How much does a tennis racket weigh? For the first time on the court: how to choose a tennis racket. How much does a tennis racket weigh?

If your young athlete is just beginning to learn the basics of tennis, then the main criterion when choosing a racket is the child’s height. Children's rackets start with number 19 and end with 26, these numbers indicate the length of the racket in inches. Each of these numbers shows how much growth it is designed for.

19" - from 91 to 101 cm
21" - from 100 to 113 cm
23" - from 110 to 125 cm
25" - from 125 to 140 cm
26" - from 140 to 155 cm

There are also children's rackets without a number, on such models they write "jr" or "junior" - these rackets are transitional from children's to adults, and are usually suitable for children with a height of 145 to 155 cm. They cost 1. 5 or 2 times more expensive than regular 26 rackets, because the same materials and technologies are used in their production as in the production of adult sports models.

If your child has grown significantly over the summer and his height is already approaching 150-155 centimeters, then you should consider buying a lightweight adult racket. We would recommend weight from 255 to 275 grams, but here a lot depends on the child’s playing experience, strength, preparedness, build, etc. That's why Be sure to consult with our qualified sales associates or your trainer before purchasing.

Weight of children's rackets ranges from 200 to 260 grams and grows as the size of the racket increases. Very roughly speaking, then: the taller the child, the larger the size of the racket and its weight. But lightweight versions of rackets are also often found. Therefore, a 26" number can weigh either 235 grams or 255.

Now let's talk about handle size in children's rackets, they have their own sizing system, not similar to the adult one. Children's rackets, from sizes 19 to 25, have zeros in the handle size indication, and the fewer there are, the larger the diameter of the handle. 80% of modern children's rackets have this correspondence: 19" racket - handle size: 0000; 21" racket - handle: 0000; 23" - 000; 25" - 00. And only in size 26" there are two types of handle sizes, these are “0” and “1”.

Material of manufacture also affects the choice of racket and its price. The cheapest and simplest rackets are made of aluminum; they should be considered in two cases:
1. If a child is just starting to play tennis and it is possible that after 5-6 months this desire will disappear. In this case, you simply won’t feel sorry for the money spent.
2. The child’s height does not exceed 125-130 cm. This is due to the fact that children taller than this height have a higher impact force, a longer swing and training more often. Therefore, the load on the racket is greater, and aluminum models are distinguished by their fragility.

If you are sure that your child will enjoy tennis or he has been training for several years, then you should choose rackets made of composite material. They use graphite, fiberglass and minor amounts of aluminum. These rackets cost a little more than similar aluminum models.

The third category of children's rackets is made from the same materials as adults sports models(graphite, basalt, tungsten, carbon) and does not contain aluminum at all. They are characterized by increased wear resistance, increased playing comfort and better controllability.

Rackets are usually supplied with a case and tensioned strings. The strings are one of the simplest and cheapest to install, the tension is the weakest, so it is recommended that after 4-6 months of playing, you should have them re-strung at a service center.
Vibration damper- not just a decoration, but also a useful device. A good vibration damper significantly reduces the amount of harmful vibration that occurs when hitting the ball, thereby increasing comfort and reducing stress on the arm.

1) Units of measurement. The weight of tennis rackets in the past was measured primarily in ounces (ounce, abbreviated as oz), but is now more commonly measured in grams. Often in catalogs or on the rackets themselves, the weight is indicated in both grams and ounces. The ratio between them is: 1 ounce = 28.35 grams. To convert weight from ounces to grams, multiply by 28.35. For example, 10oz= 10x28.35g= 283.5g.

To convert back from grams to ounces, you need to multiply by 0.0353. For example, 400g x 0.0353 = 14.12 oz. Or divide by 28.35.

2) Weight with and without strings. The weight of a racquet can be measured with or without strings (that is, for an unstrung racquet). The difference for modern rackets and strings is usually 15-20g (weight of strings per stretch). The exact value depends on the thickness and type of string, the number of strings in the tension and the area of the string surface of the racket. If a racket says 305g unstrung, it means that the weight of that racket without strings is 305g. 317g strung means this racquet weighs 317g with strings. In both cases, the weight is measured without additional overgrips, vibration dampers, etc.

If it is not indicated on the racket or in the catalog exactly what weight is indicated (with or without strings), then look in another catalog. Since the options for specifying weights with and without strings are used approximately equally often, it will not be possible to say with certainty which case this is. The weight information indicated on the racket itself is more reliable than in catalogs. In the past, weight variations were also often indicated, for example, 305+- 5g. Rarely now. Typically, the more expensive the racquet, the less deviation. If in a batch of rackets of the same model the difference between the lightest and heaviest is within 5g, then this is very good indicator. But any average amateur, not to mention stronger players, will feel such a difference between the two rackets in the game. That's why even rackets best quality(and among the most expensive) may require additional adjustment if you want to have a pair of identical racquets that are indistinguishable in terms of feel in the game.

