Tennis Racquets

Ultimate Guide to Tennis Racquets & Best Tennis Racquet Deals in the UK

Why the Right Racquet Changes Your Game

Choosing a tennis racquet is a bit like picking the right pair of running shoes: the wrong one can slow you down, the right one can make you feel unstoppable. A racquet influences power, control, spin and how your arm feels after a long set. Whether you’re picking up the sport for the first time or trying to shave off a few unforced errors from your game, the racquet is the tool that connects your body to the ball. Get it close to right and you’ll notice immediate improvements; get it wrong and frustration follows.

Understanding the Core Specs

Before you chase the latest colorway or headline price, learn the core specs that define a racquet’s behavior: weight, head size, balance, grip, string pattern and stiffness. These are the levers you can pull to tune the feel and performance. You don’t need to be an engineer — a quick primer will help you decode product pages and compare deals confidently across UK retailers and comparison sites.

Weight: Heft Matters (in Ounces)

Racquet weight is usually given in ounces. Lighter racquets (around 9–10.5 oz) are easier to swing and friendlier for beginners or players who want quick maneuverability at the net. Heavier frames (10.6–12+ oz) deliver more stability and plow-through on groundstrokes but require more strength. Think of weight like the balance between a pen and a hammer — one’s for finesse, the other’s for driving force.

Head Size: Power vs. Precision (Square Inches)

Head size is measured in square inches. A larger head (105–115 sq in) creates a bigger sweet spot and more power, which helps new players bury shots and recover from imperfect contact. Mid-plus or midsize heads (95–100 sq in) favor control and precision and are popular with advanced players who generate their own power. If you want stability and control without losing too much power, a 98–100 sq in head is a sweet spot for many intermediate players.

Balance and Swing Weight

Balance describes where the mass sits: head-heavy, head-light or even. Head-heavy racquets add power and momentum, while head-light frames are quicker to swing and kinder on the wrist. Swing weight is the perceived weight when you swing; two racquets with the same static weight can swing very differently. When demoing, focus on how the racquet feels while preparing for a serve or volley — that tells you more than numbers on a page.

Grip Size: Inches Matter

Grip size is commonly measured in inches (for example, 4 1/8", 4 3/8"). Pick a grip that allows a snug hold without cramping fingers. Too small and your wrist may rotate too much, leading to discomfort or blisters; too large and you lose wrist snap and feel. A quick test: hold the racquet with an Eastern grip and slide the index finger of your free hand between your palm and fingers — if it fits comfortably, you’re in the right ballpark.

String Pattern and Stiffness

Open string patterns (fewer mains, e.g., 16x19) bite the ball more and help generate spin; dense patterns (18x20) provide durability and control. Stiffer frames produce more power but transmit more shock; softer or flexible frames are easier on the arm and provide more feel. Don’t forget that string choice and tension also interact with these factors — a crisp poly string at high tension will feel very different from a woolier multifilament at low tension.

How Skill Level Shapes Your Choice

Your current level should heavily influence the racquet you pick. Beginners benefit from lightweight, larger-headed racquets with forgiving sweet spots to build confidence. Intermediates often look for a balance between power and control — a mid-plus head and moderate weight are common choices. Advanced players usually opt for heavier, stiffer racquets that reward precise footwork and technique. Remember: upgrading too quickly to a very heavy or low-power racquet can set back progress if you haven’t developed consistent technique yet.

Top Racquets to Consider in 2025

While new models drop every season, some racquets consistently earn praise for their performance and value. Below are popular picks that span beginner to pro levels, with typical specs given in imperial units to help you compare.

Wilson Clash 100 — Comfort and Control (Around 10.8 oz, 100 sq in)

The Wilson Clash line is known for bending the rules: a flexible frame that still offers control. The Clash 100 (about 10.8 oz strung and a 100 sq in head) hits a sweet balance for club players who want feel and spin without excessive shock. It’s a great choice if elbow comfort is a priority and you still want competitive performance from the baseline.

Babolat Pure Aero — Spin Machine (About 10.6 oz, 100 sq in)

Favored by spin-heavy players, the Pure Aero lineup helps generate topspin thanks to aerodynamic frame shape and an open string pattern. If your game is built around heavy, kicking forehands or slice backhands that need a bit more bite, this is a top contender. Expect lively response and excellent serve potential.

Head Graphene/Speed Pro — Control and Precision (Around 11.5 oz, 100 sq in)

Head’s Speed series tends to cater to aggressive players who prefer control and punchy responses. The Speed Pro or similar models are typically heavier (over 11 oz) and provide a stable platform for precise shot-making. If you like flat, penetrating strokes and take the ball early, this bracket of racquets will suit you.

Yonex Ezone 98 — Comfort with a Crisp Feel (Approximately 11.0 oz, 98 sq in)

The Yonex Ezone family focuses on feel and comfort with a slightly smaller head for control. The 98 sq in head and around 11 oz mass create a responsive, accurate racquet. Those who appreciate a notch of responsiveness but still want forgiveness will like this category.

Prince Textreme Tour — Classic Control (About 11.8 oz, 98–100 sq in)

Prince’s Textreme and Tour frames are built for stability and consistency. Heavier and slightly more traditional in feel, these options suit volleyers and baseliners who value predictable response and accuracy over raw spin or power.

