Looking for a better tennis grip? Regardless of playing level, finding the best tennis overgrip or replacement grip should be a priority for every player.
What is the difference between a Replacement Grip and an Overgrip?
The first layer covering the handle and in direct contact with the racquet is the replacement grip. This original grip contains a great deal of adhesive in order to firmly stay attached to the handle. It is thicker, lasts longer, and has more cushioning than an overgrip.
On the other hand, overgrips are softer, thinner and lack the very adhesive back portion. The overgrip functions to increase the size of the overall grip and provide extra sweat absorption. In addition, overgrips are not as expensive as the replacement grips and come in a wide assortment of colours.
There are two main types of overgrip: tacky and absorbent. The tacky grip is for someone who doesn't sweat; it's not absorbent and becomes slippery (eg. Wilson Pro). Dry or absorbent grips are less durable but allow someone who sweats more to grip better (eg. Tourna Grip).
For more information on overgrips, please feel free to check out our collection: Overgrips
For more information on replacement grips, please feel free to check out our collection: Replacement Grips
When should you change your tennis Overgrip?
Ideally, you want your overgrip to adhere to your hand when playing and not feel like it is going to slip off. Tennis players should look at changing the overgrip at least once a month, however, this depends on the level of sweat, as well as how often one plays.
There is no rule of thumb when it comes to changing the overgrip, as it generally comes down to personal preference. Based on the physical appearance and feel, one can usually tell when it is time to change their overgrip.
A common standard is to change the overgrip as many times a month as one plays in a week. For example, players getting on the court once a week should change their overgrip once a month. There are professional tennis players that change their overgrip after every set, and some do so after every changeover.
How do you change your Overgrip?
- Remove your old overgrip from your racquet.
- Open a new overgrip and remove the plastic. The sticky side will be face up. Keep the piece of tape on the side, as you will need this in the end.
- Stick the adhesive part of the overgrip to the bottom of the racquet, placing it on top of the original grip and start wrapping. For a right-handed player, start pulling the grip with the right hand and for the left-handed player; you will apply and pull with your left hand.
- Start by making a full wrap at the bottom and on a slant, slowly moving up the racquet handle as you overlap just slightly (about 1/6 of an inch).
- It’s important to make sure the overgrip is firmly wrapped. If you have some extra overgrip material, wrap it around a few more times at the top or cut the excess amount off. It is recommended to trim the excess wrap at an angle (similar appearance to the starting part) to prevent it from unravelling.
- Grab the tape you positioned on the side and wrap it around the top of the handle, firmly securing the grip.
How do you change your Replacement Grip?
- Remove the old grip. Remember that replacement grips come with adhesive so it may require some added strength. Be patient.
- Make sure the entire adhesive from the old grip has been properly removed from the handle of the racquet.
- If you are adding on a grip band or a grip collar (usually a thicker black rubber band), slide it to the top of the grip before sliding on the replacement grip.
- Open the replacement grip package and peel off approximately one foot off the plastic (sticking to the adhesive part of the grip).
- Place the smaller portion of the grip and attach to the bottom of the handle. For a right-handed player, start pulling the grip with the right hand and for the left-handed player; apply and pull with your left hand.
- Stabilize the racquet – it should sit flat. When wrapping, the overlap can be less in comparison to an overgrip and with a tighter pull.
- Next, do a 360-degree wrap around the handle and if there is excess, cut the remainder grip on an angle (similar to that of the starting grip at the bottom).
- Add the finishing tape to the top of the replacement grip to make sure it stays in place and then add the grip collar. You are now ready to take the court!
