Once you buy a racquet and have it strung, you’re not finished. It may need to be customized to best fit your style of play or to deal with your likes and dislikes or to handle any injuries you may have. This could be as simple as changing the grip to as complex as changing the handle shape of your racquet or changing the weighting to match your other racquets.

 

Racquet Grips

Not all grips are created equal.  There are different textures and thicknesses of grips, and these serve to affect the way your racquet feels in your hand. The grip is the main line of communication you have with the racquet, and it needs to be right for you.

Racquet companies don’t have different grips on their frames for the heck of it; they have them to serve certain purposes: player’s frames generally have thinner, stiffer grips to enhance feel, while game improvement frames have thicker, softer grips to aid in shock absorption. There are, however, things you can do to make your racquet feel more to your hand’s liking.

The chart below shows the “build-up effect” of many replacement grips.

As you can see, they are far from identical.

 

Brand	Model	Build-up Effect
Babolat	Air Sphere	3/8″
	Perfcushion	3/8″
	Air Touch	1/2″
	Natural Leather	3/8″
	Skin Feel	3/16″
	SmartGrip	1/4″
	Syntec	3/8″
	Syntec Touch	7/16″
	Syntec Pro	7/16″
	Woofer	3/8″
Dunlop	Gecko-Tac	5/16″
	Hydramax Cushion	1/4″
Gamma	Hi-Tech	5/16″
	Hi-Tech Gel	3/8″
	Hi-Tech Gel Contour	11/16″
	Pro Lite	5/16″
	Pro Rx	5/16″
	Ultra Cushion Contour	5/16″
	Basketball Grip	3/8″
Gosen	MG-20	3/16″
Head	Hydrosorb	3/8″
	Hydrosorb Comfort
	Hydrosorb Tour	3/8″
Karakal	Kushy	9/16″
	PU Super Cush	7/16″
	PU Super Grip Duo	5/16″
	X-Air	3/8″
	XRip	9/16″
Mantis	Pro	5/16″
	Tour	3/8″
Pacific	Master’s Grip	7/16″
	NXS Prime	1/2″
	Supreme Grip	3/8″
	XDUO Comfort	3/8″
Prince	Air Cushion Fit	7/16″
	DuraPerf Contour	3/8″
	DuraPro+	3/8″
	DuraSoft +	1/2″
	Duratac	5/16″
	ResiPro	3/8″
	ResiSoft	1/2″
	ResiThin	1/4″
RAB	Air Sprung	3/8″
String Lab	Replacement Grip Thin	3/16″
	Replacement Grip Ultra Thin	1/4″
Technifibre	Xtra Endurance	5/16″
	Xtra Full	3/8″
Vulcan	Max Control Replacement	7/16″
Wilson	Comfort Hybrid	3/8″
	Contour
	Cushion Pro	7/16″
	[K]Grip	3/8″
	[K]ontrol	1/4″
	Micro Dry Comfort	7/16″
	Micro Dry Feel	3/8″
	Micro Dry Max	5/16″
	Micro Dry Touch	3/8″
	Performance Hybrid	3/8″
	Pro Hybrid	1/4″
	Shock Shield Hybrid	3/8″
	Sponge	5/16″
	TRUE	3/8″

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At the extreme, your frame’s final handle size could be changed by as much as 2 ½ sizes (5/16”) simply by changing grips (replacing a Wilson MicroDry Max with a Wilson MicroDry Comfort or vice versa, for example). This could also greatly change how soft the handle feels, but may be an easy way to change your grip size without resorting to a more drastic build-up job. Remember that this build-up, unlike a build-up sleeve, will diminish over time as the grip’s padding compresses. Replace your grip often!

The next chart shows the bare handle size of many popular frames. As you can see, handle sizes vary, not only among different brands, but among different models of the same brand. The remaining size is taken up by the grip.

