Tennis Grip Size and Replacement Guide
Your grip is the single point of contact between you and your racket. An incorrect grip size or a worn-out grip can cause blisters, force you to hold too tightly, reduce control, and even contribute to arm injuries over time. This guide covers everything you need to know about finding your correct grip size and maintaining it properly.
Understanding Grip Size Systems
Tennis grips are measured using two systems: the American system (in inches) and the European system (numbered 0-5). Both measure the circumference of the handle.
Grip Size Conversion Chart
- 4 inches / Grip 0: Smallest adult size, rarely used
- 4 1/8 inches / Grip 1: Extra small, suitable for smaller hands
- 4 1/4 inches / Grip 2: Small, common for women and juniors transitioning to adult rackets
- 4 3/8 inches / Grip 3: Medium, most popular size overall
- 4 1/2 inches / Grip 4: Large, common for men with average to larger hands
- 4 5/8 inches / Grip 5: Extra large, for players with larger hands
In Australia, grip sizes 2, 3, and 4 cover the vast majority of adult players. Knowing your size across both systems helps when shopping internationally or comparing different brands.
Finding Your Correct Grip Size
There are several reliable methods to determine your ideal grip size. We recommend trying multiple approaches for the most accurate result.
Method 1: The Ruler Measurement
Open your hitting hand with fingers extended and close together. Measure from the middle crease of your palm (where the palm meets the wrist) to the tip of your ring finger. This measurement in inches typically corresponds directly to your grip size.
- Measurement under 4 inches: Grip 0 or 1
- 4 to 4 1/8 inches: Grip 1
- 4 1/8 to 4 1/4 inches: Grip 2
- 4 1/4 to 4 3/8 inches: Grip 3
- 4 3/8 to 4 1/2 inches: Grip 4
- Over 4 1/2 inches: Grip 5
Method 2: The Finger Test
Hold a racket with your dominant hand using an Eastern forehand grip (base knuckle on bevel 3). With your other hand's index finger, try to fit it in the gap between your fingertips and the base of your palm.
- If your finger fits perfectly with minimal wiggle room, the grip is correct.
- If there's no room for your finger, the grip is too small.
- If there's excessive space, the grip is too large.
When in doubt, choose the smaller size. You can easily build up a grip using overgrips (adding approximately 1/16 inch per overgrip), but you cannot effectively reduce a grip that's too large.
Consequences of Wrong Grip Size
Grip Too Small
- Requires excessive gripping pressure to maintain control
- Increases forearm muscle fatigue
- May contribute to tennis elbow development
- Can cause the racket to twist on off-centre hits
- Reduces overall stability and control
Grip Too Large
- Restricts wrist movement and snap
- Limits ability to generate topspin
- Reduces feel and touch on delicate shots
- Makes grip changes between strokes more difficult
- Can strain hand and finger muscles
Common Misconception
Some players believe a larger grip provides more power. This is incorrect. The right grip size optimises control and comfort. Power comes from technique, racket specifications, and strings—not grip size.
Replacement Grips vs. Overgrips
Understanding the difference between these two grip types is essential for proper maintenance.
Replacement Grips
Replacement grips (also called base grips) are applied directly to the handle and form the foundation of your grip setup. They're thicker (typically 1.5-2.0mm), more cushioned, and more durable than overgrips.
- Types: Cushioned, leather, perforated, tacky
- Lifespan: 6-12 months for regular players
- Cost: $15-30 AUD
- Purpose: Provides base cushioning and determines core feel
Overgrips
Overgrips are thin wraps applied over the replacement grip. They're designed to be changed frequently, providing fresh feel and absorption without replacing the entire grip.
- Types: Dry/tacky, absorbent, thin/thick
- Lifespan: 3-10 hours of play
- Cost: $2-5 AUD each (cheaper in bulk)
- Purpose: Absorbs sweat, maintains tackiness, extends base grip life
The Australian Heat Factor
Australian summers demand extra attention to grip maintenance. High temperatures and humidity increase sweating dramatically. Many players use absorbent overgrips and change them multiple times during long sessions. Keep spare overgrips in your bag during summer months.
Choosing the Right Overgrip
Tacky Overgrips
Provide a sticky feel that helps maintain grip without squeezing tightly. Ideal for players who don't sweat excessively and prefer security over absorption. May become slippery when very wet.
Absorbent (Dry) Overgrips
Designed to wick away moisture and maintain grip even when sweating heavily. Popular in Australia's hot climate. Typically less tacky when dry but perform well under perspiration.
Thickness Considerations
Standard overgrips add approximately 1/16 inch to your grip size. If you're between sizes, you can use the smaller grip and add an overgrip to reach your ideal circumference. Thin overgrips exist for players who want minimal size increase.
When to Replace Your Grip
Signs Your Overgrip Needs Changing
- Visible wear, holes, or smooth spots
- Slipping during play despite proper grip pressure
- Loss of tackiness or absorption
- Hardening or stiffening of material
- Unpleasant odour from bacteria buildup
Signs Your Replacement Grip Needs Attention
- Compressed or flattened cushioning
- Visible wear through to the handle
- Peeling edges or loose sections
- Handle feels harder or less comfortable than when new
- More than 12 months old with regular use
How to Apply an Overgrip
Applying an overgrip correctly ensures it stays secure and performs properly.
- Remove the old overgrip and any adhesive residue.
- Start at the butt cap with the tapered end of the new overgrip.
- Peel back the adhesive backing (usually just the first few centimetres).
- Wrap at a consistent angle, overlapping each layer by about 3-5mm.
- Maintain slight tension as you wrap—firm but not stretched tight.
- Continue up the handle, keeping overlaps consistent.
- Cut any excess at the top and secure with the finishing tape provided.
Special Considerations
Heat Shrink Sleeves
Some players add heat shrink sleeves under their replacement grip for additional cushioning or to build up grip size more substantially than overgrips allow. This is a more permanent modification requiring a heat gun.
Leather Grips
Traditional leather replacement grips offer a firm, classic feel preferred by some players. They're thinner than cushioned grips and transmit more feedback. Leather requires conditioning to prevent drying and cracking.
Sweat Management
For heavy sweaters, consider using wristbands, rosin bags, or sawdust to manage moisture. Some players apply grip-enhancing products, though these are restricted in some competitive settings.
Your grip is a small investment that significantly impacts your playing experience. Take time to find the right size, maintain it properly, and replace it before it degrades. The small effort and cost of grip maintenance pays dividends in comfort, control, and injury prevention.