In the realm of tennis, the tennis racquet stands as the paramount gear for any player. Throughout the years, tennis racquets have undergone a remarkable evolution, incorporating changes in shape, weight, materials, and an array of technological innovations, all designed to elevate the sport. In this concise guide, our in-house tennis expert from Tennis365.in provides a closer look at the marvel that is the tennis racquet.

The Head

This is the pivotal area where the strings reside, the very point of impact. The size of the head may vary from racquet to racquet, typically falling in the range of 85 to 135 square inches. The head's dimensions also influence your playing style. Larger heads deliver more power to your shots but require more effort to swing, while smaller heads provide enhanced control and speed.

The Beam

The beam, essentially the thickness of the head, varies with different racquet types and is often an overlooked aspect of the racquet. It plays a substantial role in the game. Racquets with a wider beam allow the strings to flex more freely, resulting in powerful shots but decreased control. Conversely, racquets with slimmer beams offer less power but superior control over your strokes.

The Strings

Situated at the heart of the head, the strings are where the magic happens, as the ball connects and rebounds like a trampoline. Strings can come pre-strung with the racquet or be sold separately, and their characteristics can significantly impact performance. Factors such as string thickness, material composition, and wear can influence power, control, vibration, spin, and more.

The Bumper Guard

At the pinnacle of the racquet's head, you'll find the bumper guard, a protective shield for the racquet's impact zone. The court's surface can frequently scrape against the racquet during groundstrokes, and the bumper guard serves to shield the racquet from harm. Made of sturdy plastic, these guards may require periodic replacement to maintain the racquet's integrity.

The Grommets

Grommets are plastic inserts that thread through the string holes encircling the tennis racquet's head. Much like the bumper guard, grommets play a crucial role in safeguarding the strings from the rigors of tennis. Their thickness comes in various widths, designed to either facilitate or restrict string movement. Wider grommets are typically used in power racquets, while control-based racquets feature thicker grommets to minimize string mobility.

The Shaft

The shaft extends from the bottom of the head down to the racquet's handle. At the top of the shaft lies the racquet's throat, while below the throat is the handle.

The Throat

Emerging from the handle's top, the throat divides into two parts that extend across both sides of the racquet, shaping the head. The central part of the throat is typically hollow, reducing weight and allowing for some racquet flex. Racquets exhibit varying degrees of flexibility, with less flexible racquets suited for power play, and more flexible ones favoring control.

The Handle

The handle forms the very bottom of the racquet and serves as the part you grip during play. Manufacturers sometimes extend the handle to enhance a racquet's power. Handles also come in varying circumferences, typically falling between 4 and 4 5/8 inches, with the right choice crucial to prevent injury.

The Grip

The grip, or handle's coating, provides the necessary cushioning for a secure hold on the racquet while protecting your hand from potential injuries. It also connects the handle to the butt.

The Butt

At the very base of the handle lies the butt, which tends to be wider. This width helps maintain stability in the racquet during swings.