 

Brand	Model	Grip Size	Bare Handle Size
Babolat	Drive Max 110	4 1/4	3 15/16
	Pure Drive	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Pure Drive Lite	4	3 7/16
	Pure Drive Team	4 1/4	4
Dunlop	AeroGEL 5 Hundred	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Biomemetic 300	4 3/8	4
	Max SL +1.25	4 3/8	4
	Reflex Revelation SL +1.00	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Revelation Tour MP	4 1/2	4 1/4
E-Force	Judgement  LaunchPad 165g	3 5/8	3 3/16
Head	Flexpoint 4	4 3/8	4
	FXP Radical Team	4 3/8	4 1/16
	FlexPoint Radical Tour MP	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Graphene 360 Instinct S	4 3/8	4
	i.Tour	4 1/2	4 3/16
	i.X6 OS	4 3/8	4 1/16
	LM Radical MP	4 1/2	4 1/8
	MicroGEL Extreme	4 3/8	4 1/16
	MicroGEL Extreme Pro	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Radical Trisys 260 OS	4 1/2	4 1/8
	T.Fire CZ	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Ti.Laser	4 1/4	4
	Ti.S1	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Ti.S5	4 1/2	4 3/16
	Ti.S5 CZ	4 3/8	4 1/8
	Ti.S6	4 3/8	4 1/8
Mantis	300	4 3/8	4 1/16
Prince	CTS Synergy 24 MP	4 3/8	4
	EXO3 SpeedPort Black	4 3/8	4
	Graphite 2 MP	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Graphite Finalist OS	4 1/2	4 3/16
	Michael Chang OS	4 1/2	4 3/16
	More Control DB 800	4 3/8	4
	NXGraphite MP	4 1/2	4 3/16
	O3 Hybrid Hornet	4 3/8	4 1/16
	O3 Hybrid Shark MP	4 3/8	4
	O3 Silver	4 3/8	4 1/16
	O3 Speedport Blue	4 1/4	3 15/16
	Precision Response 710	4 1/2	4 1/8
	Shark DB OS	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Shark LB MP	4 3/8	4 1/16
	ThunderExtreme Ti MP	4 1/2	4 1/8
	ThunderLite LB OS	4 1/2	4 3/16
	Tour Diablo XP	4 5/8	4 5/16
	Tour NXGraphite MP	4 1/2	4 5/16
	TT Scream OS	4 1/4	3 15/16
	Turbo Shark MP	4 3/8	4
Pro-Kennex	Ionic Ki-15	4 5/8	4 5/16
	Ionic Ki-30 OS	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Kinetic Pro 5g	4 5/8	4 5/16
	Laver Heritage Type S	4 1/2	4 1/8
Topspin	TPC 600	4 3/8	4 3/16
Volkl	C9 Pro	4 3/8	4 1/8
Wilson	BLX Pro Open	4 3/8	4 1/16
	BLXsix.one 95 18×20	4 5/8	4 3/8
	BLX Tempest Four	4 1/4	4
	BLX Tour 95	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Blade 101L	4 3/8	4
	Hammer 2.7 110	4 3/8	4 1/16
	Hammer 3.2 Ti PH OS	4 3/8	4
	Hyper Hammer 6.3 MP	4 5/8	4 3/8
	Hyper ProStaff 6.1 MP	4 5/8	4 5/16
	Hyper ProStaff 6.5 110	4 5/8	4 3/8
	[K]Four 105	4 1/2	4 3/16
	[K]Five 108	4 1/2	4 1/4
	n1	4 1/4	3 15/16
		4 3/8	4
	nsixone 95 16×18	4 1/4	4
		4 3/8	4 1/16
	nTour 95	4 1/4	4
		4 1/2	4 1/4
	ProStaff Classic 4.2si 95	4 3/8	4 1/16
	ProStaff RF 97	4 3/8	4 1/8
	SledgeHammer 3.8 95	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Surge 5.1	4 3/8	4 1/16
	T3 115	4 3/8	4
	Triad 5.0 MP	4 1/2	4 1/4
	Ultra 100 v2.0	4 1/4	3 7/8
	W2 Black Whisper	4 3/8	3 15/16
Yonex	SRQ600 Ti Long	4 3/8	4 1/8
	SRQTi 380	4 3/8	4 3/16
	Ultimum RQTi250M	4 3/8	4 1/8

 

As you can see, handle sizing varies all over the place. This is why it may be difficult to change racquet brands: a Prince 4 3/8 will probably feel different than a Wilson 4 3/8, for example, in size and shape.

