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When looking for the best tennis racket for your game, there are a multitude of options for you to choose from. Not all equipment is made the same and some of the small differences can make a big impact on your match results. Use this guide when searching for tennis rackets to help you make the best choice for your game.
Categories
We will first discuss the three categories and then discuss the specific characteristics of tennis rackets.
1. Power Rackets
The power rackets category (sometimes referred to as game improvement rackets) are rackets that are designed for players who have short or slow swings but still want to generate a lot of power on their shots. The most distinctive feature is their oversized heads (107″ or greater). In addition, power rackets will be light (less than 10 oz.), long (over 27″), and be balanced heavily toward the head.
2. Intermediate Rackets
Intermediate rackets are designed to be a mix between a power racket and a player’s racket. They give up some power with a smaller head size (less than 102″) but add maneuverability by being lighter and having a more evenly distributed weight. These rackets are great for intermediate players in the 3.5 to 4.5 NTRP (National Tennis Rating Program) range.
3. Player’s Rackets
Player’s (or control) rackets are rackets generally used by high level tennis players (4.5+ NTRP) in college or professional ranks. Power shots are created by the player rather than the racket in these models as the head sizes are much smaller (100″ or less) and the weight is very balanced. With an overall heavier weight, these rackets lose some maneuverability but give the player total control over their shots.
Racket Features
Use these characteristics to compare and contrast rackets and to decide exactly which one will work best for you.
Head Size – The bigger the head size of the racket the more power you will have. The sweet spot of the racket is also bigger so players who often times hit off-center will still be able to generate power. The drawback of a large head size is that you lose some control.
Stiffness – Rackets have various frame stiffness, which is how much bend the frame will have when striking the ball. Stiffer frames will deflect the ball more, increasing the power as opposed to more flexible frames which dampen the impact of the ball and therefore decrease the power.
Weight – Heavier rackets provide more power and lighter rackets provide more maneuverability and swing speed. Heavier rackets also have less shock than lighter rackets when the ball is struck
Balance – A racket may be weighted more heavily in the head to provide more power while other rackets may have a more evenly distributed weight. Evenly balanced rackets have less power but more control.
Length – Legal tennis rackets may not be over 29″ and the most common length is 27″. The benefits of a longer racket include more reach on groundstrokes and more leverage on serves. Longer rackets can also provide more power but may also give up some maneuverability.
Pattern – String patterns on rackets are either 18 mains by 20 crosses (18×20) or 16×18. 18×20 patterns offer a more open pattern which allows for more spin on the ball. The disadvantage of this pattern, however, is a decrease in the durability of the strings. The tighter 16×18 pattern will offer less spin but longer string durability.
Narrow your choices by looking for a racket category that fits your skill level (beginner, intermediate, or advanced) and game type (power or control, spin or flat shots). Once you decide the category, begin looking through the different characteristics to determine exactly which racket will be the best for you. Do you want a head heavy racket for more power or balanced for more control? Perhaps you want a smaller head size for more feel. Using these guidelines will help you find the perfect tennis racket to help you win many matches.
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Source by John R Osborne