With the festive season just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to think about upgrading your racquet or finding the ideal tennis gift for your loved ones.
The right racquet can make a big difference to comfort, confidence, and performance — and with so many options out there, a few simple tips can help narrow things down.
First let's breakdown the essential terminology and sizing for tennis racquets.
Tennis Racquet Terminology
Racquet Length:
Often measured in inches, refers to the length of the racquet from the bumper guard to heal of the grip. Kids racquets start from about 17" upto adult racquets are usually 27" in length.
Head Size:
Measured in square inches, refers to the area of the frame where the strings go. A larger head size gives more spring in the strings and therefore more power. A smaller head size will give less power but more control.
String Pattern:
This also has an impact on the power and control of a racquet. Normally shown with two numbers, like 16/19. The first number refers to the vertical strings, and the second is the horizontal cross strings. Essentially less strings gives more spring, spin and power, and higher string count gives more control. 16/19 is an average string pattern.
Racquet Weight & Balance:
Racquet Weight refers to the weight of the whole racquet unstrung and the Balance is how that weight is distributed between the head and the handle. Younger players and beginners tend to go with a lighter weight for easier control, whereas more proficient players tend to go with a heavier racquet for more power.
- If the balance point is half the total racquet length then it is in 'perfect' balance. A balance point which is less than half the total length it is 'head light' which gives less power but more control. Conversely, if the balance point is more than half the total length, it is 'head heavy' which gives you more power.
Now that we have cleared up some of the jargon, we can have a look at what our coaches recommend for our players.
For Minis
For the under fives, a 19 inch racquet is about right. Under nines will need something a little larger, but a 21 - 23 inch frame is about as big as you should go!
For juniors
Choose a racquet that matches their height and strength. A 25 - 26 inch lighter frame with a slightly larger head size helps them develop control and power without strain.
Many brands offer “junior performance” versions of adult frames — a great gift for keen young players moving up a level.
For social adults
Comfort is key! Look for a racquet with a medium weight (around 270–290g) and good balance — it’ll be easier on the arm and great for those weekly club sessions.
For competitive players
Go for precision and feel. Heavier, thinner-beamed racquets with a smaller head size give more control for players who can generate their own power.
Strings and grip matter too:
Even a simple restring, shock absorber or new over-grip can refresh the feel of a racquet and they make a perfect stocking filler!
Shop local, we have a few grips and accessories available at Oriam Reception and there are some great independent sports shops in Edinburgh including, Bruntsfield Sports.
If you’re unsure, our Oriam coaching team are always happy to offer advice, whether it’s a Christmas treat or a little motivation to get back on court, the right racquet could be the best gift you give this season.
We also have vouchers available for one-to-one coaching sessions, so they can make the most of the new kit and kickstart their tennis goals for the new year. If you have any questions about racquet recommendations or tennis gift vouchers please email the team at [email protected]