Top five tips for choosing your next tennis racket from LTA Coach Matt James
Picking your next racket can be quite a personal decision and with so many different options available, it can also seem like a bit of a minefield.
Modern tennis rackets are designed with different technologies and materials that can have a big impact on your game, so it’s important to make sure you choose the best one to suit you.
LTA coach Matt James tells us his top five tips on what to look out for when you’re choosing your next racket.
1. Pick a racket to suit your playing style
“The first thing I’d suggest any player should consider is their game style and how they play,” says Matt.
“So, whether you’re an attacking baseliner, an all-rounder or a counter puncher – it’s important to try and understand your style of play so you can choose the racket that will benefit you most.
“We’re in a good place now where a lot of rackets will tell you exactly what they’re like fresh out of the box – whether it’s a power racket or maybe it offers a bit more control, it’s easy to find something to suit the way you want to play the game.”
2. Getting the racket weight right
“When choosing a racket, you need to make sure that it has the right weight to suit you”, Matt suggests.
“This can depend on a number of factors, such as your age, ability and also strength to an extent.
“Adults will generally go for a racket around 300g but for younger players looking to transition to an adult racket, or for slightly older players, lighter options can often provide the best results. If you try to use a racket that’s too heavy, you might find you get more power, but you’re at a much higher risk of injury, particularly in the arm and shoulder.”
3. Don’t forget about the head size
“With head size, the larger you go, the bigger sweet spot your racket will have, but you won’t get as much control,” says Matt.
“For most adults, I’d recommend a racket size of 98 to 100 square inches – although some elite players play at 95.
“However, if you’re looking for a racket that will do more of work for you and generate some easy power, you might want to go for something 100+ sq in.”
4. Try before you buy
“If you get chance, it’s always best to demo the racket before you buy it,” Matt explains.
“A lot of people when they buy a racket, will also pick up a spare one, so if you’re down at your local club or park playing with some friends, you could ask them if you can try theirs and see how you get on. It’s also a good idea to ask a coach if they have any different rackets you can try as well.
“Some shops might offer you the chance to demo a racket as well and if you’re looking to buy two or three, it means you can get a feel for how it really plays.”
5. Go with your gut
“Quite closely linked to the last point, but the best advice I can give is to go with your gut instinct,” Matt recommends.
“Your instinct is generally right – so if it feels a bit heavy or if it feels like it doesn’t quite link in with your game style then I’d take that as a sign that you probably need to keep looking.
“If the racket feels right then that’s always the main thing. Often people might choose a racket based on colour, the brand, etc., but ultimately if you find something that feels right for you, that’s the one you should go for.”