Kids Tennis Racquet Size Guide: Junior Racquet Size Chart by Age & Height
Quick answer: Size a junior tennis racquet by your child’s height first, then age. USTA guidance: up to 39 in tall, use a 19-inch racquet; 40–44 in, 21 inches; 45–49 in, 23 inches; 50–55 in, 25 inches; over 55 in, 26 inches. Most kids move to a 27-inch adult racquet around age 11–12, once they outgrow a 26.
Thinking about a new tennis racquet for your son or daughter? Maybe they’re just starting out, or maybe they’re outgrowing their first racquet and want to step up their game. Tennis is a great game for kids of all ages, and with the USTA’s junior guidelines it has never been more fun or accessible. This guide covers the two key decisions, size and budget, plus weight, grip, strings and adaptive options.
What size tennis racquet does my child need?
Junior racquet size depends mainly on your child’s height. Age is only a rough guide, because kids grow at different rates.
| Racquet length | Child’s height | Approx. height (cm) | Typical age | Usual ball (USTA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 in | Up to 39 in (up to 3 ft 3 in) | Up to about 99 cm | 4 and under | Red |
| 21 in | 40–44 in (3 ft 4 in – 3 ft 8 in) | About 102–112 cm | 5–6 | Red |
| 23 in | 45–49 in (3 ft 9 in – 4 ft 1 in) | About 114–124 cm | 7–8 | Red or orange |
| 25 in | 50–55 in (4 ft 2 in – 4 ft 7 in) | About 127–140 cm | 9–10 | Orange or green |
| 26 in | Over 55 in (4 ft 8 in and up) | About 142 cm and up | 11–12 | Green, moving to yellow |
| 27 in (adult) | Outgrown a 26 in racquet (about 5 ft / 150 cm and up) | About 150 cm and up | 11+ | Yellow |
Height ranges and racquet lengths follow USTA guidance. USTA ball colors are a general guide: red about 7 and under, orange 7–9, green 9–10, yellow 11 and over. Brand charts vary by an inch or two, so confirm with the fit test below.
How can I tell if a junior racquet is the right size?
Try the 10-second fit test. Have your child stand up straight and hold the racquet at their side by the end of the handle, with the head pointing down. The tip should sit just above the floor, at about ankle height, without touching the ground. If it drags, it’s too long. If it sits well above the ankle, it may be too short.
Also watch where they hold it. A player’s hand should sit right at the end of the handle. If your child keeps choking up, the racquet is probably too long. A racquet that is too long or too heavy is cumbersome to swing, and it can hold back their progress, make them want to quit or, in the worst case, cause an injury. Kids stick with tennis when they have early success. That’s also why they learn with the lower-bouncing red and orange balls: hitting is easier, and success follows.
How much should I spend on a kids tennis racquet?
Once you know the size, match the quality to your child’s interest in the game. Here’s how construction changes by size:
| Size | Typical construction | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 19 and 21 in | Two-piece frames (aluminum or fiberglass and plastic). Models are very similar. | Any beginner using red foam or red felt balls. Young kids don’t yet have the strength to benefit from premium frames. |
| 23 in | Entry two-piece frames, plus one-piece frames that are made to last | A one-piece frame gives more head speed, control and durability for a committed beginner who plays two or three times a week. |
| 25 and 26 in | Entry two-piece frames, plus composite and graphite frames with adult-style technology | Kids who take lessons or play regularly. Graphite junior racquets often play like the adult versions. |
At 19 and 21 inches, there’s little difference in quality, so if your daughter wants the racquet her favorite pro uses, go for it. At 25 and 26 inches, the choices grow a lot. HEAD, Volkl, Babolat and Wilson all make junior versions of their adult frames. If your child’s interest might be fleeting, start with something simple. If they’re playing several times a week, a one-piece or graphite racquet will give more control and last longer.
How heavy should a junior tennis racquet be?
After length and cost, weight is the most important thing to consider. Most 25- and 26-inch junior racquets weigh roughly 8–8.8 oz (about 227–250 g). That range looks small, but it makes a real difference to a young player. If your child is near the top of a height range or about to grow, consider the next length up but a lighter model. That introduces the new length without forcing big changes to their strokes, and it helps them stay injury-free.
What grip size do kids tennis racquets come in?
Junior racquets don’t come in as many grip sizes as adult racquets. Most models come in a single small grip, usually 4 inches (L0) or smaller. If your child needs a slightly bigger handle, add an overgrip. It’s easy to put on, and if it doesn’t work you can take it off. See our grip size chart for how to measure.
Do kids racquets need vibration control?
Lots of kids (and adults) don’t like vibration when they hit, especially when moving up a racquet size or a ball level, such as from orange to green felt. Some manufacturers, including Volkl and Wilson, build vibration-reducing technology into junior frames. If your child has had an arm injury, it’s especially worth a look.
Do junior racquets need restringing?
Junior racquets come pre-strung with synthetic gut, set up for a mix of power and control, which saves you money. If your child hasn’t outgrown the racquet, it can easily be restrung. A good rule of thumb: restring as many times a year as your child plays each week. Once a week means once a year. Serious players deserve fresh strings more often. Local to Michigan? Use our stringing service.
Are there tennis racquets for adaptive players?
Yes. There are good starting points for players with adaptive needs. A larger head or a shorter length is often a good place to start. Our experts can help find the right racquet for any adaptive player. Just contact us.
Is there a perfect racquet for a junior player?
Chances are there’s a great fit among the many kids tennis racquets available, and they keep improving. The first secret is the right length. The second is to ask tennis experts. While you’re at it, check out kids tennis shoes and kids tennis apparel too.
Frequently asked questions
What size tennis racquet does a 6-year-old need?
Most 6-year-olds use a 21-inch racquet, which USTA guidance matches to children 40–44 inches tall. If your 6-year-old is 45 inches or taller, a 23-inch racquet may fit better. Confirm with the fit test: the tip should sit just above the floor when held at their side.
What size tennis racquet does an 8-year-old need?
Most 8-year-olds use a 23-inch racquet, which suits children 45–49 inches tall. Taller 8-year-olds (50–55 inches) may be ready for a 25-inch racquet. Size by height first, then check that your child can swing it comfortably without choking up.
What size tennis racquet does a 10-year-old need?
Most 10-year-olds use a 25-inch racquet, which suits children 50–55 inches tall. A child over 55 inches tall, or one moving to green or yellow balls on a full court, is usually ready for a 26-inch racquet.
Should I buy a bigger racquet for my child to grow into?
No. A racquet that is too long or heavy is hard to swing and can slow progress or cause injury. If your child is near the top of a height range, move up one size but choose a lighter model.
When should a child switch to an adult tennis racquet?
Usually once they’ve outgrown a 26-inch racquet. That’s often around age 11–12 and roughly 5 feet (150 cm) tall, and when they’re playing with yellow balls on a full court. Many juniors start with a lighter 27-inch adult frame.
Do kids tennis racquets come strung?
Yes. Junior racquets come pre-strung, usually with synthetic gut, and are ready to play. Restring about as many times a year as your child plays per week, or replace the racquet when they move up a size.