3) What weight of rackets are used by whom? Professionals usually use heavy rackets, 320-360g. For good players, it is usually recommended to use light rackets, 270-310g. For weak amateurs of any gender, even lighter rackets, 250-270g, are recommended. Children's rackets are the same in weight or even lighter, but also have a reduced length, which makes them easier to control.

4) The controllability of a racket is determined not only by its weight. It is important to understand that weight is not a sufficient or comprehensive indicator of the “lightness” or controllability of a racquet. Which also depend on the balance of the racket (as well as on the aerodynamic characteristics). If the racket has a strong balance in the head, then it is harder to control, even if its weight is light. In practice, this consideration is often not very important, since almost all modern amateur racquets are produced with a head balance. Those that weigh less will be easier to handle.

5) In the past, amateurs and professionals used much heavier rackets than now. For example, wooden racquets most often weighed between 13 and 14 ounces, which is approximately 370 to 400 grams. With the beginning of the use of modern composite materials for the manufacture of rackets, it became possible to produce rackets with an increased string surface area, a varied profile and high rigidity, that is, much more powerful. With high power of the racket it heavy weight is no longer necessary in order to perform blows of sufficient force. Therefore, modern rackets have begun to be made much lighter.

Note: after the start of using composite materials, the understanding that heavy weight was no longer needed did not immediately come to manufacturers. For some time, very heavy rackets made of graphite fiber were produced (by external signs, they are quite modern even now). For example, 350g with an area of 110 sq. inches and obviously (by color, etc.) of the upper price category. You may be offered to buy one used racket. According to modern standards, it is unsuitable for playing (at least at the amateur level), its market value is close to zero. Some, for example, coaches leading groups for adult beginners, give advertisements like “I’ll buy graphite rackets in good condition, weighing no more than 300g,” with this very circumstance in mind. If you buy a racket of an unknown year of manufacture, pay attention first of all to its weight. If the racket is one of the expensive ones (at one time), then the weight should be indicated on it. Usually inside or outside the fork of the rim a little higher than the handle, less often in other places.

6) The most common misconception among amateurs regarding the weight of a racket - this is the desire of some male amateurs to use rackets that are too heavy “because that’s what the professionals do.” This is pointless and reduces the level of play of an amateur, since the controllability of such a racket is lower than that of a lighter one. Professionals use heavy rackets to create a high tempo in the game. An amateur will still not be able to create such a pace, nor will he be able to maintain it if such a pace is created by his opponent. Because an amateur does everything too slowly. The pace of an amateur’s game is limited not by the fact that the racket does not allow him to hit and spin harder, but by the fact that at a higher pace he ceases to hit the ball with the center of the racket and the ball into the court often enough. Also, when an untrained player uses heavy rackets, the likelihood of shoulder injuries significantly increases.

A player can increase the weight of the racket he uses (for example, adding weight to it, gluing special lead tape) as his level of play increases. Up to the level of about the first category, it is better not to think about it at all, using light rackets.

7) Changing the weight of the racket. It is usually impossible to reduce the weight of a racket (unless you consider barbaric methods such as sanding the surface of the racket or cutting off those plastic elements of the bumper that you can do without). Used to increase weight various ways. Most often this is lead tape (some companies now produce weights from other materials, claiming that they are less harmful to health). Additional vibration dampers, protective tape on the rim, additional overgrips also add weight. For more information on this issue, see the note “Adjusting rackets for weight and balance.”

Tennis is becoming an increasingly popular and accessible sport - people are interested in it even from a very young age. The quality of your game depends not so much on the court surface and shoes, but on rackets- the main tool of a tennis player.

It is very important to choose a racket that suits your playing style, and at the same time will be comfortable, safe to use and as ergonomic as possible. As in other sports, you also need to choose a racket depending on your level - beginner, advanced or professional.

In the next section we will talk about important technical specifications rackets for tennis, and then we will present to your attention several interesting models that can be purchased from stores in our catalog. It is worth noting that this is only general recommendations- Ideally, it is better to follow the advice of professional trainers.

Main characteristics worth paying attention to

Purpose

The weight, size and construction materials of the racket clearly determine its purpose - for adult tennis players or for children and teenagers.

The latter are distinguished by lighter weight, a short handle and a large string surface area. As a result, it is easier for a child to control such a racket and hit the ball. You need to select such rackets depending on your age and height. It is best to purchase used ones, as children quickly outgrow them. For example, at the age of 3-4 years you need to buy a racket with a length of 100 cm, at the age of 5-7 years - from 115 to 130, from 8 to 10 and more - 135-150 cm.

