Choosing a tennis racket and strings for beginners

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Racket advertising is full of terms like power, control and spin, and the price range is huge. For a beginner, comfort and forgiveness matter far more than any particular model. This guide explains the specifications so you can choose sensibly.

Racket size limits

The ITF Rules of Tennis set limits on rackets. For adult play, the overall length cannot exceed 29 inches (73.7 cm) and the width 12.5 inches (31.7 cm). Most adult rackets are 27 inches long, with some slightly longer for extra reach.

Head size

Larger heads, often called oversize, offer a bigger sweet spot and more power. They are forgiving when you miss the centre.
Midsize heads give more control but need more consistent contact.
Most beginners do well with a mid-plus or oversize head.

Weight and balance

Lighter rackets are easy to swing and manoeuvre, but can feel unstable against fast balls and transmit more shock.
Heavier rackets are more stable and absorb shock better, but can tire the arm and slow the swing if too heavy.
Balance describes whether the weight sits towards the head or the handle. Head-light rackets feel quick at the net; head-heavy rackets add power for players with shorter swings.

A moderate weight usually suits a new adult player. Try a few before deciding.

Grip size

The grip size is the circumference of the handle. A grip that is too small makes you squeeze harder; too large makes it difficult to change grips. A rough check is to hold the racket with a forehand grip and see whether a finger of your other hand fits in the gap between your fingertips and your palm. If in doubt, choose the smaller size, because you can build it up with an overgrip.

Stiffness

Stiffer frames return more energy and give power, but transmit more vibration to the arm. Players with arm or elbow concerns often prefer a more flexible frame.

Strings

Strings affect feel and comfort as much as the frame.

Synthetic gut is affordable and comfortable, and a good default for beginners.
Multifilament strings are softer and more arm-friendly, often recommended for players with elbow issues.
Polyester strings are durable and popular with advanced players for control and spin, but they are stiff and lose tension quickly. They are not usually recommended for beginners.
Natural gut gives excellent feel and comfort but is expensive and sensitive to moisture.

String tension

Lower tension gives more power and comfort.
Higher tension gives more control but feels firmer.
Start in the middle of the range printed on the racket.
Restring when strings feel dead or break. A traditional rule of thumb is to restring as many times a year as you play each week.

Junior rackets

Children should use rackets sized to their height and the ball they play with. In the UK, the LTA sets out a progression from red to orange to green balls before the standard yellow ball, with shorter rackets for younger children. An adult racket that is too long and heavy makes learning harder.

Buying tips

Demo rackets: many clubs and shops lend rackets to try.
Second-hand rackets can be good value; check the frame for cracks and the grommets for damage.
Do not chase a professional's racket. Their equipment is customised for their strength and swing.
Use an overgrip for comfort and replace it often.

Other kit

Shoes: tennis shoes support sideways movement. Running shoes are not designed for it.
Balls: pressurised balls lose bounce over time; pressureless balls last longer but feel heavier.
Vibration dampeners: these change the sound and feel, but do not prevent injury.

What racket did you start with, and would you choose it again? Share your thoughts in the comments.