Changing Handle Shape (by Estimate Only)

There are some things you can do to change the shape of your racquet’s handle, depending on its construction. Polyurethane foam handles can be sanded down to make them smaller, or have their edges smoothed to make for a more rounded handle shape. It may be possible to reshape sections of a foam handle to make a “slot” for a finger or knuckle, as long as you hold the racquet in the same position all the time. Modern graphite handles cannot be sanded down.

Changing the shape of a handle can be done quite easily in some cases by simply building up or sanding down specific bevels. Or, heat-shrink sleeves can be “segmented” to build up only certain bevels. This could make a Wilson handle feel more like a Prince one, for example. You could even form a “hand hold” if you like to hold the racquet in a certain way, or as a brace for two-handed shots.

 

 

 

Replacement Grips (all prices include installation)

Babolat
	Syntec	The Syntec is Babolat’s standard grip, coming on many of its frames, including the Pure Drive and Aero Pro Drive series. Average build-up effect and superior cushioning make it one of the best all-round grips. Black only.	$17
	Syntec Evo Comfort	Evo Comfort is a “dry” type replacement grip, made to offer superior sweat absorption. A less tacky surface lets sweat be passed through the small perforations into the padding below. Thicker padding adds durability. Black.	$18
	Woofer	Slightly tacky with a textured, perforated surface, Babolat’s Woofer grip is kind of a “jack of all trades”. A 2.1mm thickness aids in comfort, while the perforations allow sweat to be absorbed. The slight texturing gives you a better hand hold, as well. Black only.	$17
Gamma
	Hi-Tech Gel	The Hi-Tech Gel uses Gamma’s firm surfacing with added Zorbicon gel for impact shock isolation. A slight “rib” forms along the gel inserts aiding in hand and finger placement. A nice-feeling grip to the hand with forgiveness for the arm.  Black only.	$17
	Supreme	Supreme is Gamma’s top-of-the-line overgrip, and is one of my most popular ones. Soft and tacky, it’s comfortable and provides sure traction. White or black.	$7
Head
	Hydrosorb Pro	Head’s Hydrosorb Pro grip is also a good choice for player’s frames, as it offers a firm, tacky surface and the 1.75mm thickness (Head’s thinnest) doesn’t “plump up” the handle as some cushioned grips can. White or black.	$17
	Hydrosorb Tour	Head’s Hydrosorb Pro grip is also a good choice for player’s frames, as it offers a firm, tacky surface and the 1.75mm thickness (Head’s thinnest) doesn’t “plump up” the handle as some cushioned grips can. White or black.	$17
	Hydrosorb Comfort	”Airbag felt” under the outer layer helps absorb sweat and adds a softer, more comfortable feel. Hydrosorb Comfort is the thickest grip Head has, and is very easy on the hands. Black only.	$17
Wilson
	CushionAire Contour	One of the original CushionAire grips from the 90’s, the Contour has a nice foam ridge allowing for better grip control and finger placement. Vertical pores in the outer layer in improve sweat abosrption. Average build-up effect; black only.	$17
	CushionAire Sponge	Wilson’s Sponge grip has larger-than-normal vertical perforations to improve the absorption of moisture by the foam layer below. -1/16” build-up effect; black only.	$17
	Premium Leather	An advanced player’s favorite, Wilson’s Premium Leather grip offers an extra firm feel for edge definition, although it is best used with an overgrip. Tan only	$20
Karakal
	PU Super	The original PU replacement grip, Karakal introduced its PU Super grip nearly 30 years ago. Since then, it has adorned the racquets of club and pro players alike. Soft feel with a lot of tack, and it can be wrapped normally or pulled tighter for a slightly smaller handle size. A great value. Black only.	$12
	XAir	Microperforations allow for great sweat absorption, and Karakal’s Slow Release Fromula (SRF) extends the grip’s tackiness and life. Black only.	$17
	XGel	SRF helps this grip last longer, too, and the gel layer adds firm, comfortable support. You’ll feel the large perforations (at least I can), but they sure do move sweat out! Black only.	$17
	XRip	A very unique grip, XRip has a contoured rib placed under the outer layer for a much more defined rib and outstanding finger placement. SRF also extends the grip life. One of the thickest grips I’ve ever seen thanks to the “under-rib”, it’s very soft and comfy. Black only.	$17
Technifibre
	Extra Endurance	This grip uses Overlast PU, specifically formulated for a more durable, longer-lasting grip. Strong absorbent surface works in all conditions. Black only.	$15
	Wax Grip Max	Wax resin greatly enhances tackiness and traction on the Wax Grip Max, and a 2.1mm thickness offers excellent cushioning. Black only.	$15
	Pro Dry	Natural Felt provides outstanding sweat absorption, and an ultra-thin 0.4mm surface allows for great feel and feedback, along with minimal build-up effect. My Florida players love it in our high humidity. White only.	$7
Yonex
	Super Grap Overgrip	The Super Grap is the best overgrip I’ve come across, offering good tack and shock absorption along with minimal handle size change. 3 grips per pack in white, black, red, yellow, light blue and light pink.	$6
	Wave Grap	Now, this is cool:  an overgrip with a foam rib underneath for excellent finger placement.  Get your fingers set on here, and you may never let go.  Black only.	$6
Solinco
	Heaven Grip	A slight textured surface provides excellent traction, and a fairly thick 0.6mm grip adds cushioning. Gray only.	$7
	Wonder Grip	A smooth, tacky surface offers strong holding action, and a thicker 0.6mm grip offers extra cushioning. White only.	$7
Tourna
	MegaTac	The tackiest overgrip made will make you think your racquet can’t ever leave your hand! It’ll be quite hard for your hand to slip or twist while using Mega Tac. White only.	$8
	TournaGrip	I don’t know how much I can add to the description of TournaGrip that hasn’t already been done. You know what it is, and you know what it does. Blue only (of course).	$3

