Choose No. One Tennis Racket

Selecting the appropriate racket head size is important when choosing the best tennis racket for your game.
Figuring out how to choose a tennis racket can be a daunting task. Among the many considerations for your new racket purchase are grip size, racket composition, string density, tennis racket head size and more.

Selecting the appropriate racket head size is very important to beginning players as well as advanced and veteran players. Many beginner tennis players find that using a tennis racket with an over-sized head provides them with a larger hitting surface and, consequently, allows them to make contact with the ball on the sweet spot more. Larger heads provide more confidence because the player typically experiences fewer mis-hits. Over-sized rackets are usually between 105 and 125 square inches. In general, players with limited mobility may also benefit from a larger racket head size as well.

Conversely, experienced players usually benefit from using a tennis racket with a smaller racket head. Smaller racket heads provide more maneuverability and typically produce less power and more control although the weight of the racket is an important component in the power-control equation. You'll notice that the majority of the players on the professional tour play with smaller heads. They rarely need help generating pace and also tend to hit a cleaner shot near the sweet spot of the racket so they don't need help with either power or with their ability to hit solid shots.

Although it may seem complicated, keep in mind the general principle that a larger racket head size generally means that the racket will have more power than one with a smaller racket head. Larger racket heads offer more forgiveness for off-center hits. Rackets with smaller heads offer less power, more control and are usually more suitable for more experienced players who can generate their own power.

Keep in mind that each player may have different preferences and the above information is general in nature. Experiment with different rackets through a racket demo program at your local sporting goods store or tennis pro shop so you can get a feel for what will work best for you and your particular game and style. Be sure to describe your game to the racket consultant or your local tennis teaching professional so that he or she may provide the right guidance and advice for your racket purchase.