Choosing the wrong tennis grip size is one of the most overlooked causes of discomfort and tennis elbow in recreational players. A grip that is too small or too large forces your hand to work harder on every swing — and that adds up over thousands of shots. This guide covers two simple methods to find your ideal grip size before buying your next racquet — written by Randy Reynolds, certified tennis instructor and director of Tennis Nation at Reno Tennis Center.
The Common Question: What Is My Grip Size?
One of the most common questions when selecting a tennis racquet is “what is my grip size?” You wouldn’t play tennis in shoes that are too big or too small — the same consideration applies to your racquet grip. Having the right sized grip makes your tennis experience more enjoyable and pain-free over the long run.
Determining Your Tennis Grip Size
Option 1: The Index Finger Test
Step 1: Hold your racquet in the eastern forehand grip — index knuckle and heel pad on bevel number three. For a full breakdown of grip positions visit the grip guide.
Step 2: Place the index finger of your non-hitting hand in the space between your palm and ring finger.
Step 3: Determine the result:
- Too small: Not enough space for your non-hitting index finger between ring finger and palm
- Too big: Index finger fits loosely with room to spare
- Just right: Index finger fits comfortably and snugly in the space
Step 4: Adjust until you reach the ideal size:
- Select a racquet with the correct grip size after the finger test, or
- Choose a slightly smaller grip and build it up with an over grip (adds 1/16 inch) or a heat shrink sleeve (adds 1/8 inch)
*Adding an over grip or sleeve increases racquet weight slightly by 7–16 grams — the benefits of a properly sized grip significantly outweigh the added weight.
Option 2: The Ruler Method
Step 1: Raise your dominant hitting hand with fingers held close together — as if going under oath.
Step 2: Using a ruler, measure from the top of your ring finger down to the second horizontal crease in your palm. If the measurement is 4½ inches, select a 4½ inch grip size.
Step 3: If you fall between grip sizes, always select the smaller size and build up using the methods in Option 1, Step 4.
Why Having the Proper Tennis Grip Size Is Important
The right grip size reduces your risk of tennis elbow and makes every session more comfortable:
- Grip too small: Requires more grip strength to prevent racquet twisting — the extra forearm tension over thousands of shots increases tennis elbow risk
- Grip too big: Limits wrist movement and also requires more grip strength — same result over time
Now that you have found the right sized grip, check out the complete guide to finding all tennis grips, or visit our tennis technique library for more guides.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Grip Size
What grip sizes are available for tennis racquets?
Tennis racquet grip sizes are measured in inches and typically range from 4 inches (size 0) to 4⅝ inches (size 5). The most common adult sizes are 4¼ (size 1), 4⅜ (size 2) and 4½ (size 3). If you measure between two sizes, always start with the smaller one — you can add an overgrip or heat shrink sleeve to increase size, but you cannot reduce a grip that is already too large.
Can the wrong grip size cause tennis elbow?
Yes — both a grip that is too small and one that is too large increase the risk of developing tennis elbow. A grip too small causes your hand to squeeze harder to stabilize the racquet, placing repeated stress on the forearm tendons. A grip too large restricts wrist movement and requires excess gripping force. Over thousands of shots, either scenario creates cumulative strain. Getting your tennis grip size right is one of the simplest injury prevention steps any player can take.
What is the difference between an overgrip and a replacement grip?
A replacement grip is the base layer wrapping directly around the racquet handle — thicker, providing most of the cushioning and size. An overgrip is a thin wrap applied on top, primarily used to absorb sweat, improve tack and make small size adjustments — typically adding about 1/16 inch. Most players replace their overgrip every few sessions and their replacement grip a few times per year. To increase grip size by 1/8 inch, a heat shrink sleeve applied under the replacement grip is the more durable option.
I want help finding the right racquet and grip size in Reno.
Visit the Tennis Nation pro shop at Reno Tennis Center — our instructors can fit you for the right grip size and help you find the right racquet for your game.
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