Tennis rackets for adults are heavier and longer. They are used by athletes from approximately 13 years of age.

Frame material

The material of the racket frame directly affects most of its qualities, so a lot depends on it in the game. Most often on sale are models made of aluminum alloy, graphite, carbon and titanium.

Aluminum alloy is used in low-cost racquets for beginners. It is not very strong and durable, and is also quite heavy, but it will help in mastering tennis, since if something happens, the racket will simply bend and not break completely.

Graphite differs from aluminum in its lighter weight and greater strength. However, he experiences falls much worse. These rackets are a little more expensive.

Carbon is considered the best material for the frame of tennis rackets - it is used in professional models. Carbon is very light, very strong and much more expensive.

Titanium is not so popular, but it is also distinguished by its low weight and good level of rigidity. Often used in conjunction with graphite, which has similar properties.

String surface area

The larger the surface area of the string, the easier it is to hit the ball and increase the force of the strike, but also the more difficult it is to direct the ball exactly where it is needed. Because of this, racquets with a large area - 645 square centimeters and above - are mainly used by children and beginners.

String formula

Defines the string layout specific model. The first number indicates the number of longitudinal strings, and the second number indicates the number of transverse strings.

The thinner the strings of the racket, the easier it is for a tennis player to perform swipe, but the accuracy increases as their number increases. The most popular design for adult rackets is 16x19, and if you are confident in yourself, you can choose more serious models. Children's rackets have different designs: 16x17, 16x18 or even 16x16.

Balance

Different rackets may have a center of gravity shifted in different directions - to the “head”, to the handle or neutral.

The first type feels heavier in the hands, and it becomes more difficult to strike accurately. At the same time, the power of the blows increases.

The second type allows you to perform less powerful, but more accurate shots - such a racket, for example, will perform better when playing close to the net. The best option for beginners.

Rackets with neutral balance are universal - they are suitable for those who have not yet decided on their playing style.

Handle size

At correct grip The handle of the racket should leave a small distance between the fingers and the palm of the player - approximately the size of the index finger. For children and women with small hands, it is better to choose models with handle sizes 1-2, for adults - with sizes 3-4. If you are a very large man, then you may need a size 5 pen.

Length

One of the most important parameters of a racket. It directly depends on the player’s height, and you can’t make a mistake in choosing here. It is believed that optimal size rackets for adults is 685.8 mm, and the maximum (for very tall people) is 736.6 mm.

Rackets for children are selected according to the child’s height. Up to 118 cm - 533 mm, 119-135 cm - 584 mm, height 136-150 cm - 635-660 mm, height 151 cm and above - 686 mm and above.

In general, the length of the racket affects the power and accuracy of the strike - the larger the racket, the higher the speed of the ball, but also the lower the likelihood that it will fly to the desired point.

Another very important parameter. It’s difficult to give specific recommendations here, since a lot depends on the player’s playing style and preferences. You just need to know that more heavy rackets“give” less vibration to the hand after an impact, but lightweight models will provide higher speed and maneuverability. Often, heavier rackets are recommended for beginners, and lighter ones for advanced players.

Materials used in a tennis racket.
Currently, many different materials are used in the production of tennis rackets. In order to tennis racquet was durable, manufacturers tried a wide variety of materials. Information about them can be found in the markings on the racket or packaging:

Composite materials. As a rule, such an inscription appears on models that were produced in a combination of certain materials (a mixture of graphite, carographite, fiberglass, titanium, etc.)
Graphite (graphite)- basically, it is from this that the bulk of modern tennis rackets are made. Graphite is very durable, but at the same time it is also light. Gives the blow a high level of force and at the same time allows you to feel good tennis ball. Achieves its best properties in combination with various thermoplastic and fiberglass resins. Tennis rackets made from composite materials including graphite are suitable for both beginners and professional players.
Aluminum (aluminum)– an inexpensive material used in the production of tennis rackets. Therefore, its advantages are low price and long service life. If you accidentally hit the floor or your partner's racquet while playing, most likely it will not break. But, naturally, the tennis racket will become deformed and lose its playing properties.
Hyper carbon– Wilson has been actively promoting this material on the tennis market over the past few years. Hyper carbon was developed in conjunction with NASA and is said to be four times stiffer, four times stronger and 65% lighter than titanium. That's why Wilson tennis rackets are particularly durable.
Fiberglass– one of the impurities in the tennis racket material. Allows for additional flexibility.
Titanium (titanium)– very close in its playing characteristics to graphite. Manufacturers mix titanium and graphite for the ideal ratio of rigidity and weight of a tennis racket!