Finding the Best Deals in the UK

Shopping smart saves you pounds — or rather, saves you the equivalent in value. In the UK market, racquet prices vary by retailer, season and model year. Look for end-of-season clearances, holiday events like Black Friday, and manufacturer outlet sales. Comparison sites can be especially useful because they collect prices across multiple shops, letting you spot the best discounts quickly.

Timing Your Purchase

New model launches often trigger discounts on the previous year’s frames. If you’re not chasing the absolute latest spec, buying last season’s model can get you a racquet that performs almost identically for much less. Also consider buying during off-peak months when stores clear stock — you’ll find deeper markdowns in late autumn and early new-year sales.

Bundle vs. Single Racquet Deals

Sometimes a bundle — racquet plus strings, bag or overgrip — offers the best immediate value. If you need new strings or a decent bag anyway, bundles reduce upgrade friction. On the other hand, if you already own good strings and grips, buying the bare racquet at a lower headline price might be smarter. Always compare the unit price, not just the bundle markup.

Strings, Tension and Small Tweaks That Make Big Differences

Strings are the unsung heroes of racquet performance. Pick the right string material and tension, and a so-so frame can feel like a custom splurge. Learn the basics and you’ll extract more from any racquet you own or demo.

Which Strings Suit You?

Polyester strings are durable and spin-friendly but can be harsh and may lead to arm fatigue for some players. Multifilaments mimic natural gut and are softer and more comfortable — ideal for players with joint concerns or those who prefer a cushioned feel. Natural gut is the top performer for feel and power but comes at a premium and is less durable in damp conditions.

Tension Ranges in Pounds

String tension is measured in pounds. Higher tension (e.g., 55–65 lbs) offers more control and less trampoline effect, while lower tension (45–55 lbs) increases power and comfort. Start in the mid-range recommended by the racquet manufacturer, then tune up or down in steps of about 2–4 lbs until the ball feedback matches your taste.

String Pattern Effects

We mentioned string patterns earlier, but it’s worth repeating: an open 16x19 pattern equals more spin and slightly livelier response; an 18x20 pattern is denser and more predictable. Match your pattern to your style — hitters and spin players often prefer the open setting, while slice and control players lean toward dense patterns.

Maintenance, Accessories and Practical Tips

Care for your racquet and it will reward you match after match. Small investments in grips, a decent bag and routine stringing maintenance extend performance and make travel easier. Think of accessory spending as maintenance that preserves your racquet’s resale value and playability.

Grips, Overgrips and Size Adjustments

Overgrips add thickness and sweat absorption without altering the core grip size much, while replacement grips adjust the base circumference. If your grip feels too small, add an overgrip or choose a slightly thicker replacement. Grip size adjustments are inexpensive and can resolve blisters and control issues quickly.

Racquet Bags, Dampeners and Protection

A padded racquet bag protects the frame from knocks and temperature swings. Dampeners reduce vibration and change feel slightly; they don’t reduce shock much, but some players prefer the muted contact sound and feel. Keep racquets out of extreme heat — a car on a hot day can warp a frame or compromise string tension.

How Often to Restring (Rule of Thumb)

A common guide is to restring as many times per year as you play per week. Play twice a week? Restring about twice a year. Heavy hitters or players using polyester strings may need more frequent restringing. If your strings fray, lose feel or you notice significant tension loss, it’s time to restring regardless of the calendar.

Demoing: Try Before You Buy

Nothing replaces on-court testing. Demo programs let you feel different racquets in real conditions — serves, rallies, volleys and overheads. Pay attention to how a racquet swings at full speed, not just how it feels standing still. If a supplier offers multiple demos, rotate through lightweight, mid-plus and heavier racquets to see where your comfort and shot-making aligns.

Buying Online vs. Local Tennis Shops in the UK

Online stores often have competitive prices and a wide selection, while local shops provide hands-on advice and demo setups. Use comparison tools to spot the best online price, then check local shops for demo availability. If you’re unsure about grip size or swing weight, an in-person visit can save you the hassle of returns.

Choosing a Racquet for Specific Playing Styles

Are you a baseline grinder, a serve-and-volley attacker, or a doubles specialist? Baseline players often favor racquets that offer a mix of spin and stability, while net players prefer lighter, head-light frames for quick reaction. Double specialists benefit from maneuverability and a comfortable sweet spot because quick reflexes at the net are essential. Match your racquet to your role and you’ll see practical improvement in match routines.

Final Thoughts on Finding the Best Tennis Racquet Deal

At the end of the day, the best racquet is the one that feels right in your hands and fits your budget. Use specs like ounces and square inches to narrow choices, demo to confirm, and watch the market for deals. Whether you’re hunting for a beginner-friendly, forgiving frame or a pro-level weapon, a little research and a smart comparison will get you the performance you want without paying for pointless extras.

Conclusion

Picking the perfect tennis racquet involves balancing specs, skill level and budget. Keep an eye on weight in ounces, head size in square inches and grip in inches. Demo when possible, compare prices across retailers and comparison sites, and don’t neglect strings and maintenance — small tweaks can unlock huge gains. With the right approach, you’ll find a racquet that makes the court feel a little smaller and your game a lot better.