Understanding tennis racket grip sizes & overgrips

A grip size on a tennis racket is the circumference of the handle, measured in inches, which determines how comfortably the racket fits in your hand.

Choosing the right grip size and using overgrips effectively can significantly impact your comfort, control, and overall performance on the court.

This essential guide from our partners at Pro:Direct will help you measure your grip size, understand the benefits of overgrips, and know when to replace them.

Shop tennis grips and overgrips

How to measure your tennis racket grip size

Grip size refers to the circumference of a racket's handle, and getting it right is important both for comfort and injury prevention, as a poorly fitting grip can contribute to conditions like tennis elbow. 

Finding the correct grip size ensures better handling and prevents unnecessary strain on your wrist and arm. There are two common methods to determine your ideal grip size:

The ruler test

• Open your dominant hand with your fingers extended and held together
• Locate the lower crease that runs across your palm
• Measure from this crease to the tip of your ring finger
• Compare the measurement with the tennis racket grip size chart below

If your measurement falls between two sizes, choose the smaller grip. You can increase it later by adding an overgrip.

The index finger test

• Hold a racket with a standard eastern grip (where the base knuckle of your index finger rests on the third bevel of the handle).
• Place the index finger of your non-dominant hand between your fingertips and the palm side of the grip.
• If there is too much space, the grip is too big; if there’s no space, the grip is too small.

Standard grip sizes

How should a tennis racket grip feel?

The correct tennis grip size should allow your fingers to wrap comfortably around the handle without pressing firmly into your palm. You should be able to hold the racket securely without excessive squeezing, and the handle should not twist during your swing.

A grip may be too small if your fingertips press into your palm or the racket moves in your hand. It might be too large if you struggle to wrap your fingers around the handle or find it difficult to change grips quickly. 

The benefits of overgrips

• Comfort: Adds cushioning and reduces hand fatigue.
• Improved grip and tackiness: Helps maintain a firm hold, especially in humid conditions.
• Customisation: Allows minor grip size increases without needing a different racket handle.
• Hygiene and longevity: Absorbs sweat and dirt, preventing the handle from deteriorating.

When to replace your overgrip

Regularly changing your overgrip ensures maximum performance and comfort. Here are signs it’s time for a replacement:

• Loss of tackiness: If the grip feels slippery or difficult to hold.
• Visible wear and tear: Fraying, discoloration, or thinning of the material.
• Excessive sweat absorption: Overgrips become less effective after prolonged moisture absorption.
• Reduced comfort: A hardened or flattened overgrip can cause blisters and discomfort.

How to apply a tennis overgrip 

An overgrip is wrapped over the racket's existing replacement grip to improve comfort, absorb moisture and slightly increase the handle size.

• Remove the finishing tape from the new overgrip
• Place the tapered end against the bottom of the racket handle
• Wrap the overgrip diagonally upwards, overlapping each layer slightly
• Maintain even tension and avoid leaving gaps or creases
• Trim any excess material at the top of the handle
• Secure the overgrip using the supplied finishing tape

Players who sweat heavily may prefer an absorbent overgrip, while a tackier overgrip can provide a firmer and more secure feel.