What does a tennis racket consist of?

"Tennis Racket Head"- that part of it inside which the tennis strings are stretched, the main playing surface.
« Fork " - that part of the racket that connects its head and handle. The fork allows you to better dampen vibrations that occur when the string surface of the racket comes into contact with the tennis ball.
« Pen "- the handle of a tennis racket is usually measured in units from 1 to 5. It is impossible to determine by simple calculation what size handle you need. A consultant at any tennis store or coach will always be able to help you correctly determine the number of your pen. 1 is the smallest tennis racket handle, and 5 is the largest. More often on a racket you can see the following designation of handles: 4 1/8 is the first handle, 4 1/ is the second, 4 3/8 is the third, 4 1/2 is the fourth, 4 3/8 is the fifth.

Tennis racket head dimensions

A tennis racket with a head size of 90-95 or Mid Size is designed for professional players, while 98-100 or Mid Plus is mainly intended for a wide range of players, from professional to amateur. Such tennis rackets are almost always chosen professional tennis players, because with their help they are able to better control the tennis ball, coping with aggressive, hard shots. Tennis rackets with a head size of 103 and above or Oversize have a larger string surface area and, accordingly, a larger “impact spot”, which allows you to avoid a large number of mistakes associated with not hitting the ball with the center, and also significantly increase the power of the strike. They are more suitable for amateurs who are primarily interested in comfortable playing and striking power; the same characteristic as control takes only second place in their priorities. There are often situations when manufacturers produce the same model of tennis racket in two versions: as a rule, with a Mid Plus and Oversize head size. Therefore, if you have doubts about the option that is right for you, The best way choose - play with both rackets, and only then accept final decision. You can also consult with the Rocketlon staff, and they will always tell you the correct tennis racket head size suitable for your game.

Racket balance

Rackets with a neutral balance have a balance point of approximately 32.5 cm. Balance “in the head” is approximately 33.5-34.5 cm, and “in the handle” - 32 cm. How can you measure the balance of a tennis racket yourself, if suddenly you can't find its data on the racket? Place the racket on any narrow stick or tube so that the “head” of the racket is to the left of the balance point, and the handle is to the right. When the racket lies flat, without deviating either to the right or to the left, then mark this point and use a tape measure to measure the distance from the heel of the handle to the balance point. This will be the balance value in centimeters. Different balances can result in two racquets with exactly the same weight having completely different performance characteristics when playing! Head-balanced tennis rackets appear heavier and impart greater force to the shot. Hand-balanced rackets are designed primarily for players who use a variety of technical techniques in their game and actively play both from the volley and from the back line.

Tennis racket weight

The average weight of a tennis racket is currently 290 – 320 g, but there are also models that weigh less than 270 g. The lighter your tennis racket, the more free and sweeping your swing can be. However, in order to achieve the required impact force when playing light rackets, you must accelerate it much faster when executing a strike and have very good technique.
Advanced amateurs play with tennis rackets weighing 280-310 g. , professionals - 295 - 340 gr. , and even sometimes higher. Beginning tennis players choose rackets weighing 255-300 grams.

How to measure the length of a tennis racket before buying

This characteristic is of paramount importance if you are buying a racket for your child. Don't buy a racquet that your young tennis player will struggle to hold just because it is designed for taller players.

For adults, a tennis racket has a normal length of 68.5-68.6 cm, with the exception of elongated models that were specially designed by manufacturers to increase hitting power. To play with an elongated racket, you will need additional training or simply the ability to make high-precision shots. Therefore, if you consider yourself a novice player, it is better to choose standard length models. Our online store staff will always help you choose the right racket.

You can buy tennis rackets through the Raketlon online store in Russian cities:

Moscow, St. Petersburg, Arkhangelsk, Murmansk, Smolensk, Bryansk, Kursk, Belgorod, Voronezh, Lipetsk, Tula, Volgograd, Rostov-on-Don, Krasnodar, Saratov, Penza, Samara, Ufa, Kazan, Izhevsk,

Yoshkar-Ola, Orenburg, Perm, Kirov, Ekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk, Nizhny Novgorod, Kurgan, Tyumen, Syktyvkar, Tyumen, Khanty-Mansiysk, Salekhard, Yaroslavl, Ivanovo, Ryazan, Tver, Kaluga, Tomsk, Novosibirsk, Barnaul, Kemerovo, Novokuznetsk, Krasnoyarsk, Irkutsk, Chita, Yakutsk, Magadan, Blagoveshchensk, Khabarovsk, Vladivostok , Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Okha, Komsomolsk-on-Amur, Nakhodka, as well as in the Republic of Belarus (Minsk) and Kazakhstan (Almaty).