Many players find it necessary, at one time or another, to increase the size of their grip. If you’re one of these players, we’ll show you a few different ways you can customize the size and feel of your grip, all of which are reversible. First, let’s take a look at what grip sizes are available and how they’re classified in the US and Europe. Most racquets are available in grip sizes ranging from 4-1/8 to 4-5/8 inches in circumference. A few models are also available in 4-3/4, such as Wilson’s Hyper Pro Staff 6.5. Junior racquets are now sold in 4 inch grip sizes. European grip sizing is different than the US and is the source of some confusion. The chart below correlates US and European grip sizes.
| US |
Europe |
| 4-1/8 |
1 |
| 4-1/4 |
2 |
| 4-3/8 |
3 |
| 4-1/2 |
4 |
| 4-5/8 |
5 |
| 4-3/4 |
6 |
Eeach European size corresponds to 1/8 inch (1=4-1/8, 2=4-2/8 or 1/4, etc.). So, increasing your grip by 1 size would equal 1/8 inch, whether using the US or European sizing system. This is the most common increment of handle build-up, although many players find increasing by only 1/2 size, or 1/16 inch necessary. This is our starting point for building up your grip.
Increasing 1/2 Size (1/16 inch)
If you’ve ever used an overgrip, you increased your grip by 1/2 size. Most overgrips are 1/16 inch thick and are perfect for many players to achieve just the right grip size, as well as provide extra moisture absorption and cushioning. There are also some very thick replacement grips that add extra thickness and cushioning, such as Prince’s Cushion Fit grip.
Increasing 1 Size (1/8 inch)
The easiest and most effective way to increase your grip one full size (1/8 inch) is to use a full-size heat-shrink sleeve.
Increase 2 Sizes (1/4 inch)
It is possible to install 2 heat-shrink sleeves but this adds a substantial amount of weight to the handle, increasing overall racquet weight. Maneuverability will be reduced slightly but not as much as if this amount of weight were added to the racquet hoop.
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