 

 

 

 

Increasing Handle Size $12 per Sleeve

Heat shrink sleeves let you control the amount of size increase and maintain handle shape, and they tend to resist compression very well, meaning your handle size will stay the same for a long period of time. Most sleeves add one full size; some only ½ size. Their complete adherence to the handle maintains the bevels for sure grip changes although they, like thick overgips, can add up to ½ oz. to overall racquet weight. Some customization may be necessary to compensate for this.

There are some things you can do to change the shape of your racquet’s handle, depending on its construction. Polyurethane foam handles can be sanded down to make them smaller, or have their edges smoothed to make for a more rounded handle shape. It may be possible to reshape sections of a foam handle to make a “slot” for a finger or knuckle, as long as you hold the racquet in the same position all the time. Modern graphite handles cannot be sanded down.

 Changing the shape of a handle can be done quite easily in some cases by simply building up or sanding down specific bevels. Or, heat-shrink sleeves can be “segmented” to build up only certain bevels. This could make a Wilson handle feel more like a Prince one, for example. You could even form a “hand hold” if you like to hold the racquet in a certain way, or as a brace for two-handed shots.

Frame Customization/Matching (by Estimate Only)

Many players have multiple racquets, but always seem to have a “favorite” one. It may be possible to match them to each other so you can use them all equally with no fear of a different feel throwing your game off.

Every racquet is produced within tolerances; some brands are quite tight, while others are not. If the frame you like is the heavier one of the group, it should be possible to match the lighter ones to it using the Babolat RDC machine and some lead tape. The first thing you need to match is swingweight (how heavy the racquet feels while being swung). Total weight and balance point may or may not match exactly. Once this is done, you should be able to rotate frames without a problem.

Prices for this service vary; contact me for information.

Customizing a frame is a little different. Here, you’re trying to get a certain characteristic changed, be it weight, balance, torsional stability, etc. This is a little more complicated than simple racquet matching in most cases, and will require more time and expense.

Once again, e-mail me for details.

 

 

 

 

Grommet Strip Installation: Price Varies

Almost every frame made over the last 25 years or so has come with an integral grommet strip/bumper guard to protect the head of the frame and the string holes. Some are better at this than others, but they are there nonetheless and will require periodic replacement as they wear. Grommets can split from cold weather or mishit shots. The bumper will wear down from repeated dragging on the court or from chunks flying off from mishits or banging the court in cold weather. Any of these can result in frame damage and premature breakage.

Many players never pay attention to the bumper guard: lots of times, it’s the same color as the frame and it can be hard to tell where one leaves off and the other begins. Have your racquet technician examine the bumper and grommets before each stringing and replace them as needed. It’s a small expense to ensure a long life for your frame.

I carry grommet/bumper sets for many popular frames, and some older models; most others are available with a few days order time.

Contact me to make sure I have yours.