Tennis Racquet Buying Guide for Juniors
It is very important for kids below the age of 12 to get the correct junior tennis racquet. This will not only help in the development of their tennis game but also make it easier and more enjoyable for them to play.
Here are a few facts that can assist you in making the right junior racquet decision:
All junior racquets come in lengths of 19, 21, 23, 25 and 26 inches.
17 & 19 in. racquets are generally for kids up to 3 years.
21 in. racquets are generally for kids ages 4-6.
23 in. racquets are generally for kids ages 7-8.
25 in. racquets are generally for kids ages 9-10.
26 in. racquets are generally for kids ages 11-12, who have played tennis for a few years or are able to handle swinging a longer racquet.
If the junior is above the age of 12, we recommend that you look at purchasing an adult racquet ranging in length between 27 - 27.25 inches.
Please remember to purchase a racquet that the child will not outgrow in 6 months.
If the child is 9 years old, but turning 10 within a couple of months, we recommend that you look at a 25 or 26-inch racquet. The child can always hold the grip a little higher up on the racquet until he/she is developed enough to use the whole 25 or 26 inches.
Since kids have a tendency to bang their racquets into poles and fences, moms and dads will be happy to learn that many Junior Racquets are made of a very durable titanium alloy material.
Each junior racquet only has one grip size (as opposed to adult racquets that have 5-6 sizes). These grip sizes are based on the age of the child and the size of their hand at that age.
The weight of a junior racquet can range from 6 oz. to 9.5 oz. The heavier racquets tend to be for older the children, and lighter racquets tend to be for younger children.