Tennis Grips Explained

Replacement Grips, Overgrips, Grip Sizes and More

Your tennis racquet is the only piece of equipment you physically touch during every shot. Yet for many players, the grip is the most overlooked part of their setup.

A worn-out grip can make the racquet twist in your hand, force you to squeeze tighter, increase arm fatigue, and even contribute to blisters and tennis elbow. The right grip, on the other hand, gives you confidence, comfort, and control.

If you’re not sure whether you need a new grip, an overgrip, a different size, or a completely different style, this guide will help.

The Difference Between a Replacement Grip and an Overgrip

One of the most common areas of confusion is understanding the difference between the two.

A replacement grip is the main grip that is fitted directly onto the handle of the racquet. Every racquet comes with one installed from the factory. It provides cushioning and determines most of the feel and thickness of the handle.

An overgrip is a thin layer wrapped over the top of the replacement grip. It adds comfort, tackiness or sweat absorption and is designed to be replaced regularly.

Think of it like this:

• Replacement grip = the carpet.
• Overgrip = the rug sitting on top.

Most regular tennis players use both.

When Should I Replace My Overgrip?

Much more often than you probably think.

Professional players often change overgrips every match. Some change them during a match.

For recreational players:

• Once a week players: every 4-8 weeks.
• Twice a week players: every 2-4 weeks.
• Competitive juniors: every 1-2 weeks.
• Tournament players: often before every event.

If your grip feels slippery, shiny, hard, or dirty, it’s probably time for a new one.

An overgrip is one of the cheapest upgrades you can make to your racquet and often has a bigger impact than players expect.

When Should I Replace My Replacement Grip?

Replacement grips last much longer than overgrips but they do wear out.

Signs it’s time to replace it include:

• The grip has become flattened.
• The edges of the handle feel less defined.
• The grip feels hard or compressed.
• The grip has started tearing.
• You can feel the handle underneath.

For most players, replacing the base grip once or twice a year is sufficient.

Competitive players who spend a lot of time on court may need to replace theirs more frequently.

Dry Grips vs Tacky Grips

Not all grips are designed for the same player.

Tacky Grips

These have a slightly sticky feel that helps the racquet stay secure in your hand.

Tacky grips are often preferred by players who don’t sweat excessively or who play in cooler conditions.

Dry Grips

Dry grips are designed to absorb moisture and maintain traction even when your hands are sweating heavily.

If you regularly find yourself wiping your hand on your shorts between points, a dry grip may be worth trying.

What If My Hands Sweat A Lot?

If you struggle with sweaty hands, don’t immediately assume you need a different racquet.

Start by looking at your grip setup.

Many players benefit from:

• A highly absorbent overgrip.
• Changing overgrips more frequently.
• Using a wristband.
• Carrying multiple overgrips in their tennis bag.
• Rotating between two racquets during matches.

The right grip can completely change how secure your racquet feels.

What Size Grip Should I Use?

Grip size is one of the most misunderstood aspects of racquet fitting.

Historically, players were often fitted with quite large grips. Modern players generally use slightly smaller grips because they allow greater wrist movement and make it easier to generate topspin.

However, too small is not always better.

How Can I Check My Grip Size?

A simple guide is to hold the racquet in your normal forehand grip.

There should be enough space between your fingertips and palm to fit the index finger of your other hand.

If there is no gap at all, the grip may be too small.

If there is a very large gap, the grip may be too big.

This isn’t a perfect method, but it’s a useful starting point.

Can I Change My Grip Size?

Yes.

Adding an overgrip increases grip size slightly.

Some players add two overgrips if they want a larger feel.

Reducing grip size is more difficult and often requires modification to the handle.

That’s why it’s usually better to start slightly smaller rather than slightly larger when purchasing a new racquet.

Which Grip Is Best?

There isn’t one perfect grip for everyone.

The best grip depends on:

• How much you sweat.
• The climate you play in.
• Your hand size.
• Personal preference.
• Whether you value cushioning or feel.

Two players using the exact same racquet may prefer completely different grips.

That’s why it’s worth experimenting rather than assuming the grip that came with your racquet is the best option.

Ask Someone Who Sees You Play

Grip choice is surprisingly personal. What feels fantastic to one player can feel terrible to another.

If you’re unsure, ask your coach what they recommend. They see how you hold the racquet, how much you sweat, whether the racquet twists on impact, and whether your grip size looks appropriate.

A specialist tennis retailer can also help assess your grip size and recommend options based on your playing style.

The grip may be the cheapest part of your racquet, but it’s also the only part you touch on every shot. Keeping it fresh and choosing the right type can make a noticeable difference to your comfort, confidence and performance on court.