The correct grip size is crucial for avoiding injuries and playing your best game. If your grip isn't quite right, there might be a simple fix!

As we already discussed in our guide on How to Measure Tennis Racquet Grip Size, grip sizes are not something to overlook. Problems with grip sizes can lead to problems with your arm, wrist, elbow and therefore, your match performance.

Since a grip that is too small can lead to just as many issues as a grip size that is too large, we have some suggestions on how to increase your grip if need be. So don’t be too quick to run out and buy a new racquet just yet.

Changing grip sizes is not difficult. And you have choices on how to increase your tennis grip size.

This is the most common, cheapest and easiest way to increase the size of a grip. An overgrip is a tape-like cloth wrap that is applied to the grip of a tennis racquet to provide extra stickiness, softness, and/or absorb sweat.

This tape comes in a variety of materials and thicknesses. Overgrips have different feel and softness - they can have a tacky, dry or soft feel, so it is easy to find one that feels right for you.

It is easy to wrap them around most grips. You can test several when you play to feel what is best for your hand. Every players hand is different so when you change your grip it may well affect your shots.

In this case, however, we will use it to increase the size of your racquet's grip. They are pretty thin, so generally you can increase your grip size only a little - around 1/16” (or 1/2 a grip size). You should determine in advance whether you need a one size or a half size increase. A half size change could be enough to significantly affect your tennis.

These are the plastic moulds, which come in two parts, that are normally stuck or tacked onto the racquet mold, beneath the replacement. If another grip size change is needed, they can be removed and replaced with another size. The process is pretty straight forward.

Grip Pallet Makers

Some racquet brands (for example, Volkl) offer grip pallets. If the manufacturer of your tennis racquets does not sell them, consult with a pro to find the right grip pallet for your racquet.

The advantage of heat sleeves is that they add exactly one grip size, it maintains the grip’s shape, and can be removed if needed. The disadvantage is that it takes significant time.

Tools Needed

Some additional tools and supplies are needed to increase your grip size with a heat shrink sleeve. At a minimum you will need pliers, heat gun, and razor knife. So, if you go this route, we recommend having a professional at a tennis shop do this for you.

We do not recommend this approach although we see this done all the time. Installing an additional replacement is done pretty much by using the same technique as for installing overgrips.

Disadvantages

One of the issues is that adding a replacement would usually add more than one grip size to your current grip. Of course, if this is your goal then it is not a disadvantage.

It will also add more weight and change the balance of your racquet. Additionally, it will alter the contour of the grip, making the corners (the edges of the bevels) of the grip rounder, which could make it tougher to feel which bevel you're on.

Still unsure which of the above options to go with? Contact us and we will be happy to help.