There are many factors to consider when choosing a tennis racquet. The most common topics are: head size, pre-strung vs. performance frame, balance, cross section, and flex.

 

 

Head Size

Head size refers to the strung area of the racquet’s head. Head size is an important factor when determining a frame’s power and stability. Generally speaking, longer strings in a larger racquet head will have a higher trampoline effect- increasing power. A wider head will resist torque on off-center hits. A smaller head size can increase control while reducing sweet spot size, power, and torque resistance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pre-strung vs. Performance Frame

Racquets can be purchased pre-strung or without string. Pre-strung racquets are an ideal choice for recreational players or beginners. Premium racquets (ones without string) tend to have more cutting-edge technology and they are ideal for those looking to increase their skills. Premium racquets need to be strung with certain strings available at tennis speciality shops. 

 

Balance

Racquet frames are categorized into “evenly balanced” racquets, “head light” racquets, or “head heavy” racquets. Evenly balanced racquets will balance on a beam, and is most likely not in the center of the frame’s length. “Head light” racquets have a majority of the weight in the handle. “Head heavy” racquets will have a majority of the weight in the head.  Heavier racquets will be balanced head light to increase stability in manoeuvrability in the head. Lighter racquets will tend to be head heavy to provide the necessary momentum on the follow through.

 

Cross Section

Cross section refers to the width of the racquet beams and is a clear indicator of racquet stiffness and power. A racquet with wide beams tend to flex less than one with more narrow beams. Control frames will have beam widths of 22mm or less, tweener racquets will have beam widths between 23-27mm, and power frames will have beam widths of 28mm and above.

 

Flex

Flex is a measure of racquet stiffness on a scale of 0 to 100. A flexible racquet absorbs much of the ball’s momentum, providing more control. Control racquets have flexible frames. Powerful frames tend to be stiffer because it produces natural pop on all strokes.