Overview
There are five major considerations when choosing a tennis racquet - Head Size,
Head Shape, Grip Size, Weight, and Stiffness. Online retailers offer excellent
descriptions and suggestions as well.
Sweet Spot
Racquet Head Sizes include mid-size (80-90sq cm), mid-plus (95sq-105sq cm)
and Oversize (110-135sq cm). The larger the head size the greater the "sweet spot"
and margin for error.
Racquet Head Shape can be round, oval, rectangular, and tear drop. The
oval shape is traditional and allows for the swing weight to exit through the top
of the racquet, the other shapes accommodate less traditional swings.
Grip Size: The rule of thumb is one index finger width between your middle
finger and palm when you grip the tennis racquet. Net players like a slightly
smaller grip and baseliners tend to prefer a larger gripped tennis racquet. Head
tennis racquets tend to have a unique grip shape, unlike Wilson and Prince
tennis racquets. Sizes are available between 4 1/8 inch to 4 5/8 inches.
Racquet Weight: Classic wood racquets weighed almost 1 lb, however,
modern tennis racquets can weigh less than 1/2 lb and provide greater flexibility
and power. Pros generally weight their racquets between 11-14 ounces. Also
the weight distribution can vary, some are perfectly balanced, other weigh more
in the handle or the head. Typically a racquet with more head weight encourages
a fuller swing.
Racquet Stiffness: Wide body racquets and new material technology have
made tennis racquets stiffer and more powerful. Usually the wider the frame, the
greater the stiffness = greater power. Stiff racquets can contribute to tennis
elbow due to vibration so consider using a vibration dampner or a less stiff tennis
racquet.
Center String
If you are a beginner, choose a larger starter racquet with more room for error. Intermediate players should migrate toward more conventional frames with the latest technology. Advanced players should choose conventional frames with the latest technology that give more margin for error and still allow for high performance. There are great selections of racquets online with even more detailed reviews.
Summary: Tennis racquets today are highly engineered beyond most players capacities - some racquets feel like they swing themselves! Take advantage of the latest technology and get out on the court and have some fun!