are available in a variety of materials, designs and sizes. There are several factors to consider when selecting a tennis racquet and each factor is important enough to affect the quality of the player's game. Head size, the flexibility of the frame and the tension of the strings are just a few of the factors that determine the performance of a tennis racquet. For best performance, players must choose a tennis racquet with components that they are comfortable with for their level of racquet sports.

Selecting a Tennis Raquet:

1. Choose a tennis racquet based on price. Lower-priced racquets perform well for casual racquet sports, although high-priced racquets include more features that are designed to allow a player to execute difficult or expert shots.

2. Choose racquets based on your level of play. There are racquets for beginner, intermediate and advanced players. Light racquets are best for beginners. Advanced players will perform better with heavy racquets that have light heads. Such a racquet is designed for those who provide their own power.

3. Consider the material. Graphite is considered the best material for tennis racquets and is often mixed with other materials such as Kevlar, titanium and fiberglass. Other materials for racquets include aluminum and titanium.

4. Choose from strung and unstrung tennis racquets. Manufacturers sell unstrung tennis racquets for those players who choose to select their own string. You can string the racquet yourself with a stringer or have it professionally done.

5. Select a string for unstrung racquets. There are different types of tennis strings, including natural gut, kevlar, nylon and synthetic. Strings are sold in gauges ranging from 15 to 18 gauge.

6. Think about size. Racquets are available in three head sizes: mid-size, mid-plus and oversize. Mid-size racquets are smaller but less cumbersome, while larger racquets have more headspace and a larger sweet spot, making it easier to hit a ball solidly.

7. Consider weight and balance. The weight of a tennis racquet ranges from 8 ounces to 12.5 ounces unstrung and could weigh more than 14 ounces when strung. The weight is not evenly balanced and could be concentrated in the handle of the racquet or at the head.

8. Check the length of the racquet. The standard length for an adult racquet is 27 inches, but there are longer racquets. Some players choose longer racquets for increased serving power and others avoid them because of their reduced maneuverability.

9. Check the grip size. An incorrect grip size can affect your game, so be sure to carefully measure your hand and select a grip size that will feel comfortable while you play.