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How to find your grip size
The setting most players have wrong without knowing, the finger test, and why too small is a better mistake than too big.
Grip size is one of the biggest influences on how a racquet feels and one of the least checked. A wrong grip forces you to squeeze, and over-gripping is one of the most common causes of tennis elbow.
The sizes
| US size | Inches | European size |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 4 | L0 |
| 1 | 4 1/8 | L1 |
| 2 | 4 1/4 | L2 |
| 3 | 4 3/8 | L3 |
| 4 | 4 1/2 | L4 |
| 5 | 4 5/8 | L5 |
The finger test
Hold the racquet as if hitting a forehand. With your other hand, try to slide your index finger into the gap between your fingertips and the base of your thumb. If it fits snugly, that is your size. Room to spare means the grip is too big. If it will not fit, the grip is too small.
When in doubt, go smaller
A small grip can be built up with an overgrip, and each one adds roughly 1/16 of an inch. A large grip cannot be reduced without taking the handle apart. So between two sizes, take the smaller.
Signs you have it wrong
- The racquet twists in your hand on big shots: the grip is too small or the overgrip is worn.
- Your forearm tires sooner than it should: you are probably squeezing because the grip is too big.
- Blisters at the base of your fingers: bad fit, almost always too large.