Companies that make tennis rackets have a mixed customer base consisting of players with different levels of experience, different playing styles, and preferences. Therefore, companies try their level best to cater to the mixed customer base. This approach results in a wide range of products that can often confuse a beginner. Sometimes, even seasoned players who want to upgrade their racket may find it hard to decide which racket to buy.
If you are one of such people, you have come to the right place! To clear all the confusion and help players make an informed choice, here are some tips.
Choosing a racket based on skill level
One way to choose a racket is to go by the skill level of the player. Let us divide the players into three categories – beginners, intermediate players, and advanced players.
- Beginners
Most brands have dedicated rackets and carry the label ‘for beginners.’ Here are some features that beginners must look for – a light frame, an oversized head, and more power. An oversized head will help them play consistently. A beginner’s racket has more power so that the player can play long rallies to practice without wearing out the muscles.
- Intermediate players
Intermediate players are those who have some experience with the game but are yet to develop good control. Now that their body muscles have got accustomed to the game, intermediate players can go for rackets with a mid-sized head. Also, their hands can now handle a racket with some additional weight.
With a mid-sized head and a medium-weight frame, the racket will not generate as much power as a beginner’s. Here, less power means more control. Thus, intermediate players can exercise better control of their shots and spins.
- Advanced players
By advanced players, we mean those who play regularly. These players are aware of all the rules and regulations and are also comfortable with playing powerful services and different types of shots.
Advanced players would have also developed their preferences for a racket. Players generally go for rackets that are optimized for the user’s feel and desired level of control. The head size is usually mid-size or mid-plus size. And the frame can be of medium weight or heavy weight.
Special tips for women
The requirements and preferences of male and female tennis players can be different. Here are some tips for finding the best tennis rackets for women.
Compared to male players, women usually have better control. But the spin and power are lesser than that generated by male players. So, they must look for rackets that complement this. Rackets that offer more mobility and control without taking away power are the answer.
Additional factors to consider
Some prime factors that can affect your game are the racket weight and grip size. Rackets of varying circumferences are available. One must choose an appropriate grip size to go with the size of one’s hand. Further, the preferred rackets can be different for singles and doubles players.